If you’ve run in La Sportiva before, you know they’re not playing around when it comes to trail performance. The brand is well known for rugged design, precise fit, and a Euro-style approach to mountain gear. Recently, they’ve launched a string of new models—including the speedy Prodigio Pro—and now they’re going big. Like, Max big.
We recently had a chance to log some miles in the La Sportiva Prodigio Max, and while it shares DNA with the Prodigio Pro, this one is clearly built for long-haul trail efforts and comfort-forward endurance. Here’s how it stacked up—literally.
Trail Mix Master: Testing the La Sportiva Prodigio Pro’s Blend of Tech and Comfort
See all our reviews on La Sportiva Here!
Looks:
The design of the Prodigio Max stays consistent with La Sportiva’s aesthetic: sharp angles, clean lines, and performance vibes all around. One of the colorways even mirrors the Prodigio Pro (see review above) and matches nicely with La Sportiva’s race kit—a nice bonus if you like your trail gear coordinated. We received the Night Sky/Mountain Red version, and honestly? It’s fresh and my favorite of the two.
If you’re already running in La Sportiva gear, you’ll find this colorway fits right in.
Construction & Fit:
It’s hard not to draw a direct line between the Prodigio Max and its lighter sibling, the Prodigio Pro. That shoe was built for speed and racing. The Max, on the other hand, adds 3mm more stack and is purpose-built for distance, comfort, and stability over rugged, extended terrain.
It’s not just a beefed-up Pro though—there are some key differences in feel and functionality that set it apart.
Specs:
- Stack Height: 37 mm (heel) / 31 mm (forefoot)
- Drop: 6 mm
- Weight: 10.4 oz (Men’s US 9)
- Lug Height: 4 mm
Let’s start with a PSA: size up! In the Prodigio Pro, I made the mistake of sticking with my normal size, and the toe box was just too short. Lesson learned. I went up a half size in the Max, and the fit was immediately more accommodating. If you like even more space, a full size up might not be a bad idea.
As expected from a shoe with “Max” in its name, it’s on the heavier side. But La Sportiva smartly balanced that with a wide base and a smooth rocker that helps propel things forward. You definitely feel the shoe, but not in a way that drags you down.
Upper:
The upper is constructed from a material La Sportiva calls “Comfort Wire TPEE Polyester with Embroidered TPU Yarn.” Translation: no typical overlays, just a clean, supportive upper with crosshatched thread reinforcement that adds structure.
This design is shared with the Pro, though the Max’s upper feels a bit softer and thinner, which helps offset the overall mass of the shoe. It’s not the most breathable shoe out there—if airflow is your top priority, there are lighter options—but it does a solid job keeping trail debris out, which is crucial on long, dusty efforts.
The fit is dialed in thanks to a thin tongue and an integrated lacing system that loops through the tongue itself, preventing any sliding or pressure points. It’s minimal, secure, and I think built for long hours of wear.
Midsole:
The XFlow Endurance midsole uses a dual-foam construction: a soft eTPU core for bounce and energy, surrounded by a nitrogen-infused EVA that adds stability and shape retention.
The result is a shoe that’s softer than the Pro, but still controlled. It’s not marshmallowy, and it doesn’t feel mushy underfoot. Instead, it’s responsive, stable, and forgiving—everything you want in a high-mileage trail shoe.
Outsole:
The Frixion XT 2.0 outsole features 4mm lugs and a dual compound setup: grippy red rubber up front for traction, and more durable blue rubber at the heel for longevity.
The coverage is full-length, with no cutouts or exposed foam, which helps with protection and even wear over time. It grips well across most trail conditions—from dry, hardpack dirt to loose rock—and provides the confidence and control you want when tired legs are navigating tricky terrain.
Overall:
The La Sportiva Prodigio Max is built for the trail runner who logs big miles, seeks stability, and wants lasting comfort without compromising on performance. While it shares design language with the Prodigio Pro, the Max goes its own direction—offering more cushion, more support, and a build that can take you deep into the mountains or hours into an ultra.
Just remember to size up—and prepare for a ride that feels confident, composed, and ready to go the distance.
