ASICS GEL-TRABUCO 13 VS TRABUCO MAX 4: THE MATCH BETWEEN STABILITY AND CUSHIONING (TEST)

For years, the TRABUCO™ series from ASICS has set the standard for trail runners seeking performance and reliability. With the new GEL-TRABUCO 13 and TRABUCO MAX 4, ASICS offers two models designed for very distinct needs.

So, between dynamism and cushioning, stability and propulsion, which Trabuco is right for you? With the Private Sport Shop, We've put these two models to the test to help you make the right choice!

GEL-TRABUCO 13 / Corentin The GEL-TRABUCO 13: designed for medium to long distances on technical terrain, the GEL-TRABUCO 13 perfectly met the requirements of the Pic Saint-Loup, renowned for its steep, rocky trails.

TRABUCO MAX 4 / Mathieu A must-have for long-distance trails and ultra-trails, this shoe offers reinforced cushioning and efficient propulsion. It's a pleasure to use on rolling trails, but also (to my great surprise) on more technical trails. In our test on hybrid trails combining rolling and technical sections, the TRABUCO MAX 4 demonstrated excellent grip and incredible comfort.

GEL-TRABUCO 13 / Corentin These are excellent shoes, much more comfortable than their predecessors, with improved cushioning while retaining their major asset: incredible grip on all types of terrain. They're light (285 g), super comfortable to wear, and what's more, they're really stylish! Perfect fit, nothing to complain about.

TRABUCO MAX 4 / Mathieu They're immediately comfortable to put on, and weigh a reasonable 315g for their appearance. In terms of looks, there's nothing to complain about: the colors and design are really superb! The support is top-notch, and you immediately feel the generous foam and high, sometimes playful, stack!

GEL-TRABUCO 13 / Corentin GEL-TRABUCO: effective cushioning for a GEL-TRABUCO, offering a sensation of lightness and closeness to the ground. Designed primarily for comfort and durability, it remains dynamic, although a little less responsive than carbon plate models... but that didn't stop me from relaunching on the hill!

TRABUCO MAX 4 / Mathieu Cushioning: this is clearly one of the shoe's major strengths: ultra-generous, soft cushioning that almost makes you feel as if you're floating above the ground with every stride. Its cushioning and pronounced rocker help reduce muscle fatigue on long outings.

GEL-TRABUCO 13 / Corentin ASICSGRIP™ technology: the sole provides excellent grip on all types of terrain, whether dirt paths, grass or pebbles, even in wet weather. Total confidence in the shoe on that front.

TRABUCO MAX 4 / Mathieu TRABUCO MAX 4: having tested it on very technical sections, the TRABUCO MAX 4's grip is satisfactory. With its generous cushioning, the shoe can be a little playful, requiring good concentration on technical descents.

GEL-TRABUCO 13 / Corentin With the GEL-TRABUCO 13, I feel really secure with every stride. With a midfoot stride, support is impeccable: my ankle stays firmly in place even on technical terrain, and the shoe offers excellent protection. The cushioning is top-notch, allowing me to run long kilometers without difficulty. Very comfortable, they don't feel hot, even after several hours' running. The grip is perfect and the dynamism, although without exceptional energy return, is still sufficient to get going again on all types of gradient.

TRABUCO MAX 4 / Mathieu This shoe offers exceptional comfort, making it a pleasure to ride on gentle, rolling sections. Its reinforced cushioning reduces muscular fatigue, so you can ride for miles without difficulty. Its precise fit ensures good stability, but it's important to remain vigilant on technical trails.

GEL-TRABUCO 13 / Corentin This model is designed for technical trails and medium to long distances. I would recommend the GEL-TRABUCO 13 to 100 % runners looking for reliability, comfort, grip and stability on demanding trails. On the other hand, it's ideal for long distances, but less suited to short, fast formats.

✔️ HIGHLIGHTS :	🚀 POINTS FOR IMPROVEMENT :
Exceptional grip on all types of terrain	Lacking dynamism, this shoe is more suited to long outings and moderate paces.
Versatile and lightweight	A little more cushioning, but the TRABUCO MAX 4 is just what you need.
Excellent fit and outstanding comfort, even after hours of running
Soft, shock-absorbing cushioning for optimum stability

TRABUCO MAX 4 / Mathieu I'd recommend this model to trail runners who prefer a comfortable, protective shoe for long formats such as ultra-trails, or for outings where comfort is paramount. Its ultra-soft cushioning helps reduce muscle fatigue.

Pleasant to wear, well fitted, it ensures good stability despite its high stack. For me, this is a real asset, providing excellent sensations on rolling terrain. Grip is very good, but for really technical terrain, the GEL-TRABUCO 13 is a better option.

✔️ HIGHLIGHTS :	🚀 POINTS FOR IMPROVEMENT :
Exceptional cushioning and filtering: effectively absorbs shocks and filters out rough terrain.	Cushioning favors comfort and endurance over speed and energy return.
Reliable grip, far superior to older versions.
Contoured fit for a supportive feel
Relatively light despite its stack and size.