Flying Beyond Borders with Totglobo: A High-Altitude Experience
At the 23rd European Hot Air Balloon Championship, the Totglobo-València Turisme team achieved their best international result yet, in an environment as spectacular as it was demanding. From the sky — over 8,000 feet high — the weather conditions tested both the team’s resilience and their technical gear. In this context, Lurbel’s merino wool shirt became a key ally, offering comfort and protection against extreme temperature shifts. An experience that proves how sports innovation can make a real difference when the challenge is flying across Europe.
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Led by Blai Carbonell, the Totglobo-València Turisme team made history in Austria, achieving their best international result at the 23rd European Hot Air Balloon Championship. After a week of intense flights, the team completed nine out of eleven tasks, even winning one of them — firmly placing the Valencian Community on the European hot air ballooning map.
But the experience was more than just sporting. The Lower Austria landscape offered a constantly changing and demanding setting, where weather played a decisive role. After weeks of sweltering heat back home, the pilots were met with an entirely different scenario — recent rainfalls and significant thermal variability.
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Experiencing it first-hand
Beyond the competition, being in the air — gradually ascending to 8,000 feet and feeling the raw force of nature — was both a physical and mental challenge. The chill that settles at altitude contrasts with the mild temperatures at take-off, creating a range of sensations only those who’ve experienced it can truly understand: from the absolute silence to the sudden roar of the burner powering the balloon.
“Each flight was different. What began as a calm morning could become a test of endurance and strategy just hours later. That’s when you realise how important it is to be prepared in every way,” recalls the brand collaborator.
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Putting Lurbel apparel to the test in extreme conditions
In this landscape of contrasts, gear becomes essential. Among the pieces tested, Blai highlighted Lurbel’s merino wool shirt and socks:
“Some days we climbed to around 8,000 feet, where the temperature variation is significant. Having the right performance gear is critical to withstand those conditions. The merino wool shirt and socks not only kept me warm at altitude, but also regulated sweat and moisture as the weather changed. These are garments that give you confidence and peace of mind on every flight.”
The blend of comfort, lightness and thermal adaptability allowed the team to focus on what really mattered: the competition.
Innovation at the service of experience
This participation in the European Hot Air Balloon Championship wasn’t just a sporting success — it was also a powerful opportunity to see how the right technical apparel can truly make a difference in extreme conditions.
Once again, Lurbel proved that its innovation is made for athletes who face the extraordinary. And in this case, flying over Europe at thousands of metres above ground was extraordinary in every sense.
What would you take on your next adventure?
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