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The support from the Impact Brake System X-Axis also gave us the confidence to rip through steep descents on loose and variable terrain. With a soft, deep, shock absorbing EVA midsole, the Ultra Raptor Mid soaks up a lot of impact, and on hard ground it feels noticeably more cushioned and springy underfoot than either a more minimalist trail shoe or a more substantial walking boot would be likely to.
On rough ground a big rubber bumper provides an effective guard for the toes, while the robust midsole protects the soles of your feet from sharp rocks. He’s based in Snowdonia and last year thru-hiked the Cambrian Way, which runs for 298 miles from Cardiff to Conwy, with a total ascent of 73,700ft (that’s nearly 2½ times the height of Everest). Durability: While I put these boots through the wringer (literally) over a period of a week, I don’t have enough data to make an educated assessment of long-term durability. All in all, it’s well-built, highly comfortable out of the box, and has deftly withstood extended on- and off-trail travel with ease. The upper is made of friction-resistant and breathable mesh fabric, perfect for use in all conditions.However, I think that adding a bit of height to the ankle cuff changes things, and in a boot such as this, on the sort of terrain I might want to wear a boot, a lining makes sense.
La Sportiva is a climbing company first, but that expertise has transferred over nicely to the hiking footwear market.
The only downside is the relatively stiff and unforgiving feel, which is a result of the thinner padding underfoot. Aimed at the crossover between tarmac and trail, the Golden Gate ATR combines a deeply cushioned midsole with a minimal drop.
It’s light at just 1 pound 14 ounces but doesn’t compromise in on-trail performance with good overall stability, protection, and ankle support for hiking long distances with a pack. The slightly higher cut compared to the shoe version of the Ultra Raptor Mountain Running icon, is ideal when you plan to be in rough, technical terrain for linger durations and potentially carrying light loads.An external structure that extends to the midfoot to provide a real feeling of support, the heel cage offers a close fit without feeling too aggressive, and the heel seems to really help support the foot when traversing slopes, while managing not to put pressure on the achilles.
Taking this great shoe and adding a cuff to create a light and bouncy boot could have been seen as a bit of a gamble. It’s a secret spot where President Herbert Hoover kept a hunting cabin and it’s now dilapidated and overgrown by a thick, dark, barely penetrable bamboo forest.
La Sportiva makes some of our favorite climbing shoes, and that technical expertise has translated nicely to their hiking boot lineup. Narrow toe box caused some issues on steep descents, and I likely would have been better off with the wide version. When he’s not running his company, he is often found climbing mountains or hiking the Appalachian Trail. They are permanently waterproof in combination with optimized breathability and offer lasting weather protection.
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