Trail Runner Review

I have been a hiking boot guy for the longest time but in the last couple of years made the switch to trail runners and I am not sure if I will ever come back. The La Sportiva Akyra is an aggressive trail runner that can tackle any mountain ridge you throw at it while being able to perform equally impressive on long hikes and of course in various running conditions. Before getting into the La Sportiva Akyra Trail Runner review, let’s talk about my credibility with these shoes. This is a completely unpaid and unbiased review and I have worn two pairs of these trail runners for the better part of a year and a half. I have clocked about 500 or so miles between the two pairs. 

Specs

• Comes in men’s and women’s sizes
  • Men’s 7-13
  • Women’s 5.5 -11
• Weight 11.35 oz (M), 9.8oz (W)
• Fit: Medium to Wide
• Upper: AirMesh / TPU MicroLite Skeleton / Flex-Guard inserts
• Lining: AirMesh (heel only)
• Midsole: Injection shock absorbing MEMlex EVA / 2.4 mm LaSpEVA
• Sole: FriXion® Trail Rocker2 with Impact Brake System
• Drop: 9mm
• Stack: Heel – 25mm / Toe – 16mm
• Cushioning: Midsole – 32A

La Sportiva Akyra Pros 

• Extremely rugged trail runner with great durability on ridge scrambles, loose scree, long hikes and of course trail running.
• Versatile trail runner performing well in snow, 14,000ft mountains, desert hiking, slot canyons and on dirt packed trails. 
• Very breathable shoe especially if not wearing socks.
• Comfort levels similar to a sneaker – sore feet has not been an issue while wearing these.
• Great grip on the sole of the shoe which is suitable for all types of scrambling (Class 3 & up).
• La Sportiva has fantastic customer service in my experience. 

La Sportiva Akyra Cons

• If you have a wider foot, this shoe might be a bit tight for you.
• This version is not waterproof but if you look into the La Sportiva Akyra GTX that is the goretex version which is.
• Due to the venting, if you run cold, your feet may be chilly in colder temperatures. 
• Not the lightest shoe with all of the features that make it more rugged
• Not the cheapest footwear option on the market
• There seems to be some issues with the toe box and tearing. The way that the toe box rubber is layered seems to stick on loose rock and scree which causes it to wear through the thin membrane. 

Summary

The La Sportiva Akyra Trail Runner is a fantastic shoe and one that I would highly recommend for a three season hiker. Its versatility allows it to tackle all sorts of terrain while giving you the grip required to scramble up steep mountains. I also love the Mens’ colorway of the shoe, adding some red laces really makes the shoe pop. Let me know what you think of the La Sportiva Akyra in the comments below! 

*This review is not paid or sponsored and contains all of my original thoughts. Read more of my gear reviews here.

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