In the OCC (about 60 km, ~3500 m cumulative ascent), runners' shoe choices displayed a wide, "many-flowered" spread.

The two most popular brands were HOKA and Salomon.

Among those brands, the most commonly seen models were HOKA's new Tecton X 4 and SPEEDGOAT 7; Salomon's S/LAB Genesis (first gen) and Genesis 2.

As a UTMB sponsor, HOKA's origins are deeply tied to the Mont Blanc-area trail-running culture. The fact so many elite and recreational runners chose it is strong proof of its grassroots base.

Salomon also took both the men's and women's runner-up spots in OCC — those athletes were wearing the more elite-oriented S/LAB Pulsar 4. The Genesis series is comparatively more friendly to the wider field, providing reliable long-distance cushioning and stability.

KAILAS FUGA, ASICS, LA SPORTIVA and NNORMAL all fell into the "100-plus pairs" category.

ASICS's recently released METAFUJI TRAIL 2 claimed third place in both the men's and women's OCC; among the general field the TRABUCO 14 was more common.

Among KAILAS FUGA wearers, many recreational runners chose the EX PRO and EX 330; LA SPORTIVA athletes were almost exclusively in the Prodigio Pro ("破九 Pro") and the yet-to-be-released Pro 2. This top-tier, plate-free trail shoe has a low barrier to entry and a high ceiling — it's hard to find fault.

Beyond the brands mentioned and household names like adidas and Nike, a number of niche labels also drew attention.

For example, MERRELL, though not widely worn, popped up from front to back of the field. Frederic's victory in the OCC men's race helped this "fine wine hidden in a deep alley" brand gain wider recognition.

It's worth noting Xtep is the brand's domestic operator — might this mean Chinese racers will start taking their speed pursuits beyond the road?

In addition, relatively niche brands such as Britain's JV SPORT, Spain's JOMA, and SCOTT — which also makes road bikes — all made appearances in the UTMB main race.

The appeal of a top-level race isn't just the elite performances; it's also the "many voices contending" at the runners' feet — that diversity is what people love to talk about.