X-Bionic Terraskin X00C

The X Terraskin X00CX came into my hands just as I was preparing for a very special challenge: the relay in the famous La Diagonale des Fous race. My section, 36km and 2700 meters of positive elevation gain, 1900 meters of which are climbed in only 9 km, demanded a lot in terms of performance, especially in grip and response.

I needed shoes that could cope with all types of terrain, from easy areas to extremely technical sections. When I first saw the X Terraskin X00C X, I was struck by their groundbreaking design: one black shoe, one white shoe, and technical details that make them stand out.

Type of trail runner ideal for the X Terraskin X00C X Terraskin X00C

The X Terraskin X00CX are perfect for trail runners looking for technical performance and versatility. Their carbon plate and Vibram sole make them ideal for those who alternate between very technical terrain and easier areas. If you are a runner who enjoys demanding mountain races , with steep climbs and tricky descents, this shoe will give you the support you need.

Also, although they are suitable for runners of all weights, if you are a runner looking for a shoe that combines stability, grip and responsiveness, you will find the X Terraskin X00C X especially useful for long distances and mixed terrain.

Recommended distances of the X-Bionic Terraskin X00C

I tested the X-Bionic Terraskin X00C on trails of between 20 and 42 km, with elevations between 1500 and 2600 meters, and I was surprised by their excellent performance and traction on all types of terrain, from mud to rocky and dry surfaces. Thanks to their blend of cushioning and reactivity, these shoes are ideal for middle and long distance races, such as mountain marathons or ultras, where you need a shoe that responds well both on technical climbs and on flatter areas. However, in shorter or very explosive distances you may not take advantage of their full technical potential.

What I liked most about the X Terraskin X00C X

The most impressive thing about the X Terraskin X00CX is their ability to effectively combine traction and reactivity on such varied terrain. Throughout my testing, from simple areas to extreme technical terrain such as jungles and volcanic rock, their performance was impeccable.

The Vibram outsole provides impressive grip on any type of surface, even in wet or slippery conditions, giving a sense of security.

In addition, the inclusion of the carbon plate divided in two parts is a wise move. Not only does it add stiffness to the shoe, but it also offers dynamic response on flat and less technical sections, transforming trail running into an experience that feels almost like running on asphalt. This duality between stability and reactivity is rare to find in trail shoes and is one of the highlights of this model.

Durability is another aspect that has pleasantly surprised me. After a few kilometers of 300, the shoe continues to perform like the first day, with virtually no wear on the Vibram outsole, indicating that it is designed to withstand the most extreme conditions without compromising its performance. Add to this the sock-like fit of the upper, which offers a feeling of total support around the foot, especially useful on steep descents.

One aspect I don't want to leave out is the detail of the adaptive socks that come with the shoes. X-Bionic has created a pair of technical socks specifically designed to maximize the performance of this shoe. Each sock is made with compression fabrics and features specific zones to reduce impact and improve breathability at the most critical points of the foot. In addition, in keeping with the shoe's unique style, each sock has a different color, complementing the asymmetrical design.

This combination not only adds an aesthetic plus, but also improves the comfort and fit of the shoe combination, something not often seen in other brands.

Aesthetically, the X Terraskin X00CX stand out and attract attention, something that is not usual in the world of trail running, where functionality usually dominates over style.

Key points I liked the most

• Exceptional traction: The Vibram outsole provides outstanding grip on any type of terrain, from mud to volcanic rock.
• Responsiveness in mixed terrain: The two-part carbon plate offers a perfect blend of stability in technical terrain and reactivity in runnable areas.
• Impressive durability: After more than 300 km, including more than 100 km in competition, the shoes still show very little wear.
• Balanced cushioning: Foam provides remarkable comfort, even on rougher terrain, without sacrificing reactivity.
• Sock-like fit: Technical upper offers a snug fit, keeping the foot firm and protected, which is especially useful on steep descents.
• Unique design: Asymmetrical colorways and technical details, such as tailored socks, make these shoes unnoticeable in any environment.

Possible opportunities for improvement

While the X-Bionic Terraskin X00C more than deliver in most respects, I found a couple of points that could use improvement. First, taking the shoes off can be tricky due to the compression effect of the upper, which also makes putting them on a bit cumbersome. Also, on terrain with steep side slopes, the foot tends to slip inside the shoe, which could be corrected by adding a couple of extra eyelets for a more secure fit. Finally, while the design is striking and unique (one white and one black shoe), the white shoes quickly lose their original color after several uses on dirty terrain.

X-Bionic Terraskin X00C Rivals

Final verdict

The X Terraskin X00CX have left a very positive impression on me. They are a bold shoes, both in design and performance, ideal for trail runners looking for a technical option capable of performing on a wide variety of terrain. Although they do have minor drawbacks such as difficulty with barefoot and some adjustments on side slopes, their grip and responsiveness make them an outstanding option for those who train and compete in medium to long distance trails.

If you enjoy running on mixed terrain and are attracted to unique designs, these shoes will not disappoint!

The ultimate test of the X Terraskin X00C X at the Diagonale de Fous

I just returned from the island of La Réunion, where I participated in the Diagonale des Fous as part of the Zembrocal Trail Relay, and this is the final verdict.

This race was the ultimate test for the X, after training with them during August and September on demanding terrain in the Pyrenees and the Cantabrian coast, it was time to put them to the test in the Diagonal, on one of the most technical and abrasive terrain in the world. And we can say that we have tested this trail running novelty in what is probably one of the most extreme races in the world.

My relay began with 15 km of asphalt on a slight slope of 600 meters of positive slope, where the plate of the shoes was a real marvel. It allowed me to run smoothly and arrive at the next stretch with fresh legs. And I was going to need it a lot.

The second section, with 8 km of jungle with a brutal ascent of 1700 meters of positive elevation gain awaited me. The terrain was covered with wet rocks, treacherous roots, and the humidity era so intense that even breathing was difficult. Here, a good grip on the shoes era essential.

After this hellish climb, it was time to cross 8 km of lava campo, right in the area of the Piton de la Fournaise volcano. From here, sand, volcanic rocks and even running on lava flows put the sole to the test, due to the extreme abrasion of the terrain.

To finish, a 4 km downhill on a slippery and muddy terrain, the perfect culmination to an already challenging race.

The shoes held up without any problems, although they now bear some battle scars, but they are in much better shape than my hands and knees! The terrain was breathtaking; I had never run anywhere so technical, challenging and varied. It seemed that nature had deployed all its weapons to create a spectacular but unforgiving environment - thank goodness I was well shod!