The Mutant trail shoe fits like a glove at the forefoot thanks to the wraparound tongue gaiter, although the heel cup is quite roomy for people with narrow ankles. I found that my feet move around quite a bit in this shoe, especially when walking or running downhill. I recommend you go up half or even a full size for length fit. Pulling on the shoe is aided by a large rear loop.
The shoe is lightweight yet moderately supportive and I found it very easy to move from a walking pace to a run. The heel depth is greater than other shoes on test and this has the potential for a bit of ankle roll on very rough ground.
Fiona Russell Recommends
This updated model uses recycled materials and the graphics are inspired by mapping of the Val di Fiemme, the home of La Sportiva. If looks matter, these are the most attractive shoes on test.- Lightweight
- Medium width
- Side Lacing
- Size small
- Roomy heel cup
| Quick specs | |
|---|---|
| Price: £155 Weight: 324g Materials & features: FriXion XF ultra grippy outsole, injected MEMlex EVA midsole, breathable upper, integrated gaiter, Ortholite 4mm insole. Heel-to-toe drop: 10mm Lug depth: 6.5mm Sizes: EU 36.5 to 41.5 Women/Mens version: Yes URL: https://www.lasportiva.com/gb |
The cushioning is what I would describe as medium and it works well on a variety of terrain, from hard-packed trails to softer and muddier ground.
Underfoot is what the brand calls a V-Groove sole with FriXion XF rubber, which is La Sportiva’s stickiest sole compound, plus an Impact Brake System “for added security on descents”. My experience is that the traction is good on most surfaces, especially in mud, although it is not the best I have tested and I did slip on wet rocks and tree roots. There are useful rear lugs for added grip on descents.
The uppers are fairly durable looking but not as much as other shoes on test and I there have ended up with creases at the forefoot, which will be the place of most wear.
I like the lacing system, which enables a good and supportive fit once tied. The lacing is also set slightly off-centre and to the inside of the shoe. This means the laces and loops are less likely to catch on natural obstacles.
This updated model uses recycled materials and the graphics are inspired by mapping of the Val di Fiemme, the home of La Sportiva. If looks matter, these are the most attractive shoes on test.
Tested by Fiona Russell
Fiona Russell is a size UK8.5 and has a narrow foot. She is a keen trail and hill runner, as well as a mountain walker and especially enjoys the Munros and Corbetts in Scotland. To test this trail shoe, she walked and ran in each pair of shoes on a range of terrain.
