La Sportiva Prodigio Pro Trail- Running Shoes
There are few things as important as good shoes in life. And as a hiker, I’d argue it’s even more important when you’re racking up those miles and hours on trail. Now… add the classic debate of hiking boots vs. trail runners to the mix– which one is better? That is a tough question and one I ask myself often. I do gravitate more toward trail runners and shoes that are lighter, as I have felt that’s worked best for my body. And when I heard about the new La Sportiva Prodigio Pro Trail Running Shoes, I knew I had to get my hands on them and test them out. Here is my review!
As a disclaimer, I would like to mention that I was given these shoes so that I could write this review. All opinions on this page are my own and based on my own experiences with these shoes. I’m not compensated for the opinions on this review. Your experience with the product may be different. This site uses affiliate marketing links. If you click a buy now button and make a purchase I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
From La Sportiva
Before the review, lets see what La Sportiva is saying about the Prodigio Trail Runner. From their website they state that the Prodigio is, “a revolutionary new trail running shoe featuring new XFlow™ foam; a nitrogen-infused EVA supercritical foam technology that provides unparalleled cushioning, stability and energy return making it the ultimate choice for trail runners demanding the best.”
Here are more specs about the shoes.
Specs
Price*
$225.00
Sizes*
Women – 5.5-11 including half sizes
Men – 7.5-15.5 including half sizes
Colors*
Women – Night Sky/Rosebay
Men- Black/Yellow, Mountain Red/Yellow
Weight*
Women – 7.9 ounces
Men – 8.9 ounces
Technical Specs*
- WEIGHT: 225 g / 7.9 oz
- UPPER: PES Power Wire w/ TPU Coating & TPU & Nylon Reinforcement / Recycled laces
- LINING: Recycled 3D Mesh
- INSOLE: 5mm XFlow Speed w/ 100% Recycled TPU+NITRO
- MIDSOLE: TPU+NITRO XFlow Speed Inner Core / PU Coated XFlow SpeedFilm™ / EVA+NITRO XFlow Outer Cage
- SOLE: FriXion® XF 2.0 w/ Protective FriXion Fabric / 4mm Lugs
- CUSHIONING: 26A
- LAST • FIT: Tempo Ultra • Wide
- CUSHIONING: 10/10
- TRACTION: 9/10
- PROTECTION: 8/10
- STABILITY: 8/10
- DROP: 6mm (Heel: 34mm; Toe: 28mm)
All information from Lasportiva.com. Check the website for full details and options.
La Sportiva Prodigio Pro
This was my first time using La Sportiva and I can say that this shoe is a powerhouse! I’ve tested and tried out a fair amount of trail shoes the past two years. Some on my own dime and others I was so generously gifted to review. I think it’s nearly difficult to create a shoe that checks all of the boxes of what I’m looking for and what works best for me, but this one was pretty close.
I know this shoe was crafted for ultra runners and trail enthusiasts. And although I would not say I’m a speedy Gonzales by any means, I do use these shoes to help me move faster and more efficiently up and down the trails. I wanted to preface my review with that, as I’m writing from a hiking perspective and one who has never run a day in her life. My experience with this shoe is coming from an avid hiker and one who walks at a moderate pace.
Comfort and Fit
I’m typically a size 10 in shoes. When La Sportiva first sent me the Prodigio Pro, I had to send them back and go up a full size to an 11. European shoes, in my experience, are built more narrow and I always have to size them up. When I received the new pair, I thought I was going to have to send those back again too because right out of the box they were slightly tight and firmer when I put them on. Thankfully, I gave them a chance and began to take them out on local trails to break in. They were pure gold after!
As time went on, the sockliner on the top of the shoe gradually opened up after every use and allowed the shoe and my foot more comfort and breathability. The heel of the foot is extremely well contoured and the padding is in high rub areas. The toe cap is another thing worth mentioning, as that’s extremely important to me.
I’m someone who has a slightly wider foot and lost a toe nail from hiking two years ago. I need room in that area for those reasons, as well my other big toe nail is on the brink of saying “bye bye” to me. I put a lot of pressure on my feet and the rigidness of this area has protected my feet with many miles on these shoes. It does so without bulk or adding any weight to the front. Overall, a secure and comfortable fit due to the seamless knit upper and sock-like midfoot wrap.
Traction
While most of my activities in the shoes have been local walks and hikes, as well as daily use, Prodigio has some solid traction! I’ve used these on every kind of terrain: loose, muddy, paved, etc. What I have found is that the horseshoe- shaped lugs, which have multidirectional teeth, provide a very sturdy traction on all of the variety on all of these terrain. The softer material used adds an element of tackiness and grippiness to the outsole that helped mostly with everything. I would say the only time I have called into question the traction is on wet rock, but that’s kind of a given with most shoes.
Outsole
I’d argue that Prodigio Pro’s outsole is one of its best features! It delivers excellent trail traction due to La Sportiva’s sticky FriXion XF 2.0 rubber and 4mm lugs, which give you a strong grip on a range of terrain: packed dirt, rocky paths, and various surfaces. The tread is deep enough to land in soft ground without being too aggressive and great for everyday trail use. The lug layout and wide platform also add a sense of stability, and the rubber wraps slightly around the sides for added protection when the trail gets rough.
Midsole
The first thing I noticed about the midsole on Prodigio Pro is how light, cushioned, and energetic it felt under the foot from the first step! La Sportiva uses it’s XFlow Speed foam, a combo of a nitrogen-infused core and an EVA outer layer, which combines soft, bouncy cushioning with enough support to keep things stable on rocky or uneven ground.
The shoe rolls smoothly from heel to toe, making my hikes feel less exhausting all to its rocker shape and moderate 6mm drop. The cushioning does a great job absorbing impact, which also helps reduce fatigue on my longer walks or hikes. The sides are slightly raised to keep feet secure and in place, and there’s extra protection under the midfoot to guard against rocks and roots. Overall, it offers a great mix of comfort, protection, and energy return. Perfect for anyone who wants a soft, but stable feel out on the trail.
Upper
Lightweight and breathable, this dynamic duo is what makes the upper part of this shoe a winner! Whether it’s long hikes or hot days, the mesh allows air in to help everything feel breathable yet still holds up tough for the trail. The overlays on the sides and toe areas give extra structure and security/ protection without making everything so heavy or stiff. Overall, the upper section of the shoe keeps everything secure without weighing you down!
Durability
I found the durability of this shoe to be pretty solid for all of the trails that I’ve done! I’ve had them for a few months with many miles on them with regular use (easy- hard) and they still are in tip top shape. But with that being said, I have to mention I haven’t used these on super steep, technical trails. That could/ would definitely be a different experience! Because the reality and downside of sticky rubber is that it can wear out faster, especially if you’re putting a lot of pressure on tougher surfaces like pavement and rocky ground. Otherwise, I think these shoes will last you a good while if you stick to natural surfaces!
Weight
The Prodigio Pro weighs about 225 grams (7.9 ounces. ) For a women’s shoe, this is considered pretty light considering all the cushioning and protection it offers. Even with the taller stack and extra features like rock guards, it doesn’t feel heavy on the trail. It’s the perfect middle ground— you’ll love and feel all of the benefits of the cushioning more than the weight, yet have adequate protection without feeling weighed down or sacrificing agility. Light enough to keep you moving and grooving on longer hikes or walks!
Travel
There’s nothing I love more than a trail AND travel shoe! That duo is what my existence is built upon. Not only is the Prodigio Pro very sharp and clean looking, but it instantly elevates any athleisure or outdoor attire. But most importantly- they were extremely comfortable to wear on anywhere and everywhere! I loved being able to maintain optimal comfort for miles and miles– on hikes, city walks, or on airplanes– all while looking put together wherever I went!
What I didn’t like
The only thing that I did not like about this shoe was the tighter fit. I had always heard that La Sportiva runs small and that was definitely the case with these. I had to go up a full size than what I normally wear. And while that isn’t a make or break, it can be frustrating when you’re ordering online and the waiting game of that. Also, it was hard for me to put a thicker wool sock with this shoe, as it was really snug. I’d probably have to go up another half a size or so if I wanted to do so. The fit may not cater to runners with ultra-wide feet.
Wrap Up of La Sportiva Prodigio Pro Trail Runner
I honestly love this shoe and I’m so grateful that I got to try it out! I’m someone who likes and values a comfortable, cushioned shoe. It’s always worked best for my body- legs and feet. But with age, I now also value something with more structure and durability. In my experience, I’ve found it hard to have a balance of both. La Sportiva hit the nail on the head with this. It’s a versatile and comfortable option for various trail conditions without compromising technical training features.
I’m not a runner so my preferences may differ from someone who is putting more speed and pressure on their feet, but I can’t see someone not benefitting from this shoe. From my daily use and abuse, they only keep getting better. This has certainly not always been the case with others! Overall, my first experience with La Sportiva was very positive and I’d recommend this shoe to anyone.
More from Fatmanlittletrail.com
For a list of other products that I have reviewed you can check my Product Review page here. If you have any products you would like me to review or any comments you can email me at fatmanlittletrails@gmail.com or you can follow me on any of the below social media platforms. Happy Hiking!