Asics Trabuco Max 4 Introduction

The ASICS Trabuco Max 4 (40mm heel, 35mm, for a 5mm drop) is a high-cushioned trail running shoe that incorporates several new enhancements from the previous version. The upper feels refined and the midsole-rocker combination help the runner make smooth transitions.

Asics Trabuco Max 4 Impressions

Coming in at 11 ounces for a men’s size 9 and 9.5 ounces for a women’s size 8, the Trabuco would be a good shoe for road runners who like Asics and are transitioning to trails. It’s comfortable and built for smooth trails. And ideally one can get a lot of miles on these shoes without an issue.

I really like how Asics applied environmental concerns to the shoe with eco-friendly materials. The integration of more sustainable materials in the shoe’s construction process, aligning with environmental-friendly initiatives, is a big win.

Another aspect to note is the toe bumper, which offers some flexibility. Given the mild nature of the trails this shoe should be used on, this is appropriate as the runner will not likely encounter many hazards where a more solid toe bumper would be preferred. However, if you are a runner who is prone to finding any hard or pointy hazard on the trail with your toes, well, there are better options to protect one’s feet.

That said, there is a lot to like about the ASICS Trabuco Max 4. It’s a comfortable, easy going, friendly companion that will come in handy when spending hours on smooth sailing trails.

Asics Trabuco Max 4 Protection

The 4mm lugs are on the lower end when comparing with other trail shoes. While 4mm lugs can get the job done, I found these to be missing the mark in all but the easiest of trail conditions.

For example, a muddy spring run after a snowmelt would usually not be an issue for most of the trail shoes I wear. However the Trabuco Max 4 seemed to press pause more frequently than what I thought called for in these conditions.

The outer does protect the feet adequately so in that sense the protection does work and is an asset.

Asics Trabuco Max 4 Durability

When testing trail shoes for 50 miles before publishing these reviews, the most challenging part in this exercise is to forecast durability.

These shoes, like almost all the others, show little signs of wear or durability issues. Given that they should be used for easy to moderate runs on basic trails, I see durability as being a positive attribute for them. They should be able to his the maximum mileage you generally get before you retire a pair of trail shoes.

Generally I get at least 400 miles on mine, unless I am using them for technical trails, or destroy them during an adventure. I would guesstimate these shoes would easily get me to 400 miles, and more likely pushing 500 or more.

Asics Trabuco Max 4 Responsiveness & speed

Asics updated the Trabuco Max 4’s midsole with FF BLAST Max cushioning. That boosts the shoe’s comfort and energy return when compared with its predecessor.

And, of course, with a faster energy return, that means the shoes are more responsive and speedy.

I found the responsiveness to be above average, not to the degree of some of the faster shoes (and far below that of trail super shoes). Still, there is a good amount of responsiveness that will benefit the runner and allow them to enjoy hours upon hours on the trails.

Asics Trabuco Max 4 Comfort and fit

Among the changes in these shoes is the improved cushioning in the midsole. Asics enhanced its FlyteFoam technology to create greater comfort, which helps create a softer and more responsive ride.

I also liked the improved sock liner and heel counter, which offer a snugger and more secure fit. This addition reduces slippage, bolstered comfort and made for a happier runner. I would think that most runners would approve of a secure fit, especially for long days on the trails, and this is an area where Asics delivers well.

Asics Trabuco Max 4 Conclusions

I won’t go so far to say the Trabuco Max 4s feel like slippers but they are close. The improved midsole cushioning goes a long way in that regard and the overall lighter upper is another step in the right direction.

The upper is constructed with breathable mesh, which cuts weight while keeping structural integrity.

All that said, the best use for these shoes is easy to moderate days on the trails, a good midweek recovery run. They don’t match up well with technical terrain, nor do they provide the boost of speed that slicker models are offering these days.

Given all that, they do have a purpose and the Trabuco Max 4s do have a niche that some runners may find useful in their rotation.