Review: La Sportiva Lycan

The latest in mountain running kicks from La Sportiva take comfort to a new level. Typically their shoes have been very technical in design but for me, lacked the feel I like in a shoe that I’ll be running in for several hours. However this is not the case with the Lycan. These kicks are made for those looking for a cushioned ride on long training runs over rocky terrain. The fit is roomy, so if you have narrow feet you might have a tiny bit of space. This can often be a good thing as your feet can swell on longer runs. The sole is nice and grippy on the rocky stuff but not overly chunky, which I personally hate as it takes away from the feel. They’re not going to be a go too shoe for muddy conditions, but it’s not that often you encounter it in Australian/NZ trails – unless you ran Tarawera Ultra this year!

The upper breathes nicely and is very durable. This will mean you get plenty of life out of them and also loads of protection on the sides and also at the front, thanks to the addition of a stone guard. The toe box is wide, allowing your feet to spread a little. I for one like this as it helps reduce your feet getting sore. Aesthetically they look pretty cool too. The Carbon/Apple Green is my pick.

In a nutshell these are perfect for most folks that are looking for a high mileage shoe that will keep them firmly fixed to the ground on most terrain. Funnily enough, I think they make a good road shoe too!

Features:
• Breathable mesh with microfiber reinforcements coated with abrasion-resistant material for protection

  • Injection molded EVA midsole with external structure for shock absorption
  • Rock guard outsole with Impact Brake System™ is ideal for use on hard, rocky terrain
  • Wider volume in forefoot area for maximum comfort

Tech specs:

WEIGHT: 9.50 oz (268g)
LAST: Tempo
FIT: Wide
UPPER: AirMesh / Anti-abrasion microfiber reinforcements / TPU toe cap
LINING: AirMesh (heel only)
MIDSOLE: 4mm Ortholite Mountain footbed / Injection molded EVA
SOLE: Rock Ground / FriXion® AT 2.0 with Impact Brake System™
DROP: 6mm
STACK: Heel – 20mm / Toe – 18mm
CUSHIONING: Midsole – 32A

Available at this link and other La Sportiva stockists: www.lasportiva.com.au