The La Sportiva Bushido has lengthy been a favourite amongst hikers and path working lovers, recognized for its dependable efficiency, technical prowess, and sturdiness on rugged terrain. The Bushido III builds on the strengths of its predecessors whereas introducing a number of notable updates. This evaluate covers their match, efficiency, consolation, sturdiness, and total worth.
Design
At first look, the Bushido III maintains the aggressive, purposeful look that’s turn into synonymous with the collection. The shoe’s toothy outsole indicators readiness for rocky terrain. The higher now options breathable mesh with strategic reinforcements, hanging a stability between safety and air flow.

Slipping them on, you’ll discover that the match is cosy—particularly across the midfoot—because of a redesigned lacing system. These with large toes could discover the toe field a bit slender. Large sizes are additionally obtainable.
Updates from Bushido II
- Higher: An up to date higher with a redesigned mesh for enhanced breathability and luxury. The overlays are additionally extra sturdy.
- Toe Safety: The toe bumper is extra pronounced and protecting on the III.
- Outsole: The III includes a new lug sample for improved traction and mud-shedding.
- Match: The III presents a barely roomier match within the toebox, addressing some complaints in regards to the II’s narrowness.
- Tongue Design: The tongue is extra padded and gusseted on the III for particles safety.
- Sustainability: Bushido III makes use of extra recycled supplies.
Grip and Traction
Grip is the place the Bushido III actually shines. The outsole options FriXion Pink rubber with multi-directional lugs, offering glorious traction on a variety of surfaces, from slick moist rocks to unfastened grime and steep inclines. The lugs are deep sufficient to chew into softer floor however not so pronounced that they really feel clunky on more durable surfaces.
Safety
A rock plate within the forefoot shields towards sharp objects. Sidewall reinforcements shield towards roots and rocks that may in any other case bruise or scrape your toes. The toe kick wraps across the entrance of the foot and even on high for added safety, essential on rocky mountaineering trails.

Cushioning and Trip
In comparison with many trendy path footwear that emphasize plush cushioning, the Bushido III presents a firmer trip. The compression-molded EVA midsole supplies enough shock absorption whereas sustaining a responsive floor really feel. Hikers used to max-cushion path runners will discover the Bushido III much less forgiving.
Consolation and Match
La Sportiva has refined the match of the Bushido III with softer inner padding across the collar and tongue. The heel cup is safe with out inflicting scorching spots, and there’s sufficient padding to forestall irritation. The tongue is gusseted to maintain particles out. Sadly, there isn’t a gaiter lure on the heel, a function that we want extra manufacturers would acknowledge as essential for hikers and path runners.
The shoe runs a 1/2 dimension small (US) for most individuals, however its comparatively slender match could not go well with everybody. For these with common or slender toes, the locked-in match interprets to higher confidence on uneven floor, however it takes some getting used to in the event you’ve beforehand worn wider footwear. Large sizes can be found.


Breathability and Climate Resistance
One of many extra noticeable enhancements within the Bushido III is its breathability. The mesh higher permits for improved airflow in comparison with earlier variations, lowering overheating. Whereas it’s not waterproof, it dries rapidly after water crossings. One of many large causes individuals like this shoe is that it drains rapidly.
Professionals and Cons
Professionals
- Distinctive traction on technical terrain
- Secure and supportive platform
- Protecting design (rock plate, sidewall reinforcements)
- Improved breathability
- Safe match for slender to common toes
- Large sizes can be found
- Not waterproof and fast drying
Cons
- Firmness could not go well with these searching for most cushioning
- Not best for road-to-trail transitions (higher suited to technical trails)
- Nonetheless no gaiter lure in heel


Conclusion
The La Sportiva Bushido III is an impressive selection for hikers and path runners who prioritize stability, grip, and foot safety on technical trails. Whereas its agency trip and cushty match could not enchantment to everybody (large sizes can be found), its efficiency in demanding circumstances is difficult to beat. For dayhikers, peak baggers, backpackers, fast-packers, or anybody in search of confidence on tough floor, the Bushido III stays top-of-the-line technical path runners obtainable.
SectionHiker by no means accepts cost for gear critiques or editorial protection. Whenever you purchase by affiliate hyperlinks on our website, we could earn a small fee at no further value to you. Assist us proceed to check and write unsponsored and impartial gear critiques, mountaineering and backpacking FAQs, and free mountaineering guides.