Fuji Trabuco Pro, Fuji Trabuco Lyte, Trabuco Max, Trabuco Terra, Fuji Trabuco 8 and now the Trabuco 9 without the Fuji. Many Trabucos (which means 'blunderbuss' in Spanish) in the Asics trail range - so how does the new Trabuco 9 shape up?
We loved the Fuji Trabuco 7 and 8. Now the Trabuco 9 has lost its Fuji, it may have lost some of its Mojo. Certainly, it remains one of our better shoes for tackling tough terrain with above-average cushioning and stability. The Flytefoam midsole still retains the duomax medial pillar, providing cushioning plus support. The densities have been softened, however, increasing cushioning but reducing stability. The overlays on the upper have been reduced, resulting in a lighter but less supportive shoe. Luckily the rock protection plate has been retained and the redesigned outsole with its multi-directional lugs looks tough and durable.
The Trabuco 9 bears a passing resemblance to the Fuji Trabuco 8 (a similar change was experienced with the Brooks Cascadia a few years ago). The Trabuco 9 is still an excellent shoe for those seeking superior protection, stability and durability, but it now has serious competitors in its field. The Trabuco 9 may well surpass the Trabuco 8 in popularity as it will appeal to a wider market but, in an unstable world, the extra stability provided by the Trabuco 8 will be missed.
