Wherever you are on the trails this summer the La Sportiva Prodigio Pros are promising the latest in shoe tech and speed. So do they deliver? Let’s find out…
This really is a very different trail running shoe to any of the existing La Sportiva range, you’ll notice it’s got a lot of cushioning and on the face of it looks more like a road shoe. That’s because it’s really built for racing, and I think it’s a game changer. You’re going to love this if you want to race on trails, get a new PB or run an ultra.
The specs
First up, the specs. The Prodigio Pro packs with La Sportiva’s new XFlow Speed foam— nitrogen-infused for a plush cushioning and yet a high energy return. At around 255 grams and a 6 mm drop, it’s light without sacrificing stability. Under the hood you get the super grippy FriXion White outsole— this not only holds well on rock but also goes the distance. Up top, the Power Wire system secures your foot without any pressure points. The ankle gaiter neatly keeps out on any debris; surely a must for all trail shoes now!
The Test
Today you find me here in the beautiful Alps and this has been a great place to test these shoes out, but before I came out here for the season, I tested them in the Chilterns, oh and also in the Peak District where they gave me an FKT on the Hope Valley Round, well that’s pretty good evidence of speed!
I’ve already put in over 450km of trails and they are not showing any signs of wear, and this follows with what friends have found too. They are super comfy and it’s been a joy to pick up some speed on steep downs, but also even on road sections. They are not only giving great energy return, but the cushioning is helping me add distance and recover quicker during training!
The Difference
Where I notice a big difference? I’m feeling less fatigued at the end of my runs and find I can really pick up the pace for that last bit of road back home, which I’ve not felt before. What they are not? Prodigios and I know there are a few reviews out there that start with a comparison, but other than the shape of the grip, they don’t feel anything like them to run in.
Concerns
What am I concerned about, just the stack. A higher stack means that an ankle has further to go over, compared to Bushidos, and on super rocky areas they are going to be less nimble. But then again the Bushidos are arguably the most technical trail running shoe in the world!
The highlights
What stood out to me? Honestly, the blend of comfort and speed. It feels race-ready, like one of the super fast road shoes, but also forgiving enough for long training days. If anything I feel I should be training in a less racy, less responsive shoe so that I can feel the big shift on a race day! However, I am getting the advantage of being able to push my training harder and recover quicker so at the moment my other shoes are not getting a look in! I love the responsiveness, lightness, and this ankle gaiter is really comfy and effective.
Bottom line
If you’re a trail runner tackling technical terrain or long distances, the Prodigio Pro is worth a go. Let me know in the comments if you’ve tried it or if you have any questions. Don’t forget to like and subscribe, and I’ll see you out on the trails!
Written by Simon James
