La Sportiva Ultra Raptor 3 Review

La Sportiva Ultra Raptor 3 represents the evolution of one of the most iconic models from the Trentino-based brand. With this third generation, the design has definitively moved away from its trail running roots to position itself in the mountain hiking segment, introducing significant updates focused on comfort, protection and durability.

The result is a technical yet extremely versatile shoe, capable of accompanying hikers from valley-floor trails right up to the most challenging high-altitude routes, offering a good balance between stability, flexibility and protection.

The Ultra Raptor 3 is available in both men’s and women’s versions, with or without a Gore-Tex membrane depending on the intended use.

Technical features of the Ultra raptor 3

• Upper: 100% recycled rip-stop nylon
• Insole: Ortholite® Hybrid™ Mountain Hiking 5 mm
• Midsole: soft CM EVA in the area in direct contact with the foot, combined with a more compact CM EVA in the heel area
• Outsole: FriXion® White
• Waterproof membrane: No
• Measured weight: 320 g (640 g per pair)
• Country of manufacture: Vietnam
• List price: €165

Test mode

I tested the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor 3 during numerous summer hikes across a wide variety of terrain, from hiking trails to alpine scree slopes, including forest tracks and short stretches of tarmac. I used them on both easy hiking routes (E and T) and more technical routes classified as EE, including some approach sections to multi-pitch routes and the subsequent abseils.

The outings mainly took place during the day, with average distances of around 10 km and 800 metres of elevation gain, though there were also self-supported two-day treks with overnight stays in a tent.

The test period ran from late spring through to summer, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 33 °C and consistently stable, dry weather conditions. Weight of the backpack varied from light loads on day trips to around 8 kg during multi-day treks with a tent and bivouac equipment.

La prova sul campo delle Ultra Raptor 3

Key new features

Compared to the previous generation, the Ultra Raptor 3 introduces several significant changes that mark the definitive shift from trail running to hiking.

• New upper made of 100% recycled ripstop nylon
• Updated midsole with increased cushioning in the heel area
• Elastic gaiter integrated into the collar
• New rear loop for carrying and attaching to a backpack

During testing, I was able to see how these changes affect the shoe’s performance on the trail.

Materials and upper

The new upper made of recycled ripstop nylon is one of the most noticeable changes compared to the previous model. The material offers good abrasion resistance and immediately feels sturdy.

Even after numerous trips over abrasive rocks, gravel, and scree, the upper showed no significant signs of wear. The tongue, on the other hand, retains the breathable mesh construction already seen in previous versions.

The reinforced rubber toe cap is very effective, providing good protection for the foot against impacts with rocks and exposed roots. It proved particularly reassuring during approaches to long routes and while rappelling.

Outsole and performance on the trail

The outsole remains one of the defining features of the Ultra Raptor family. The FriXion White compound, combined with Impact Brake System technology, continues to deliver very high levels of grip both uphill and downhill.

During the test, I rode it on asphalt, forest roads, through the underbrush, on gravel, over rocky terrain, and on the scree slopes of the Apuan Alps, consistently experiencing very impressive traction and effective braking on steep sections.

The only difficulties arose on particularly unstable terrain, due more to the inherent limitations of a low-cut shoe than to grip issues. In these extreme conditions, the lack of ankle support can affect overall stability.

However, these are situations that were deliberately sought out and are quite far removed from the intended use of the Ultra Raptor.

The performance on precise footholds during approaches to long routes was also very positive: the toe box maintains good stiffness and allows you to plant your foot confidently on small footholds and boulders. This is solid performance for a shoe that wasn’t designed for technical approaches.

Midsole and cushioning

The midsole features a dual-density construction with softer EVA in direct contact with the foot and a firmer compound in the heel area.

The difference from the previous generation is evident from the very first kilometers: the shoe feels softer, more cushioned, and generally more comfortable while walking.

Those who previously found the Ultra Raptor to be too stiff will likely really appreciate this update.

In my case, however—given my pronounced overpronation—the increased softness in the heel resulted in a slight loss of support compared to the previous model, especially during longer runs with backpacks weighing around 8 kg.

Toward the end of the day, I actually began to feel more fatigue in the heel area, a sensation I had never experienced with previous generations.

Breathability and moisture management

The Ultra Raptor 3 is available in both a Gore-Tex version and a version without a waterproof membrane. Model tested is the non-GTX version.

The new ripstop upper effectively protects against moisture from wet grass and occasional splashes, but the shoe is clearly designed for summer use.

Personally, I still prefer the version without the membrane: the low-cut design inevitably allows water to enter during heavy rain or when crossing water, while the absence of the membrane significantly improves drying and heat management.

During the test, conducted at temperatures ranging from 20 to 33 °C, I noticed a fair amount of heat buildup, though I recognize that this is a personal trait of mine.

Compared to the previous generation, the new upper seems slightly less breathable, likely due to the increased use of ripstop fabric. Despite this, the Ultra Raptor 3 remains one of the most well-balanced and breathable low-cut hiking shoes I’ve used in recent years.

Comfort and Construction Details

Among the new features I appreciated the most is the elastic gaiter integrated into the collar, which improves the fit and effectively prevents small debris from entering.

The new rear loop is also very useful; it makes it easier to slip your foot in and finally allows you to quickly attach your shoes to your backpack or harness using a carabiner.

Overall stability remains high thanks to the dual TPU heel counter, which effectively supports the heel and contributes to the shoe’s precision on more technical terrain. This TPU in the heel area is prone to scratching against rocks. However, this is purely a cosmetic issue that does not appear to affect performance.

Those coming from traditional hiking boots should still allow for a period of adjustment to the low-cut design, especially regarding ankle movement.

Fit

I wore the women’s version in my usual size, 40, but found the shoe to be slightly short.

I therefore recommend going at least half a size larger than your standard size, especially if you plan on long summer descents or wearing them in high temperatures.

Recommended for

The Ultra Raptor 3 is an extremely versatile shoe, designed for hikers looking for a single model capable of handling both technical high-altitude trails and long treks and hikes on smoother terrain.

The version without a waterproof membrane performs particularly well in warm weather, during day hikes, multi-day treks, and approaches to long climbing routes.

It’s ideal for high-altitude hikes where you move from mountain hut to mountain hut without carrying too much weight, and on trails of moderate difficulty, where you need a lightweight shoe that still offers good grip on all types of terrain.