La Sportiva Ultra Raptor Review: The Ultimate Hiking Shoe

When it comes to hiking shoes, finding the perfect balance between comfort, stability, and durability is essential. That’s where the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor comes in. This trail running shoe has gained a reputation for its outstanding performance in rugged mountain environments. With its grippy outsole, cushioned midsole, and comfortable upper, the Ultra Raptor checks all the boxes for outdoor enthusiasts looking to tackle challenging trails. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the features, pros, and cons of the Ultra Raptor, providing you with all the information you need to make an informed decision for your next hiking adventure.

La Sportiva Ultra Raptor Overview

Price: ~$120

Weight:  1 lb. 7.7 oz. (women’s size 8.5)

Waterproof: No; waterproof version available

Thumbs up: incredibly comfortable, breathable, stable and versatile hiking shoe

Thumbs down: the sole shows signs of wear pretty fast. They’re a bit heavier than other models

La Sportiva Ultra Raptor Features

Unparalleled Traction and Stability

When it comes to hiking in mountainous terrain, having reliable traction is crucial. The Ultra Raptor’s outsole is equipped with La Sportiva’s Frixion Green rubber compound, which offers exceptional grip on various surfaces, including wet rocks, loose gravel, and dusty slabs. This stickiness is a result of the softer rubber compound, providing excellent traction but sacrificing some durability. However, for those seeking maximum grip, the Ultra Raptor delivers in spades.

The shoe’s stability is another standout feature. The combination of the EVA midsole and the nylon shank offers torsional rigidity, ensuring that your foot stays secure and protected even on uneven and rocky trails. Whether you’re scrambling across scree fields or navigating steep ascents, the Ultra Raptor provides the stability you need to tackle challenging terrain with confidence.

Comfortable and Breathable Upper

The upper of the Ultra Raptor is designed with comfort and breathability in mind. The shoe features a mesh construction that allows ample airflow, keeping your feet cool even during long and hot hikes. The precise fit through the heel and midfoot ensures a secure and supportive feel, preventing any slippage or discomfort.

One notable feature is the leather-like overlay on the inside of the heel, providing a no-slip fit. Although it may feel slightly frictional at first, this feature quickly disappears as you start hiking. The shoe also incorporates a skeleton cage stabilizer on the outside of the heel, enhancing lateral support and stability.

To keep debris out, La Sportiva has implemented a one-piece overlay that covers the tongue, effectively preventing rocks and pebbles from entering the shoe without causing any pressure points on the top of the foot. However, it’s worth noting that the toe box is quite narrow, and some hikers may find it necessary to size up to accommodate their foot width.

Exceptional Cushioning and Protection

One of the standout features of the Ultra Raptor is its cushioning. The 8mm drop, along with the MEMIex EVA midsole, provides a comfortable and responsive feel. The midsole’s compression EVA stone guard acts as a flexible rock plate, offering excellent protection against sharp rocks and rugged trails. Even after walking for long distances on jagged scree, the Ultra Raptor leaves your underfoot feeling fresh and supported.

For added protection and control, La Sportiva incorporates the Flex Transfer Shank in the arch of the midfoot, forming part of the shoe’s Impact Brake System. This system enhances control and precision during downhill descents, reducing stress on your leg joints and providing a smoother hiking experience.

However, one aspect to be aware of is the wear pattern of the midsole. Some hikers have reported uneven wear, particularly on the outside of the foot. This wear pattern can occur relatively quickly and may result in a supinated foot position. La Sportiva could potentially improve the durability of the midsole to address this issue.

Durability and Wear

The Ultra Raptor’s outsole, while offering exceptional grip, does sacrifice some durability. The softer Frixion Green rubber compound provides outstanding traction but may wear down more quickly, especially on abrasive and rocky trails. Hikers who frequently encounter sharp and jagged rocks may find that the outsole wears down after approximately 150 miles of use.

Despite the potential wear of the outsole, the Ultra Raptor’s overall build quality remains impressive. The upper’s plastic overlays provide excellent lateral support without causing any discomfort or hotspots. The rand that runs from heel to toe adds extra protection without compromising breathability. Overall, the shoe can withstand the demands of rugged hiking trails, offering longevity and performance.

Fit and Sizing

Finding the right fit is crucial for any hiking shoe, and the Ultra Raptor caters to those with low to medium-volume feet. However, it’s important to note that the toe box is narrower compared to other models. If you have wider feet or prefer more room for your toes, it may be necessary to size up to accommodate the narrower width of the Ultra Raptor’s toe box. It’s recommended to try on the shoe before purchasing to ensure the best fit for your foot shape.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Outstanding traction on various surfaces, including wet rocks
• Exceptional stability and support for rugged terrain
• Comfortable and breathable upper for long hikes in hot conditions
• Cushioned midsole and flexible rock plate for underfoot protection
• Precise fit through the heel and midfoot for a secure feel
• Durable construction withstands the demands of rugged trails

Cons:

• Narrow toe box may require sizing up for those with wider feet
• Midsole wear pattern may cause a supinated foot position
• Softer outsole rubber compound may wear down more quickly on abrasive trails

La Sportiva Ultra Raptor Final Thoughts

The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor is a top-tier hiking shoe that excels in challenging mountain environments. With its exceptional traction, stability, and durability, it’s no wonder why outdoor enthusiasts turn to the Ultra Raptor for their hiking adventures. While the shoe’s narrow toe box and potential midsole wear are considerations, the overall performance and comfort of the Ultra Raptor make it a reliable choice for hikers tackling rugged trails.

If you’re seeking a hiking shoe that combines grip, stability, and comfort, the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re embarking on a day hike, a multi-day trek, or a trail run, the Ultra Raptor is designed to enhance your outdoor experience and keep you moving confidently across diverse terrain. Lace up a pair of Ultra Raptors and hit the trails with the assurance that you’re wearing one of the best hiking shoes available.

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