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

The La Sportiva Prodigio is a versatile long-distance running shoe designed for runners seeking comfort. With its plush midsole, this shoe is particularly suitable for those who prioritize a comfortable ride during extended runs. However, lab tests revealed a significant downside: durability issues, which may impact performance for heavier runners.

The shoe's comfort and versatility are evident in real-world scenarios, but the notable lack of longevity could deter potential buyers. Runners must weigh the benefits of its comfortable ride against the reduced lifespan when considering the La Sportiva Prodigio.


Pros

  • Breathable upper
  • Solid performance
  • Stable platform
  • Improved rocker
  • Hike & walk ready
  • Allows toe splay
  • Bouncy supercritical midsole

Cons

  • Poor durability
  • Could use even more foam
  • Not for technical trails

Key Features

  • Sizing Advice: Fits small - it is recommended to order 1 full size larger than your usual size.
  • Upper Material: Ultralightweight and durable synthetic Power Wire upper for precise fit and reliable support.
  • Ankle Collar: Stretch-knit fabric ankle collar with integrated tongue for enhanced comfort and debris prevention.
  • Fit: Wider fit accommodates more foot shapes, coupled with an internal wrapping system over the instep for efficient power transfer.
  • Midsole Cushioning: Features Xflow™ Nitrogen-infused Supercritical Foam midsole for ultra dampening and higher energy return.
  • Sole Design: Ultra grippy Frixion XF 2.0 rubber sole with 4mm lugs for confident traction on technical terrain.
  • Stability: Increased sidewall height enhances stability while keeping a comfortable stack height of 34mm.
  • Heel Rocker: Enhanced heel rocker promotes faster landing and turnover for smooth transitions.
  • Weight: Each shoe weighs approximately 255 g (8.9 oz).
  • Drop: The shoe has a drop of 6mm.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole Material: Rubber
  • Outer Material: Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)
  • Inner Material: Nylon
  • Overall Rating: 4.4 out of 5 based on 12 reviews

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

La Sportiva Prodigio Nike Pegasus Trail 5 Salomon Ultra Glide 2 Salomon Sense Ride 5
Price $155 $150 $150 $140
Trail terrain Moderate Light Light Light
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 9.6 oz / 271g 10.1 oz / 286g 10.1 oz / 286g 10.3 oz / 291g
Drop lab Drop brand 8.9 mm 9.6 mm 7.2 mm 8.7 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Mid/forefoot Heel
Size Half size small True to size True to size Slightly small
Midsole softness Soft Soft Soft Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold Normal Normal Big Small
Toebox durability Very bad Very good Bad -
Heel padding durability Bad Good - -
Outsole durability Decent Good - -
Breathability Moderate Warm Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Medium Medium Narrow Medium
Toebox width Medium Medium Narrow Medium
Stiffness Stiff Moderate Moderate Moderate
Torsional rigidity Stiff Moderate Flexible Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Stiff Stiff Moderate Flexible
Lug depth 3.4 mm 3.2 mm 2.8 mm 3.5 mm
Heel stack lab Heel stack brand 29.3 mm 34.6 mm 30.6 mm 27.2 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 20.4 mm 25.0 mm 23.4 mm 18.5 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Narrow
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Orthotic friendly
Ranking Bottom 27% Top 20% Top 48% Top 30%
Popularity Bottom 40% Top 14% Top 50% Top 39%