Introducing the La Sportiva Akyra Trail Running Shoe

The La Sportiva Akyra shoe is designed for mountain running, with a solid and robust structure suited for endurance races such as Ultra Trails. It is particularly enveloping, comfortable, and flexible, ideal when you need to wear your shoes for long periods of time.

Here are some key features:

The FriXion® Red + Trail Rocker™ sole features high-resistance rubber and a multi-terrain design, allowing optimal adaptability to the demands of running on the road as well as on steep trails. The Trail Rocker™ facilitates a natural foot strike ‘outer heel – inner toe’ when running.

The model's EVA foam is relatively firm, offering structured, almost stiff, cushioning. The shoe also features a thick 25 mm sole under the heel with a 9 mm drop.

The Ortholite® Hybrid Mountain Running® 5 mm comfort insole adds an extra touch of comfort and cushioning.

Features of the Men's Version

The men's version of the Akyra offers multiple unique features. It has an enveloping upper thanks to an innovative three-layer construction, ensuring optimal comfort during long trails. The men's model also boasts MicroLite Skeleton™ technology, allowing the shoe to dynamically follow the foot's movement during running.

Furthermore, this trail running shoe from the Italian brand features an exclusive technology called Impact Brake System, specially designed to provide better traction uphill and optimal grip downhill. The midsole offers both cushioning and stability.

For maximum grip on all types of terrain, whether rock, grass, moss, or mud, the men's version of the Akyra features an All Grounds sole. Finally, this version features a non-slip Mesh lining and an AirMesh Ultra-Comfort interior for increased comfort.

Gore-Tex Version: Ultra-Trail Running in Any Weather

Gore-Tex technology gives the Akyra outstanding performance for ultra-trail running. This membrane guarantees optimal waterproofness, ideal for winter running and long training sessions. It also offers increased breathability, making the shoe a top choice for runners, even in the most demanding conditions.

The La Sportiva Akyra Gore-Tex stands out for its comfort, enveloping structure, and great adaptability to Ultra Trails and Ultra Marathons. It is equipped with grippy Frixion XT lugs, an Impact Brake System, and a Stabilizer midsole for maximum stability and grip.

La Sportiva Akyra or Ultra Raptor II?

The Akyra and the Ultra Raptor II are both designed for trail running, but each with a focus and specifications that meet different needs. The Akyra, with its modern trail DNA, offers a better foot roll, a crucial aspect for runners seeking a natural and efficient running experience. It stands out for its balance between cushioning, protection, and comfort, making it an ideal choice for long outings where comfort is a priority. Its breathable mesh upper and unique lacing system ensure ventilation and optimal fit, while its FriXion Red sole provides grip and durability on various terrains.

On the other hand, the Ultra Raptor II, while slightly lighter, is today less chosen for long-distance running. It is more used for hike-and-run training, thanks to its robustness and comfort. Its solid construction and breathable mesh upper provide durability and comfort, particularly on rugged terrains. Its FriXion White sole, with softer rubber, provides excellent grip, essential for more challenging conditions.

In short, the Akyra is preferable for modern and dynamic trail running, while the Ultra Raptor II is more oriented towards hike-and-run, offering robustness and grip for technical terrains.

Size Guide: How to Choose the Right Size?

Choosing the right size is essential to enjoy comfort and performance during your trail running sessions. Here are some tips for choosing your size in La Sportiva’s range:

Measure your foot: Use a sheet of paper, a pencil, and a ruler. Make sure your foot is flat and perform the measurement at the end of the day, when your feet are generally more swollen.
Use the size guides: The size charts available on our product pages can help you convert your measurement into shoe size. These charts take into account the specifics of each model.
Consider your needs: If you plan to use your shoes for long trail runs or ultras, it may be preferable to choose a size larger than your usual size to leave space for your feet and avoid chaffing.
Try on the shoes: If possible, try on the shoes with the socks you intend to use for running. This will allow you to check that the shoe fits the shape of your foot and that it is comfortable enough.

Finally, remember that every foot is unique and it is normal for the size to vary slightly from one brand to another.