ASICS Trabuco Max 4 Review 2025: Ultra Trail Verdict

A Stable Cruiser for Long Trail Days

Image: official product image from outlet.asics.com

Is the ASICS Trabuco Max 4 good for ultrarunning?

Mostly. The ASICS Trabuco Max 4 is a protective, stable option for relaxed ultrarunning on gravel, forest tracks and other easier trails, with a 40 mm heel stack reported by RoadTrailRun. Its weight and tall platform make it less suitable for technical, twisty routes or runners seeking a quick, agile shoe.

Key facts

Category	Trail shoes
Release	Unveiled December 2024; on sale early 2025
Price	£160; also listed at $160 / €180
Key specs	Weight varies by source and size: 256 g reported by Women’s Running; 312 g lab-tested and 315 g listed by RunRepeat and RoadTrailRun; RoadTrailRun samples weighed 326 g and 332 g. Stack height varies by source: 39.3 mm heel / 33.2 mm forefoot (RunRepeat); 40 / 35 mm (RoadTrailRun); 41 / 36 mm (Women’s Running). Drop: 5 mm stated; RunRepeat measured 6.1 mm. Midsole: FF Blast+ ECO. Lugs: 3.1 mm measured by RunRepeat; 4 mm reported by Women’s Running.
Best for	Runners seeking a protective, stable shoe for relaxed long-distance runs on easier trails, gravel and forest paths.
Consensus score	8.1 out of 10

What is the Trabuco Max 4?

ASICS builds the Trabuco Max 4 as a high-stack trail cruiser around FF Blast+ ECO foam, a rocker profile and full-length ASICSGRIP outsole. Published stack measurements vary: RunRepeat measured 39.3 mm at the heel and 33.2 mm at the forefoot, while RoadTrailRun reported 40/35 mm and Women’s Running 41/36 mm. The listed drop is 5 mm, though RunRepeat measured 6.1 mm. Review data describe the shoe’s construction and ride, but do not establish specific changes from the Trabuco Max 3.

How does it perform on long runs?

Reviewers generally found the ASICS Trabuco Max 4 protective and stable for long, steady outings on gravel, forest paths and easier trails. Its broad platform and rocker help it feel composed, although reviewers describe the cushioning as firm and responsive rather than especially soft. Weight reports vary: RunRepeat lab-tested 312 g, while RoadTrailRun’s samples weighed 326 g and 332 g. That heft and the tall profile can make quick direction changes harder, so it is less convincing on technical, twisty terrain or at faster paces.

Who should buy the Trabuco Max 4?

This shoe suits runners who value protection and a stable platform for relaxed long-distance efforts over easier trails, gravel and forest tracks. The ASICS Trabuco Max 4 is a plausible ultrarunning choice when comfort and steady cruising matter more than agility. Fit feedback is mixed, so runners with wider feet should take note of reports of a tapered or narrow fit. Those wanting a light, nimble shoe for technical routes, or a particularly soft ride, may be better served by a different style of trail shoe.

What reviewers agree on

Strengths

Protective cushioning suited to long-distance running.
Stable feel despite the high stack.
Rocker profile supports smooth transitions.
ASICSGRIP outsole provides reliable grip on easier trails.
Comfortable, well-padded heel and tongue.

Weaknesses

Heavy and less agile on technical or twisty terrain.
Tapered or narrow fit may not suit wider feet.
RunRepeat questions outsole durability.
Lace loop may allow lace ends to slip out.
High stack may not appeal to every trail runner.

Frequently asked questions

How does the ASICS Trabuco Max 4 fit?

Fit feedback is mixed. Some reviewers praised the secure heel hold, while others described a narrow or tapered shape; one reviewer suggested sizing up. If you have wider feet or prefer extra toe room, consider trying the shoe on before committing, as the available reviews do not establish a universal sizing recommendation.

Is the ASICS Trabuco Max 4 durable?

Reviewers flag possible outsole wear, and RunRepeat questioned its durability, but the available data do not establish a lifespan. One test also noted that a lace loop may let lace ends slip out, alongside sock-friction concerns. These are points to monitor rather than a definitive prediction of how long every pair will last.

Is the Trabuco Max 4 better than the Trabuco Max 3?

The available reviews do not provide enough direct comparison data to say whether the Trabuco Max 4 is better than its predecessor or identify specific changes. They do describe the Max 4 as a protective, stable, high-stack shoe for easier long-distance trails, with weight and agility trade-offs on technical terrain.

Sources behind this review

How this review works: the consensus score of 8.1 out of 10 condenses the verdicts of the independent reviews and lab tests listed above, compiled by endurance coach Paul Forrest. Prices and specifications are those quoted by reviewers at the time of testing and may have changed.

Training for an ultra? See endurance coaching with Paul Forrest.