Best Poles for Europe’s Toughest Ultra-Trail Races: Why the Mountain King SkyRunner Series Stands Out

When it comes to tackling the most demanding ultra-trail courses in the Swiss and French Alps , the right equipment can be the difference between holding pace and fading late. Trusted by elite athletes competing on the world’s biggest mountain stages, the Mountain King SkyRunner poles have become a go-to choice where terrain is steep, technical, and unforgiving.

Athletes such as Alban Berson and Arthur Joyeux-Bouillon have demonstrated what’s possible at the highest level of alpine ultra racing, with Alban Berson securing a podium finish in a leading alpine endurance event in 2024 (Chamonix), and Arthur Joyeux-Bouillon placing inside the top ten in a 100-mile mountain course around Mont Blanc from Chamonix through Italy and Switzerland and back to the heart land of ultra trail running in the town centre Chamonix. Their performances highlight the reliability, efficiency, and purpose-built design of the SkyRunner series when it matters most.

Why Choose Mountain King SkyRunner series Poles?

1. Ultra-Lightweight Design

Weighing between 105g,  113g and 135g per pole (120cm), the SkyRunner Ultra and SkyRunner RaceDay SkyRunner Edge poles are among the lightest options available for trail runners. This feather-light design reduces arm fatigue during long-distance races, allowing athletes to maintain optimal form and energy levels.

2. Durability and Strength

Crafted from high-quality carbon, these poles offer a perfect balance between strength and weight. Their robust construction ensures they can withstand the demands of challenging terrains without compromising on performance.

3. Efficient Assembly and Portability

Designed with convenience in mind, the SkyRunner series poles feature an innovative assembly system that allows for quick setup and breakdown. This feature is particularly beneficial during races where time is of the essence. 

4. NEO System

The 2025 NEO System, allows for the string to be stored away, helping you focus on racing, keeping the pole tidy when competing in the UTMB

4. Tailored for Ultra Races

Recognized as the Best Running Poles of 2025 by Adventure.com, the SkyRunner poles are engineered specifically for ultra-distance events. Their design caters to the unique challenges of long-distance trail running, providing athletes with the support they need to excel.

Elite Athletes Trusting SkyRunner

Arthur Joyeux-Bouillon – 1st Place, Val d’Aran 100M 2026

In a historic display of endurance, Arthur Joyeux-Bouillon conquered the 2026 Val d'Aran VDA, solidifying his status as a titan of the Pyrenees. Facing a grueling 163km course with 10,000m of vertical gain, Arthur relied on the Mountain King SkyRunner Edge to navigate the technical ridgelines.

The poles' proprietary RDC carbon fibre construction and the innovative Edge Clip glove system proved decisive, allowing for seamless transitions and maximum power transfer on the steep ascent to Còth de Baretjes. Weighing just 138g, the Edge gave Arthur the elite performance needed to ring the bell first in Vielha

Alban Berson – 2nd Place, UTMB TDS 2024

Alban Berson's impressive second-place finish at the 2024 TDS, covering 148 km with 9,300 meters of elevation gain, underscores his elite status in the trail running community. His performance is a testament to the importance of reliable gear, and the SkyRunner poles played a role in his success.

Arthur Joyeux-Bouillon – 6th Place, 100M 2024

Arthur Joyeux-Bouillon's sixth-place finish at the 2024 100M, a grueling 173.3 km race with 9,525 meters of elevation gain, highlights his endurance and strategic prowess. The SkyRunner RaceDay poles, known for their lightweight and durable design, were instrumental in supporting his performance throughout the race.

Final Thoughts

For trail runners seeking a competitive edge in ultra-distance races, the Mountain King SkyRunner poles offer a combination of lightweight design, durability, and efficiency. Endorsed by top athletes like Alban Berson and Arthur Joyeux-Bouillon, these poles have proven their worth in some of the most challenging races in the world.

Whether you're aiming for a podium finish or striving to achieve a personal best, investing in quality gear like the SkyRunner poles can make a significant difference in your performance.

Used by Arthur Jouyeux Bouillion