Trail Tested: Kailas Women’s Fuga EX2 Trail Running Shoe Review

By Samantha Panzera | June 13, 2024 |

Hey there, outdoor adventurers! Today, I'm thrilled to spotlight the KAILAS Women's Fuga EX2 Trail Running Shoes with an in-depth gear review. I’ve taken them on several hikes through Olympic National Park and the Buckhorn Wilderness, and have been using them daily on the trails behind my house for the past several weeks. Now, I can't wait to share my thoughts on all the fantastic features packed into these cushy trail runners with you!

Affiliate Disclosure:This website contains affiliate links including Amazon Links, “As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.” which means Adventure Hike Travel may receive a commission when you purchase using the links in the articles or advertisements at no additional cost to you. The buyer pays the same price as they would otherwise, and your purchase helps to support Adventure Hike Travel’s ongoing goal to serve you quality Adventure, Hiking and Travel advice and information. Thanks for your support! To learn more, please visit the (Disclaimer page).

Hey there, outdoor adventurers! Today, I'm thrilled to spotlight the KAILAS Women's Fuga EX2 Trail Running Shoes with an in-depth gear review. The awesome team at Kailas sent me these trail runners to put to the test during my hiking adventures in the stunning Pacific Northwest. I’ve taken them on several hikes through Olympic National Park and the Buckhorn Wilderness, and have been using them daily on the trails behind my house for the past several weeks. Now, I can't wait to share my thoughts on all the fantastic features packed into these cushy trail runners with you!

Quick Disclaimer:

I received an pair of KAILAS Women's Fuga EX2 Trail Running Shoes from the company for the purpose of testing and providing my honest review. I am under no obligation to write a positive review, and the following gear assessment is my own genuine opinions after using this product on multiple camping trips in the great outdoors.

Quick KAILAS Women's Fuga EX2 Trail Running Shoes Specs

Features

BOA Fit System
Thickened midsole
Vibram Megagrip Outsole—No fear of wet and slippery surfaces

Specification

Upper: engineered mesh / TPU film
Bottom: Vibram Megagrip outsole

4mm lugs for added traction
Lining: sandproof and breathable lining
Weight: 226g (size 37)

Drop:8mm
Stack Height:28mm/36mm
Recommended Use: mixed terrain

Click To Shop Now

My Thoughts On The Kailas Women's Fuga EX2 Trail Running Shoes

I’m really loving the Kailas Women's Fuga EX2 Trail Runners. The BOA Fit System is a game-changer—it makes adjusting and tightening the laces effortless. These shoes are light, bouncy, and super comfortable for long runs or hikes. The shoes have an aggressive cleat style, offering more traction than my other trail runners. I love the 4mm lugs, which provide excellent grip, even on wet and snowy surfaces, so I feel secure even when jogging downhill in the rain. On my last hike, the traction worked great on slushy snow and rock scree on Talas fields. I especially like this feature since I had ACL Knee surgery and tore two ligaments in my ankle 2 years ago. I appreciate having good grippy shoes to prevent random slips and hopefully prevent future injuries.

See Blog Post: Hiking After ACL Surgery: Tips And Tricks For A Safe And Successful Return

The lightweight and breathable mesh/TPU film on the upper part of the shoe is especially great for summer. When hiking I was surprised how breathable these shoes were. My feet did not get super hot even after hiking up 3,000 feet of elevation gain and 9 miles round trip. The Vibram Megagrip outsole enhances traction and overall durability. When hitting rocks and boulders with these shoes they held up great without scuffs. Just be cautious with sizing, as they run a bit small—check my sizing recommendations below. While these trail runners are on the pricier side, they’re worth it for the comfort and performance.

The reflective accents add a safety element, enhancing visibility in low light. Overall, these shoes offer great comfort, support, and traction, making them ideal for mixed-terrain trail running and hiking. They performed great on dirt, gravel, pavement, scree and talus fields, mud, and even snowfields when I took them on hikes and trail runs. If you are looking for some new trail runners, I highly recommend these Kailas Women's Fuga EX2 Trail Runners!

Click To Shop Now

Effortless Adjustments With The BOA Fit System Design In The KAILAS Women's Fuga EX2 Trail Running Shoes

What initially caught my attention about the Kailas Women's Fuga EX2 Trail Runners was their Boa Fit System. Having relied on a Boa system for my snowboarding boots for years, starting with my thirty-two Shifty Women's Boa Snowboard Boots and now my Ride Karmyn Zonal Women's Snowboard Boots, I've come to appreciate its convenience compared to traditional laces. Naturally, the prospect of a Boa system on trail runners intrigued me. Although all my previous trail runners were lace-ups, I was thrilled at the opportunity to try out this innovative closure system on this pair. Now, for those unfamiliar with the Boa system, you might be wondering, "What exactly is it?"

What is a Boa Fit System on Trail Running Shoes?

The Boa Fit System is a proprietary closure system used in trail running shoes and various other types of footwear. It consists of a dial, laces, and guides that work together to provide a precise, customized fit. The dial allows for quick and easy adjustments, while the laces are connected to steel or nylon cables that tighten evenly across the foot when the dial is turned. This system offers a secure and comfortable fit, preventing slippage and allowing runners to fine-tune the tension to their preferences. Additionally, the Boa Fit System is known for its durability and reliability, making it a popular choice among athletes seeking high-performance footwear.

Benefits of a Boa Fit System on Trail Running Shoes?

The Boa Fit System offers several benefits for trail running shoes. Firstly, it provides a customized fit, allowing users to adjust the tightness with precision to their preference, ensuring a snug and secure feel throughout their run. This customized fit minimizes the risk of blisters and discomfort often caused by traditional laces. Additionally, the Boa system distributes pressure evenly across the foot, reducing the likelihood of hot spots and promoting better circulation. Its quick and easy adjustment mechanism enables runners to make on-the-fly adjustments, even while on the trail, to adapt to changing conditions or foot swelling during longer runs. Moreover, the Boa system is durable and reliable, designed to withstand the rigors of trail running and provide consistent performance over time. Overall, the Boa Fit System enhances comfort, performance, and convenience, making it a valuable feature for trail runners seeking an optimal fit and experience on the trails.

Benefits

Customized fit: Allows for precise adjustment to achieve the perfect fit for individual foot shapes and preferences.
Reduced discomfort: Minimizes pressure points and hot spots, reducing the risk of blisters and discomfort during long runs.

Quick adjustments: Enables on-the-fly adjustments to adapt to changing conditions or foot swelling during runs.
Durability: Designed to withstand the rigors of trail running, providing consistent performance over time.
Convenience: Easy-to-use system that allows for quick and hassle-free tightening and loosening, even while on the trail.

The BOA Fit System on the Kailas Fuga Women's EX2 trail runners is hands down my favorite thing about these shoes. I absolutely love how easily I can just quickly click down the adjustable dials and twist them to tighten up the rope laces and pull the dial up till I hear the click of release when taking them off. No more messing around with laces every time I want to hit the trails.

I know a bad habit here, but I honestly would rarely tie my laces every time I put on my old shoes. I used to frequently do that trick with my old trail runners where you pop your heel into your shoes without tying them, but that just destroys the heel part of my shoes faster Now, with the BOA system, I can quickly slide my trail runners on and off effortlessly and get them snug in seconds. It's a total game-changer for me. Plus, I can make quick adjustments on the go without having to stop and completely retie my laces. Or when I get a rock stuck in my shoe while running I can easily take my shoe off dump the rock slide my shoe back on and click and twist to tighten it back on.

I also really like that I can tighten up the BOA one-handed. This is also a really nice feature for stream crossings where you rather take your shoes off walk across the river while holding them then quickly put your socks and shoes back on for.

Click To Shop Now

KAILAS Women's Fuga EX2 Trail Running Shoes with Vibram Megagrip Outsole Traction

The KAILAS Women's Fuga EX2 Trail Running Shoes are equipped with a Vibram Megagrip outsole that gives these trail runners amazing traction on the trails. Unlike conventional rubber traction, which typically grips up to 30-degree angles, the Megagrip traction system excels even on steep 35-degree inclines. These super grippy trail runners help stability and confidence on challenging terrains, enhancing your trail running experience. Additionally, the durability of the Megagrip outsole ensures long-lasting performance, making the KAILAS Fuga EX2 great shoes for your trail running adventures. I was really impressed with how grippy these shoes were. They had just as good of traction as my normal hiking boots. I felt secure with each step when going downhill on rugged terrain.

Long-Run Comfort: Thickened Midsole Benefits in Fuga EX2

With its ample cushioning and support, the midsole effectively absorbs impact and reduces fatigue, allowing you to go the distance with ease. Whether you're navigating rugged terrain or jogging on gravel or pavement, the enhanced cushioning provided by the thickened midsole helps to alleviate pressure points and maintain comfort throughout your hike or run. Additionally, the midsole's supportive design promotes proper foot alignment, reducing the risk of injury and ensuring a more stable and secure stride. When wearing these trail runners directly after running a few laps with my other trail runners from other companies, I could definitely feel the difference that the squishy midsole provided. The KAILAS Women's Fuga EX2 Trail Running Shoes were significantly more padded and comfortable and added that little bit of bounce with each stride.

Built With Long-Lasting: Engineered Mesh and TPU for Wear Resistance

The Kailas Women's Fuga EX2 Trail Running Shoes are built tough for the trails. These durable trail runners are designed with a blend of sturdy engineered mesh and wear-resistant TPU on the upper part of the shoes. Not only are these shoes light on your feet but they also feel fresh and breezy, thanks to their breathable design. Plus, with their durable TPU construction providing high abrasion and scratch resistance, durability and high tensile strength these trail runners give fantastic protection to your feet against debris on the trail such as rocks, sand, and mud. When hiking I was surprised at how cool it kept my feet. They did not get as sweaty as they often do when wearing thick hiking boots. The airflow on long hot hikes and runs was a really nice feature.

On one of our hikes, my dad's trail runners from a different brand tore a hole in the mesh after encountering some loose rocks. He was pretty upset since his shoes were only a few months old and this was their first time on a trail—he had only worn them around town before this hike. In contrast, my Fuga EX2's showed no signs of wear and tear, even after tackling the same rocky terrain.

What is TPU Mesh Exactly?

Thermoplastic polyurethane is commonly abbreviated as TPU. The TPU Mesh combines the qualities of both plastic and rubber, offering amazing durability, flexibility, and excellent tensile strength. TPU films are valued for their wear-resistant, waterproof, and breathable properties, and high abrasion and scratch resistance making them an excellent choice for various applications.

Swift and Lightweight: Performance of Kailas Women's Fuga EX2

The Kailas Women's Fuga EX2 Trail Running Shoes are designed to give you a swift and lightweight performance on the trails. As someone who primarily enjoys hiking, it was nice to have that extra bit of motivation to incorporate morning jogs into my routine again while testing these shoes. To thoroughly assess their performance, I conducted comparative runs, alternating between the Kailas Women's Fuga EX2 and three other brands of trail runners from my closet. The difference was striking – the Fuga EX2 felt noticeably lighter than the other brands of trail runners and definitely provided an extra spring to my step.

Conquer Any Trail: How The Kailas Fuga EX2 Excels in Mixed Terrain Running

These highly versatile shoes perform amazingly across varied terrains such as talas slopes, boulder hopping, splashing down muddy trails, or dashing through sand or snow. I was surprised at how they did on snow patches and loose rocks, each step was just as stable as my grippy hiking boots would have. These shoes did great on the downhill.

Trail Traction Lugs: Anti-Slip Design And Features in Kailas Women's Fuga EX2

Featuring a Vibram Megagrip outsole with 4mm traction lugs, these shoes offer unparalleled grip on a variety of surfaces. The anti-sideslip area, accelerating area, and braking area of the shoe are meticulously engineered to enhance stability and control, allowing runners to navigate technical terrain with confidence. Inspired by off-road vehicles, the traction lugs provide a solid grip on craggy mountains, forest trails, gritty soil, or wet paths, ensuring traction and stability in any environment. Whether you're tackling steep inclines or slippery descents, the Kailas Women's Fuga EX2 Trail Running Shoes deliver strong grip and reliable performance, empowering you to conquer any trail with ease.

Trail Traction Features

4mm traction lugs
Vibram Megagrip outsole

anti-sideslip area
accelerating area
braking area

Click To Shop Now

How Do The Kailas Fuga EX2 Trail Runners Fit?

The fit of the Kailas Fuga EX2 trail runners is simply fantastic. I can't stress enough how comfortable they are; they seem to mold perfectly to my feet. The cushioning provides a nice spring to each step, and the BOA Fit System ensures a snug and secure fit. Despite their lightweight feel, they offer a sturdy grip and support.

However, it's essential to be cautious when selecting your size. Many online shoppers make the mistake of ordering their usual size, only to find it a tad small. For example, while I typically wear a size 8.5, I noticed these shoes don't come in half sizes. Instead, there's size 8 and size 9 for US sizing. To avoid any sizing issues, I compared the EUR sizing, which matched other brands of trail runners that I own. I ultimately opted for the Kailas Fuga EX2 Trail Runner in US size 9 with EUR 40, which aligns with my typical US 8.5 with EUR size 40. So, it's crucial to choose the right fit for you; these trail runners are phenomenal once you do.

How Expensive Are The Kailas Fuga EX2 Trail Runners?

Unfortunately, they are a bit on the pricier side but not the most expensive on the market. In the world of trail runners, they fall on the higher end of mid-range pricing. They’re definitely not cheap, but considering the advanced technology, cool features, and exceptional comfort they offer, they’re worth the investment.

Trail Fashion: Stylish Features of the Kailas Fuga EX2

I'm absolutely in love with the stylish flair of the Kailas Women's Fuga EX2 trail runners. Not only do they perform exceptionally well on rugged trails, but they also look incredibly sleek and fashionable. These shoes are a perfect blend of durability and style, with flashy pops of color that are bound to catch everyone's eye. From the sparkly purple-blue iridescent midsole to the flashy silver accents and vibrant neon yellow highlights, every detail is carefully crafted to exude a bold and athletic vibe while being extremely durable and designed for the trail. I especially love the sparkly purple-blue iridescent midsole! Paired with the sophisticated grey and black color scheme, these shoes are versatile enough for both trail adventures and casual outings around town. Whether you're hitting the trails or running errands with Kailas Fuga EX2 you'll look stylish while staying ready for any adventure.

Reflective Accents, & Safty Details In The Kailas Women's Fuga EX2 Trail Running Shoes

The Kailas Women's Fuga EX2 Trail Running Shoes are strategically designed with hikers and trail runners' safety in mind. One standout feature is the vibrant neon yellow accents strategically placed throughout the shoe. Not only do these neon accents add a pop of flashy color to the design, but they also serve as an excellent safety feature, especially in low-light conditions.

When I use my headlamp or flashlight to illuminate those textured neon yellow patches, they glow brightly and reflect light with an impressive intensity. Additionally, the silver elements in the shoe shine brilliantly under light, further enhancing visibility during nighttime adventures. Even the purple-blue sparkly part of the shoe contributes to the overall visibility of the trail runners.

These reflective accents not only look sharp but are a great added layer of safety for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're hiking in the early morning or embarking on a night hike, these reflective details ensure that you remain visible to others, even if it's the search and rescue team in an emergency situation, fellow hikers, or passing drivers. As someone who is often in remote places, I really appreciate that Kailas thoughtfully incorporated these reflective accents into the design of their trail runners to help hikers and trail runners stay more visible.

Pros & Cons

Pros

BOA Fit System ensures quick precise and customizable adjustments for a perfect fit.
Thickened midsole offers exceptional cushioning and support for long-lasting comfort.
Vibram Megagrip outsole provides amazing traction on wet and slippery surfaces.

4mm lugs enhance grip on various terrains, from rocky paths to muddy trails.
Lightweight and durable mesh/TPU film upper offers breathability and protection from debris.
The breathable and sand-proof lining ensures comfort and dryness in challenging conditions.

Lightweight design offers agility and speed without compromising durability.
Engineered for durability, these shoes withstand the rigors of trail running and hiking.
Ideal for mixed terrain trail running and hiking, offering versatility and adaptability.

Great comfort, support, and traction.
Reflective accents, & safety details built into the design of the shoe for hikers and runners safty

Cons

Sizing runs small, so be cautious when selecting your size. Refer to my sizing recommendation above.

Somewhat pricey, though not the most expensive option available, it falls on the higher end of the price spectrum.
Light grey color, while stylish, tends to show dirt quickly with regular use.

Final Thoughts On The Kailas Women's Fuga EX2 Trail Running Shoes

The Kailas Women's Fuga EX2 Trail Runners exceeded my expectations with hiking and trail running.

The BOA Fit System is hands down my favorite feature—it's so easy to adjust the dial and tighten the laces on the go, which is a game-changer for me since I really don't like lacing up my shoes every time I go out the door. It's nice to click and tighten or click and loosen to pop them off.

The reflective accents and safety details are also a huge plus, adding a flashy yet functional element that enhances visibility in low-light conditions.

These trail runners are incredibly light and bouncy, making them feel super comfortable on long runs or hikes. I generally hike only in boots but these trail runners performed so well on my hikes that I am going to continue to use them for day hikes during the summer months. I did not feel like I was going to slip or fall even on challenging terrain on my hikes. The support and traction are excellent, thanks to the 4mm lugs that provide great grip even on wet and slippery surfaces.

I like the aggressive cleat style, offering significantly more traction than my other trail runners. The lightweight and breathable mesh/TPU film on the upper part of the shoe is perfect for summer, though it's a bit chilly in cold, rainy spring weather. However, as long as I keep moving, it's manageable. The Vibram Megagrip outsole is fantastic for traction, and I appreciate the durability and protection the shoes offer.

Negatives: sizing runs small, so be careful when ordering—refer to my sizing recommendations above. If you get the correct size they are amazing. The only true negative about these shoes for me is the price point. While not the most expensive option out there is still a bit steep. But they are quality shoes. Then the light grey color while looking very sharp tends to get dirty quickly with regular use.

Overall, these shoes offer great comfort, support, and traction, making them ideal for mixed terrain trail running and hiking. The lightweight design doesn't compromise durability, and they are engineered to withstand the rigors of trail running and hiking. I'm thoroughly impressed with the Kailas Women's Fuga EX2 Trail Running Shoes and highly recommend them for any outdoor adventure. These are the best trail runners I have ever owned so far.

Click To Shop Now

Want To Fill Your Life With Adventure?

Join our newsletter for an adrenaline-fueled journey! Receive exclusive updates on travel tips, gear reviews, epic hikes, captivating stories, and inspiration to turn your dreams into reality.

Don't just dream it, live it! Get Out There!