Trail Runner Review: CimAlp X-Race
By Sean Clifford · · Runner Reviews
The CimAlp X-Race is a featherlight, low-drop trail shoe with a relentless Vibram Megagrip outsole that gives you the confidence to tackle steep technical climbs and boggy Irish paths, all while the recycled build and responsive cushioning keep you moving strong and connected to the trail from start to finish.
CimAlp : The French brand over 60 years old !
{adinline=b8f176b0-1cf3-4ff2-ba21-5f11fadae4d2}CimAlp isn’t a new kid trying to look cool on Instagram. The brand goes all the way back to 1964, founded by Paul Sailler, a mountaineer from France’s Isère region who quietly changed outdoor clothing forever by introducing the first stretchable alpine trousers. At the time, that was a genuine shift in how mountain gear was designed and worn—built to move with the body, not fight it.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rooted firmly in the French Alps, CimAlp has spent over 60 years refining kit for people who actually use it in serious terrain. Alpinism, ski touring, hiking, and—more recently—trail running. Their design philosophy has always leaned toward durability, function, and mountain credibility, rather than chasing trends.
If you’ve spent any time around Irish trail races, there’s a good chance you’ve already crossed paths with CimAlp—whether through their long-standing support of the Kerry Way Ultra, or via their now-ubiquitous CimAlp trucker caps, which seem to have quietly taken over finish lines and car parks across the country.