Table of contents VerdictProsConsWho should buy the ASICS Gel Trabuco 9ASICS Gel Trabuco 9: Do-it-all trailblazerLighter than the previous editionPremium ASICS cushioningThe supportiveness of Asics Gel Trabuco 9Versatile gripA shield against rocksGenerous and airyThe fit of ASICS Gel Trabuco 9Other trail shoes from the ASICS Trabuco collection
Overview

Our verdict

85
Good!

The ASICS Gel Trabuco 9 is a trail shoe that embodies the perfect mix of ruggedness and comfort. It's a solid choice for daily runs on the trails or grass. And for races, it's an excellent selection for sub-marathon and marathon distances. For anything longer, it falls short of cushioning. Experts advise going for the ASICS Trabuco Max instead.

Pros

  • Excellent outsole grip
  • Durable
  • Impact-absorbent
  • Supportive
  • Lightweight
  • Comfortable upper
  • Well-fitting

Cons

  • Lugs collect rocks
  • Excessively roomy toe box
  • Short laces

Who should buy the ASICS Gel Trabuco 9

The ASICS Gel Trabuco 9 is a solid choice if:

  • You are looking for a trail shoe that would not weigh down your feet.
  • A well-ventilated pair of kicks to keep your feet fresh and cool is what you are after. 
  • Footwear that could prevent slips and falls on various surfaces is what you need. 

ASICS Gel Trabuco 9 Logo1

ASICS Gel Trabuco 9: Do-it-all trailblazer

Although it doesn’t excel specifically at anything, the Gel Trabuco 9 from ASICS is a reliable workhorse for various types of runs and terrains. This shoe looks “rugged yet comfortable” and can help you get through the daily miles without having to think about footwear.

ASICS Gel Trabuco 9 Do It All

Lighter than the previous edition

The shoe weighs 1 oz (30 g) less but at 10.8 oz (305 g) it’s still slightly heavier than the average 10.4 oz (296 g) of trail running shoes.

ASICS Gel Trabuco 9 Light1

Premium ASICS cushioning

The FlyteFoam midsole combined with a Gel unit in the heel ensures protected landings and a responsive ride.

ASICS Gel Trabuco 9 Midsole1

The supportiveness of Asics Gel Trabuco 9

The DuoMax component makes the inner side of the sole firm, preventing the foot from rolling inwards.  It's stable, fast, and confidence-inspiring. Testers find it very supportive and say that it helps "propel" them forward. 

ASICS Gel Trabuco 9 Duomax1

Versatile grip

AsicsGrip employs strategic lugs that bite the ground both uphill and on descents.

ASICS Gel Trabuco 9 Outsole1

According to multiple experts, it's "first-class." It handles everything with ease: paved roads, fire roads, gravel paths, steep uphills, and mud. 

ASICS Gel Trabuco 9 Outsole2

A shield against rocks

The rock plate, thick midsole, and Gel cushion combined take impact absorption up a notch. They mute out jagged rocks and roots underfoot. 

ASICS Gel Trabuco 9 Plate

Generous and airy

Many runners are "surprised" with the shoe's "high-end" comfort. The upper is breathable and the midsole is plush. 

ASICS Gel Trabuco 9 Plush1

The rear and the midfoot are very secure, while the toe box is very roomy. 

ASICS Gel Trabuco 9 Plush2

The fit of ASICS Gel Trabuco 9

The shoe runs on the narrow side from the heel to the forefoot. So people who prefer more room in the toebox or have wider feet are better off going with a different model as the Trabuco 9 only comes in one width.

ASICS Gel Trabuco 9 Fit1

However, the well-padded, gusseted tongue will be a treat for runners with narrower feet.

ASICS Gel Trabuco 9 Fit2

A lace pocket on the tongue allows you to tuck the laces in.

ASICS Gel Trabuco 9 Fit3

Other trail shoes from the ASICS Trabuco collection

FujiTrabuco Sky: if you are looking for something just as stable and cushioned yet significantly lighter to go fast

  • $150
  • 7.8 oz / 221 g

Trabuco Max: if you prefer max-cushioned trail shoes and don’t need arch support

  • $140
  • 10.4 oz / 294 g

FujiTrabuco Lyte: if you need a simple, lightweight, neutral trail shoe

  • $120
  • 8.8 oz / 249 g

ASICS Gel Trabuco 9 Collection2