Page 2 – La Sportiva Ultra Raptor - Trail & Hiking Shoes

29 items

La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Woman Gore-Tex Slate Sorbet

2 reviews

La Sportiva

Fast Hiking shoes Ultra Raptor II Woman Gore-Tex Slate Sorbet

Recommended price

£162.71

-29%

£114.31

Colour

Size

La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid Leather Gore-Tex Carbon Tango Red

FLASH DAYS 2 reviews

La Sportiva

Hiking shoes Ultra Raptor II Mid Leather Gore-Tex Carbon Tango Red

Recommended price

£197.91

-42%

£114.31

The GORE-TEX Extended Comfort membrane in Ultra Raptor II Mid Leather Gore-Tex Carbon Tango Red hiking boots ensures waterproofing and breathability in all seasons.

Colour

Size

Complete overview of the comprehensive Ultra Raptor range

La Sportiva's Ultra Raptor family is not limited to a single shoe, but comes in numerous models covering several disciplines. Initially developed as a long-distance all-terrain trail running shoe, the Ultra Raptor quickly gained a reputation for reliability and versatility. Initially, its robust construction and secure support made it ideal for running on technical trails, but many walkers quickly adopted it for fast hiking, as it combines cushioning and stability so well. La Sportiva has therefore expanded its range to meet all uses. Today, you can find versions specific to trail running and others designed for fast hiking.

Thus, the standard Ultra Raptor are low-cut models that fall into the category of protective trail shoes, capable of handling long distances and rough terrain. At the same time, the brand offers mid-height uppers, oriented towards fast hiking, which rise above the ankle for better protection.

All versions share the DNA of the original model: an aggressive FriXion outsole offering grip and durability, equipped with the Impact Brake System that improves grip on descents and braking. They have a rugged rand at the front to protect against rocks, and an enveloping lacing system that holds the foot evenly for perfect fit and comfort. The presence of a breathable mesh lining inside (with anti-friction microfibre insert) contributes to thermal comfort and prevents overheating.

In short, the Ultra Raptor range forms a complete catalogue ranging from versatile trail shoes to lightweight waterproof hiking shoes, for both men and women.

The differences between all Ultra Raptor models

While all Ultra Raptor models share a common base, there are key differences to know to distinguish each version:

Ultra Raptor II (trail running version)

Low-cut model designed for mountain running. The upper is in breathable mesh without membrane to maximise ventilation. This shoe is lightweight (~335g for women, ~385g for men) and ideal for trail running and fast outings. It offers generous cushioning and a drop of about 9 mm, which ensures a good balance between comfort and feel. Its preferred terrain is technical trails, where it provides grip and stability while remaining dynamic.

Ultra Raptor GTX

This is the waterproof version of the Ultra Raptor. It incorporates a Gore-Tex Invisible Fit membrane to keep feet dry when there is dew, rain or mud. In return, breathability is slightly reduced compared to the standard model due to the membrane, but it becomes an asset for running in the rain, in winter or for high-altitude hikes. La Sportiva Ultra Raptor GTX thus allows you to move in all weather and on all terrains while keeping your feet dry.

Ultra Raptor 2 Mid GTX (fast hiking)

This mid-height version is designed for fast hiking and quick mountain excursions. It is based on the trail shoe (same sole and chassis), with the addition a flexible mid-height upper that covers and supports the ankle. This provides more protection and support for hiking, while maintaining the lightness and cushioning of a trail shoe. The Ultra Raptor Mid GTX features a Gore-Tex Extended Comfort membrane on a reinforced mesh upper, making it completely waterproof and able to face rain, mud and snow. It is considered a hybrid between a trail running trainer and a walking boot. La Sportiva has built on the Ultra Raptor's reputation as a lightweight hiking shoe and added the protection of a high upper. It's the ideal model for those who alternate between running and walking in the mountains. It is lighter than a traditional hiking boot.

Ultra Raptor II Mid Leather GTX (hiking)

A recent variant, the Mid leather model with Gore-Tex is aimed at hikers looking for a slightly more rigid boot, with more durability and support. The resistant leather upper provides additional support and excellent protection against abrasion on rocky terrain. This version gains in longevity for intensive use, while maintaining a GTX membrane for waterproofness. Its rigidity may require a slightly longer break-in period initially, compared to the mesh version, but it becomes a real asset in rough terrain and for carrying a bulky and heavy backpack. Despite this, it remains relatively light for a boot, which is very appreciable for fast hiking.

Men's and women's versions

La Sportiva offers each model in men and women versions, with adapted colours and fit. The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor Women features a refined fit, corresponding to the morphology of the female foot. Technically, the characteristics remain identical: same FriXion sole, same drop, same materials. However, the weight is slightly lower on smaller sizes. Men and women can therefore enjoy the same performance, with perfect fit and comfort thanks to the lacing that distributes tension and envelops the foot evenly.

How to choose your Ultra Raptor shoe?

Faced with the variety of Ultra Raptor models, you should define your main use to make the right choice:

Pure trail running

If your primary goal is to run on technical paths, we advise you to opt for the Ultra Raptor II, in low cut, without waterproof membrane. It will be more breathable and lightweight, ideal for endurance trails. Its comfortable cushioning and stability will secure you over long distances in the mountains. The ~9mm drop offers a natural stride for most runners, while protecting muscles over time. This model is also very suitable in summer or in hot weather thanks to its breathable mesh lining.

Trail running in all weather and ultra trail in the mountains

If you often run in rain, mud or mountain environments, the GTX version will be an asset. The waterproof-breathable Gore-Tex membrane will keep your feet dry in the snow or under storms. On an alpine ultra trail, where bad weather can occur, the Ultra Raptor GTX will provide additional security. Keep in mind that it ventilates a little less. If you know you're going to run almost only in hot and dry weather, then favour the version without membrane. You gain in breathability, as well as a bit of weight.

Fast hiking and speed hiking

If your main passion is fast hiking, if you are into lightweight trekking with long days of walking, we recommend the Mid GTX. It offers better ankle support, which helps on descents with a backpack. For example, the Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX excels on summer mountain route, on technical trails where its versatility trail/hiking works wonders. You benefit from the excellent grip of a trail running sole, effective even on wet rock, while benefiting from reinforced protection against twisting. In case of capricious weather or waterlogged terrain over several days, the combination of Mid upper and Gore-Tex membrane keeps your feet dry and limits stress on the ankles.

Technical hiking and intensive use

If you plan to do intensive hiking, on rocky terrain, potentially abrasive, loaded with a potentially heavy backpack, the Mid Leather GTX version is probably the best choice. Its leather upper offers additional support and long-term durability. For a multi-day trek on rough terrain or if you know you're hard on your shoes, this version will be more durable. It combines the tradition of leather with the modernity of the Ultra Raptor sole. Just make sure to try it with your usual hiking socks, as La Sportiva's fit is precise.

Good to know: Wide versions (enlarged foot width) exist on recent models for those who have wide feet – an important comfort criterion if you're going out for a long time.

Wide Fit versions: for optimal comfort of wide feet

La Sportiva also offers specific versions of the Ultra Raptor in Wide Fit format, designed for hikers with wide feet or looking for more space in the forefoot area. These models offer a more generous fit while maintaining the excellent foot support specific to the Ultra Raptor range. Wide Fit variations are particularly interesting if you're used to long mountain outings, as they effectively reduce the risk of friction and discomfort related to foot compression.

Comparison table of Ultra Raptor models

To help you choose the model that will suit you best, we have taken care to determine the discipline: running, hiking, fast walking, versatility, pure performance... Depending on the sport, the needs for waterproofness and ankle support change. The beauty of the Ultra Raptor range is that it covers all these aspects: from the ultra trail runner to the hiker who walks fast, for a long time, who carries weight, etc. We hope that with this table, everyone will find what they're looking for. Don't hesitate to check the pages dedicated to La Sportiva hiking shoes or La Sportiva trail running shoes to compare with our other models from the brand and refine your choice.

Model	Ultra Raptor II	Ultra Raptor II GTX	Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX	Ultra Raptor II Mid Leather GTX
Recommended use	Trail running, fast hiking	Trail running, all-season hiking, fast hiking	Fast hiking, lightweight all-season hiking	Fast hiking, all-season hiking, alpine hiking, trekking
Cuff height	Low	Low	Mid	Mid
Materials (upper)	Breathable mesh	Breathable mesh	Reinforced anti-abrasion mesh	Reinforced Nubuck leather
Waterproof	No	Yes (Gore-Tex Extended Comfort)	Yes (Gore-Tex Extended Comfort)	Yes (Gore-Tex Extended Comfort)
Average weight men (size 8)	~355 g	~380 g	~430 g	~430 g
Average weight women (size 5.5)	~300 g	~330 g	~360 g	~340 g
Drop	9 mm	9 mm	9 mm	9 mm
Outsole	FriXion White (maximum grip, soft rubber)	FriXion White (maximum grip, soft rubber)	FriXion Blue AT (long lasting, harder rubber)	FriXion Blue AT (long lasting, harder rubber)
Cushioning	Injected EVA, Ortholite 5 mm	Injected EVA, Ortholite 5 mm	Injected EVA, Ortholite 5 mm	Injected EVA, Ortholite 5 mm
Rand	Yes, reinforced TPU	Yes, reinforced TPU	Yes, reinforced TPU	Yes, reinforced TPU
Heel stabiliser	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Impact Brake System (IBS)	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Lugs	~4.5 mm	~4.5 mm	~4 mm	~4 mm
Fit/comfort	Enveloping, precise	Enveloping, precise	Enveloping, precise	Enveloping, precise
Membrane	Breathable mesh	Breathable Gore-Tex	Breathable Gore-Tex	Breathable Gore-Tex
Available fit	Standard + Wide Fit	Standard + Wide Fit	Standard + Wide Fit	Standard + Wide Fit
Men's/women's models availability	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Ideal terrain	Dry to moderately wet, long technical routes	Wet, muddy, snowy, technical routes	All-terrain, technical, wet, muddy trails	Very demanding, abrasive, rocky terrain
Main advantages	Lightness, maximum breathability, trail/hiking/fast hiking versatility	Waterproof, weather versatility, trail/hiking/fast hiking versatility	Ankle support, waterproof, fast hiking lightness	Ruggedness, durability, reinforced support, waterproof

In summary, how to choose:

Trail running in dry to moderate conditions ? Ultra Raptor II (low mesh non-GTX).
Versatile trail running, all seasons, wet conditions ? Ultra Raptor II GTX.
Fast hiking, ankle protection, hiking-trail versatility ? Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX.
Intensive hiking, demanding terrain, need for durability and increased protection ? Ultra Raptor II Mid Leather GTX.

The Wide Fit versions are ideal for those needing extra space in the forefoot area, thus ensuring optimal comfort over long distances or for sensitive or wide feet.

History of the Ultra Raptor range over the years

The Ultra Raptor was born in 2013 and quickly established itself as a staple model in La Sportiva’s range. At its launch, it featured an 8mm drop, offering an excellent balance between stability and comfort over long distances. Directly inspired by the Raptor model, it distinguished itself with better forefoot protection, exceptional grip thanks to its FriXion sole and inverted lugs ensuring optimal traction on all types of terrain, from rocky trails to loose ground. Initially designed for long-distance trail running, the Ultra Raptor was very quickly adopted by ultralight hikers and fast hiking enthusiasts, who found in it a versatile alternative to traditional trekking shoes. Its robustness and lasting comfort made it extremely popular with enthusiasts of various outdoor activities.

For nearly a decade, La Sportiva evolved the range with small touches. A waterproof Gore-Tex version was introduced, as well as a women's version, but the heart of the product remained unchanged and continued to prove itself. It wasn't until 2021 that a notable update appeared with the Ultra Raptor II. The Italian brand, faithful to its conservative approach on its flagship models, opted for a light facelift rather than a total redesign. The proven sole block and fit of the first Ultra Raptor were preserved, guaranteeing continuity in performance. The improvements of the V2 mainly concern aesthetics and some technical details: an even more breathable mesh upper, a redesigned rear heel stabiliser for a more modern look, the use of recycled materials in the laces and the Ortholite insole. In short, the DNA of the Ultra Raptor remained intact, to the delight of the model's many fans. La Sportiva managed to preserve what made the incredible success of the shoe, while modernising it slightly.

Parallel to the launch of the Ultra Raptor II, La Sportiva officialised the fast hiking orientation of the range. In 2021, they launched the Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX, the famous waterproof mid version, presented as the logical follow-up to the successful trail shoe to meet the expectations of fast walkers. That same year, the brand also introduced Wide Fit sizes on certain models, an important detail to broaden the audience and respond to comfort demands from users with wide feet. The range was therefore enriched to cover even better the spectrum between trail and walking.

More recently, in 2023, La Sportiva added the Ultra Raptor II Mid Leather GTX to its catalogue. This evolution, featuring a robust leather upper, illustrates the desire to offer an even more resistant version to the harshest conditions and unpredictable terrain, aimed at hikers and trekkers. Although more hiking-oriented, it retains the technical base that made the Ultra Raptor famous: grippy sole, stable cushioning and precise fit.

After more than ten years, the Ultra Raptor remains a safe bet for anyone looking for a shoe capable of doing everything in the mountains. From its launch to today, it has followed thousands of athletes on trails around the world, evolving subtly to stay at the forefront. Versatility, longevity and confidence on the terrain summarise well the history of this legendary range that continues to evolve without denying its origins. Whether for running on technical trails or hiking for multiple days, La Sportiva Ultra Raptor has managed to create a bond of trust with outdoor enthusiasts. Its future looks just as promising.

Glisshop, outdoor specialist, offers the entire La Sportiva Ultra Raptor range. If you wish, don't hesitate to call on our experts to find the version that best corresponds to your discipline and your needs, in order to fully enjoy this legendary shoe on all terrains.