La Sportiva Prodigio Max all-mountain trail running shoes review

When your route stretches into double-digit miles, climbs through rough elevation, and throws in loose rock, roots, and dust, you want a trail running shoe that doesn’t make you think twice about your footwear choice.

That’s where the La Sportiva Prodigio Max comes in.

It’s the big-mile sibling to the more agile race-worthy Prodigio Pro, built with max cushioning, a wide platform, and a no-nonsense upper that leans hard into protection with a side of stability.

While it’s not the most breathable or nimble shoe out there, it’s one of the few max-stack options that still feels composed when the trail gets rowdy.

Key specs

• Price: $185 at lasportivausa.com (men’s + women’s)
• Weight: 10.8oz / 306g (US men’s 9)
• Drop / Stack: 6mm (37mm heel / 31mm forefoot)
• Upper: TPEE mesh with TPU overlays and filament toecap
• Midsole: XFlow Endurance (nitrogen-infused eTPU core + EVA carrier)
• Outsole: FriXion XT 2.0 rubber with 4 mm Laspo™ lugs
• Extras: Vegan build, Stability Wrap, 3D mesh lining, padded collars

Sizing and fit

Like most La Sportiva trail shoes, the Prodigio Max runs snug, when you follow US sizing.

I went up half a size and was glad I did.

Once lacing is dialed in, the midfoot has a very secure hold, and heel lock is good. The toe box gives enough space for toe splay, too.

The padded collar and heel counter add comfort, but the collars sit quite low.

That’s not ideal when you’re navigating technical descents, so if you need strong ankle support, keep that in mind.

The tongue is a little too short too, which limits how well you can use a racer’s loop to further improve heel lock. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s an area for refinement in a future version.

Performance review

The midsole is where this shoe really shows its intent. La Sportiva’s XFlow Endurance foam blends a nitrogen-infused eTPU core with an EVA outer cage, giving you a ride that’s firm but forgiving.

It’s not bouncy, and it’s not sink-in soft either. Instead, the cushioning feels calm and consistent; well balanced for an all mountain trail shoe.

It softens up slightly after a few runs and stays that way, keeping legs fresher over time.

There’s no rock plate, but you won’t miss it, as the protection is excellent due to the high stack.

Transitions feel smooth, and the subtle rocker helps keep momentum through rolling terrain.

The wide base helps deliver added stability. On long runs when your form starts to fade, that support really kicks in and helps you stay upright.

The tradeoff, however, is a bit of bulk in tight, technical turns; it’s for sure more planted than nimble.

The FriXion XT 2.0 rubber outsole is excellent.

With 4 mm Laspo lugs and a dual-compound design, it handles dry dirt, gravel, rocky paths, slick patches, and even short road connectors without issue. Grip is confidence-inspiring across most terrain.

The upper is just as rugged.

The Comfort Wire mesh with TPU reinforcement feels overbuilt, in a good way, as it holds shape, protects the foot, and won’t wear down quickly, even through long training blocks or gnarly ultramarathons.

The downside? It runs a little warm and takes a while to dry.

You’ll feel it on hot summer days, and wet runs aren’t its strong suit. Still, the tradeoff for durability and support might be worth it for many depending on your stomping grounds.

Final thoughts

The La Sportiva Prodigio Max is a serious option for serious trail runners. It doesn’t try to be light and fast, instead it leans into control, comfort, and durability for long-haul mountain efforts.

If you’re prepping for an ultra, heading out for an all-day adventure, or looking for something you can trust across 20–100 mile efforts, this is the kind of workhorse that should earn a spot in your rotation.

Would I love a longer tongue and more secure heel? Sure. But the overall ride, grip, and comfort far outweigh those minor quirks, especially once you’re deep into the miles. For mountain ultras and steady long runs, the Prodigio Max delivers.