Mountain gear specialist LA SPORTIVA has announced its exclusive new trail running and hiking line for Spring 2024. The centerpieces of this line are the new Levante and Prodigio trail running models which utilise a new supercritical foam from the brand called XFlow.
This responsive foam is integrated into the new models to provide a unique ride, giving runners an ample amount of cushioning without sacrificing the dexterity needed to conquer technical trails.
The Italian brand is also rolling out a brand-new hiking boot called the Aequilibrium Trek GTX, a unique model that utilises advanced technology from the brand’s mountaineering line.
Over the last few years, the La Sportiva team joined forces with top female athletes from across the globe to develop a trail running shoe that meets the needs of the female athlete. The result is the Levante, a well-cushioned 8.9oz trail runner with a 6mm drop that utilises La Sportiva’s newest midsole technology.
XFlow is a novel supercritical foam that provides superb cushioning and incredible energy return. This midsole material is designed to help runners navigate a wide variety of terrain from jagged ridgelines to park concrete.
The female-specific last is paired with a supportive exoskeleton harness to provide comfort and a precise foothold on the toughest of trails. The Frixion® White outsole with 4.5mm lugs offers outstanding grip in any terrain.
Silke Koester, a professional runner who has been a staunch advocate for increasing women’s voices in the space, said, “In a world where the default is male, it’s a breath of fresh air for a product to be brainstormed, designed and created by and for women. The Levante excels on rugged mountain terrain and over long distances – both of which are spaces where women thrive.
“This shoe honors experienced and aspiring female mountain athletes and I am proud of La Sportiva for creating an opportunity for us to take our place at the forefront of innovation, design and the sport of mountain running. I am hopeful that this marks the beginning of a shift across all aspects of the sport.”
Clare Gallagher, an elite ultrarunner who helped to develop the shoe, added, “They have flow and cushion unlike any trail shoe I’ve run in before. They’re supportive, but light and fast. Working with other La Sportiva women in the creation of the shoe was a unique experience, and now that we’re running in the shoe, I’m impressed that we all are so happy, considering we asked for a variety of characteristics. Time to Levante!”
Another highlight of the spring line that features the new XFlow midsole technology is the Prodigio. a 9.5oz trail running shoe, designed to conquer anything in its path; available for men and women. With a heel stack height of 34mm, and a drop of 4mm, this is a highly cushioned and responsive model made to propel runners over long distances. What sets this shoe apart from similar products is its ability to navigate difficult terrain.
When designing this model, La Sportiva wanted to ensure that trail performance was not sacrificed in the name of cushion. A bathtub construction is paired with a unique stability wrap to anchor the foot into the shoe, allowing for agility and precision on tough trails. The dual compound Frixion Red rubber provides outstanding grip on any surface, ensuring that runners can venture wherever, whenever.
The Aequilibrium Trek GTX is a new hiking boot that allows adventurers to go anywhere, no matter the conditions. The team at La Sportiva blended the brand’s mountaineering technology and heritage with their experience in the hiking sector to create a model that is perfect for long treks and backpacking expeditions.
This boot offers an ideal balance between technical performance and comfort. The midsole is integrated with the outsole to create a seamless heel-to-toe transition, while the Double Heel sole lug pattern offers security on technical trails. A 3D Flex System EVO allows for directional articulation of the ankle without compromising support.
