Based on the headline of the news, the direct question we ask you from RUNNEA is: Are they the first trail running shoes that come to your mind if we put the focus on the ASICS outdoor cat? More than likely, because the Gel Trabuco family has been recognized since the late 90s for its versatility, durability and grip, and has adapted over the years to the new trends and demands of trail runners.
In the current market, within this saga, two trail runningshoes that have gained notoriety and relevance among the trail running community stand out: the ASICS Gel Trabuco 13 and the ASICS Trabuco Max 4. With a name that pays homage to the Trabuco Canyon region (in the Santa Ana Mountains, California), the Trabuco has become synonymous with reliability and, above all, off-road performance.
But which of these two trail running shoes might be the better choice? Both share certain technologies, benefit from ASICS ' strong tradition in trail territory and are ready to tackle uneven terrain. However, each offers a different running experience, whether you prioritize versatility and stability or you're looking for maximum cushioning and comfort on long distance runs.
Learn about the history of the iconic ASICS Gel Trabuco line!
We've already told you the story, but not the specifics. The ASICS Gel Trabuco series was born in the late 1990s, at a time when trail running was just beginning to take off and attract runners who wanted to try something more than asphalt. The story goes that ASICS America' s employees used to train on the Trabuco Canyon trails, and that's where the name for their new road shoe came from.
Since its first version, the Gel Trabuco line has been characterized by its consistency, grip and versatility, essential qualities for handling dirt, rocks and uneven surfaces. As the sport and technology evolved, ASICS has been able to refine this iconic series, adding new foams, anti-rock plates and lighter stability systems.
This camino of nearly three decades has resulted in different editions. In 2012 the series was updated as"Fuji Trabuco" in honor of Mount Fuji, a Japanese symbol par excellence. Thus, the saga has been constantly renewed without losing its essence: to offer a reliableshoe to tackle technical trails and long distances.
The birth of the ASICS Trabuco Max line
In parallel to the advancement of the Gel Trabuco, ASICS decided to launch a different branch within the family: the Trabuco Max. Conceived as an ultra-distanceshoe, it features a higher profile, more generous cushioning and a lowerdrop than the standard Gel Trabuco.
The idea era satisfy mountain runners looking for protection and comfort on runs that can last for hours, or even days. And along these lines, the ASICS Trabuco Max 4 was born, one of the most recent models, with notable improvements compared to previous editions, such as a wider base and an even more comfortable midsole.
Points in common: safety and traction as flagship
To begin with, both shoes are designed with the same goal in mind: to offer safety and traction in difficult terrain. These are the key features shared by ASICS Gel Trabuco 13 and ASICS Trabuco Max 4:
ASICSGRIP outsole
Both the Gel Trabuco 13 and the Trabuco Max 4 shoes use the grippy ASICSGRIP compound. That outsole features a lug pattern capable of biting into the terrain on uphills and downhills, offering a high level of stability on dry, rocky or even wet surfaces.
FLYTEFOAM BLAST PLUS ECO Foam
Both models share the same cushioning technology, FlyteFoam Blast Plus ECO, which seeks to maintain a good balance between lightness and reactivity. Its great advantage is the use of recycled materials, something that reduces environmental impact without sacrificing performance.
Durable construction
With strategic reinforcements (mainly on the toe and sides), both shoes are ready to withstand rubbing against rocks, branches and other trail elements. If you take minimal care in cleaning and drying, you have shoes for a long time.
That is, if they had to be defined by something in common, it would be their reliability in the mountains and the confidence they transmit when you step on them. Regardless of whether you choose Gel Trabuco 13 or Trabuco Max 4, you know that you will have protection, grip and good response.
Main differences: how do they differ?
That said, each shoe in this comparison of ASICS Gel Trabuco 13 and ASICS Trabuco Max 4 have differences between them that also need to be taken into account when considering investing in one model or the other
Structure, profile and drop
Gel Trabuco 13
- 8 mmDrop.
- With a weight close to 285 grams.
- They have been redesigned to be lighter, more stable and agile in varied terrains.
- They incorporate a flexible anti-rock plate that protects from sharp rocks.
Trabuco Max 4
- 5 mmDrop.
- They weigh around 315 grams, slightly heavier than Gel Trabuco 13.
- Maximalist profile, with a thick midsole that provides greater cushioning on long runs.
- They feature the exclusive GUIDESOLE technology, creating a rocker effect that facilitates a fluid stride and reduces fatigue.
Design and applied technology
Gel Trabuco 13
- True to the original philosophy of the Gel Trabuco saga, they opt for the combination of the GEL system in the heel and the anti-rock plate to protect and offer smooth transitions.
- The upper has been lightened while maintaining good durability.
- Perfect if you are looking for a balance between lightness and stability.
Trabuco Max 4
- They have a rocker-type design to propel and save energy over the kilometers.
- They have a wider base, which provides more support and firmness on uneven terrain (important when you have been running for many hours).
- This new version reduces the drop (5 mm) and lowers the midsole 2 mm compared to the ASICS Trabuco Max 3 version, which reinforces stability and the feeling of closeness to the ground, despite its high cushioning.
Running sensations
Gel Trabuco 13
- You'll feel a more protected foot without losing that agility needed for changing terrain.
- You will benefit from smooth transitions in the heel area, thanks to the GEL and a more classic drop (8 mm).
Trabuco Max 4
- Maximum comfort, especially for long distance runs or training on less technical trails, where you can take advantage of its rocker effect and great cushioning.
- Reduced fatigue discomfort in the forefoot area, thanks to the GUIDESOLE that propels you through each stride.
- Lowerdrop and bulky profile may require some break-in period.
ASICS Gel Trabuco 13 vs Trabuco Max 4 Runner Profile
At this point, the big question is: who is each of these ASICS trail runningshoes designed for?
Who can run in the ASICS Gel Trabuco 13?
- You're looking for a versatile running shoe for mid-distance trail running.
- You prefer a stable and lightweight feel, without sacrificing the protection that characterizes the Gel Trabuco.
- You land on your heel and like a smooth transition.
- You move over short to medium distances, from a trail 10K to an alpine marathon, without needing excessive cushioning.
- You want to save some weight: your legs appreciate those fewer grams.
Who can run with the ASICS Max 4?
- You're a fan of long runs, even ultra trail, and you prioritize comfort above all else.
- You are seduced by the idea of the rocker effect (GUIDESOLE) to reduce fatigue on long runs.
- You prefer a lowerdrop (5 mm), which encourages a midfoot landing and a more "natural" stride.
- You don't mind the extra weight (315 grams) if it means more cushioning and impact protection.
- You're looking for great stability on uneven terrain, thanks to a wider base and a more generous profile.
I'm sure you've already identified your priorities: do you recognize yourself more in the need for stability and lightness in a Gel Trabuco 13, or are you drawn to the unlimited comfort of the Trabuco Max 4?
Of course, RUNNEA encourages you to compare prices, including feedback from our RUNNEA Trail Team members. All this information will help you decide which model best suits you to continue to enjoy your passion for the mountains and the great outdoors.
The final decision: ASICS Gel Trabuco 13 or ASICS Trabuco Max 4?
On the other hand, our recommendation is not to get carried away only by price or aesthetics: what is essential in trail running is that your shoes meet the demands of the terrain you frequent and that they adapt to the shape of your footprint. A 5 mmdrop may be ideal for runners with some technique, but may require adaptation if you have always used higher drops. A 315 grams shoe may seem heavy if you usually go at very fast paces or shorter distances, while it will be your salvation in ultras.
So with this comparison of the two trail titans from ASICS, you'll have a clear picture of the main strengths and differences of each model. Is it the Gel Trabuco 13 or the Trabuco Max 4? That's the big dilemma that now you, as a trail runner, can solve.
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