Welcome to Trail Shoes Reviewed, where today we’re diving into the La Sportiva Mutant 2. Our team has tested these shoes over hundreds of miles, putting them through their paces on various terrains. We’re here to provide an in-depth look at the shoe’s specifications, performance, and suitability for different running conditions. By the end of this review, you’ll have a clear idea of whether the Mutant 2 is the right fit for your trail adventures.
Specs Overview: A Breakdown of Key Features
The La Sportiva Mutant 2 has a rearfoot stack height of 26 mm and a forefoot stack height of 16 mm, giving it a 10 mm drop. This moderate drop can relieve pressure on the Achilles tendon, making it a good choice if you experience discomfort in this area. However, keep in mind that a higher drop can sometimes shift pressure to the forefoot, which may be relevant if you suffer from metatarsalgia, Morton’s neuroma, or big toe pain.
Fit: True to Size but Snug in the Toe Box
In terms of fit, the La Sportiva Mutant 2 generally runs true to size but with a snugger feel around the toe box. If you have wider feet, you might want to consider going a half size up for more comfort. As a performance-oriented shoe, it’s designed to fit closely to the foot, offering stability and control on challenging terrain.
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Upper Design: Gaiter-Style Closure with Reinforced Toe Box
The Mutant 2 features a mesh upper with a reinforced rubber toe box that provides durability on rough trails. One standout feature is the unique gaiter-style upper without a traditional tongue. The upper layers overlap, creating a secure, sock-like fit that locks down your foot even without fully tightening the laces. The lace cover lets you tuck the laces securely, preventing snagging on branches or rocks while running.
Performance: Exceptional Traction and Stability
The Mutant 2 is equipped with 5 mm lugs on the outsole, which are strategically placed for optimal traction. La Sportiva’s Impact Brake System enhances this by spacing out the lugs to improve surface contact, providing stability and grip on technical terrain. The midsole is quite stiff, adding a firm feel underfoot. While this rigidity might not be ideal for softer, buffed-out trails or mixed road-to-trail runs, it excels on muddy paths, forest trails, and technical mountain runs.
Feedback from Our Testers
Our tester, Dave, noted that the La Sportiva Mutant 2 provided excellent traction, especially on slippery, technical terrain. The shoe’s snug fit and stable design made it feel secure on uneven ground. However, it runs firm underfoot, so it’s better suited for short to medium distances rather than longer, cushioned runs.
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Where Does the La Sportiva Mutant 2 Shine?
Due to its low stack height and rigid construction, we recommend the La Sportiva Mutant 2 for short to medium-distance runs on technical terrain. It performs exceptionally well on muddy trails and rocky mountain paths, making it a top choice for runners who prioritise stability and traction over softer, more cushioned rides.
If you have any questions about the La Sportiva Mutant 2, please feel free to leave a comment below. And if you found this review helpful, don’t forget to subscribe for more in-depth reviews of trail running shoes!