La Sportiva Mutant II Trail Running Shoes Full Review

La Sportiva Mutant II Trail Running Shoes Full Review

If you're seeking a reliable trail running shoe with a blend of comfort and performance, the La Sportiva Mutant II might just be what you're looking for. With its innovative features and updates, these shoes offer a promising mix of stability, protection, and comfort for your off-road adventures. Discover how the Mutant II's technical specifications, user feedback, and unique design elements come together to elevate your trail running experience to new heights.

Key Takeaways

• Enhanced upper design for comfort and durability.
• Improved toe box height and bumper for protection.
• Cushioned EVA midsole for longer races.
• FusionGate lacing system for secure fit.

Technical Specifications and Features

Exploring the technical specifications and features of the La Sportiva Mutant II trail running shoes reveals a focus on durability, traction, and protection for challenging terrain. With a stack height of 24mm at the heel and 14mm at the forefoot, the Mutant II provides a 10mm heel-to-toe drop, offering a balance between cushioning and responsiveness.

The incorporation of Spyraltongue Technology guarantees easy entry and a secure fit, enhancing comfort and stability during your runs.

Additionally, the La Sportiva Mutant II boasts FriXion XF rubber outsoles, delivering exceptional grip on various surfaces and in diverse weather conditions. This feature, combined with a TPU stabilizer, equips the shoe to tackle alpine environments and downhill terrains with confidence.

Despite its robust construction, the Mutant II remains relatively lightweight, weighing 303g for men's sizes and 256g for women's sizes, reducing fatigue during longer runs.

Users commend the shoe's deep lugs, which offer excellent traction, and its ability to provide a good ground feel while ensuring effective drainage in challenging landscapes.

Fit, Comfort, and Durability

The La Sportiva Mutant II trail running shoe provides a medium-wide fit, ensuring ample room in the toe box for your comfort on long runs.

With the Spyraltongue lacing system and burrito-style design, these shoes offer a snug and secure fit without causing discomfort.

The toe box design allows your toes to splay naturally, reducing the risk of blisters or pressure points during your runs.

Additionally, the TPU overlays, scree guard, and Air Mesh in the upper enhance durability, protection, and breathability, making the Mutant II a reliable choice for rugged trails.

The combination of injection-molded EVA and a TPU stabilizer in the midsole provides a balance of cushioning and stability, ensuring comfort and support on varied terrains.

The durable FriXion White rubber outsole with deep 6mm lugs delivers exceptional traction and grip, enhancing your performance in challenging mountain environments.

Performance and Use Cases

For tackling challenging mountain terrain and technical running, the La Sportiva Mutant II trail running shoes showcase exceptional performance capabilities. These mountain running shoes are designed to excel in alpine environments, providing the comfort and support needed for your adventures.

Here's why the Mutant II is a top choice for your next trail run:

• Technical Running: The Mutant II is built to handle technical terrains with ease, offering stability and grip for your most demanding runs.
• Alpine Environments: With a focus on durability and traction, these shoes are perfect for rocky alpine trails where sure footing is essential.
• Comfort: Despite the rugged design, the Mutant II doesn't compromise on comfort, ensuring a plush feel even on long runs.
• Versatility: From downhill running to lightweight mountaineering, these shoes offer versatility for various running styles and preferences.

User Feedback and Comparisons

User feedback on the Mutant II's performance on rocky terrain has been mixed. Some users have raised concerns about the shoe's durability and the 10mm heel-to-toe drop, impacting their overall experience. Initial discomfort with the fit and lacing system has also been reported by some users.

Despite these drawbacks, the Mutant II is praised for its stability, traction, and versatility in various terrains, making it a solid choice for trail running enthusiasts. When compared to models like the Speedgoat 5, the Mutant II showcases different strengths and weaknesses, particularly in mountain running scenarios.

Users' experiences highlight the importance of considering individual preferences and specific needs when selecting trail running shoes, as different models may excel in various aspects of performance.

La Sportiva Mutant Features

Featuring a SpiralTongue bootie design, the La Sportiva Mutant II Trail Running Shoes provide easy entry and a snug fit for your runs.

These La Sportiva shoes are tailored for your comfort and performance, with a FusionGate lacing system ensuring a secure fit without any pressure points.

The upper, crafted from tightly woven mesh, offers both breathability and durability, complemented by a protective rubber toe cap.

For added stability while running fast, the shoes boast a sturdy heel counter.

The midsole of the La Sportiva Mutant II combines injected EVA cushioning with a stabilizer insert, providing the ideal mix of comfort and support on varied terrains.

Moreover, the outsole, featuring the Frixion XF Green compound and wide-spaced lugs, delivers excellent grip and debris shedding, enhancing your trail running experience.

Experience the freedom and confidence these features bring to your runs.

Upper Design Changes

The La Sportiva Mutant II Trail Running Shoes have undergone significant enhancements in their upper design, focusing on improving comfort and protection for your trail runs.

The Upper Design Changes include a softer and more pliable upper, ensuring a comfortable fit throughout your runs.

The increased height in the toe box not only provides more room for your toes but also contributes to overall comfort by preventing any cramped feeling.

Besides, the toe bumper has been extended to offer enhanced protection against rocks and debris, ensuring a worry-free running experience on rough terrains.

To further enhance the fit, lace loops have been strategically placed for a secure and customizable feel.

Additionally, a mesh pocket has been incorporated for easy lace management, keeping your laces out of the way and maintaining a clean look while you conquer the trails in these advanced running shoes.

Midsole and Comfort

Enhancing your trail running experience, the La Sportiva Mutant II boasts a cushioned EVA midsole designed for comfort and protection on rugged terrain.

The plush ride and ample cushioning of this shoe make it a top choice for longer races like Borrowdale or Wasdale, providing a comfortable experience even on challenging trails.

Additionally, the high drop of 10mm offers stability and support, especially for midfoot strikers maneuvering tussocky grass, steep climbs, and technical mountain terrains.

The wider design of the Mutant II accommodates those with wider feet, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit for various foot shapes.

The injection-molded EVA midsole not only enhances flexibility but also provides essential protection against the rugged terrain, making this shoe ideal for off-road running in forests and countryside while prioritizing your comfort.

Weight and Usage

Weighing in at 320 grams in men's UK size 8, the La Sportiva Mutant II trail running shoes are relatively lightweight for their category. Designed for mountain runners seeking comfortable and protective footwear, these La Sportivas are not ideal for minimal fell racing but excel in longer races like Borrowdale or Wasdale. Specifically recommended for off-road running in forests and countryside, the Mutant II offers stability on tussocky grass and steep climbs, making them versatile for various terrains and running conditions. While they may not be suitable for road-to-trail running, these shoes prioritize agility, cushioning, and performance for mountain runners.

Durability and Fit

Built to withstand rugged terrains, the La Sportiva Mutant II trail running shoes offer both durability and a snug fit for runners seeking protection and comfort. The shoe's durable construction ensures longevity, while the narrow fitting design provides a comfortable spread for your feet.

Specifically designed for running in forests and countryside, the Mutant II offers trusted grip for off-road adventures. With a sturdy heel counter and toe bumper, these shoes prioritize protection and durability on challenging terrains. The woven mesh upper not only enhances breathability but also adds to the shoe's overall durability.

• Durable construction for longevity
• Narrow fitting design for comfortable spread
• Trusted grip for off-road runs
• Sturdy heel counter and toe bumper for added protection

La Sportiva Mutant Reviews

How do runners perceive the La Sportiva Mutant II trail running shoes based on their reviews and experiences?

Some users have encountered lacing difficulties and discomfort with the fit of the Mutant II model. The burrito tongue design and upper have caused issues for some, digging into the midfoot and leading to mixed experiences with the shoe's fit.

Despite La Sportiva's reputable brand image, criticisms have been directed towards the lacing system and overall comfort of the Mutant II. While some runners have been influenced by their positive past experiences with La Sportiva shoes to give the Mutant II a try, others have found the fit to be lacking.

It's essential for prospective buyers to ponder these reviews and feedback when making a decision about purchasing the La Sportiva Mutant II trail running shoes, particularly regarding fit and potential lacing challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do La Sportiva Trail Shoes Fit?

La Sportiva trail shoes fit medium-wide with ample toe box room. The Spyraltongue lacing system guarantees secure tension, while the burrito-style lacing allows for a snug fit without discomfort. The thin heel collar adds to comfort.

Are Trail Running Shoes OK for Street?

Yes, trail running shoes are okay for the street. They offer good traction and durability on varied surfaces. However, using them exclusively for off-road runs is recommended to maintain their performance and longevity. Strengthen those stabilizing muscles!

Is It OK to Run in Trail Shoes?

Yes, it's totally fine to run in trail shoes! They offer extra protection and traction for off-road running. Make sure to pick the right pair for your terrain to boost performance and prevent injuries.

Are La Sportiva Trail Shoes Narrow?

Yes, La Sportiva trail shoes are narrow. They cater to runners with narrower feet, offering a snug and secure fit for a performance-oriented experience. If you have wider feet, you may find them too narrow for comfort.