Article by Mike Postaski, John Tribbia and Sam Winebaum
Kalias Fuga DU BOA ($271)
Introduction
Sam: The Fuga DU is a moderate stack height trail shoe with a dual density PEBAX foam midsole, a dual dial BOA upper and a stout Vibram Megagrip outsole. Given how much shoe we have, it is quite reasonable in weight at 10.6 oz / 300 g US men’s 9. Clearly rugged terrain is its focus.
Kailas of China is a relative newcomer to the trail running scene yet offers an extensive line of high performance trail shoes, apparel, and packs/vests as well as hiking and climbing gear. They made a big splash at UTMB 2024 with not only a big booth and lots of buzz along with Kailas athlete Joaquín López of Ecuador taking a surprise 3d place at the 2024 UTMB in their EX 330 trail shoe.
Mike P: Kailas is a somewhat new brand on the trail running scenes, at least in the Americas as far as I know. I was aware that they make some running vests (haven’t tried any yet), but I was not aware that they also made shoes. Perusing their website, I was surprised to see such a wide variety of offerings. The company is based out of China - perhaps they have more notoriety at this point in the Asian market. They have a company timeline on their website that shows their first trail shoe produced in 2019. So yes, very new to the trail scene.
It’s hard to decipher the “levels” of shoes that Kailas offers. The FUGA DU seems to be, if not the top, close to their top-of-the line technical distance shoe. Interestingly, they offer both BOA and regular lace versions. Personally, I haven’t had much success with BOA systems in trail shoes across multiple brands. The idea seems good on the surface, but I always have trouble dialing tightness in the spots that I need or want. For a specifically technically oriented shoe, security and lockdown is key, so I hope I’ll have better success here.
Pros:
Very protective underfoot Mike P/Sam
Good flexibility between the front and rear, due to the narrow midfoot platform (also a Con) Mike P/Sam
Vibram Megagrip outsole made for the most rugged terrain Mike P/Sam
Excellent BOA implementation, secure hold Sam/John
Structured and Stable John
Reasonably light 10.6 oz / 300 g US men’s 9 for substantial deep outsole, cushioning, and rugged BOA upper
In a strange “duality” they excellent at hike paces on technical terrain and on smooth well groomed terrain and pavement due to the excellent midsole geometry and foams, and this despite the big outsole and to a certain extent their weight: Sam
Cons:
Angular “footprint” is a bit awkward on forefoot landings Mike P/Sam
Quite tapered up front at the toes Mike P
Not an Li2 BOA - cannot incrementally loosen/tighten Mike P
Cannot get a secure heel fit with the upper BOA Mike P
Lots of elements add up to a higher weight Mike P
Pricey at $271 Mike P/Sam/John
Most comparable shoes
Dynafit Ultra 100 Mike P
Inov-8 TrailFly Ultra Mike P
Adidas Terrex Agravic Pro (Dual BOA) Mike P
La Sportiva Cyklon John
Stats
Estimated Weight: 10.6 oz / 300 g US men’s 9
Sample Weight: men’s 293g / 10.3 oz US8.5, 316g / 11.1 oz US 10.0
Stack Height: men’s mm heel / mm forefoot ( drop spec)
Platform Width: 95 mm heel / 70 mm midfoot / 115 mm forefoot
First Impressions, Fit and Upper
Mike P: There’s a lot going on with this shoe - which is noticeable right away. Of course you have the dual BOAs and all the associated strapping and wires. Then there’s the “TPU heel support frame” which are the plasticky elements which wrap along the sides of the heel from below. There are knobs at the upper edge of these elements, which are proprietary gaiter attachment points. Then lots of bold coloring, a large tongue pull - overall it’s a lot to take in at a glance.
My primary concert is heel / rear foot security with the BOA system. Typically with my shoes, depending on the design, I like to vary the lace tension in the forefoot and midfoot area. If the shoe is shaped well for my foot, I can snug this area well, if I need a bit more space, I usually loosen the lower/forefoot area. I always like to lace the upper eyelets tight. I want my heel as locked down as comfortably possible.
With all the dual BOAs I’ve tested, I have the issue that I can never quite get the tension tight enough around my upper ankle (where the top row of normal laces would be) without overly squeezing the BOA’s strap over the top of my foot. I’m unhappy to report that the same is the case here. If I dial down the top BOA where my heel feels secure - I get uncomfortable pressure from the lower edge of the top strap across the top of my foot. That leads to numbness and loss of sensation under my foot. If I loosen the BOA to get circulation back, my heel feels uncomfortably loose in the back of the shoe.
I have to note that I went with a US 10.0, a half size up for me, but it is appropriate since the front of the toebox is very tapered, coming to a sharp point. No way would this work for me in a smaller size.
Also of note - assuming you can get a good fit with the BOA - the BOA itself is not the Li2 variety. You cannot incrementally loosen the fit. You have to pop the BOA out which completely loosens the tension. I feel like, if you’re going to the trouble of re-inventing laces, with the BOA - you absolutely need the Li2 multi-directional adjustment setup. This is a big miss here.
John: Upon first glance, the Kailas Fuga Du Dual BOA presents a bold and technically advanced design, it almost seems robotic in a good way. The dual BOA system immediately catches the eye, promising a highly customizable fit. While Mike has expressed concerns about the complexity of the system, my experience has been quite positive.
The fit of the Fuga DU is exceptional. The dual BOA system allows for precise adjustments to the midfoot and forefoot, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. Unlike Mike's experience, I found the heel lock-down to be excellent, with no slippage or discomfort. The upper material is well-ventilated and supportive, providing a comfortable and secure feel.
The tapered toe box, while a matter of personal preference, has worked well for me and my slightly narrow foot. It offers a snug fit without feeling restrictive. The TPU heel support frame adds stability and protection, particularly on technical, ankle bending, terrain.
While the weight of the shoe might be a concern for some, I think it feels light while wearing it and believe it is justified by the level of protection and performance offered. The Fuga Du Dual BOAS seems to be a trail shoe that is sturdy and long-lasting, making it a great choice for challenging terrain.
Sam: The most striking elements of the DU are the dual BOA dials highlight by white side panels made of a moderately thick but pliable material with ventilating mesh windows and the rear very solid TPU clip rising high to studs on the front of the heel counter.
They are clearly designed to make what is a rigid comfortable heel counter yet more secure. Indeed the rear hold is super secure and stable and for my tastes a touch rigid for faster running.
I found the dual BOA extremely effective and despite not having bi directional L2 dials easy to adjust. This is the best BOA implementation in a trail shoe I can recall.For the $271 pricing the L2 should be included as an extra quick to use convenience but I didn’t actually miss them.
I think the moderately thin soft inner tongue plays a big role in the comfort and hold but wish it was a touch thicker.
As with the heel area the midfoot hold is very secure combining to lock the foot very effectively to the platform.
The toe box follows the security theme. The toe bumper, especially at the very front is quite firm. The width was just right for technical trails uses if a bit low due to the toe bumper construction.
I was appropriately true to size at my usual US8.5 with the EU marking here 42 for my narrower to medium volume feet
Midsole & Platform
Mike P: The FUGA DU midsole is 100% Pebax, with a dual-density setup. Most of the exposed foam is the same density. Perhaps there’s a softer, embedded foam within. It’s difficult to tell, as the cushion feels uniform underfoot. It’s definitely not an uber-soft PEBAX variety, a la the new Tecton X 3. The PEBAX blend used here is much denser, with little hint of any “bounce”, especially given the high-ish weight of the shoe.
I’d say the midsole foam is tuned to give a more responsive and stable feel in the most uneven and technical terrain. I don’t feel much in the way of response when running on the flats or even on moderate or rolling terrain. Aside from the weight which I mentioned above, the TPU heel frame also seems to play a factor in hindering speed.
John: The Kailas Fuga midsole provides a cushioned and responsive ride due to its dual-density PEBAX foam. This foam strikes a good balance between softness and firmness, creating a comfortable platform that absorbs impact well, especially on rocky terrain, but mind you at slower paces. When running or hiking in the Fuga Du, it is protective and comfortable, particularly on technical stretches. It does a good job reducing vibrations, minimizing fatigue and enabling a consistent and steady pace over longer outings.
Sam: A truly excellent trail shoe midsole. By making its PEBAX foam somewhat firmer and denser one gets a very decent energy return and great cushioning. Softer and less dense as one might find in a road shoe with PEBAX I think stability would suffer.
It is a midsole designed for technical trails performance, stability, and rock protection that is for sure. The midsole matches quite well to the stout outsole and while there is no mistaking this is a big and quite heavy trail shoe it runs faster than its weight would indicate.
The platform is notably broad at its widest points at the heel (95mm) and forefoot (115mm) and narrow 70mm at the midfoot. I note that while the heel is “broad” it also tapers quite abruptly towards the rear and as Mike noted the transition from the narrow midfoot to the broad forefoot is quite abrupt. Yet due to the TPU clip, gray seen above the midfoot is stable.
Pushing the pace on even moderately technical trails I did not find them as agile as I would like and a bit awkward. Yet, while hiking them in even rough terraint they were great.
I was also surprised how smooth and reactive they were in a controlled, measured way on road and hard grave, and even fast . Tribute for this I think to a quite long rocker with in the mix some flex towards the midfoot and of course the PEBAX foam which in no way is mistaken for the usual trail shoe EVA. A strange duality of best uses indeed!
Outsole
Sam: The outsole is Vibram MegaGrip with Traction Lug. The lugs are 4mm in height. The far rear of the outsole has an unusual design with 2 big inverted V shapes with rear angled 2-3mm slopes with Traction Lug on their rear facing slopes. Grip has been outstanding as is rock protection.
[I find the lateral edge under the forefoot seems to jut out noticeably upon footstrike]
Mike P: The outsole performs as expected from Vibram Megagrip. Solid traction and pretty much full coverage underfoot - contributing to the protective feel. There’s no plate in the shoe, but the combination of the rubber and the dense variety of PEBAX seems to eat up rough terrain underfoot. I never really noticed or felt any rock impacts getting through.
[The Fuga Du just plows through rocky stuff like this]
I’ll point out in this section the angular nature of the platform on the ground. Under the forefoot, specifically under the balls of the foot - the outsole & platform flares out quite a bit and then angles sharply under the front of the toe box. I found this noticeable at times on the run - almost as if the lateral edge of the outsole under the forefoot was “catching” the ground prematurely. But this may in fact contribute to stability so hard to say if it’s a net detriment. It’s probably more noticeable since the toebox is so narrow at the very front.
John: The Vibram Megagrip outsole on the Kailas Fuga Du is a beast. I've taken these shoes on everything from slick, muddy trails to rocky, technical ascents, and the grip has been consistently impressive. The deeper lugs bite into the terrain, providing excellent traction even on wet, slippery surfaces or dry rocky areas. I recently tackled a steep, rocky descent, and the Fuga Du's outsole held firm, preventing any slips or slides.
The outsole's potential durability is also noteworthy. After some harder hikes and runs on a variety of trails, the lugs show minimal wear. The rubber compound seems to be quite tough, offering excellent protection against abrasion and punctures.
Ride, Conclusions and Recommendations
Mike P: As I see it, there are two distinct elements to the ride - the wide, angular platform/base under the forefoot, and the TPU heel support frame in the rear. During my test runs, they felt a bit bulky at speed. The platform underfoot seemed to be a bit clunky for faster running, with the TPU heel support frame also seeming to add a bit of “clunky” heft in the rear.
The Fugu Du shines more in rougher, technical, and rocky terrain. The weight is less of a concern there, and as protection and stability become more important, the Fuga Du’s features come to light. The protection underfoot is really good, and the TPU support frame in the heel does let you plow through loose, rocky terrain without too much caution.
Ultimately though, I just have too much of an issue with the BOA set up. Apologies if this review comes across as more of an analysis of the BOA setup for trail running shoes. I’m afraid that I just can’t help it though in this case. It’s such an integral factor in how the shoe performs - at least for me. It feels like it could be a real beast in technical terrain, but I’d like to see a few changes.
[If you look closely - I’ve stuffed some foam padding under the upper edge of the top BOA straps. This is an attempt to get the ankle area tighter while not cutting off circulation at the middle of my foot]
Of course there is a non-BOA version already. I’d be very curious to see how that model feels with a solid and secure (traditionally-laced) fit. In fact, they have some type of Quicklace-esque dual-section lacing system on one of the other models. Perhaps traditional laces are not even offered?
The weight is also a factor that needs to come down - perhaps the other version(s) is/are lighter? Interesting note - they list weights for non-BOA models on the website, but no weights are given for single or dual BOA setups. I’m assuming this means that the BOAs are heavier, otherwise weight savings would be advertised.
Finally, the toebox is quite “Euro” in its tapered narrow shape - very much like the Dynafit shape. All of these drawbacks leave the FUGA DU BOA in the rugged hiker category for me. With the BOA setup as it is, I feel like I’m unable to push the shoe to its real limits as a trail runner. I do think there’s the pieces for a good trail running shoe in there somewhere - perhaps in one of Kailas’ other models.
Mike P’s Score: 7.23 / 10
Ride: 7 - Somewhat clunky, better in slower, technical terrain or hiking
Fit: 6 - Subjective? This dual BOA doesn’t work for me, can’t secure the heel.
Value: 5 - There are some really good super shoes you can get, cheaper
Style: 8 - Good, but maybe too much going on
Traction: 9.5 - All set for mostly everything
Rock Protection: 10 - This is the big bright spot
Smiles 😊😊😊
John: The Kailas Fuga Du delivers a balanced and responsive ride. The dual-density PEBAX midsole strikes a perfect balance between cushioning and responsiveness. The initial step-in feels fairly plush and forgiving, and it absorbs impact effectively on rocky trails. I want to be very clear that I don’t see this shoe as an great running shoe, but it does very well at hiking, power hiking paces. As you pick up the pace, the midsole transitions smoothly, providing a propulsive feel that encourages a dynamic stride.
The wider platform offers stability, particularly on technical terrain. The combination of the midsole and outsole creates a smooth and efficient ride, allowing you to effortlessly navigate various trail conditions. The shoe has a nice combination of comfort, protection, and performance, which makes it a strong contender for trail runners seeking a sturdy and reliable shoe. The dual BOA system allows for a customizable fit, while the Vibram Megagrip outsole provides very good traction. While the shoe's weight might pose a deterrent for runners who prioritize lightweight performance footwear, I found it felt surprisingly lightweight when worn despite the numbers on the scale. Overall, the Kailas Fuga Du is a solid choice for trail runners who prioritize protection, stability, and traction.
John’s Score: 8 / 10
Ride: 8 - Like Mike, I think these are solid shoes for slower, technical terrain or hiking
Fit: 8 - secure and easy to dial
Value: 5.5 - Agree with Mike again, this is pricey for what you get out of it
Style: 8 - Love the colorway; looks robotic
Traction: 9 - very secure and seemingly durable
Rock Protection: 9.5 - Very secure and absorbent of terrain
Smiles 😊😊😊
Sam: “Newcomer” Kailas surprised me with the Fuga DU BOA.Clearly this is their rough terrain entry in the fast hiking category for me . In a surprise they were also a fine smooth non technical terrain shoe where grip is vital .It was even very good on road. That said, agility at faster paces is not its strength, nor is its price although I expect them to be very durable.
They also have other trail shoes including the EX 330 that took Joaquín López to 3d place at the 2024 UTMB
The BOA upper was, along with the finely tuned for rocky terrain PEBAX midsole the highlights . This is no brick hard midsole as it is very well cushioned and nicely reactive while providing deep protection in concert with its big Vibram outsole. While not light I would say its weight at 10.6 oz is reasonable for such a substantial shoe
The BOA system here is the best I can recall. It very securely and comfortably wraps the foot and is easy enough to adjust on the go, although at its $271 pricing the L2 dual direction dials should be included.
I primarily recommend the Fuga DU BOA as a fast hiking shoe for technical terrain and as a run shoe for non technical terrain or on snow where grip is vital. It will also can make an ideal single shoe for travel where hiking of all sorts is on the program with some runs in the mix
Sam’s Score: 8.4 /10
-1.0 for pricing , -0.3 for weight, -0.3 for an awkward more technical terrain run ride.
8 Comparisons
Adidas Terrex Agravic Pro (RTR Review)
Mike P (10): This shoe is very similar in setup with the dual BOA, and being set up for rugged terrain. The Adidas was a major miss though - extremely stiff underfoot, and also extremely heavy at 12.4 oz. I also had issues with that BOA setup - worse even - couldn’t lock the heel down and the heel was very stiff leading to blisters. The Fuga is a much better shoe comparatively. It’s more flexible especially and does actually perform in technical terrain. The BOA fit is also a bit better, and at least the interior heel is well padded.
Asics Trabuco Max 2 (RTR Review)
Mike P (10): A heavier max cruiser, the Max 2 does well in more moderate terrain. There’s more stack and cushion underfoot, so it’s more protective, but it is not as agile and the upper is not as locked down as the Fuga. I used the Max 2 at a recent backyard ultra, so I haven’t really pushed it, but I likely wouldn’t use it for more rugged terrain as there are better options. The Fuga would do better in technical terrain for sure.
Brooks Cascadia (RTR Review)
Mike P (10): I tested version 17, which was another quite heavy shoe at 12.0 oz in my size. The ride was somewhat sluggish, and firm underfoot. It does have a rock plate, but I think the non-plated Fuga protects just as well. The Cascadia upper is not as secure, but offers more comfort, especially up front in the toebox. I’d probably save the money and go with the Brooks if you are looking for a hiking option. If you’re comparing the two for mountain running, the Fuga is a better (and much more expensive) pick.
Sam: Agree with Mike. Price difference aside the DU is a far better hiker and for that matter smooth terrain runner due to its more energetic midsole and more smoother flowing geometry.
Dynafit Ultra 100 (RTR Review)
Mike P (10): I thought of this shoe because it has a similar, narrow and tapered toebox which is borderline uncomfortable for me. Both the Dynafit and Fuga are runnable for me because there’s enough space across the forefoot, but I do get squeezing at the toes due to the taper.
The Ultra 100 has a higher stack and narrow platform, at just a touch higher weight. The upper holds well, but has more volume in it. The Fuga Du has less vertical space and straps the foot down better. I actually think the Fuga is a better shoe, especially in the targeted Euro-Alpine category.. The width underfoot makes them feel more stable for me.
Hoka Mafate Speed 4 (RTR Review)
Mike P (9.5): Had to throw a traditional big stack comp in here, and I think the MS4 matches up best. The Hoka obviously has a traditional upper and lacing - which gives a great fit with no fuss. I think the Fuga should do the same with traditional lacing. The Hoka has a great Megagrip outsole with deep lugs on traction - pretty comparable to the Fuga’s. The Hoka definitely feels softer underfoot, and perhaps not as stable due to that. So you’re trading a little stability for a little more cushion. The MS4 price is way more reasonable, and I’d pick it easily.
Inov-8 TrailFly Ultra (RTR Review)
Mike P (10): This is an older model that I had a while ago. It else ended up being more of a hiking option due to high weight - pretty excessive in fact at 12.8 oz. I thought the ride was pretty smooth though, smoother in fact than the Fuga, but the overall bulk of the shoe got in the way in more challenging terrain.
Speedland GS:PGH (RTR Review)
Mike P (9.5): I had the exact same issue with the BOAs in the Speedland as the Fuga. Couldn’t get enough ankle lockdown without over-squeezing my feet.
Overall, I found the Fuga much more usable as both a runner and hiker though. It’s closer to the ground and more stable. Even though tapered up front, the foot shape is better than the overly voluminous Speedlands. If you have a VERY high volume foot, the Speedlands might work for you.
Both the PGH and TAM felt like steering boats out on the trail though - and are not agile shoes at all. I think those two models are best suited for larger runners. Given the similar high pricing, for a lighter weight runner like myself, I’d go with the Fuga Du.
La Sportiva Cyklon (RTR Review)
John: Both feature BOA systems, but the Kailas Fuga Du and La Sportiva Cyklon represent two distinct approaches to trail shoes. The Fuga DU is a more cushioned and protective option, ideal for long-distance trail running, hiking, and adventures on highly technical terrain. Its robust build and ample cushioning provide comfort and support over extended periods. The Cyklon, on the other hand, is more lightweight and agile and is better equipped for faster technical running that requires precision. It excels on technical trails, offering excellent grip and responsiveness. While the Fuga Du is a more forgiving and protective option, the Cyklon prioritizes performance and agility.
Tester Profiles
Mike Postaski currently focuses on long mountainous ultras - anywhere from 50K up to his favorite - 100M. 5'10", 138 lbs, midfoot/forefoot striker - he typically averages 70 mpw (mostly on trails), ramping up to 100+ mpw during race buildups. A recent 2:39 road marathoner, his easy running pace ranges from 7:30 - 9:00/mi. From 2022-23 Mike has won the Standhope 100M, IMTUF 100M, and Scout Mountain 100M trail ultras, winning the Scout 50M in 2024. He also set a CR of 123.74M at the Pulse Endurance Runs 24H and completed the Boise Trails Challenge on foot in 3 days 13 hours, besting the previous record by 7 hours. Mike's shoe preferences lean towards firmer, dense cushioning, and shoes with narrower profiles. He prefers extra forefoot space, especially for long ultras, and he strongly dislikes pointy toe boxes.
John Tribbia (5' 6", 130lbs) is a former sponsored mountain/trail runner who has run with La Sportiva, Brooks/Fleet Feet, Pearl Izumi, and Salomon. Even though he competes less frequently these days, you can still find John enjoying the daily grind of running on any surface, though his favorite terrain is 30-40% grade climbs. He has won races such as America's Uphill, Imogene Pass Run, and the US Skyrunner Vertical Kilometer Series; and he's held several FKTs on several iconic mountains in Boulder, Colorado and Salt Lake City, Utah. If you follow him on Strava, you'll notice he runs at varying paces between 5 minutes/mile to 12 minutes/mile before the break of dawn almost every day.
Sam is the Editor and Founder of Road Trail Run. He is in his 60’s with 2024 Sam’s 52th year of running roads and trails. He has a decades old 2:28 marathon PR. These days he runs halves in the just sub 1:40 range if he gets very, very lucky. Sam trains 30-40 miles per week mostly at moderate paces on the roads and trails of New Hampshire and Utah be it on the run, hiking or on nordic skis. He is 5’9” tall and weighs about 164 lbs, if he is not enjoying too many fine New England IPA’s
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