If you’re short on time and just want the highlights of this article, here it is:
In my humble opinion, the Bushido II from La Sportiva is a trail-running shoe that shines in many aspects. Tailored for rugged terrains, it offers extraordinary grip in both wet and dry conditions, thanks to the outsole lugs and FriXion XT V-Groove2 rubber outsoles. Its slip-on construction is designed for comfort and a snug fit, while the moderate cushioning and 6mm heel-to-toe drop cater to runners seeking a more natural running style. Breathability is another of its strengths, with an air mesh upper and mesh lining to keep feet dry.
However, it might not meet everyone’s tastes. Its weight, at 1 lb. 1.6 oz. per pair, may be a deterrent for those seeking ultra-lightweight shoes. Also, runners who prefer a lot of cushioning or a higher heel-to-toe drop might not find the Bushido II to their liking. If you mostly stick to pavement or well-maintained trails, you might find its rugged design unnecessary. Lastly, while vegan, it may not meet the requirements of those seeking sustainably sourced materials.
In short, I’d say the Bushido II is a reliable and well-rounded shoe for female trail runners who aren’t afraid to take on rugged terrains and value comfort, breathability, and a more natural running style.
Quick links:
La Sportiva Bushido II Trail-Running Shoes Women’s Review: Who is it for?
In my honest opinion, the La Sportiva Bushido II is an incredible option for trail runners, specifically women, who are seeking a robust and reliable running shoe. The Bushido II is not just your average trail-running shoe; its design and features make it stand out. It’s tailored for those who need a shoe that can withstand rugged trails and provide excellent grip in both wet and dry conditions.
From the technical specs, it’s clear that the Bushido II is engineered for rugged-trail running, which suggests it’s for those who dare to venture off the beaten path. If you’re a fan of exploring less maintained trails, this shoe could be your best companion. The outsole lugs that wrap around the midsole are designed to provide extra traction, something that I believe would be a major plus for runners who often encounter slippery or off-camber terrain.
Moreover, I found the Bushido II to be a great fit for runners who value comfort and fit. The slip-on construction, which wraps around your foot like a sock, and the updated heel design, are intended to provide a snug yet comfortable fit without exerting any pressure points. This could be beneficial to runners who often experience discomfort or blisters from ill-fitting shoes.
Additionally, if you’re a runner concerned about breathability – a feature I personally find essential in a good running shoe – the Bushido II doesn’t disappoint. The air mesh upper and mesh lining are meant to offer high breathability, which could help keep your feet dry and comfortable during long runs.
As for the cushioning, it’s moderate – not too soft, not too firm. If you prefer a shoe with a bit of a bounce, the Bushido II might not be your first choice. But I think this level of cushioning would be appreciated by runners who want a balance between comfort and ground feel.
Considering the heel-to-toe drop of 6 mm, the Bushido II seems to cater to runners who prefer a more natural running style. It’s not zero-drop, but it’s close. I think this could be ideal for those making a transition from traditional running shoes to minimal ones.
Lastly, this shoe might not be the lightest on the market, weighing 1 lb. 1.6 oz. per pair, but I believe it’s a small trade-off for the stability and durability it offers. Besides, it’s not too hefty to slow you down. So, if you don’t mind a bit of weight in exchange for robustness, the Bushido II might just be for you.
In a nutshell, based on these features and specs, I believe the La Sportiva Bushido II is a solid pick for female trail runners who are not afraid to brave rugged terrains, who value comfort and breathability, and who prefer a more natural running style. Of course, it all boils down to personal preferences, but I think the Bushido II does an excellent job of balancing performance and comfort for trail running.
La Sportiva Bushido II Trail-Running Shoes Women’s Review: Who isn’t it for?
While I personally think the Bushido II is great for certain types of runners, it might not be for everyone. For instance, if you’re someone who primarily runs on pavement or well-groomed trails, then the Bushido II might not be the best pick for you. It’s specifically designed for rugged-trail running, with features like outsole lugs that wrap the midsole and FriXion XT V-Groove2 rubber outsoles for grip in challenging terrains, which might be overkill for smoother surfaces.
If you’re also someone who likes a lot of cushioning in your running shoes, the Bushido II might not meet your expectations. It has a moderate level of cushioning, which for some could mean a lack of plushness they prefer for their runs. Likewise, if you’re used to running shoes with a high heel-to-toe drop, the Bushido II’s 6mm drop may feel a bit too minimal for your taste.
On the other hand, if you are not into a slip-on construction and prefer a traditional lace-up running shoe, the Bushido II might not be your cup of tea. The fit is designed to wrap around your foot like a sock, which some might find too tight or restrictive.
I also noticed that the Bushido II is not the lightest running shoe out there, weighing 1 lb. 1.6 oz. per pair. If you’re someone who prioritizes having ultra-lightweight shoes for a faster pace or longer runs, there might be other options better suited to your needs.
Lastly, while the Bushido II is vegan, it might not be suitable for those who prefer materials that are also sustainably sourced or made from recycled materials. It’s a commendable step that they’ve made them vegan, but if you’re someone who is environmentally conscious about your purchases, there are other brands that emphasize sustainability further.
So, while I appreciate the durability, grip and stability that the Bushido II offers, I believe it’s not a one-size-fits-all. It’s specially designed for trail runners who are not shying away from rugged terrains, who prefer a snug fit, and who don’t mind a bit of weight in their shoes for the sake of durability. But if your running habits, preferences or values don’t align with these, you might want to consider other options. As always, it’s about finding what works best for you, and this is just my humble opinion based on the features and specs provided.
La Sportiva Bushido II Trail-Running Shoes Women’s Review: Conclusion
In my humble opinion, the Bushido II from La Sportiva is a trail-running shoe that shines in many aspects. Tailored for rugged terrains, it offers extraordinary grip in both wet and dry conditions, thanks to the outsole lugs and FriXion XT V-Groove2 rubber outsoles. Its slip-on construction is designed for comfort and a snug fit, while the moderate cushioning and 6mm heel-to-toe drop cater to runners seeking a more natural running style. Breathability is another of its strengths, with an air mesh upper and mesh lining to keep feet dry.
However, it might not meet everyone’s tastes. Its weight, at 1 lb. 1.6 oz. per pair, may be a deterrent for those seeking ultra-lightweight shoes. Also, runners who prefer a lot of cushioning or a higher heel-to-toe drop might not find the Bushido II to their liking. If you mostly stick to pavement or well-maintained trails, you might find its rugged design unnecessary. Lastly, while vegan, it may not meet the requirements of those seeking sustainably sourced materials.
In short, I’d say the Bushido II is a reliable and well-rounded shoe for female trail runners who aren’t afraid to take on rugged terrains and value comfort, breathability, and a more natural running style.