La Sportiva Jackal II GTX tested by The Pill

GTX version of the classic model dedicated to long distances

First launched in 2019, Jackal was born as a shoe intended for long distances. Updated in the second version and reintroduced by the Ziano company in a Gore-Tex version, it is a shoe with a streamlined, dry shape, both in external volumes and in fit. The upper is made of mesh with TPU applications that protect the toes, midfoot, and heel by increasing the shoe’s support and bandaging feel. In the traditional lacing version, the laces band the instep very well, giving the shoe an excellent feeling of stability, typical of La Sportiva. The tongue and collar are well padded, further enhancing overall comfort . The midsole is made of two pieces of EVA foam with the addition of Infinitoo Technology inserts, while the outsole is made of compound FriXion Red, note to be the most durable foam in La Sportiva’s range of soles, at the slight expense of grip. In this version, La Sportiva has equipped the Jackals with a Gore-Tex membrane, making them perfect for the winter season and wetter terrain. It is suitable for dry-footed runners who seek a firm, secure fit even on technical, sloping trails. We recommend it to athletes who like to grind elevation gain in the mountains in any season, even at slower paces, while it is less suitable for hilly and much runnable terrain. This is a very stable and supportive shoe, suitable for runners with even inaccurate, backward leaning or prone pronation.

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