La Sportiva's Prodigio Pro hits a sweet spot for trail runners seeking agility, comfort, and solid traction without a carbon plate because let's face it, carbon plates are over-rated when it comes to mountain running.
The natural trail feel paired with a responsive midsole delivers confidence across varied terrains, especially technical trails.
Key specifications:
- Price: $195 at REI.com (For my US readers)/ £170 at sportsshoes.com (For my UK readers)
- Weight: 9.1oz / 258g (US Men's 9)
- Drop: 6mm (Heel: 34mm; Toe: 28mm)
- Upper: PES Power Wire with TPU coating, recycled laces, and recycled 3D Mesh lining
- Midsole: TPU+NITRO XFlow Speed Core, PU-coated XFlow SpeedFilmâ„¢, EVA+NITRO outer cage
- Outsole: FriXion XF 2.0 with Protective FriXion Fabric, 4mm lugs
- Extra Attributes: Plate-free design, Foot-secure cage construction
Sizing and fit
Definitely size up by at least half a size; these shoes run small.
They feel a bit narrow in the midfoot initially, but the snug fit translates to excellent security and stability once you're moving.
Alastair Dixon
I also have to mention the huge amount of padding on the tongue because it's something unique in a one-piece upper design like this - and it makes the overall fit dreamy, to say the least.
Performance review
After significant testing, I appreciate La Sportiva skipping a carbon plate, allowing the Prodigio Pro to offer a much better trail feel and natural stability.
The nitrogen-infused XFlow Speed midsole provides a responsive yet cushioned ride, ideal for both race days and long training runs should you prefer to have one all mountain trail shoe for everything.
The foot-secure cage construction keeps my foot stable, enhancing control on uneven terrain which is a 'must' for the type of trail running I like to do.
The FriXion rubber outsole performs extremely well too, providing impressive traction on a mixture of terrains.
The upper, despite feeling plush, breathes very well, keeping my feet comfortable even on crazy hot, humid days.
Uphill performance is excellent due to its lightweight design and solid heel lock, and the shoe feels agile and energetic on flats and rolling hills allowing me to push the pace to the max, and feel like I'm getting good returns from the shoe.
Descending technical terrain has been very good too, with the Prodigio Pro providing stability and confidence without slipping thanks to the aggressive lugs on the outsole.
My verdict
The Prodigio Pro has quickly become my go-to all-mountain shoe.
With its exceptional traction, responsive cushioning, and secure fit (once sized correctly), it excels across racing, training, and challenging technical trails.
Congratulations La Sportiva, the Prodigio Pro has earned itself the top spot in my Best All Mountain Trail Running Shoes Roundup.
You can pick up a pair via the links below:
