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#3 on this list
Bushido III
La Sportiva
Italian precision on technical terrain — the shoe you want on scree and exposed traverses.
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#4 on this list
X Ultra 5 GTX
Salomon
The best-supported low hiker, with a chassis that resists ankle roll on side hill.
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Bushido III | X Ultra 5 GTX |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 10.5 oz (men's 9) | — |
| Drop | 6mm | — |
| Lug Depth | 4.5mm | — |
| Upper Material | Air Mesh, Ripstop, Microfiber, TPU | — |
| Midsole | Compression Molded EVA | — |
| Outsole | FriXion Red Dual-Compound | Contagrip MA |
| Footwear Type | — | Low-cut Hiking Shoe |
| Waterproofing | — | Gore-Tex |
| Chassis Tech | — | ADV-C Chassis |
| Intended Use | — | Day hikes, light backpacking |
| Support Level | — | High for a low-cut |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Bushido III
- Exceptional grip on technical and varied terrain
- Superior protection from rocks and debris
- Precise and stable for confident foot placement
- Highly durable construction for harsh environments
- Excellent ground feel for agile movement
- Less cushioning than many trail shoes
- Narrow fit may not suit all foot types
- Can feel overly stiff on easy trails
X Ultra 5 GTX
- Unmatched underfoot and lateral stability for a low-cut hiker
- Excellent ankle support reduces roll risk on uneven trails
- Reliable Gore-Tex waterproofing keeps feet dry
- Aggressive Contagrip outsole provides dependable traction
- Durable construction handles rough trail conditions effectively
- Heavier and bulkier than minimalist trail shoes
- Firm cushioning may not suit those preferring a plush ride
- Can feel warm in hot, humid conditions due to Gore-Tex
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