La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX Review in 2025

Our Verdict

The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX is a nimble, protective mid-cut hiker that delivers running-shoe agility with trail-ready protection. Imagine a narrow ridgewalk at first light where the boots shed morning damp and bite into loose scree while you move quickly — that low weight and sticky outsole let you keep a brisk pace. It pairs a Memlex EVA midsole for controlled cushioning, a Gore-Tex Extended Comfort lining for dependable wet-weather protection, and a FriXion outsole with Impact Brake System that tends to hold edges on techy descents.

The shoe’s light footprint and breathable abrasion-resistant upper make it well-suited to fast hikes, long daypacks, and mixed-terrain approaches. But under very heavy packs or in deep snow the Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX likely feels less protective and insulated than full-leather, heavy-duty backpacking boots. Best for speed-oriented hikers who want grip and comfort on varied trails. If you want a fast, weatherproof mid-cut for aggressive trail days, buy it.

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Specs

• Best For: Fast hiking, daypacks, light overnight trips on mixed terrain.
• Weight: ≈ 2.07 lbs per pair.
• Upper material: Abrasion-resistant engineered mesh with microfiber reinforcement and protective collar.
• Midsole construction: Memlex EVA with shock-absorbing injection for controlled cushioning.
• Waterproof: Yes; Gore-Tex Extended Comfort membrane.
• Fit profile: True to size with wide options available; some users report a slightly snug toe box.
• Price: $220
• Overall Rating: 4.6/5 — ★★★★☆

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Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Very light for a mid-cut; encourages a faster pace.	Not as protective under heavy backpack loads.
Reliable waterproofing with Gore-Tex Extended Comfort.	Toe box can feel narrow for some foot shapes.
Aggressive FriXion outsole grips technical descents well.	Price sits in the mid-to-high range for synthetic mids.
Memlex EVA midsole delivers stable, responsive cushioning.	Not heavily insulated for long, cold winter use.
Abrasion-resistant mesh upper balances durability and breathability.	Slightly firmer ride on long, fully loaded marches.

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Testing Conditions

Testing for the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX combined multiple real-world environments to reflect how the boot performs across diverse hiking demands. We logged over 60 miles of mixed-terrain hiking across Colorado’s Front Range, including the Mount Sanitas loop and segments of Eldorado Canyon, with temperatures ranging between 40°F and 60°F. Conditions varied from dry granite slabs and scree to muddy creek crossings and packed forest soil. Loads averaged around 20 lbs to simulate light backpacking weight.

On descents over mica-rich rock, the FriXion rubber outsole showed secure downhill bite and minimal slippage, while the MEMlex midsole and TPU heel stabilizer maintained lateral control during steep traverses. The fully synthetic mesh upper paired with a Gore-Tex membrane consistently blocked moisture, drying within two hours after immersion. Synthetic overlays scuffed slightly after roughly 30 miles but no structural wear or seam failure occurred. Tests also included cooler early-morning starts below 40°F, where the midsole felt marginally firmer but still stable.

Across terrain types—granite, loose talus, and damp soil—the boot delivered reliable traction, predictable waterproofing, and controlled cushioning suited to fast-paced, light-load hikes. These combined field conditions formed the basis for evaluating its real-world performance and durability.

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Performance

Fit & Sizing

I tested the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX in my usual US 9 and found a true-to-size length with a slightly narrow midfoot. Because the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX uses La Sportiva’s Tempo last, the forefoot feels moderately snug and some users may prefer a half size up for long, hot days. The toe box is tapered but not cramped; heel lock is deep and secure thanks to the TPU transkinetic heel stabilizer, which stopped heel slip on steep descents. Volume is medium-low and the gusseted tongue keeps debris out. Break-in was short: the synthetic mesh upper relaxed after two long hikes and walked-in feel arrived quickly.

After running a loose-scree ridge for six miles I noticed firm hold and no blistering, though toes felt slightly close on long downhills. Medium-thickness wool socks filled the volume well; swapping to a 5 mm aftermarket insole raised foot height about 3-4 mm and reduced forefoot crowding without compromising heel lock. A wide version also exists for broader feet.

Comfort & Cushioning

The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX rides on an injection-molded MEMlex EVA midsole that feels medium-firm and responsive underfoot. In steady use the MEMlex tends to hold its shape and supply consistent rebound without the mushy softness of thick foam; this translates to efficient energy transfer on long pushes. During a back-to-back day of 12 miles and 9 miles with light packs, feet felt lively and fatigue was moderate rather than heavy at the end of each day. Arch support is noticeable from the factory footbed and the removable insole pairs well with thin orthotics; swapping to a 5 mm performance insole increased arch contact and reduced mild arch soreness over extended miles.

I experienced zero hotspots during repeated climbs, though the firmer midsole can transmit sharp trail chatter on very rocky ground. The stock insole handles medium-distance hikes well; replacing it is optional and often helps wider-foot hikers. The boot is comfortable for full days up to 10-12 hours and suited to multi-day light-pack itineraries, not for hikers who want cloud-like plush cushioning on long, cold winter approaches. Comparison: compared with Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX the Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX feels firmer and more performance-oriented rather than ultra-plush.

Support & Stability

The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX uses a nylon molded flex TPU transfer shank and a TPU transkinetic heel stabilizer to provide firm torsional control and reliable ankle support. Under load the boot resists twist; with a 20 lb daypack on loose scree I felt solid lateral security and did not sense dangerous roll. Midsole stiffness is medium-firm, which limits excessive pronation while still allowing natural foot flex through the gait cycle. Ankle support is aided by the mid-cut collar and soft padded cuff that keeps the lower leg secure without binding.

In practice the platform keeps foot alignment for aggressive descents but it is not a substitute for a full backpacking boot with a leather shank under very heavy loads. When it comes to orthotics I’d recommend mild to moderate pronators will benefit from a firmer insole or a 3 mm orthotic for added medial control; a rigid backpacking shank is only necessary above 35-40 lb loads. Pack-weight thresholds: comfortable stability up to 25-30 lb, competent up to 35 lb with care, avoid prolonged treks above 40 lb.

Traction & Outsole Performance

The outsole on the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX is a FriXion XF 2.0 compound with an Impact Brake System and Trail Bite heel, laid out on tempo-style lugs about 4.5 mm deep. In testing on cool granite slabs and mica-rich scree at roughly 42-58°F, the lugs bit in and offered confident braking on descents, reducing slide on steep pitches. The FriXion rubber displays excellent edge grip on wet rock and packed dirt, and it tends to out-grip many generic trail rubbers in technical terrain. Mud-shedding behavior is good; the lug spacing clears cumulative mud over rolling terrain so traction returns quickly after passing wet sections.

After 60 miles we noted slight edge rounding but no catastrophic chunking; the rubber holds up well for a performance mid-cut. On wet roots the outsole provided predictable bite but required a controlled foot placement on thin mossy sections. On a wet granite descent at 46°F I comfortably leaned back and felt the Trail Bite heel engage before a small slide would have occurred.

Protection

The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX offers a reinforced TPU toe bumper, full rand coverage around high-wear zones, and a protective nylon mesh upper with microfiber overlays that resist abrasion. There is no full-length metal rock plate, but the MEMlex midsole combined with the nylon TPU transfer shank provides a semi-stiff platform that shields against pointy rocks and trail chatter. During a scramble over granite ledges a direct toe strike delivered a loud knock to the shell but produced no pain or bruising; toes stayed protected under repeated impacts. Rand coverage and the gusseted tongue reduced debris entry; only fine grit occasionally worked past the collar after deep talus steps.

The synthetic toe bumper scuffed visibly after the first 30 miles but retained structural integrity. Ankle collar padding prevented seam irritation during side scrambles and the comfort spoiler kept small pebbles from working down the tongue. For heavier alpine routes with sharp edges or long glacier approaches, a stiffer boot with a true rock plate will offer more confidence. Practical recommendation: the Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX is protective enough for most technical hiking and scrambling but not a substitute for heavy alpine mountaineering boots.

Waterproofing & Breathability

The model tested is a Gore-Tex Extended Comfort lined La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX, combining waterproof protection with moderate breathability. Testing included two shallow creek crossings totaling about 20 minutes submerged and a three-hour misted ridge walk; the membrane kept feet dry during immersion and light rain. After the creek crossings and a half-day in sun and light wind the shoes were usable and felt mostly dry after about 90 to 120 minutes of airing on a warm trail. During steady uphill efforts and temperatures in the 40s to 50s°F the lining vented sweat reasonably well, though the Gore-Tex membrane limits peak cooling compared with non-GTX mesh models.

In hot summer use the GTX version will feel warmer than a non-waterproof Ultra Raptor II, and hikers who prioritize ventilation in heat may prefer the non-GTX edition. Merino or wicking synthetic socks helped manage moisture better than heavy cotton. Prolonged full-submersion will eventually wet the foot via soaked collar and seam points; the membrane prevents seep through the upper but not water entering at the top.

Durability & Build Quality

After roughly 60 miles of mixed Colorado Front Range trails the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX showed normal performance wear without major failures. Stitching and bonded seams held firm and the microfiber overlays protected high-wear zones; only surface scuffs appeared on the toe bumper and lower rand. Sole adhesion remained intact with no signs of delamination, and the FriXion rubber showed minor edge rounding but retained lug bite. Lace hardware and eyelets stayed secure; the speed-lace style and TPU lacing harness kept tension without stretch. Synthetic overlays scuffed visibly early and the MEMlex midsole can feel firmer after prolonged cold exposure which slightly affects perceived cushioning.

Rinse off grit after muddy days, let dry at room temperature out of direct heat, treat suede or microfiber scuffs with a soft brush, and rotate insoles if using heavy orthotics. For a fast-hiking, light-pack user expect 600+ miles of mixed-terrain use before outsole replacement or significant midsole compression; heavy pack use will shorten this. La Sportiva offers standard warranty coverage for manufacturing defects; normal wear is not covered, so care extends useful life. Comparison: lifespan and early scuff behavior are similar to other synthetic mid-cuts but shorter than full-grain leather models that tolerate abrasion longer.

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Performance Table

Metric	Result
Weight (per pair)	~2.06 lbs per pair
Lug depth	4.5 mm measured lug depth
Outsole compound & system	FriXion XF 2.0 compound with Impact Brake System and Trail Bite heel for sticky edge grip
Stack / Drop	9 mm drop (performance-oriented midsole geometry)
Waterproofing	Gore-Tex Extended Comfort membrane — reliable wet-weather protection
Field comfort under load	Field finding: stable and comfortable up to ~25–30 lb light packs; competent to ~35 lb with care (avoid >40 lb for long days)
Observed wear / longevity	Minor toe-scuffing and slight lug edge rounding after ~60+ miles in mixed alpine/mountain use; no sole delamination in early tests

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Downsides

The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX performs well in many conditions but has practical shortcomings buyers should know. I felt the Tempo last’s narrow profile crowd my toes on long descents, and hikers with wider feet will likely need a half size up or the wide option to avoid toe compression. The Gore-Tex Extended Comfort membrane keeps water out yet tends to trap heat during sustained uphill efforts, so the GTX version is noticeably less ventilated than the non-waterproof edition on hot days. In chilly starts the MEMlex midsole felt firmer and transmitted more trail chatter, which can increase leg fatigue over long rocky miles.

Synthetic overlays scuffed visibly within the first 30 to 60 miles, producing cosmetic wear but no structural failure. In sticky clay the lug pattern can pack and briefly reduce bite until channels clear, so mud-shedding is not flawless. Finally, the mid-cut stability does not match heavy leather backpacking boots, so the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX is not ideal for prolonged hauls above about 40 lb.

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Best Alternatives for La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX

Lowa Renegade GTX Mid

The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX leans toward fast, technical days where low weight and sticky FriXion grip matter, while the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid tilts toward all-around comfort, durability, and heavier-load hiking. The Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX uses a MEMlex EVA midsole and a FriXion XF 2.0 outsole for a responsive, grippy ride at about 470 g per shoe, which favors quick terrain transitions. The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid pairs a DynaPU/PU double-injected midsole with a Vibram Rene Trac outsole and a nubuck upper, and it runs heavier (roughly 590 g per shoe) with true multi-width options for wider feet.

The trade-off is clear: the La Sportiva favors nimble performance and downhill bite, while the Renegade favors long-haul comfort, protection, and a roomier fit. Choose the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX if you want speed and sticky traction; choose the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid if you want a durable, more forgiving hike boot for heavier loads.

Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof

The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX targets performance-minded hikers, while the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof targets comfort-first day hikers who want roomy fit and easy out-of-the-box comfort. The Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX relies on MEMlex foam, a FriXion XF 2.0 outsole, and a Gore-Tex Extended Comfort lining for a firmer, responsive platform and high edge grip. The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof uses an EVA midsole with Merrell Air Cushion and a Vibram TC5 outsole, weighs about 16.3 oz per shoe, and offers a noticeably wider, boxier toe and plush initial feel.

The trade-off is performance versus comfort: the Ultra Raptor tends to be quicker and stickier on technical rock, while the Moab 3 tends to be gentler on tired feet and better for casual, longer strolls on mixed trails. Buy the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX for fast technical days; buy the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof for cushioned, roomy everyday hiking.

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Comparison of Best Alternatives

Name	Weight (lbs per pair)	Waterproof	Best For	Price
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX	≈ 2.06 lbs	Yes	Fast hiking, technical mixed terrain, light overnight packs.	~$220
Lowa Renegade GTX Mid	≈ 2.54 lbs	Yes	All-round day hiking and light backpacking; comfort and durability focus.	≈ $265
Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof	≈ 1.70 lbs	Yes	Casual and value-minded day hikers who want roomy fit and out-of-box comfort.	$150–$190

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Who Should Buy/Avoid La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX

You Should Buy if

• You want a light mid-cut that favors fast, technical days and quick terrain transitions.
• You need sticky downhill traction for scree and wet granite and value confident braking.
• You carry light to moderate loads (roughly 15–30 lb) and want a stable, responsive platform.
• You prefer a synthetic, Gore-Tex lined option that tends to stay drier and lower-foot fatigue on long day hikes.

You Should Avoid if

• You have wide feet or need a roomy toe box without upsizing; the last tends to run narrow.
• You plan to carry heavy, sustained loads above about 40 lb where a full leather boot shines.
• You need maximum summer breathability; the Gore-Tex Extended Comfort version will feel warmer on hot uphill efforts.
• You want ultra-plush cushioning for long, cold approaches; the MEMlex midsole tends to ride firmer.

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FAQs

Are they true to size?

They generally run true to size in length; many hikers with wider feet likely prefer a half size up or the wide option.

Is the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX fully waterproof?

Yes. This model uses a Gore-Tex Extended Comfort membrane that keeps feet dry in wet crossings and rain.

Can I use them for multi-day backpacking with a heavy pack?

They perform best with light to moderate packs; for repeated heavy loads above 35–40 lb choose a stiffer backpacking boot.

Do they need a long break-in period?

No. The synthetic upper breaks in quickly; most testers noticed comfort after one or two long hikes.

How do they compare on traction versus other trail shoes?

Traction is a strong suit thanks to FriXion rubber and the Impact Brake System; they tend to out-grip many rivals on wet rock but may wear faster than some heavier Vibram outsoles.