As much as I have enjoyed my INOV-8 305s, the uppers are all but fully shredded after 16 months and it’s time to try my new LA FUMA SKY RACE, a true mid to high mileage trail running shoe.

First impressions are positive; they are a smart looking shoe in a green and graphite combination and surprisingly, for the amount of support they provide, quite lightweight coming in at around 428g for a UK 8.0.

In terms of features provided the SKY RACE offers:

Uppers

A 3D mesh upper with a robust front TPU-based stone guard. The tongue has a semi-gusset. The lining is a lightweight breathable synthetic 3D mesh.

Footbed

This is built with a removable PES/EVA atop a formidable VIBRAM® XRUN rubber sole and fully supportive  Phylon tri-density midsole.

Patented Twin Lace System

This is a bi-sectioned - cantilevered toggle system for securing and stabilising the lower and upper foot separately.

Out of the box, they were a perfect fit first time which helps with the initial impressions. That said, they could do with a loop at the heel to make it easier to get in and out of the shoes.

Getting to the grips with the patented Twin Lace system was no problem at all and they worked well but can tend to work themselves loose with high mileage. As well, they could benefit from a housing or stowage facility (perhaps as part of a gusset structure) so they do not get caught up in vines and sticks in hard out bush track conditions.

The gusset is smart and effective, not quite the seamless full length elegance and rubbish warding ability of say the La Sportiva Racelite stoneguard but a well worked feature nonetheless.

As a runner with moderate pronation, the last and structure have been able to cope with my gait, training surfaces and penchant for hill reps without any drama. No hot spots, no irritations, no material or component failures

The VIBRAM xRUN sole is outstanding, offering excellent traction and reliable support. Foot protection from intrusions works very well and the midsole stability and cushioning, first-rate.

The shoes have been tested in alpine road and singletrack conditions as well as the Port Hills near Christchurch; they have not been tested in muddy and root bound trail conditions.

All in all, the LA FUMA SKY RACE are an ideal shoe for the medium to high mileage trail runner looking for all season wear and reliable traction, solid support and cushioning and a comfortable and consistent running experience. They are superior to many overpriced and overhyped big name competitors.

Contact LA FUMA for details of a retailer near you.

NB We pay for review product that way we can say what we think without compromise.