ASICS Gel-Fujitrabuco Sky Trail Running Shoes

If you want to run fast off-road, the lightweight Gel-Fujitrabuco Sky trail shoe is a recommended choice. Developed with three-time UTMB winner Xavier Thevenard, this shoe's design approach focused on weight and drainage. It has a flexible plate under the forefoot, allowing runners to move quickly over rough rock and root-strewn trails.

Porous Mesh Upper

Rugged mesh uppers encase each foot in durable, breathable comfort. The porous mesh is highly breathable allowing cool air to circulate, removing uncomfortable heat build-up and creating a cool, healthy environment that feet can thrive in. The enhanced ventilation of the fabric provides quick drainage when stepping in puddles and streams out on the trail to keep you fast and light and to enhance drying time to avoid uncomfortable damp feet. A bootie construction provides a snug, comfortable fit that hugs the ankle to keep dirt and debris locked out. A reinforced toe overlay increases protection against bumps and grazes. Providing an optimum, secure fit the lacing system features elastic laces for added comfort and easy adjustments on the fly, which keeps you locked in place to reduce in shoe slippage whilst providing quick and easy adjustability when out on the trail so you can spend more time doing what you love. A midfoot panel works in tandem with the lacing system to provide a secure fit in the midfoot increasing stability and support over uneven terrain and enhancing protection against debris.

FlyteFoam Lyte Midsole

FlyteFoam Lyte resides in the midsole; 55% lighter than industry standard, the FlyteFoam Lyte is not only super lightweight but the organic "super fibres" bounce back into their original shape with each stride offering adaptive cushioning from the first step to the end of your trail adventure. Highly durable, the FlyteFoam Lyte offers an elite level of cushioning designed to be put through the paces. The EVA sockliner adds extra cushioning while the protective upper layer means the feet stay cool and dry throughout. A key design element is the placement of small holes in the sole and sockliner, which use the natural motion of the foot to push water quickly and efficiently out of the shoe and away from the foot. The SpEVA 45 lasting offers supreme cushioning with improved energy rebound offering energy output absorbed from impact with the ground into the next step - a shoe that gives back what you put it. The 45 density offers high cushioning for stability and comfort so you can rack up the miles without putting your feet at risk of aches and blisters. The dual-layered structure provides lightweight cushioning, shock absorption, and rebound all into one midsole for enhanced movement with every step. A full-length guidance line ensures your foot is guided through the gait cycle whilst improving midfoot structural integrity by reducing imbalance caused by shifts in your centre of pressure when navigating uneven terrain.

ASICS Grip Outsole

The outsole features a trail-specific traction pattern with lugs precisely oriented on the medial side for the uphills and under the heel and lateral side for the descents. The outsole rubber formulation is also specifically designed to grip even better on wet trail surfaces. Aggressive, multidirectional lugs offer unprecedented traction for running up and down hills so nothing can get in the way of you giving your ultimate performance. A durable Rock Protection Plate saves you from stone bruises and jagged ground, so you can leap, land and navigate tricky terrain without worry. The Fujitrabuco Sky, a shoe warrior that not only beckons you off-road but equips you for success.

Shoe Review

This shoe has been specifically designed with fast, lightweight performance in mind. The GEL-FUJITRABUCO SKY TRAIL are a colourful, eye-catching design and in my opinion, a fantastic addition to the ASICS trail running range. This particular ASICS model has a drawstring lacing system and a handy lace pocket on the tongue for easy storage. This really helps to lock feet in place and works very effectively. Although, I would personally prefer a slightly more padded tongue to further enhance the levels of comfort and protection. What I like most about this shoe is the shape and feel, ideal for racing and perfectly suited to my thin feet. They are effectively a stripped-back, lightweight version of the GEL-FUJITRABUCO 8, which are slightly bulkier and heavier in design, but do offer more protection and support. Depending on personal preference, I would recommend both models for either racing or training. At just 221g, the SKY TRAIL are one of the lightest trail running shoes on the market and for a shoe that weighs so little, they offer a surprising amount of support and protection. In addition, the grip coped well on a range of off-road terrain and FlyteFoam mid-sole and Gel in the heel provides ample cushioning, especially when travelling downhill on hard-packed trails at speed.

Please be aware that this shoe runs half a size smaller than usual, so best to opt for a slightly larger size. In terms of width, I would describe it as a precision to standard fit. The SKY TRAIL is a neutral shoe and the GEL-FUJITRABUCO 8 is designed for over-pronators.

Ben Mounsey - SportsShoes Trail Athlete