Running Up For Air 2026

Running Up For Air 2026 is a connected, non-competitive 24-hour trail activity organised by Patagonia that invites participants to run anywhere in Europe to raise funds for environmental associations. The format is location-flexible: runners choose their own route and aim to accumulate distance within a single 24-hour window while meeting a minimum positive elevation gain requirement. The event emphasises collective fundraising and awareness rather than racing, and activities are tracked via Strava to generate rankings and a virtual badge for participants.

The event requires participants to complete their efforts within a 24-hour period and to record a minimum of 100 metres positive elevation gain (D+), with Patagonia providing guidance on recommended kit and safety best practice. Participation is free and there is no entry fee, though runners are encouraged to create personal fundraising pages to benefit one of the listed environmental associations; all funds raised are directed to the chosen organisations. Strava integration and a virtual badge are core components, and the event page explains how to link activities and set up fundraising pages.

Although the format allows runners to take part from any suitable European location, the event page uses Chamonix-Mont-Blanc as an example location and provides a map reference for that site. The organisers state the next edition is planned for late June 2026, with the example 24-hour window shown as 25 June 06:00 to 26 June 06:00; other local start times are at the participant's discretion within the stated rules. The event is presented as inclusive for all levels, with recommended safety guidance rather than mandatory equipment lists, and social sharing with a hashtag is encouraged.