| Ground | Trail |
| Type of support | Universal (neutral) |
| Inclination of the sole | 8mm |
| Sole thickness (heel) | 34mm |
| Sole thickness (forefoot) | 26mm |
| Weight (men’s model) | 314g |
| Weight (female model) | 256g |
About
The Asics Gel Trabuco is back in 2022 with a 10th version substantially identical to the previous one, the main evolution of which is the revisit of the upper.
The mesh is constructed with tighter knits from stronger and more durable materials than on the 9 version. The upper is breathable and comfortable , but tends to retain water according to some testers.
The Asics Grip outsole provides excellent grip and traction on all terrains, even the most rugged. The FlyteFoam shock duo on the midsole and Gel on the heel provide efficient and responsive cushioning, with good shock absorption. The DuoMax technology completes the whole thing by providing a form of stability.
Finally, the protection plate is unanimous among trailers: discreet, but terribly effective against the irregularities of the ground!
In summary, the Asics Gel Trabuco 10 remains a safe bet for trail runners looking for a versatile, comfortable and protective model .
Introduction
Asics is more comfortable with road shoes than trail shoes, that’s a fact. The Japanese brand has however been able to build a reliable range around the Trabuco, which has been recognized for many years.
The Asics Gel Trabuco has a solid reputation in the field of trail running. It thus relies on the versatility and reliability of its model to retain its followers year after year. They appreciate its comfort, protection, strength and durability. Aficionados swear by it on the trails!
Asics had made substantial improvements to the Trabuco 9, particularly in terms of weight and grip. Can it still do better with version 10? Is the Gel Trabuco vintage 2022 still a safe bet in terms of trail shoes? Does she deserve her longevity? This is what we will see in this detailed analysis.
Adhesion and lifespan
The outsole of the Gel Trabuco 10 is identical in all respects to that of the previous model: full-coverage Asics Grip rubber and aggressive, deep 5mm lugs . This technology had considerably improved the grip on the 9th version, to the delight of the trailers. There was therefore no objective reason to change the configuration in 2022.
The construction and design of the crampons thus remain unchanged and allow runners to approach the most diverse trails, including the most steep or slippery, with complete peace of mind. They offer great protection in addition to the plate provided for this purpose .
In summary, there is nothing to (re)say about this outsole, effective on a large number of surfaces . However, some trailers find that it reaches its limits with sticky mud, which tends to clump on the closely spaced studs. This is the only small defect that we can blame him for.
Cushioning
Here again, Asics has used the same midsole construction as on the previous iteration: FlyteFoam technology with a substantial thickness of 34 mm at the heel (26 mm at the toe) and a moderate drop of 8 mm (less for the feeling according to some trailers). The formula has proven itself in terms of cushioning , both soft and dynamic . The cushion is protective without being maximalist (leave that to the Trabuco Max!).
We obviously find the GEL cushioning technology at the back of the shoe, whose effectiveness in minimizing impacts on the ground is no longer to be proven. Together with the FlyteFoam, it forms a perfect sports duettist number, allowing soft landings on the heel, in complete protection.
The Duomax support system on the midfoot completes the device. This denser foam provides both stability and firmness (but without excess).
Finally, the Asics Gel Trabuco 10 has a very effective protection plate against stones , debris and steep terrain. According to the trailers who tested the shoe, its presence is barely perceptible although it is embedded in the sole, and does not affect the flexibility of the sole in any way – quite the contrary!
Foot support (upper)
The upper of the Trabuco 10 has undergone some generally positive developments, with some reservations, however, from some runners.
The tight technical mesh mesh is made of more solid and durable materials , in order to correct the fragility often criticized for version 9. The upper remains comfortable and breathable , even in hot weather.
The shoe has therefore regained a little weight: 305 g vs 290 g for the Trabuco 9. This can be burdensome on long distance outings, especially if it has been in the rain for hours. Some runners have indeed noticed that the water had difficulty evacuating on this new upper. For those who like to keep their feet dry, a Gore-Tex version is available.
The stone guard now integrates more harmoniously with the upper, without losing effectiveness. The gusseted tongue + lacing system combo provides good midfoot support . The overlay heel cup has been redesigned to provide more effective lockdown at the rear.
Where the shoe pinches is at the level of the toe box. Slender-footed testers moderately appreciated the bulky toe box, causing issues with forward sliding especially on steep descents.
In short, the opinions on the stem are mixed even if they remain generally positive.
Racing feeling
The first running sensations are generally good out of the box. Trailers appreciated the smooth and balanced ride , the comfortable and dynamic cushioning of the sole, and the great protection provided by the plate.
The testers were very impressed with the flexibility of the Asics Gel Trabuco 10, despite the presence of the protective plate. Transitions are thus impeccable both uphill and downhill , facilitated by incredible traction thanks to the Asics Grip rubber. Technical and rocky forest and mountain terrain just have to watch out!
Everyone agrees that it’s a versatile all-purpose shoe , not cut out for speed but for long distances. That said, it also does the job on shorter formats. The only downside is the toe box, which some testers find too spacious to the detriment of the shoe’s support.
Conclusion
A moderately thick midsole, just enough for excellent cushioning, an effective protection plate, a solid and breathable upper, deep studs: the Asics Gel Trabuco 10 is certainly a safe bet in the field of trail running .
It will suit any trailer looking for a versatile model that can accompany him on a wide variety of terrains and in complete reliability during his long outings (but not only). In short, it has its place in your trail shoe closet!
Your pair of Trabuco 9 has just given up the ghost, and you are hesitating to acquire the 10th version? Read our comparison below!
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