RUNNING THE FINAL SECTION OF UTMB 170km - this will be tough!! Plus shoe RANT!

Join us in Chamonix Mont Blanc for a run on the UTMB course. We take the train up to Vallorcine to run the final part of the route!
Strava from the day: / strava
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Links from the video
Jim Walmsley documentary - • Walmsley Part 1 Presen...
Running shops we recommend
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Ways to help
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[@benjaminpike]

I work at Nike and the service you received at that shop was abysmal. You absolutely should have been able to return those shoes. If they're so bad that they injure you they should be considered defective and no more should have been asked, even if they had been worn a couple of times. (Edit: It also appears to be illegal under French law to deny a refund of the unworn shoes) (Also, an aside, you mentioned Nike's policy of returning worn shoes is potentially bad for the environment. At face value, I'd agree with you. However, from the inside it is clear that Nike is a company that is very much committed to sustainability. The shoes that are worn and returned are (if in an acceptable condition) frequently donated, particularly to homeless charities. Those that cannot be donated are mostly converted to 'Nike Grind' material and used to make new shoes.)

[@antoniozerkhfaoui1918]

This is normal behaviour in France they are full of shit and very rude

[@paci]

Chamonix is gorgeous, those landscapes... omg!

[@timbrennan6766]

Sarah's "see ya!" ...LOL! So beautiful out there, and to think some of those ascents and descents will be done in the dark...oooof! Can't wait to see how it goes.

[@barrelvisor]

Chamonix was awesome this weekend - a trail runners heaven. Transfers by bus take between 1h15 to 2h from Geneva. Most cost effective way to get there (about €30-35 each way).

[@Pitufollow]

See you there in August Ben!💪🏼

[@anthonystaples4475]

Ben, I work at an outdoor retailer in the states. We offer a “30 day fit and function guarantee” to protect people from just that. If the shoes don’t work, people can return for an exchange or for store credit for something else. We also have a 1 year policy for new items. IMO it’s kind of shit to not offer any sort of return. Also, those Altras have messed up TONS of runners, it’s a very common issue

[@rgweaver]

I can't get over how tough the terrain looks! My first 100 a couple of months ago was flat and smooth, and it was still grueling at the end (and it was 6 miles shorter to boot). I can't believe you're planning to do the whole thing without sleep!! Anyway it will be epic and I'll be cheering you both along the whole way!!

[@Dragon_Runner_Letty]

Just shows what a special kind of crazy ultra runners are when they say things like “I’ll be broken by this point, but am looking forward to it” (something to that effect) 😂. Best of luck with your training and you guys are amazing and inspirational. My pink cap which I’ve had for a couple of years now has always brought me luck ❤️

[@christian_a_uk]

Jim Walmsley documentary is a great watch, I agree with Ben 👍🏻 fab video guys, enjoying following the journey... The Altras are also zero drop and that may have not worked, certainly doesn't work for me

[@floearthling7449]

My local running shop has a 3week return policy, including worn shoes. They happily exchange shoes for a different pair👌 Great video Ben!!!

[@jbogren]

Those glaciers you were pointing at were : glacier d'Argentière (to the right) and glacier du Tour (left). You can't see Mer de Glace from where you were standing 😉. If you have some time next time you'll be back, I'l be delighted to pay you a meal in my restaurant in Chamonix, Ben. You're a way better runner than I am so I won't suggest we go for a run together. Love your videos ❤

[@James-Henderson]

Run Venture in Tavistock are amazing. Brilliant customer service from very knowledgeable staff. They have a branch in Honiton and a couple in Cornwall. Highly recommend, they were fab over lockdown.

[@jconcoffee]

Local shop is Runner's Need, which is great as I can order online and take them back there so long as I've only worn them indoors. I also get 50% discount through my Vitality insurance, which is amazing. We also have a Run Co in Southampton but I've yet to use them.

[@tauritaimre2477]

It seems so nice, that I wanted to go to Alps for hiking and running. Usually I go there in winter time for snowboarding. My home country, Estonia, is fully flat basically, specially near the capital for running. Another awesome video from you 🙂

[@richt3993]

Good luck Ben/Sarah (and good luck to anyone doing the UTS 50/100/165 next week!!!)

[@gibbers]

I had a Google for the legality of this and found the below Under French consumer law (article 121-20-1, la Code de la Consommation, le droit de rétractation), a consumer has the right to return a product within seven days, without explaining why and without penalty (apart from the actual cost of returning the product). Reimbursement must be made as soon as possible, and within 30 days. Service Public has more information (in French) Situations when this law doesn't apply: If the consumer has waived their right to the seven day period Purchase of food and other products which can go off Audio, video or computer software that has been opened by the consumer Purchase of magazines and newsletters Services regarding transport, accommodation or leisure activities

[@Eon0007]

Amazing video, what scenery and sooooo inspiring...You look like ya "Living the Dream!"

[@TolunayOrkun]

Amazing views! Great editing as well. As for Mont Blanc (the shoe) it has multiple reports of heel slippage. I think they should have at least allowed return on the unworn pair. Try Saucony Xodus Ultra. I think it is the right shoe for this type of run.

[@MuseRunner]

Thanks for sharing as always! It'll be an amazing adventure 👍😎

[@troymorgan4955]

Looks totally stunning. Sarah - we're missing your vids- hope you manage to make one for utmb as well...

[@apocreg11]

Can’t wait to see you guys do this race! Definitely replace/refund unused but unless a manufacturer will take it back from the retailer I don’t think they should refund worn shoes. This is why I often buy direct from the manufacturer , even though I’d like to support my local store, as Nike for example refund regardless! But they can afford to, a local shop can’t

[@kristofferkolstad1]

Amazing content as always! Really want to try running there someday :D Keep up posting such video, so inspiring!

[@ianlowe4126]

Great video and stunning views. My local running store ‘Up and Running’ in chandlers ford are fantastic. If the shoes don’t work for you they’ll take them back no problem. Just bought the trail cap!! Keep up the good work 👍👏

[@BenParkes]

Thank you Ian! Yes, we linked up and running in the description.. good shops!

[@bh4560]

I think dunking the hat only gives you slight temporary cool down then has a negative affect when drying. Wow that scenery has to be some of the best on the planet. Amazing stuff! Great content as usual! 🙌🙌

[@geifler]

Oh man this brings back memories of OCC in 2019 😍😍

[@stani2829]

I think this will be a very interesting race. In previous ultras you seem to have struggled with stomach issues, while sarah appears to cope a little better with sickness, gi stress etc. Wishing you both the best of luck! Love the video 👌

[@susanwiggins6309]

Epic scenery - thanks for sharing!

[@katterjim1]

On the car rental tip, I you get French rental car, make sure it or you have the Swiss Motorway Vignette. It lost all my rental/hire car savings when I had to buy one for CHF 40.

[@charlottewestphal914]

Also, are you planning on doing a shake out run meet up before Berlin? I’m sure there are a lot of German runners that would love to come (me and my hubby included)! It’s going to be my first marathon and I’d love to get to run with you two!💪🏼

[@wesleydachtler145]

That is so crazy they did not give you a refund. Great video Ben, Really good to see the final section. I am running CCC this year for the first time so it's great to see what I am in for.

[@BenParkes]

Good luck Wesley!! 🙌

[@TheDeterminedRunner]

The shop should definitely have taken back the unused new pair & if they were a good shop, they should have tried to help Sarah out as well. That's a great section your running on there guys, I have fond memories & loved the downhill 🏃‍♂️😀

[@Rebecca236]

Fantastic filming and video 😊

[@BenParkes]

Thank you Sarah! Hope you’re well!!

[@Rebecca236]

@@BenParkes Good thanks Ben! Hope you enjoyed the Big Half.

[@danielharling9305]

You guys should have watched all the other shoe testers reviews of the montblanc from altra. Widely regarded as an interesting but not a good fitting shoe lots of heal slip etc. Great looking video

[@toddboucher3302]

I thanks for the views always been a dream of mine to go there maybe Someday. On the shoes i think they should’ve exchanged with cash refund The unopened pair. And store credit for the second pair. I bought a pair of shoes that really after a 6 mile run I could see they were too big and they extension no problem.

[@stephenrobinson4449]

Thank you both for this inspiring video!

[@mattbarrett6186]

Great to meet both of you at weekend, and another great video. Regarding the shoes, of course you should of received a refund of newly purchased shoes. Message their customer service department and I’m sure they will help you out.

[@clomc1469]

Some bloody great camera work in this!

[@ivylovesrunning]

Sarah's face at the restaurant was less than impressed. 😂 Thank you for sharing the scenery. Long covid sucks and I hope to get back to running soon.

[@BenParkes]

What do you think should happen when shoes don't work? Refund? Exchange? Nothing.. tough luck? Sarah's shoes injured her and mine were unworn! Always love to hear your thoughts!?

[@ThatRunningGuy]

I think all brands should have the same policy as Nike. They are great even on used shoes. My Nike vaporflys injured me, wore out the opposite rear edge to normal, which caused hamstring tendinitis. Sorry to hear about Sarah injury

[@olirc]

Legally there's no obligation to a refund if you 'change your mind'. Indeed bigger retailers will still honour that, but smaller shops, less so. That's the contract. Buy online and it's different. I'm only speaking for UK, though.

[@olirc]

Oh, and I was waiting for that new cap to appear! Now purchased. 😊

[@themechanic4409]

You should reach out to Altra about their shoes. Or do a good review on them.

[@nicholashunt6865]

I think if they are brand new, unworn in the box, it’s reasonable to expect an exchange as a minimum. If worn with an obvious fault, then again exchange. More difficult if the shoes been uncomfortable etc. as I guess that pretty subjective and individual to each person. It’s always a worry on that first proper run eh! 😂

[@Oldcbl]

It's a real dilemma with new shoes, especially as they are so expensive now. Which is why I give credit to companies like Hoka with their try for 30 days. I'm sure any returns do not end up in the landfill..... Love your honest reviews. Good luck you two with UTMB!!

[@leftfish7686]

In the UK there’s laws (Consumer Rights Act, 2015) on being able to return things, I’m sure there is similar laws in France.

[@ianrussell2035]

A great video cheers guys I am so buzzing watching this can't wait to be there now .

[@nizam_mr]

afaik most part of the world dont accept product returns if they have been used(esp in Asia). if after fitting testing, and shoe still looks new, may still be able to return for size exchange or change to other product

[@kevinscott4938]

Dam! I was supposed to be running, the Run the Blades this year! But work got in the way so now can't go!!! Looking forward to the video!! Quite jealous!!

[@leewalker9008]

Incredible footage. Well done!

[@jessicaberens5099]

Those views are amazing! I'm not a trail runner (barely a regular runner) but this is inspiring. What hat is Sarah wearing?

[@BenParkes]

benparkes.com/products/ben-parkes-elite-running-cap-purple thank you Jessica, glad you liked the video 🙌

[@user-qe6xb1gi8x]

wow.amazing ,170km is amazing distance .

[@stedoesstuff]

Ben, i’ve just ordered one of your trail hats. What’s your returns policy if it gives me blisters? 😂

[@BenParkes]

Haha! If your hat gives you blisters then I’ll retire from making hats 🤣 thanks Steven.. will be in the post tomorrow.. let us know how you get on with it! 🙌

[@stedoesstuff]

@@BenParkes thanks Ben!

[@antoniozerkhfaoui1918]

Blisters he was trying to return unused shoes what the hec

[@RobertDewar]

Excited to see you running Run the Blades up here in Scotland, maybe I'll see you there as it's my local race.

[@bbbernardooo]

Interesting the Altras blistered so quick, been my go to shoes for comfort for years after finding other shoes full of hot spots, can always run 10/15/20k fresh out the box no worries. Reminds you tricky it is to find the perfect shoe.

[@michelleharnett1351]

Good retailers and manufacturers should allow returns even after use. I've returned shoes that haven't been a good fit (New Zealand) and I know you can return Hokas (and they get specialled off on their local website at great prices.) But in NZ, you can't return for change of mind, although a good retailer will allow exchange, or store credit or even refund.

[@nikolaykumchev9530]

Also doing Valencia Marathon in December, doing London before that, my first. Too ambitious for a complete novice runner to book two marathons in two months :-)))

[@BenParkes]

You can do it Nikolay. Make sure you give yourself at least 7 days complete rest after London!! Good luck 🙌

[@AndrewMosc]

Nike have started to resell slightly worn shoes in certain stores in the US for big discounts. Appalling customer service you received in France.

[@craigkelly7288]

Should be doing run the blades too as it's only 5 miles from me. Might see you there!

[@BenParkes]

See you there Craig!

[@ej_runs3650]

Uk law legally if purchased in store you have no rights to return, bought online however you do have rights to return. French law will probably be different on some level but they are in their rights. We have just got used to the fact most retailers would rather take a loss and protect the brand and keep a customer. I think that we will start to see a switch with tight costs due to everything rising we are already seeing retailers change their return time lines in the uk. It’s a different matter if the products faulty but it doesn’t sound as if it is.

[@414peps]

Sarah’s definately winning this one! 👍

[@garethmaccauley3507]

Buying in Ireland in running shops I’ve brought a pair back and no issue changing them. Toe box didn’t just feel right. If hardly used they’ve no issue to exchange. I would guess they’re fighting against online so might be a reason. They might be able to send them back. I’ve entered Valencia also. I got a free entry so why not. Company I work for is a sponsor

[@alanclark666]

Hi Ben, what is the belt you were wearing to hold your poles please? They seemed to do the job very well!

[@derrunn3r613]

15:25 "See ya!" :-)

[@Rich_1]

Sadly every time I try return a shoes to local shops they always make it really awkward experience but online it’s super friendly and I normally just get a replacement

[@neilstantiall6554]

Nice video Ben, see you at Lakeland 55km🤙

[@DEJF90]

Terrible on my part, but I've only ever purchased my running shoes online - never in a store 😣. I reckon you should have got a full refund for the unused shoes, and credit / exchange for Sarah's one.

[@CameronM47]

Those views though, stunning.

[@Steve-vr6mq]

What a great video 1) brilliant scenery 2) awesome trails 3) 12:36 Ben Parkes at his cheesey best. How you manage to film whilst running down hill on those trails without losing your footing is very impressive. Will you film on the day of UTMB?

[@Huxley555]

Altra mont blanc are very marmite, she should get the tecton x. It's what I used on the south west traverse, and plan on running the plague in them. They're light, fast and the carbon plate helps protect you underneath. For me the altras aren't cushioned enough, my Olympus 4's are much better, but obviously slower. What shorts are you using to stow your poles, I'm thinking Salomon I know they do a pair with a built in storage belt. Some people probably thought meh just 20k haha umm no ultras are anything but just a run, as you well know. Anyway good luck on the utmb, I've got the plague to do 👍

[@matthiross]

Of course, that shop should exchange any new pair within 14 days on presenting the receipt. At least one respectable running shop in Albertville exchanged my pair for another pair (that happened to be more expensive). This was after I tried them on a 10km run (and cleaned them thoroughly with a toothbrush). A refund was not possible. Online it is by European Law. But poshy Chamonix ain't down-to-earth Albertville, right? Next time, better ask before buying... Great videos and stories !!!

[@severiner7168]

Hi, it's law in France that you are able to return items. 28 days or 7 days on sale items.

[@severiner7168]

Also it's no skin of their back to swap for another pair of shoes.

[@liam9196]

I think it's down to shoe manufacturers to offer trial periods like Asics and Brooks do. However local running shops probably can't afford to do it. Shoe shops should have a treadmill though to allow people to try before they buy

[@AndrewPawley11]

Lovely video.

[@jvmesait]

Hi Ben, would you be able to offer some recommendations or put together an updated video with shoe rotation recommendations? (London marathon edition!) My pegasus turbo ones just broke and I am searching for a new tempo workout shoe. I am not really keen on the air zoom tempo next% and I am struggling to pick something to replace my peg turbos!

[@unicornsquad8009]

My on Cloud retailer took my shoes back but only replaced them.

[@Rhino_12]

As a complete novice, where do you find the trail maps to send to your watch ? Love the videos and scenery is awesome

[@MKHoadley]

Will there be a video of Sarah’s recent 100 finish?

[@AdamB-]

If they’re worn I don’t think any retailer should be expected to offer anything really, as they’re unlikely to resell. It’s like buying an apple and taking a bite then saying I don’t like it I want my money back. However, I’m shocked your unworn pair weren’t refunded or exchanged as they can be resold.

[@AnthonyConstable]

I agree with this.

[@61js]

Buy Brooks, they don't seem to get a lot of love out there, but a 90 day run trial and free return if you don't like them. You can't say fairer than that.

[@WayneWBishop]

Goodness you can wear shoes for up to 90 days before returning them to running warehouse. Even though I’ve never done so, it’s that kind of policy that builds trust with consumers. 👟

[@juliana8113]

Was the puddle warm - i.e warmer than other puddles nearby? Any weird smells? Could be geothermal activity but more likely to be some sort of gas leaking from man-made stuff (pipes), or from voids changing shape in areas close to the surface (similar to liquifaction but with gases). It's a very active tectonic zone, so could be any of the above three options!

[@BenParkes]

It was odd.. wasn't warm plus no smells! Thank you for the insight!

[@matth3903]

How about an update on those Nike Trail 4's? How are they holding up? Would you recommend them?

[@BenParkes]

Full review here Matt - kzbin.info/www/bejne/eKeTcmRna9GqrLs

[@Jaqaroo]

Ben, you didn't seem to be carrying any water - it looked pretty hot out there. How do you do it?

[@Sonmohikamp]

Nice🌲

[@robwilliams9965]

Those views were pretty immense...but not as impressive as your hat hair at the café stop! 😄

[@willravenhill2022]

Great video both. How did the Peg Trail 4’s cope with the run Ben?

[@tomrankin4530]

Really fun video! How was your lunch? Any update on the shoes?

[@katis999]

Nice, good luck :)

[@happyglamper2971]

Wow Berlin Marathon only 4 weeks after UTMB, you legend.

[@begeistrat]

Would you mind sharing which retailer in Chamonix you had this experience at? If not in public, maybe as a PM? As someone that spends time in Chamonix now and then I'm very interested if there's a store I should be avoiding. Generally however, I've only had very pleasant experiences with the retailers there!

[@jamesb.walker9177]

Great video Ben! It is hard to believe that they did not fully refund the new shoe. Please disclose the shop name and location so the runner community does not fall in they trap! By the way heard quite a few bad reviews on the Altra Mont Blanc already...

[@nik9401]

Bad retail! Sorry to hear!

[@pja123pja]

REI would have given full refund new or used even months after the purchase.

[@tommyh100100]

Hi Ben. Can you recommend a running tour operator for Valencia please ?

[@BenParkes]

I've never used one for Valencia. 2:09 events and sports tours are the two main uk running travel operators.

[@paultopham8626]

Come do the Great Eastern Run in October!

[@Micke12312]

I have returned a pair after a run. This was early 90s

[@TimGrose]

Well it is a tricky one because likes of Nike have got the scale to effectively give runners a free trial and I have certainly seen the occasional person who basically abuses that. Too many do that and the RRP rises for the rest of us. If I get the same shoe from a reseller it might just be a refund if unused and that is sort of fair enough if they can't get the refund from the vendor. Guess it also depends on the consumer laws that apply where you bought them. Would the same rules have applied if you bought them direct from the vendor online? Did you check their returns policy before buying? I kind of feel there is a lot of choice and competition these days with shoes. One or two bad experiences put you straight off a brand or shop. For instance I paid extra for a next day delivery service from one UK vendor recently and they took a week to arrive. Go figure...

[@BenParkes]

Yes.. plus it’s bad environmentally as all those abused returns will no doubt end up in the bin somewhere. We weren’t expecting anything with Sarah’s worn shoes.. kind of fair enough. But surprised (although we didn’t check the French law) that I couldn’t return my brand new in box pair 3 days after buying. You live and learn! Running a e-commerce business myself I’d never treat people like that, I’d go above and beyond to get someone in the right product in the hope of repeat business even if I make a loss. I guess it’s probably different in a tourist town where repeat business is minimal. Hope you’re well Tim!

[@Kevgti5]

On worn shoes I can see them not being able to do anything, around here if you bring them back unused, you get store credit.. which I think is fair

[@vincewarne228]

Those views. Wow!

[@debbieglen2800]

Hi Ben I bought nike vaperflys wore them twice and email the company as the heel was two short for my foot I was refunded with no problem xx

[@ivanjeremija9180]

the return culture is only in usa , maybe uk, nowhere else.

[@mitchellatkins9701]

How do you guys not turn your ankles running down those rocky paths?

[@fogethereal]

Seems crazy to me to refuse returns on shoes in that situation. I guess I'm spoiled though, because my local running shop has a no-questions-asked full refund policy on shoes within 4 months of purchase, regardless of how much they have been worn. Given how easy it is to purchase shoes online from shops that have generous return policies, it's surprising to me that a brick-and-mortar store would be so strict/unforgiving - just seems like a fast way to lose customers.

[@garthly]

I guess they rely on transient custom to visitors.

[@nicholasguest6719]

It's probably going to depend on your specific feet really, isn't it? I have run for many years, many pairs of shoes and brands (road and trail), and there is no pair I have never been able to run in- sure, many that I might prefer over another, but never had a shoe that after breaking in after a few runs i _couldn't_ run in. Not sure what that means- but it is definitely a bit crap to not be able to return unworn shoes. However if it was Snell Sports, I have heard of this