La Sportiva Mutant Trail Running Shoes
The La Sportiva Mutant is an aggressive, durable and neutral mountain running shoe which is ideal for trail running and off-road trials on different types of terrain.
The Mutant has a quick fit shoe just like traditional shoes, with thanks to the spiral opening of the gaiter, these shoes are easy to get on and off. These versatile shoes have been created for a number of off-road runs such as mountain running and city park running as they have high stability, shock absorption and comfort.
Upper
The upper and the lining of the Mutant trail running shoe is made with airmesh nylon fabric woven into a breathable mesh pattern that is extremely durable. Also made with TPU, which is highly abrasion resistant and is extremely strong in cold temperatures. An integrated lacing system with FusionGate technology and high-frequency reinforcements allowing for volume regulation and foot adherence. Also added to the Mutant is SpyralTongue technology which is an integrated gaiter that hugs the lower part of the ankle while keeping the cuff tight and avoiding coming into contact with external elements.
Midsole
The Mutant uses EVA injected midsoles which differ from the standard compression molded EVA midsoles for a high degree of cushioning and better elasticity of the fabric. These feature assist "push off" during the propulsion phase while running, making these models ideal for use on off-road trials. Also EVA injected midsoles reduce the "squash" effect of the EVA over time, allowing the product to maintain the same characteristics and high performance for its entire duration. An anti-torsion "stabilizer" insert is also included in the midsole.
Outsole
The Mutant sole is made from FriXion XF, which is a very sticky, versatile rubber compound which will give extreme grip while out running. The soles are particularly suited to racing on soft and muddy ground thanks to the width of the shoe and the distance of the lugs that make up the sole.
The footbed is made from ortholite mountain running ergonomic 4mm which is breathable for a cooler foot and the unique open cell structure creates a moisture management system. Long term cushioning is in the insole and it will retain over 95% of its thickness over time and won't flatten out. With anti-mircobial agents and washable properties it will make for a more hygienic shoe.
Additional sizing information
UK: 7.5+ - EU: 41.5 - US: 8.5.
UK: 9.5+ - EU: 44.5 - US: 10.5.
UK: 11.5+ - EU: 46.5 - US: 12.5.
Shoe Review
The La Sportiva Mutant are an extremely comfortable shoe, mainly because of the sock like fit. Combined with a unique and effective lacing system, it makes them feel like slippers on your feet. They're cleverly designed for all foot widths because of this lacing system and the stretchy material of the upper. This shoe offers plenty of protection around the sides of the shoe and also in the form of a solid toe bumper at the front. The material at the front of the shoe is breathable and the padded tongue is extremely comfortable - no chance of badly-tied laces digging into your foot whilst you're running.
In terms of sizing, it's extremely important to size up - I comfortably fit into a 10.5UK and would even consider a 11UK.
Overall, this is a solid, reliable trail running shoe. It will give you plenty of protection, tons of comfort and the grip is impressive on all surfaces. I liked the fact they could cope with demands of constantly switching terrain, even lengthy road sections weren't an issue. It's a shoe I would highly recommend for everyday training, particularly good for long runs.
KEY FEATURES
1. A very comfortable shoe, mainly down to the sock like fit and unique lacing system.
2. A great all-rounder, perfect for everyday high-mileage use on a multitude of surfaces.
Reviewed by Ben Mouncey, Seasoned Mountain Runner from Yorkshire.
