Gear Review: Cyklon Cross GTX By La Sportiva
Built for snow, mud, and mountain miles, the La Sportiva Cyklon Cross GTX features a built-in gaiter, Gore-Tex waterproofing, and a grippy outsole for next-level trail protection. Read our full review of this ultrarunner-friendly winter shoe.
La Sportiva Cyklon Cross GTX: Burly Winter Trail Runners With a Gaiter Game-Changer
When winter throws its worst at the trails, most running shoes wave the white flag. But the La Sportiva Cyklon Cross GTX doesn’t flinch. Designed for snow, ice, mud, and slop, this high-performance mountain running shoe fuses Gore-Tex waterproofing, aggressive traction, and a built-in gaiter to create an all-in-one winter weapon.
Whether you're snowshoe running, grinding out cold-weather miles, or just need a shoe that won’t quit when things get messy, the Cyklon Cross GTX is an ultrarunner-meets-alpinist mashup that actually works. Think of it as a mini mountain boot you can run in.
What Makes It Special
The most obvious standout feature is the integrated gaiter, which seals out snow, mud, and debris without needing any extra gear. It zips up high over the ankle and pairs with a Gore-Tex membrane underneath for full waterproof protection—making this a solid choice for snowy trail missions, creek crossings, or muddy messes.
La Sportiva uses its BOA® Fit System for quick adjustments on the fly, so you get a secure, even wrap without laces flopping around or freezing up. Underfoot, you’ve got a super grippy FriXion® White outsole with a winter-specific lug pattern that bites into snow and slush without slipping.
And while it looks burly, it’s still impressively light and responsive for a shoe in this category—meaning you can move fast without feeling like you’re wearing a brick.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Weight | 12.1 oz / 343 g (per shoe, size 42) |
| Upper | Waterproof mesh + built-in stretch gaiter |
| Waterproofing | GORE-TEX® Extended Comfort membrane |
| Closure System | BOA® Fit System + zipper gaiter |
| Outsole | FriXion® White with Impact Brake System™ |
| Lug Depth | 7 mm |
| Drop | 8 mm |
| Fit | Snug and performance-oriented |
| Best For | Winter running, snowy trails, muddy conditions |
| MSRP | $235 USD |
Pros and Cons
La Sportiva Cyklon Cross GTX: Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Integrated gaiter keeps snow, mud, and debris out | Fit runs snug—sizing up may be needed for thicker socks |
| Excellent traction on snow, ice, and loose terrain | More expensive than standard trail runners |
| BOA system makes it easy to dial in a secure fit | Overkill for mild or dry-weather trails |
| Waterproof and warm for winter trail missions | Integrated gaiter limits breathability in warm weather |
Final Thoughts
The Cyklon Cross GTX is made for a specific type of runner or hiker—the kind who goes out when the trail disappears under snow, the wind is howling, and everyone else is still in bed. If that sounds like you, this shoe delivers next-level protection without compromising performance.
It's not your everyday trail shoe. But for winter adventures, cold-weather runs, and mixed conditions, the Cyklon Cross GTX is seriously impressive—and actually fun to wear when the going gets gross.
My review is independent of the supplier and reflects my own opinions. Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if purchases are made through those links at no additional cost to you.
