Weight: 12.8 ounces (Men’s 9)
Trail Use: Good
Off Trail Use: Excellent
Stack Height Heel/Toe: 29mm / 22mm
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7mm
Width: Medium to narrow
Fit: Runs 1/2 to 1 size too small (size up)
Waterproof: No
What We Like: A precise, technical shoe that will last for off-trail travel

MSRP: $130

Weight: 12.8 ounces (Men’s 9)
Traction: 5
Support: 5
Long-Distance Comfort: 3

The La Sportiva Ultra Raptors are our second pick for off-trail shoes. The deeply lugged outsole and reinforced upper shoe create an extremely stable feeling while navigating in technical terrain. And again, La Sportiva’s traction is unrivaled. Hiking or backpacking through large boulder fields or scree slopes can decimate the feet, and these shoes are designed specifically to mitigate this. However, these shoes only fit narrow feet, which is why we’ve listed them as our second pick.

The 7mm drop will suit both athletes who prefer a higher or lower drop. These shoes are on the heavier side, but this is the trade-off for all the added reinforcement which makes off-trail travel so comfortable. We recommend this shoe for hikers, backpackers, and trail runners who have plans to move quickly through unpredictable terrain, as long as you have a narrow foot.

Read our complete guide | Best Hiking Shoes

PROS:

• Construction of shoe hugs the feet to give ultimate stability and protection
• Excellent traction for confidence off-trail
• Versatile drop that will suit many different feet

CONS:

• Narrow fit will not work for everyone
• Heavier than other similar models

BEST FOR:

• Hikers, backpackers, and trail runners who move through varied terrain and want to feel supremely stable
• Athletes who prefer stability over an ultralight shoe 70.