In 2010, Yoann Stuck was not an athlete. He was a smoker, juggling two jobs, and far removed from the world of ultra-endurance running. But a short jog one evening in Avignon changed everything. That first run was a struggle, but it sparked a fire that has burned brighter with every year since.

Today, Yoann is one of Europe’s most inspiring endurance runners, known for his infectious positivity, relentless curiosity, and ability to push past limits with a smile. His journey has taken him from local French trails to global stages, proving that running is not just about competition — it’s about connection, community, and the pure joy of moving through wild landscapes.

From Beginner to Ultra Runner

When Yoann first laced up, he could barely manage a few kilometres. But consistency and determination soon turned those short outings into long training sessions, then into races. He began exploring the trails near Lyon, where he lives, swapping urban pavements for the rolling Monts d’Or and Beaujolais hills.

The trails became his training ground, his playground, and eventually his sanctuary. Over time, Yoann graduated from marathons to ultras, taking on events like the legendary Marathon des Sables, a 250km race across the Sahara Desert, and the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) series in the French Alps, including the MCC and CCC races.

These challenges pushed his body to the limit, but Yoann discovered that endurance running is about more than physical strength. It’s about mental resilience, patience, and the willingness to keep moving forward when everything tells you to stop.

Adventure, Effort, and Exploration

What sets Yoann apart is his philosophy. For him, running isn’t about chasing podiums — it’s about living fully. He speaks often about three guiding principles: adventure, effort, and exploration.

• Adventure means saying yes to experiences, whether it’s a high-altitude race, a self-guided trail run, or travelling to a new part of the world.

• Effort is the simple act of giving your best, day after day, run after run, regardless of the outcome.

• Exploration is about discovering both new landscapes and new limits within himself.

This mindset makes Yoann’s journey relatable to every runner, from seasoned ultra athletes to those lacing up for the first time.

Why Yoann Chooses Icebreaker Merino Wool

When you spend hours — sometimes days — on the trail, your clothing isn’t just about style. It’s about survival, comfort, and performance. That’s why Yoann relies on Icebreaker merino wool base layers

1. Natural Temperature Regulation

Merino wool is nature’s performance fibre. It keeps Yoann warm during frosty alpine mornings and cool during sun-drenched desert stages. Unlike synthetic fabrics that trap heat, merino fibres actively regulate body temperature — a crucial benefit during long ultras where conditions shift constantly.

2. Moisture Management

Running generates sweat, but wet clothing quickly leads to discomfort and even hypothermia in cold environments. Merino wool wicks moisture away from the skin and continues to insulate even when damp, keeping Yoann comfortable across endless kilometres.

3. Odour Resistance

Multi-day events mean no time — or opportunity — for laundry. One of the biggest advantages of merino wool base layers is their natural odour resistance. Even after repeated wear, the fabric resists the build-up of smell, helping Yoann focus on the trail instead of worrying about his kit.

4. Soft but Durable

Unlike the scratchy wool of old, Icebreaker merino is exceptionally soft next to the skin. Yet it remains tough enough to handle the rigours of racing packs, constant movement, and demanding terrains. That balance of comfort and durability is key to Yoann’s choice.

Merino Wool Base Layers: A Runner’s Secret Weapon

Base layers are the foundation of any serious outdoor kit, and for runners like Yoann, they make all the difference. Icebreaker’s merino wool base layers provide the perfect starting point for a layering system that adapts to the weather, the pace, and the demands of the run.

• Lightweight base layers keep him cool on summer mountain trails.

• Midweight base layers add warmth without bulk during cooler autumn or winter runs.

• Layering flexibility means he can add or remove outer shells as needed while keeping a reliable, breathable layer against his skin.

Whether it’s a dawn start in freezing temperatures or a hot climb under midday sun, the adaptability of merino base layers ensures Yoann is always prepared.

Iconic Events and Epic Adventures

Yoann’s race calendar reflects his love of diversity and challenge. Some of the highlights include:

• Marathon des Sables (Morocco) — Six days, 250km, across the Sahara Desert. A brutal test of endurance in one of the harshest climates on earth.

• UTMB CCC (Alps) — A 100km race through technical alpine terrain, testing both physical and mental stamina.

• EcoTrail Paris — A unique mix of city and nature running, showing Yoann’s belief that adventure can be found anywhere.

• XTERRA events — Off-road triathlons that blend swimming, biking, and trail running.

Beyond formal races, Yoann often takes on personal challenges: multi-day running adventures, mountain explorations, and community events where he shares the joy of the trail with others.

Simplicity and Connection

For Yoann, choosing Icebreaker merino wool is about more than technical performance — it’s about simplicity and connection. He prefers natural fibres over synthetics because they align with his values: sustainability, authenticity, and respect for the environment he runs through.

Every time he pulls on a merino tee or base layer, he knows he can rely on it, no matter what the trail has in store. That confidence allows him to run freely, to focus on the experience, and to connect more deeply with the landscapes he explores.

Lessons from Yoann Stuck

Yoann’s journey from smoker to ultra-runner is more than an inspiring story — it’s a lesson in resilience, humility, and the power of small beginnings. His experiences remind us that:

• Anyone can start — no matter their background.

• Progress comes from consistency, not shortcuts.

• The right mindset (and the right gear) can take you further than you imagine.

• Nature is not just a backdrop, but an essential part of the running experience.

Final Thoughts

Yoann Stuck continues to redefine what it means to be an endurance runner. His blend of humility, joy, and grit make him a standout figure in the trail community. By choosing Icebreaker merino wool base layers and running clothing, he ensures that his focus stays where it belongs — on the journey, the adventure, and the freedom of the trail.

For anyone looking to follow in his footsteps — whether that’s your first 5k or a multi-day ultra — Yoann’s story is proof that the right attitude, and the right gear, can take you anywhere.

See the merino wool base layers Yoann wearshere