Product · La Sportiva
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II GTX: mesh trail shoe
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The Ultra Raptor II GTX is the trail runner's choice in our hill path walking shoe guide. Amazon lists a mesh upper, a Gore-Tex lining, EVA foam insole cushioning, a comfort cushioning level and a rubber sole, with fit recorded as true to size. Special features, in German, read breathable, light and waterproof. It suits walkers who move quickly on hill paths and want a light, flexible shoe with a membrane.
- Upper
- Mesh
- Membrane
- Gore-Tex
- Outsole
- Rubber
- Cushioning (listed)
- EVA foam, comfort
In its favour
- Gore-Tex lining is stated, so the mesh upper still keeps out puddle splashes.
- EVA foam cushioning is listed for comfort on long hard paths.
- The fit is described as true to size in the listing, which helps when ordering online.
Good to know
- A mesh upper wears faster on rock and heather than leather or suede.
- The listed weight of 970 g does not say whether that is per pair.
Our take
Listing details
The season is listed as winter, which is unusual for a mesh shoe and probably reflects the membrane. The item weight is 970 g, without saying per shoe or per pair. The outsole compound is not named.
The cushioning level is comfort, and the insole is EVA.
Mesh with Gore-Tex
A mesh upper is light and flexible, ideal for fast walking on paths. The Gore-Tex lining keeps out rain and wet grass, but water can still enter over the low cuff. Mesh dries quickly on the outside but is less durable against rock than leather.
Rinse off mud, dry naturally, and avoid heat.
Ultra Raptor II against the TX5 Evo GTX Low and Cyrus 2
La Sportiva's own TX5 Evo GTX Low has a leather upper and is listed for scree and rock. It is tougher. Choose the Ultra Raptor II for speed and comfort.
The Scarpa Cyrus 2 GTX is a nubuck shoe. It is more durable and traditional. The Ultra Raptor II is the lighter, trail-style option.
Who should choose differently
Walkers who need a wide fit should look at the Ultra Raptor II Mid Leather Wide GTX. Those walking mostly on rocky terrain may want a leather shoe.
There is also the question of durability. Mesh uppers wear faster where the shoe flexes and where rocks scrape the sides, so heavy users on rough British paths should expect to replace a mesh shoe sooner than a leather one.
That trade-off suits many walkers. A light, flexible shoe makes long days on good paths more enjoyable, and the Gore-Tex lining means a damp morning does not have to mean wet socks. For fast walkers, fell joggers and people who find boots clumpy, it is an easy choice.
Verdict
The Ultra Raptor II GTX suits walkers who want a light, flexible mesh trail shoe with Gore-Tex for fast hill paths. For rocky ground, the La Sportiva TX5 Evo GTX Low is tougher, and for a leather walking shoe, the Scarpa Cyrus 2 GTX is the alternative.
Compared with alternatives in: Best walking shoes for hill paths
Amazon listing title: La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Gore-TEX Walking Shoes