Asics Trabuco Max 2 Introduction

The Asics Trabuco Max 2 is soft, bouncy and well cushioned.

It was made to give a runner confidence on the trail. You can run quickly knowing it will grip and propel you forward all while keeping you very comfortable.

Don’t let the tall stack height concern you at all. Despite being a relatively tall shoe, you will immediately feel stable while running in these.

This is a very similar shoe to the Brooks Caldera 6.

Asics Trabuco Max 2 Impressions

When I first took these shoes on the trail, I was immediately impressed. I felt like I was running on a cloud and my feet were so comfortable. They have a slight bounce to them as they propel you forward with each step that you take. I felt like no matter how I landed, the shoe would quickly help center my body back into proper alignment.

When I’m climbing on my toes up steep sections of the trails the heal doesn’t slip whatsoever. The laces stay locked on top with the secure band. They are on the longer side, but it’s not a big deal if you properly secure them.

I like to run downhill quickly, and this shoe gives me total confidence that I will not slip. I even tested it on some muddy sections of the trail and it managed to grip really well in the mud! It will definitely get wet if you run through puddles or water sections on a trail. When the shoe is wet it doesn’t feel heavy and your foot does manage to stay fairly warm.

I really think this should be considered as an everyday go to trail shoe – similar to an everyday trainer with road shoes. The only issue I encountered, was some forefoot movement when running downhill because it does run a little wide. I’d most likely stick to 1-13 mile runs with this shoe because that movement could cause blisters over longer distances.

Asics Trabuco Max 2 Protection

The manufacturer uses JACQUARD MESH which is very breathable. Structure is added to the toe for additional protection.

Asics Trabuco Max 2 Durability

After running over 50 Pacific Northwest trail miles in these shoes I’m happy to report they’ve held up well!

I would not wear these for Ultra distances but most definitely on anything sub Ultra: 5k-half marathon ideally.

The only reason I won’t wear them in Ultras is because they’re a little bit too wide for me.

Asics Trabuco Max 2 Responsiveness & speed

You can absolutely hit your top speed in these shoes while pushing off any terrain.

I never once felt out of control or unsafe even though this shoe does propel you forward. I raced in this shoe on a well-groomed but very hilly 10k course and I felt like it was absolutely the right shoe choice.

I also raced an advanced trail half marathon with 3600 feet of climbing in these shoes and my feet were in great condition afterwards.

Asics Trabuco Max 2 Comfort and fit

The overall feel of the shoe is very comfortable. My only complaint is the slight movement in the forefoot as it does run a little wide.

Asics Trabuco Max 2 Conclusions

This shoe really is a must to add to your trail shoe collection. It would also be a great option for a “first” trail shoe that you’ve ever purchased.

I also felt like this shoe worked great when I was hiking / walking up very steep sections of the trail. It’s something to even consider if you plan to hike only and not run.