The La Sportiva Mutant Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The La Sportiva Mutant is a specialized trail running shoe designed for stability on technical terrain. Its performance is particularly suited for experienced runners who tackle challenging trails, making it ideal for those seeking a shoe with a high drop of 12 mm.

Lab tests reveal that the La Sportiva Mutant features a firm foam rated at 25 HA, which translates to a stable platform during uneven runs. Additionally, its rugged construction contributes to notable grip and durability in demanding conditions, though it may not perform as well on easier terrains.

While the weight may not be the lowest in its category, the specific design and traction capabilities of the La Sportiva Mutant make it a reliable choice for tackling technical trails.


Pros

  • Exceptional fit for narrow feet
  • Extremely durable upper
  • Outstanding stability
  • Great breathability
  • Customizable lockdown
  • Head-turning design
  • Fairly priced

Cons

  • Unquestionably heavy
  • Potential for rapid outsole wear
  • Excessively firm midsole

Key Features

  • Shaft: Scratch-resistant breathable single mesh with integrated small gaiter for added protection.
  • Lining: Non-slip mesh that ensures a secure fit during activities.
  • Midsole: Injected MEMlex EVA with stable insert for cushioning and stability.
  • Footbed: Ortholite Mountain Running Ergonomic 4 mm for enhanced comfort and support.
  • Sole: Ultra-grip FriXion XF blend that provides excellent traction on various surfaces.

Specifications

  • Sole material: Synthetic
  • Outer material: Synthetic
  • Inner material: Manmade
  • Closure type: Lace-Up

La Sportiva Mutant Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

La Sportiva Mutant La Sportiva Prodigio New Balance 510 v6 Topo MTN Racer 3
Price $165 $155 $90 $150
Trail terrain Technical Moderate Light Light
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 11.4 oz / 323g 9.6 oz / 271g 11 oz / 312g 10.1 oz / 286g
Drop lab Drop brand 11.3 mm 8.9 mm 8.2 mm 6.9 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Mid/forefoot
Size Half size small Half size small True to size Slightly small
Midsole softness Firm Soft Balanced Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Normal Small Small
Toebox durability Good Very bad Decent Bad
Heel padding durability Good Bad Bad Decent
Outsole durability Decent Decent Good Good
Breathability Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Narrow Medium Narrow Wide
Toebox width Medium Medium Medium Wide
Stiffness Stiff Stiff Stiff Stiff
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Moderate Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Moderate Stiff Moderate Moderate
Lug depth 5.0 mm 3.4 mm 2.9 mm 4.2 mm
Heel stack lab Heel stack brand 33.2 mm 29.3 mm 33.8 mm 33.5 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 21.9 mm 20.4 mm 25.6 mm 26.6 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Orthotic friendly
Ranking Top 41% Bottom 27% Bottom 3% Top 45%
Popularity Bottom 37% Bottom 40% Bottom 13% Bottom 28%