Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX: first impressions 

This generation of the Salomon X Ultra is designed to be both agile and technical for those who want to move fast and confidently on tricky trails. This lightweight hiking boot is actually a little heavier than the previous edition, but it's also more durable, thanks to upgrades like Matryx uppers in place of leather and synthetic, and improved overlays that will protect your toes from just about anything.

The Contragrip outsole has extremely aggressive lugs that have held up on rocky, slick, and muddy surfaces this summer, and look built for winter conditions too. A chunky foam midsole is designed for a plush ride over longer distances, while the "Advanced Chassis," a molded insert embedded in the outsole, increases lateral stability on uneven terrain without losing flexibility.

The waterproof membrane will keep your feet dry if you meet with heavy rain, wet grass, or multiple river crossings, but in milder conditions, it might also mean sweaty feet. Water protection is aided by the mid-height cuff, which is just high enough to keep water out in a shallow stream and protect your ankle bone.

The cuff and tongue are unusually plush, and that, combined with a lack of eyelets, makes it a little difficult to get a lockdown fit here. They also run a little small and narrow, so if you buy your normal size, you might find that what you gain in lightweight technical creds, you lose in comfort.

It's a shame because with just a few small fixes, these could be a really great pair of capable hiking boots for those who want to roam far and fast.

Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX: in the field 

This is only my second time testing out Salomon hiking boots, having tried the Elixir Mid Gore-Tex a couple of years ago and finding them an odd mix between overly stacked and unnecessarily technical.

I first tested these out during a hiking and camping trip in the Yorkshire Dales earlier this summer, and have since followed up on a couple of trails here in Scotland.

Here’s how they performed:

Sizing, fit and comfort

I always test a UK 4 which is usually a US 6, and that typically gives my feet room to swell (or wear thick socks), but I ran into a hitch with these shoes. Salomon's sizing comparison is slightly off, so the UK 4 turned out to be only a US 5.5. And that half size makes quite a difference, as it turns out.

As excited as I was to get them on, when I saw how robust and technical they looked, I was a little worried that they'd be too tight to test. I think they run a little small and a little narrow. With thick socks on, my toes come all the way up to the end with no room to wiggle, but since it was summer, I wore my thinnest socks, and though they were tighter than I'd like, I was able to hike in them without blisters.

The lack of blisters didn't mean that I experienced out-of-the-box comfort, however. In fact, I found I experienced quite a bit of rubbing and toe bashing during my first hike, and actually couldn't wait to get out of them when I got back to the car. I had brought a backup pair of boots for that first trip and ended up wearing them the next day to give my feet a chance to recover, then tried these again on day three, and they were slightly better once broken in.

That said, I think a few things are contributing to the comfort issue for me. There's the odd sizing and narrow fit, which doesn't give my toes room to splay, and the cuff and tongue are just about the plushest I've ever seen. That, combined with just two eyelets, makes it nearly impossible for me to get a good lockdown fit, and the fact is that my toes take a beating when I descend. I think sizing up would help, but I'm not sure how to get around the lacing problem.

Breathability and protection

Another area where comfort leaves something to be desired is that I don't find these to be the most breathable of shoes in the summer months. I've had them out in wet weather, but it's always been mild, and I notice my feet are sweatier than in other lightweight waterproof boots I own, such as my Lowa Renegade EVO GTX or Helly Hansen Switchback Trail HT.

The flip side of that is that they are fully waterproof, which I tested out by standing in a couple of small streams for a minute or two.

The uppers offer loads of good protection too, from the ultra durable Matryx uppers to the robust reinforcements around the toes. The cuff isn't super high, but it's just high enough to keep my ankle bones protected and means I can splash through flooded trails without breaking stride.

Grip and stability

I'm a little sceptical of a boot that doesn't use a Vibram sole, but I have to admit that these Contragrip soles are a really good match for British conditions, which tend to involve muddy slopes, boggy crossings, and slippery rock and slate. The lugs seem able to bite into just about anything, and I did find some confidence in that.

Salomon has gone all in on stability with these boots, using the advanced chassis to provide lateral support in the footbed and what it calls 'mobile wings' in the design of the upper to help hold your foot in place. This is all integrated without losing flex, and the idea is that you can move quickly when the going gets tough.

I tend to notice the lack of stability more in running shoes than I do in hiking boots, but I will say that these boots do respond well to uneven terrain. They'd do an even better job if I could get a more secure fit, however, and I couldn't help wondering if the reason my foot wasn't sliding around was that there wasn't any extra room for it to do so.

• How Advnture tests products

If you're into trail running, you'll know that a good waterproof shell is essential all year round. There's little worse than getting caught in an early shower and having to endure water seeping through your clothes for the next few miles, so take our advice and invest in a quality model to protect you from the elements, like this awesome shell from Salomon.

The men's Bonatti Trail jacket, which is now available for just $172.50, was designed to stand the test of time. It's made from durable, waterproof Pertex fabric, to shield you from heavy rain and chilly winds as you race through the trails.

It's named after legendary Italian Alpinist Walter Bonatti, who made the first direct winter solo ascent of the Matterhorn's daunting North Face. In that spirit, the Bonatti jacket aims to emphasize freedom as you move, featuring a stretchy, non-restrictive fit, designed for dynamic movement.

To put it to the test, outdoors expert Alex Foxfield wore his Bonatti jacket over several months of trail running in all manner of British conditions. He was particularly impressed with its performance in the cold and described the Bonatti as "a magnificent yet breathable windbreaker and the ability to open up the front zip to dump heat," in his review for Advnture.

Alex ended up giving the Bonatti a rare four-and-a-half-star rating, and also put it to good use away from the trails.

"I found myself reaching for the Bonatti Trail time and time again for everyday use," he continued.

"As a softshell, it’s lighter, more comfortable and more packable than most other waterproof jackets, making it perfect for stuffing in my pack when heading for a local walk or to the shops."

Don't panic if you're not in the States. You can still get your hands on the Bonatti jacket at a great price. Just look below for today's best deals where you are.

• The best waterproof jackets: brave the elements with these top-rated hard and softshells
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Founded in the years after the Second World War in Annecy, in the French Alps, Salomon is one of Europe’s most successful outdoor brands and has been at the forefront of trail running gear for decades. It also crafts reputable hiking, mountaineering, road running, gravel running (yes, it’s a thing), skiing and snowboarding equipment.

With the Mountain Flex jacket, Salomon has collaborated with the folk at Primaloft to create a lightweight insulated softshell jacket that provides warmth and breathability in equal measure. There are two version of the jacket: one’s hooded and the other isn’t. If you ever wondered how much you were paying for the pleasure of having a hood – the price difference is $20 (£20). Considering exchange rates, it seems American’s get a better deal on hoods.

I got hold of the hooded version and set out to test the jacket, which Salomon says is perfect for hiking, everyday use and winter adventures.

First impressions

This is quite an understated jacket, featuring a single solid color and subtle Salomon lettering on the left breast and the brand’s S logo on the right wrist. I was testing the Grape Leaf colorway (EU only), an attractive green that had me blending in nicely with the local hills. Come nighttime, both the logo and Salomon lettering are highly reflective.

I like that there’s a smooth felt panel at the chin – a little dash of luxury – and an internal zippered pocket too. The hem and hood adjustment toggles are also really nicely designed, making both easy to tighten and loosen. It’s got a relaxed, regular fit, which is good when it comes to freedom of movement. It won’t be hitting the catwalk at Paris fashion week but I’m sure geography teachers will like it.

Star materials

The Mountain Flex gets its insulating qualities from its Primaloft fill. Interestingly, the jacket features what Salomon calls ClimateSync venting. The insulated fill is laser cut in the form of three-point stars, which you can see if you hold the jacket up to the light (see image above). Apparently these open up when you’re moving and close when you’re stationary. This has the effect of allowing air flow during dynamic activities while holding the warmth in when exertion ceases.

Freedom of movement is an oft-cited benefit of a softshell jacket when compared to a more rigid waterproof hardshell. This is often achieved with stretchy outer fabrics. You’ll often hear brands talk of two- or four-way stretch, which refers to the way a given material can stretch. In a nutshell, four-way means a fabric can stretch both horizontally and vertically, where two-way means it can only move horizontally or vertically.

In the case of the Mountain Flex, we’ve got ourselves a two-way stretch mixture of 86% polyamide and 14% elastane, providing that little bit of extra freedom when climbing, running or scrambling. It’s also a ripstop fabric, which means its resistant to tearing, to a point. Just promise me you won’t attack it with your crampon spikes.

The shell fabric is treated with durable water repellent (DWR), the same sort of coating usually applied to waterproof jackets. DWR acts like a forcefield, shielding the jacket from water ingress. However, unlike a waterproof jacket, the Mountain Flex doesn’t have an additional layer of Gore-Tex or similar as a definitive barrier against the wet. This means that once the DWR forcefield is beached, it’ll quickly get wet. The upshot of this is that the jacket is nice for fending off light rain or showers, especially as it’s so quick drying. However, for prolonged downpours and miserably wet days, a full waterproof is the outer shell you’ll need.

The standard features

As jacket features go, there’s nothing that surprises you here – just the tried and tested mainstays. Hand warmer pockets. Tick. Adjustable hood and hem. Tick. Interior zippered pocket. Tick. You get the picture.

Handwarmer pockets are a no brainer on insulated jackets and those that don’t include them irk me. Thank you for including them, Salomon. I’d much rather not have to wear hiking gloves for casual walks – handwarmer pockets allow me to leave them at home. There are no exterior chest pockets, which I suppose has the drawback that there’s nowhere to quickly stash things while wearing a harness, but this is a minor gripe.

The interior pocket is relatively small, too small to take a standard topographical map, which seems a shame. However, it’s better to have one than not and is a good place to keep your phone warm and safe in the sort of freezing conditions that will quickly drain its battery.

There’s a dash of luxury at the top of the zipper, where a lovely, soft panel of fabric lies in wait to caress your chin. This is designed to halt zipper irritation while walking and it works.

There’s adjustability at both the hem and the hood, though the cuffs are nothing more than elasticated. The drawcord tabs on both the hood and the two on the hem are very nicely engineered. They tighten with a simple pull, loosen with a press and a pull and are dead easy to manipulate, even when wearing gloves.

On the trails

I tested the Mountain Flex Insulated Jacket on everyday walks and during hiking days in the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park during the late spring and early summer.

It’s an easy jacket to get on with, as it’s so fuss free, which makes it a great choice for just grabbing on the way out the house. The handwarmer pockets mean you don’t have to worry about gloves and the interior pocket is ideal for items like keys.

It’s good in the high places too: a solid operator during the shoulder seasons, when its subtle warmth is enough to keep things toasty, while its breathable qualities mean that you don’t overheat. It stuffs down smaller than a down jacket, so doesn’t take up much room in a daypack either. The reflective branding is all good and well, but the lack of this on the back of the jacket means it’s not a good choice if you’re walking, running or cycling along the road at night.

Emerging victorious after a couple of downpours, I can attest to the fact that the Mountain Flex is relatively water-resistant, and I was also impressed at how quickly it was fully dry again afterwards. However, it’s by no means fully waterproof…

Here’s the thing. I live in the UK, which has a maritime climate – a wet one at that. Thanks for that, Mr Atlantic. Our winters feature wet cold. Our summers are often wet too, though extended dry spells aren’t unheard of. What I’m driving at is that, as good as the Mountain Flex Insulated Jacket is, I’d get far more use out of it in the mountains if I lived somewhere with a dry climate. When it comes to loading my backpack for a mountain adventure in the UK, I’m definitely packing a waterproof jacket, no matter what the forecast. Packing two jackets is an indulgence and a heavy one at that. I’d always opt for a better insulated emergency down jacket over a lightly insulated softshell.

That’s not to say the Mountain Flex isn’t fine for everyday wear during the colder months. I guess the issue here is that, to me at least, it's not particularly stylish, especially if you're shelling out over $200. So, if you’re after a quality jacket for hiking in dry climates, it’s a good shout. If you’re looking for a nice, lightly insulated jacket for everyday life during the colder months, its a functional option. If you’re looking to purchase a jacket for wet climbs in wet climes, save your cash for a waterproof.

Also consider

Comparison table

Salomon needs little introduction. The French brand rode the mountain adventure wave expertly, growing at great pace as trail running, adventure racing and fast hiking gained momentum over the last few decades. It benefited from its relationship with all-conquering athletes like Kilian Jornet, becoming a byword for speed in the mountains. Other brands scrambled to keep pace.

Formed in 1947 in Annecy, in the French Alps, the brand was bought by Adidas in 1997 and then, in 2005, Amer Sports swooped in, buying Salomon for around €485 million ($580 million), underlining the brand's strength and cache among adventurous folk. Amer’s impressive portfolio today also includes Arc’teryx, Peak Performance and Wilson.

The Aerotrek 30 is a daypack designed for speed and comfort on hiking trails. The Aero in the name seemingly refers to the breezy, ventilated, suspended panel that stops your back from getting too sweaty on long ascents. It could also be a nod to the pack’s relatively low weight. At 2lb 3oz (992g), it’s in the same featherweight category as other great daypacks, such as the Mammut Ducan 24. I was excited to see how it would cope in the hot summer backcountry.

First impressions

The Aerotrek 30 has a similar vibe to the Montane Trailblazer XT25L in that it’s a hiking daypack that borrows features from running packs, making it a good option for fast and light adventures in the mountains. A key difference is the metal frame and suspended back system, which offers better breathability. And, despite the inclusion of such a frame and greater capacity, the Aerotrek 30 still manages to weigh virtually the same as the Trailblazer (in fact it weighs 0.6oz less).

There’s mesh everywhere. Five stretchy mesh pockets, latticed cushioning in the hip panel and shoulder straps, and in the suspended back panel. Unlike most daypacks, there’s no top lid, instead the pack opens via large U-shaped zipper, similar to the superb Osprey Manta 24. ‘But what about my old favorite: the zippered lid compartment?’ I hear your cry. Well, there’s still a lid-style zippered bit at the top of the pack, so fret not, friend.

As a hiker who moves fast and light, I immediately liked the cut of this pack's jib. It’s lightweight, has loads of places to stash stuff and the harness system seemed excellent on first acquaintance. There’s even a little integrated emergency whistle. Oh, and it looks good too: modern and sleek.

Back panel & harness

A combination of polyester, polyamide and elastane is used to craft this pack, though there’s noticeably no mention of recycled materials or recyclability, which is something I’d expect in this day and age.

The suspended mesh back panel, which Salomon calls the Advanced Air Chassis, is attached to a lightweight metallic frame, providing support, stability and comfort on the trails. It’s a fairly common design in modern daypacks, particularly as you move up the capacity scale. Generally, these kinds of packs are more breathable than more minimalist packs that do without such a panel.

Above and below this suspended panel is latticed cushioning for the upper back and the lumbar region. While it’s not as fancy as the engineered-within-an-inch-of-its-life, 3D-printed support panel of the Osprey UNLTD AirScape 68, it doesn’t have to be, and it does the job just fine. This cushioning continues around the hip belt, providing both comfort and protection against dreaded chafing.

The entire harness system is fully adjustable, making it easy to find the right fit. It includes a detachable sternum stap that can be moved up and down (along an array of five daisy chain loops) to the appropriate height to best suit the wearer’s chest. It’s a much more robust system than the sliding straps seen on the likes of the Highlander Ben Nevis 52L Rucksack or the Osprey Hikelite 26, both of which I managed to break. (I’m obviously too heavy handed with my sternum straps.)

Storage

A real strength of the Aerotrek is the number of places you can store stuff, and how accessible many of these are while on the go. Like to eat your sandwiches while you move? Stash them in the easily reachable mesh side pockets. Want to be able to drink without breaking your stride? Then either make use the pack’s hydration bladder compatibility, or pop a couple of soft flasks in the harness system’s front mesh pockets.

The main compartment is relatively straightforward, with an elasticated pouch at the back for a bladder or anything else you’d want to keep separate from main melee of stuff, such as a magazine or two when travelling. There’s a Velcro loop above this for hanging the reservoir, as well as the usual hydration tube access slot. Finally, there’s also a zippered pouch attached to the top of the main compartment – ideal for your wallet.

As mentioned, a lid-style zippered compartment occupies the top of the pack. This comes with a little clip for attaching keys or a compass. This is where I tend to keep items like waterproof rain pants and a first aid kit – bits and bobs I want to keep safe but separate from everything else, where they are easy to grab in a fix. Rounding off the zippered options, there’s also one little hip belt pocket on the right.

A wealth of stretchy mesh is at your disposal here. The back of the pack wastes no space, employing a large mesh panel that’s accessible from either side – perfect for stuffing items of clothing. There are also large mesh side holsters, great for food or a water bottle or for sliding your trekking poles into. Side compression straps keep everything snug and can be used to secure said poles. The mesh chest pockets are shaped to hold soft flasks, while there's an integrated emergency whistle in the right hand pocket too – a nice touch.

There are also attachment points for poles or ice axes on the back of the pack. Salomon has even seen fit to include a little sleeve at the bottom to safely house the pick of an axe, though it’s obviously not as reinforced as it would be on a dedicated mountaineering pack. Indeed, this is by no means a winter pack – I’d want something more robust and there’s no huge need for a ventilated back panel in the colder months. However, I could imagine the pack suiting warmer days in the Alps, during the sort of escapade where you might carry an axe for snowfield crossings, glacier traverses and the like.

In the hills

I’ve been testing the Aerotrek on warm weather hikes in England’s southwest and on the trails of Wales' Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. It’s a great size for long days on the hill or for hut-to-hut hiking, though a little on the small side for wild camping. Its ventilated back panel makes it an excellent choice for sweaty hikers, a club of which I’m unfortunately a stalwart.

The thing about backpacks that boast supportive frames and back panels is that they lose something in the minimalist stakes, and tend to be a little heavier than simple, less fussy daypacks. This isn’t the case here. The Aerotrek is impressively lightweight and easy to use, while also being supportive and well-ventilated. Salomon have taken aim and hit the fast-hiking bullseye here.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – the best daypack is the one that, for 95% of the time, you forget you're wearing. The Aerotrek is one of these packs. It worked with me during my speedy hiking days out, remaining comfortable and balanced whether I was walking or jogging. For the latter, I had to ratchet in the compression straps to stop things jiggling about inside, but it was fine once this was done.

I really valued the ability to stash all my water and nutrition in a way that meant I didn’t have to take the pack off to refuel or rehydrate. I prefer to use soft flasks, rather than a hydration reservoir, in the backcountry. This is mainly because I like to be fully aware of how much water I have left at any given time. The two mesh pockets on the harness are superbly designed to hold soft flasks and have a little elasticated loop to wrap around the cap. I could drink simply by lowering my head and supping.

The mesh side pockets were also ideal for stashing any food items that I wanted readily to hand. Retrieving such items wasn’t as awkward as it is with some packs – as in I didn’t have to develop my contortionist skills just to get my hand into the pockets. The elastic mesh is also tight enough that I've been able to deposit used wrappers, without the fear that I might end up littering the backcountry. Also to hand was the little hip belt pocket, which is where I kept my gels and headlamp. All in all, an excellent array of to-hand storage options.

I also liked the option of large stretchy mesh panel on the back. It’s large enough to stuff a jacket into, which is a great option on those kinds of days when the weather can’t make up its mind and you’re constantly taking layers on and off. Being on the back, it’s obviously not possible to access this compartment without taking the pack off but when hiking with others it’s a handy solution: “Grab that map for me would you mate?”

All in all, this a great lightweight daypack that’s well designed and gives hikers everything they need. Keeping the weight down has meant that the materials are perhaps not as durable as they could have been and this, coupled with the lack of recycled materials or circularity, means it doesn’t appear to be the most sustainable daypack choice out there. If Salomon could sort this out, we’d be onto a real winner.

Also consider

Comparison table

Salomon is aiming to cut down on its environmental impact, despite a steady rise in emissions over the past five years.

The French brand, which specializes in running, hiking, and skiing equipment, has introduced multiple new sustainable products and production methods, designed to help you hit the trails without hurting the environment.

The Salomon Brigade Index skiing and snowboarding helmet, for example, can be recycled after use thanks to its use of polyolefin material. New fiber-to-fiber t-shirts are also 100% recyclable and created from recycled textile waste.

Its new S/LAB Phantasm 2 running shoes are produced locally in Ardèche (France), and combine carbon fiber production with locally sourced materials.

It's all part of Salomon's strategy to cut its absolute carbon emissions by 30% by 2030, compared to its output in 2019. This includes all emissions associated with the brand, including those produced by other companies supplying and delivering their products.

However, despite the ambitious target, Salomon's 2024 Impact Report reveals that the brand has actually increased its absolute emissions by almost 90,000 tons in the past five years - some 39%.

As of 2024, its operations created 315,768 tons of carbon emissions, compared to just 226,227 tons in 2019 and 212,698 tons in 2021.

The report says the increase is due to more products being produced, and points to an 18% decrease in its direct emissions since 2018 as evidence of progress.

These are emissions created directly by Salomon and do not account for the additional emissions associated with the brand, which fall under absolute emissions.

Although it's a long way from its total emissions target, Salomon says it remains committed to a sustainable future.

“We’re on a journey of transformation,” says global sustainability and impact director Marie-Laure Piednoir.

“It takes time, but we are fully committed to shaping better futures for our business, our industry, and our communities.”

The brand is taking multiple steps to cut down, increasing the amount of raw, non-harmful materials in its products, and producing more gear locally to avoid emissions caused by long-distance travel.

Salomon has also incorporated sustainable practices at its HQ to cut down on emissions in the design and production stages and continue decreasing its direct emissions.

• The best hiking shoes: capable summit-baggers and fast-paced walkers
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First impressions

I have a love-hate relationship with Salomon shoes. I generally love the look, feel and reliably category-leading design of the fleet-footed French running brand’s trail running shoes, but often the last used on their more performance-orientated models squeezes my forefoot and I find the toebox too tight.

Painful bunions and the broad shape of my gnarled and trail-wizened floor slappers, means I often need to opt for boots and shoes designed specifically for wider feet, and I have struggled like Cinderella’s ugly sisters to try and make many Salomon shoes fit me in the past (especially the more technically advanced Slab versions, which prioritize performance-enhancingly tight foothold over comfort) usually to no avail.

Suffice to say I was over the moon to try the Ultra Glide 3 shoes on and discover that I could go straight out for a 6 mile (10k) run without suffering any pain whatsoever. Quite the opposite, in fact, these shoes felt like comfortable, grippy slippers. How exciting.

Look and availability

The Salomon Ultra Glide 3 is available for men and women now, for a comparatively reasonable list price and comes in a range of attractive colorways. Once again, the Salomon naming department has clearly been hitting the red sweets hard, and among the imaginatively named options are ‘Cosmic Sky’ and ‘Excalibur, Icicle and Neon Flame’. There is also a ‘Proto Pack’ option, which appears to be just another color choice.

Design and materials

The Hoka-led trend of trail-running shoes sporting spectacularly spongetastic maximist midsoles continues, and the Ultra Glide 3 boasts a whacking great stack that starts at 41mm above the heel, and drops to 35mm at the toe (not quite as insanely enormous as the recently re-released Hoka Mafate X, but big nonetheless). This cushiony midsole is made with impressively lightweight EVA-based ‘energy’ foam.

Continuing the lightweight design, the upper of the shoe is primarily comprised of a synthetic mesh, strengthened with a TPU skeleton (which forms a minimalist rand) and backed by an EndoFit internal sleeve.

There is generous amount of padding around the heel and across the top of the tongue, which is only partially integrated with the chassis, via a wide elasticated band.

The Ultra Glide 3 features a quicklace tightening set-up which is very speedy to use, and the Sensifit system ensures you can achieve a confidence-inspiring secure and firm fit.

This is the third generation of this shoe family, and the latest arrival has the same 6mm drop, but boasts very slightly deeper lugs than the Ultra Glide 2s. The design of the All Terrain Contagrip outsole is pretty funky – the arrow-shaped studs (some facing forward for traction, others pointing backward to help with braking) are well spaced out, to reduce the amount of mud and muck you might collect, and the face of the sole is wavy, with several deep dimples.

It's good to see some recycled content in the Ultra Glide mix with this model, although Salomon don’t divulge what percentage or which parts of the shoe have made using fabric spun from plastic bottles, but I’m going to assume it’s mainly the mesh in the chassis.

On the trails

I have been testing the Ultra Glide 3s over the last few months, while running on woodland trails, moorland and hillside tracks, pebbly beaches and rocky coastal paths, and can confirm that Salomon’s all-terrain claims about this model’s capability levels are legit. It really is a very versatile off-road shoe, which can handle just about any sort of landscape – and this really suits me.

The All Terrain Contagrip outsole isn’t just funky looking, it’s also highly functional, providing really good grip on everything from wet rocks to mucky trails covered in slippery tree roots. I love the fact you don’t end up running around with a heavy layer of mud on the underside of your shoes (thanks to the well-spaced lugs), and the all-ready substantial 4mm studs are made even more effective by the dimples in the design of the sole. Clever stuff.

And this shoe is super comfortable, no matter what sort of surface you’re running across. Obviously the midsole is massive, and that sumptuous degree of cushioning comes at the cost of any real feedback from the trail, but the energy rebound and sense of positive forward momentum while running in these shoes is extraordinary.

I like the level of connectivity and secure fit that is achieved with the Sensifit system and Quicklace tightening set-up. I didn’t experience any movement within the shoe (so I’ve no concerns about developing blisters), and not only does the Ultra Glide feel like it’s firmly clamped to my foot, I also don’t need to worry about laces coming undone. The padding and support around the heel is excellent too. I do wish the tongue was better integrated to the internal sock, however, as this would better protect against the ingress of grit and other trail debris.

There’s no rockplate in the mix here, the little rand doesn’t offer much in the way of protection against trail hazards, and the toecap is tiny, so the Ultra Glide 3 relies heavily on its monster midsole and giant stack depth to supply protection against sharp sticks and stones. I haven’t personally experienced any problems with this, but it’s worth noting if you habitually tackle more gnarly terrain or trails with lots of obstacles waiting to attack you.

The Ultra Glide 3s are not waterproof, and neither do they claim to be, but instead my sweaty feet have been enjoying the enormous degree of breathability offered by the mainly mesh upper. I found that these shoes also drain very well after you splash through water obstacles such as streams, but all that padding around the heel becomes sodden and heavy, and it takes ages to dry.

All things considered, though, the Salomon Ultra Glide 3 is a very well-designed, ridiculously comfortable and impressively versatile shoe, which serves regular trail runners extremely well and can cope with almost kind of terrain and distance.

• Get the most enjoyment from your adventures with the most comfortable trail running shoes
• Pair your shoes with the best trail running socks, shorts and tops

Also consider

Leading trail running brand Salomon has teamed up with Warner Bros Discovery to broadcast the Golden Trail World Series circuit for 2025. The multi-year partnership means you'll be able to enjoy the leading short-distance trail running circuit from anywhere in the world.

This guide explains how to watch the Golden Trail World Series in 2025. We also explain how you can use a VPN to watch your usual coverage if you're away from home.

Live coverage of the series will be broadcast across WBD’s premium linear channels, including Eurosport (Europe) and Discovery+ and TNT Sports (UK and Ireland), as well as live and on-demand streaming via streaming platforms Max (US) and FloSports (Canada).

Live streaming of the GTWS comes in addition to broadcasts of around a dozen races in this year's UTMB World Series, giving you even more access to the world's top trail races.

Watch the GTWS in the U.S. and Canada

In the US, you can watch the 2025 GTWS via streaming on Max, and in Canada you can watch it on FloSports.

Traveling outside the U.S or Canada? You can still watch live as usual by using a quality VPN like NordVPN, which allows you to access the streams as if you were sitting on your sofa back home. Find out more below.

Use a VPN to watch the Golden Trail World Series from anywhere

If you’re traveling overseas during the GTWS, geo-blocking restrictions mean you probably won't be able to watch as you usually would back home.

That doesn't mean you have to miss out, however. All you need to do to watch as if you were back home is get yourself a VPN (Virtual Private Network) – assuming it complies with your broadcaster’s T&Cs, of course. A VPN creates a private connection between your device and the internet, meaning the service can’t work out where you are. As an added bonus, the info going back and forth is also entirely encrypted.

In a competitive field, the knowledgeable people at TechRadar put NordVPN at the top of the podium.

Watch the GTWS from the UK and Europe

Thanks to the new deal between Salomon and Warner Bros Discovery, viewers in the UK and Europe can now stream all nine races of the 2025 GTWS exclusively on Warner Bros Discovery’s streaming services.

In the UK and Ireland, that means TNT Sports, which you can access via a subscription to Discovery+ Premium. It will cost you £30.99 per month in the UK and you’ll also get access to Champions League and Premier League football, Premiership rugby, cycling and loads more top sporting action. Alternatively, TNT Sports can be added to your Sky, BT, EE or Virgin Media TV package – costs vary by platform.

In Europe, you can watch the 2025 GTWS live streams on Eurosport or via the Discovery+ platform.

And don’t forget, if you’re going to be traveling away from home during any of the GTWS events, you can use a VPN to watch your usual service as if you were back home.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Golden Trail World Series schedule

• April 19: Kobe Trail, Japan
• April 26: Great Wall, China
• May 17: Golfo dell Isola, Italy
• May 25: Zegama-Aizkorri, Spain
• June 22: Broken Arrow Skyrace, US
• June 29: Tepec Trail, Mexico
• July 2: Pitz Alpine Glacier Trail, Austria
• July 9: Sierre-Zinal, Switzerland
• October TBD: Grand Finale, Garda Trentino, Italy

Annecy-based Salomon first brought the GTWS to live television in 2023 with Eurosport, which Salomon Global Chief Brand Officer Scott Mellin says was a milestone for trail running.

“The GTWS is a highly entertaining, TV-ready format with races lasting around 2 hours, featuring steep climbs and technical descents as well as a 'flower' format that allows spectators to see more of the race and better engage with the athletes," says Mellin.

“Salomon is one of the most successful, most recognizable and growing sports brands,” says Patrick Maitrot, Head of International Sales & Partnership at WBD Sports Europe.

“We are confident that our combined sports and storytelling expertise, coupled with WBD’s production capabilities, unmatched global scale and proven track record of elevating sports, will support the continued growth of trail running through greater international exposure than ever before.”

Salomon has been making headlines recently as trail running season ramps up for the year. Earlier this month, the brand unveiled its new running team featuring some of the best trail runners on the planet, including Courtney Dauwalter and Mathieu Blanchard, who have both claimed multiple podiums wearing their S/Lab Genesis and S/Lab Ultra shoes between them.

In February, the running shoe brand also announced a study suggesting that carbon plates may have no benefit for trail runners, not long after the release of its ultra plush, plate-free S/Lab Ultra Glide.

• The best trail shoes for ultra runners: these robust and comfy rides are built for serious outdoor adventures
• The best hydration packs: on-the-go refuelling for your runs

Leading trail running brand Salomon has announced its new running team for 2025, with 13 rising stars joining the ranks of some of the best trail runners on the planet.

The Salomon running team was formed back in 2004 and over the past two decades has put runners on podiums from short distance races to epic 100-milers, from the Alps to the Rocky Mountains. Some of its most notable athletes include Courtney Dauwaulter, who has dominated the 100-mile trail running scene in recent years with wins at UTMB, Hard Rock, Western States and Mt Fuji 100, always in her beloved S/Lab Genesis shoes. Then there's Mathieu Blanchard, also a fan of the Genesis but known to trot out a few wins in the S/Lab Ultras, and who made headlines this year when he won a brutal 600k Yukon race and last year in the Grand Raid De La Réunion.

But that was then. While those runners, in addition to other greats like Remi Bonnet, Marianne Hogan, Lucy Bartholomew and Francoise d'Haene remain on the roster, it's the new brood that are getting their turn in the spotlight.

The new runners include several up-and-coming French stars, including 20-year-old Annaelle Bondoux, who won the UTMB ETC Marathon du Mont-Blanc 20k races in 2024 and Eliot Retulli who rarely finishes off the podium, and had five big wins last year including the X Alpine 100k in Verbier. Aurore Dacier has seen no less than eight UTMB ranking race wins, including the 2024 Translantau 100k, and Simon Paccard took second at the Nice Cote d'Azur 50k.

Julien Veyssere is a new Salomon para-athlete who carried the 2024 Olympic torch flame in the relay to Paris and will be on the UTMB CCC starting line again this year.

From the UK, Naomi Lang joins after winning the Snowdon International in Wales and dazzling the world of trail running with her descending skills at the Golden Trail World Series finals. From China, Jonas Soldini comes on board after finishing runner-up to Remi Bonnet at the Mammoth Dragon Ascent.

“The sport of trail-running has changed greatly over the past two decades,” says Scott Mellin, Salomon Global Chief Brand Officer.

“From now on, we intend to reinvent this sport from its current state to a future state where athlete performance in the biggest races is highly science-based, engineered and predictable."

Mellin shares that the team roster update is aligned with the Annecy-based brand's focus on product innovation, citing its exciting new carbon plate-free S/LAB Ultra Glides as a sign of what's to come on.

The whole team is currently training together in Corsica – and posting envy-inducing videos from the Mediterranean island – before heading to the first stop of the Golden Trail World Series in Japan for the Kobe Trail on April 16. For the long-distance runners, Courtney Dauwalter will be starting her season with her longest distance yet: the Cocodona 250 in May.

• The best trail shoes for ultra runners: these robust and comfy rides are built for serious outdoor adventures
• The best running poles: for ultra distance training, epic races, and fastpacking adventures

With spring's great thaw well underway, Salomon is getting serious about hiking, and its latest boot drop is all about balancing technical capabilities with comfort on the trail.

The Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX hiking boot has landed, with a few significant upgrades over its predecessor. The X Ultra line is all about blurring the line between a cushioned, agile trail running shoe and a more rugged hiking boot, and with the 5, the brand has focused on refining a few details that let the previous model down.

Most significantly, the upper is now engineered from bulletproof Matryx, which we've seen in shoes like the Merrell Long Sky 2. It's known to be ultra durable and should fix the issues some hikers were having with the upper in the previous model wearing out. Once again, that's combined with a Gore-Tex membrane to help keep water out for those flooded spring trails.

The outsole has also been reimagined to better cope with more technical terrain, sporting deeper (and more durable) angular lugs in the All-Terrain Contagrip rubber compound to better bite into snow, mud, you name it.

So it's certainly burlier, but how does it hold up in the comfort department?

A plusher tongue and collar are said to improve your long-distance walking experience for starters. While it's the same Chassis system as the previous model that consists of lateral inserts on each side of the shoe to cradle your foot and avoid ankle injuries, the brand says it's made changes to the overall design, including the lacing system, for a "virtually customized fit" that helps stabilize your foot without restricting its movement.

A molded, breathable OrthoLite sockliner adds extra comfort and it looks to be more flexible than the most rugged boots and cut down on foot fatigue over long distances.

The Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX hiking boot is available in men's and women's sizing in multiple colorways for $185 / £165 from Salomon and REI.

• The best hiking shoes: capable summit-baggers and fast-paced walkers
• The best hiking boots: protect your feet on any trail with our top choices

With spring well and truly blooming, now is the perfect time to hit the trails for a long hike or run through the wilderness.

Right now, you can get your hands on the Salomon Bonatti trail jacket for just $171.93 at REI, an epic deal for the changing seasons.

This lightweight jacket is made from Pertex Shield 2.5-layer ripstop fabric, which fends off rainfall without weighing you down. It's further waterproofed by a durable water repellent (DWR) treatment.

In his review for Advnture, outdoors expert Alex Foxfield was thoroughly impressed by the waterproof Bonatti, which kept him dry and shielded from the wind while running and hiking.

"It’s a magnificent yet breathable windbreaker, and the ability to open up the front zip to dump heat while the Smart Vent button closure stops the jacket from flapping about is a nice touch," he said.

The Bonatti trail jacket is available at a reduced price in men's sizes in the Shitake / Sulfur Spring and Deep black colorways.

If you're not in the States, you can look below for the best Salomon Bonatti trail jacket deals where you are:

• The best softshell jackets: protect against wind and cold on the trails
• The best running jackets: beat the wind and rain on your run with these ultralight offerings

Rugged trail running shoes sometimes sacrifice comfort for protection and they're often pricey, so it's all the better when you can find a shoe for the trail that's comfortable and affordable. Right now, you can scoop up the highly-rated Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX trail running shoes for as little as $115.46 at Backcountry. That's a generous 35% off the regular list price for these shoes, which we called "sublimely comfortable" in our field tests.

Former Advnture editor Cat Ellis took these shoes for a spin and said wearing them "feels like pulling on a favorite pair of slippers right out of the box."

" I didn't want to take my review pair off, even when they were caked in mud," she says.

These aren't just built for bounding around town looking sporty, however. We found they tackled muddy surfaces with ease, thanks to chunky, chevron-shaped lugs which extend right onto the end of the toe for extra purchase when running up hills. The lugs are sharply angled to really dig into the ground, giving as much push-off as possible.

If your hands are cold or you're speed mode, a Quicklace system works like a drawstring, avoiding the need to fiddle with knots when your hands and cold and dirty. Just press the button on the toggle, pull the lace to tighten, then tuck the whole assembly away into a little pouch. It's a neat system that works well.

This deal applies to men's sizing in the Black/Sulphur Spring/Bird of Paradise colorway, so make sure you scroll through the different options to find the best savings. If you're shopping for women's sizing, you can save 25% on all colorways for a total of $123.71, which is a nice price.

Not in the US? Scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on the Speedcross 6 GTX trail running shoes where you are.

These rugged shoes feature a Gore-Tex membrane for sloppy spring conditions and a tight ripstop mesh upper that increases durability and keeps out debris. They're not the best for rocky terrain owing to the super flexible soles, but for most trail running, you'll be comfortable all day.

If you're not in the US, here are today's best deals on Speedcross 6 GTX trail running shoes where you are:

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain
• The best trail running socks: comfort and support on uneven ground

An unreleased prototype pair of Nike trail running shoes that made the podium at Transgrancanaria last week have set tongues wagging, with many wondering if Nike is planning a serious move into trail running territory.

On February 22, Utah's Caleb Olson crossed the finish line in Maspalomas in a stunning 12 hours, 17 minutes and 25 seconds, besting the previous record by 25 minutes. Naturally, inquiring minds wanted to know what shoes he was wearing, and some eagle-eyed spectators spotted that the Nike-sponsored athlete looked to be testing out a never-before-seen shoe, that sports some interesting details.

Runner Christian Weigand, who runs the Instagram account @runners_highest and competed in the event's marathon distance, first spotted the shoes and posted pictures which you can view below, writing: "@nikerunning tell me more!"

Nike has long dominated the road running scene, but any attempts to move onto Hoka and Salomon's more uneven turf have been half-hearted at best with shoes like the Wildhorse 8 and Zegama 2s all slightly missing the mark.

In 2023, the Nike Ultrafly trail racing shoes came along, and basically took the super shoe formula that Nike put on the map with the Vaporfly – a giant stack of ZoomX foam and carbon plate – and added a Vibram outsole to help with grip.

The resulting shoe had an upper that wasn't quite durable enough for ultra running, and with a 38.5 mm stack and 8.5 mm drop, it definitely wasn't every trail runner's cup of tea. But it seems like the brand still thinks the Ultrafly is worth investing in, as the prototype the Olson wore for his win appears to be an updated version, with some telling details.

First is the absence of the ZoomX branding on the midsole, which suggests Nike is trying a new foam technology from its predecessor and other cushioned trail runners like the Zegama 2s.

Second, and most surprisingly, the tongue of the shoe reveals it falls under the brand's ACG label, which is a first for any Nike super shoe. Short for All Conditions Gear, the sub-label was launched back in 1989 and built on the brand's entry into hiking gear. In recent years, however, it has been more associated with the gorpcore movement than performance, as last year's Nike Cygnal boots showed us.

These shoes, however, are clearly built for function over fashion – either that or Olson is an even better runner than we realized. The brand hasn't released any official details about the shoe yet, but it may be a sign of things to come for Nike. Who could blame them for wanting to pull up a chair and join Hoka and Salomon at the trail running table?

• The best trail shoes for ultra runners: these robust and comfy rides are built for serious outdoor adventures
• The best trail running socks: comfort and support on uneven ground

When Salomon released its new S/Lab Ultra Glide trail running shoe earlier this month, we noticed straight away that it was devoid of a carbon plate – something that's increasingly found in elite trail shoes like The North Face Vectiv Pro and Hoka Tecton X 3. Now, a new study conducted by two Salomon employees suggests that carbon-plated running shoes may have no added benefit for trail runners, and could even hinder performance.

The study, which was published last month in Footwear Science, was carried out by Clément Jaboulay and Marlene Giandolini who work in the French running brand's Sports Innovation Lab.

The pair compared the metabolic power of 10 amateur runners on level and uphill treadmill running while wearing carbon-plated shoes and while wearing shoes without plates. According to their observations, carbon plates have no impact on energy expenditure while you're running on the flat, but may cause you to run less efficiently when you start climbing at trail running pace, meaning in the 7 to 8km per hour range (4.4 to 5 miles per hour).

Jaboulay and Giandolini also examined the impact of carbon plates on joint stress in the lower limbs while running in unstable terrain using 3D motion capture systems, and found no benefit in terms of joint stress reduction.

"We are not saying that carbon plates are good or bad, we are just trying to make the best and the most adapted product for our consumers", says Giandolini, a PhD in running biomechanics.

Case in point: Jim Walmsley and Katie Schide, who hold the current men's and women's records for the UTMB, regularly get to the podium with carbon plates. But since Salomon's consumers include some of the best elite trail runners today, such as Courtney Dauwalter and Mathieu Blanchard, who both run in the carbon plate-free S/Lab Genesis, we can see why the brand might be happy to keep making plate-free shoes.

What are carbon plates and what do they do?

A carbon plate is a thin shaft of carbon that's inserted into the midsoles of some running shoes to make the soles stiffer.

Carbon plate running shoes were first developed by Nike with the advent of its Vaporfly 4% shoe. With this shoe, now in its third iteration as the Nike Vaporfly 3, the brand claimed the plate made wearers use four percent less energy while running (this was confirmed in lab tests by Springer), allowing them to go faster, or maintain the same speed for longer.

In 2019, Kenyan marathon runner Eliud Kipchoge broke the two-hour marathon barrier while wearing the carbon-plated Air Zoom Alphafly NEXT shoes, and now they've become a fixture amongst competitive road runners.

However, if like us you prefer hitting the soft stuff, it looks like you can safely ditch the carbon plates without losing any ground. If you're not an elite runner and just looking to get out there and enjoy the trails, you also don't need to drop close to $300 on a pair of kicks – we recently gave the Salomon DRX Defy GRVL four stars for its ability to handle moderate trails.

• The best trail shoes for ultra runners: these robust and comfy rides are built for serious outdoor adventures
• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain

There are products for every niche. Take gravel cycling, a pursuit that has seen a great rise in popularity in recent years. Gravel bikes sit somewhere between a road bike and a mountain bike, providing more grip than the former, if not the rugged technical ability of the latter. Well, in the last few years, gravel running shoes have started to appear too. Like gravel bikes, they’re closer to their road conquering siblings. These are no luggy trail running shoes, though they do provide more grip on the rough stuff than a road shoe – making them an intriguing prospect for Parkruns, easy trails and the long stretches of gravel they’re primarily designed for.

All conquering French brand Salomon is better known for its trail footwear than its road runners, though they’re clearly keen to muscle in on the new gravel trend. I recently searched for “what is gravel running?” on Google and the first article that popped up a 'What is Gravel Running' blog post by… Salomon. It predictably paints gravel running as the happy medium between road and trail, a blended approach whereby you pound the asphalt before hitting the gravel of your local park.

I was excited to be given the opportunity to test Salomon’s new DRX Defy GRVL shoe. I’m less and less of a road runner these days, preferring technical woodland trails and mountain ridges. However, my local area is home to plenty of gravelly potential – perhaps these would be the shoes that would satisfy my need to escape the roads while providing the sort of consistent speed training that’s difficult to achieve on rooty forest paths.

First impressions

From above and from the side, the DRX Defy GRVL looks like a road shoe, with a breathable mesh upper and a meaty, obviously cushioned midsole. However, the chevron-shaped lugs around the edges of its outsole bring to mind the Speedcross family, though here the aggression is markedly toned down. Weighing 239g (8.4 oz), they’re relatively lightweight, especially compared to most trail shoes.

Fit wise, there’s plenty of wriggle room in the toes, while the lacing system brings everything in tight around the midfoot. They’re quite comfortable and their low weight makes them feel fairly fast on the trails. I was looking forward to seeing how quick they’d be on the gravel trail through the heart of my beloved Henbury Gorge.

Features

Breathability is key in a running shoe, which is why most feature a mesh upper, allowing moisture to escape. This isn’t a shoe designed for running through bogs or negotiating river crossings so, unlike some of the brand’s trail running shoes, there’s no waterproof Gore-Tex option.

Beneath the Salomon logo on the side of the shoe is text advertising its ActiveCHASSIS feature, providing structural support that leads to agility, balance and freedom of movement on the trail.

Salomon state a drop of 8mm, which will suit heel strikers best. There’s a moderate amount of cushioning in the EVA midsole, enough to provide comfort and propulsion but not so much that I felt like you’re running on a cloud. This cushioning is enhanced by the OrthoLite sockliner that's crafted from breathable fabrics that also bring additional durability to the party.

The outsole features Salomon’s Contagrip Road compound, which is resistant to abrasive surfaces and excels on asphalt. However, rather than the wide and flat ‘lugs’ seen on the brand’s standard road shoes, the chevron lugs have more in common with Salomon’s All Terrain or Mud Contragrip soles. These are designed to give better traction on soft surfaces than you’d get with road shoes.

Of course, they’re nowhere near as deep or as aggressive as the lugs seen in the Speedcross or the Genesis, but they’re not a million miles off something like Salomon’s Sense Ride 5s, which are also recommended for park running.

Standard laces, rather than Salomon’s oft-used Quicklace system, enabled me to achieve a comfortable wrapped around fit that held my foot in place securely.

Salomon state that there are recycled materials present, repurposed from PET bottles or material waste, though it’s not clear what proportion of the shoe is made from these. Nor is there any detail on where these materials were sourced – this is the kind of information that brands taking a lead on sustainability provide these days. Salomon’s current Good on You (a fashion sustainability watchdog) is 3 out of 5, or ‘it’s a start’. They’ve got a little way to go to match Patagonia’s 4 out of 5 or Cotopaxi’s 5 out of 5 rating.

On the trails

I’ve been testing the DRX Defy GRVL on the roads, gravel trails and more technical forest trails to see how its design coped with each surface. My usual runs involve a five-minute stretch alongside the roads to access the trails, so it was nice taking on these sections with a shoe that’s more at home on the tarmac.

I enjoyed the cushioned, propulsive running sensation while hitting the main gravel drive that runs through the heart of Bristol's Henbury Gorge. Over the last few years, I’d choose to take this path if it was getting dark or if I wanted to get home quickly, though I’d usually tackle it in my relatively minimal inov-8 X-Talons or Trailfly G 270s. Generally, the DRX Defy GRVLs were quicker, especially compared to the X-Talons.

As expected, the relatively tame (for a trail running shoe) outsole didn’t inspire confidence on the slippery mud of my local woodland in December and January. This isn’t a criticism really, as I’d obviously pushed the shoes beyond the limits of what they are designed for. It’s not as though I’d lambast a road running shoe for not being able to cope here, so it seems unfair to do the same to a dedicated gravel shoe.

However, they held their own on the rockier trails and were generally fine on most soft ground. On the trickier terrain, I found myself slowing down more when changing direction, unable to fully trust that the modest lugs would hold.

Despite the moderate cushioning, there was still at least some degree of trail feel. This was a bonus on rocky, rooty paths, enabling me to react to what was beneath my feet. I’ve run similar trails in shoes that are way too cushioned for my liking, but not so with the DRX Defy GRVL.

All in all, it's a versatile and capable shoe that should certainly appeal to park runners and those that mix road with easy trails.

A good pair of trail running shoes is essential to a comfortable, stable time on the trails. The right pair balances comfort, durability, and grip, so you can take on all manner of adverse terrain.

Right now, you can snag the men's Salomon Sense Ride 5 trail running shoes for just $69.83 at REI, over 50% off their list price.

Built to thrive on rugged outdoor trails, these versatile trail runners boast 4mm lugs, which dig into uneven country surfaces and can also be used on the roads.

In her 2023 review, our trail running expert Claire Maxted was thoroughly impressed by the Sense Ride's comfy and accommodating fit.

Claire said she: "never used to get on with the Salomon Quicklace system, preferring the precision of traditional laces, but with that wider-feeling toe box and foot-hugging SensiFit cradle we’ve honestly never found a Salomon shoe comfier."

This deal applies to men's sizing in the sleek Black/Laurel Wreath/Green colorway. The women's version is only available in size 11, reduced to $105.93 at REI.

Not in the US? Scroll to the bottom of this article for today's best offers on Salomon Sense Ride 5 trail running shoes where you are.

The Sense Ride 5s feature Salomon's Sensifit mesh technology, which cushions your feet and effectively locks them in place. Sensifit tech works in tandem with a modern Quicklace lacing system to secure your feet in a comfortable, stable position when you're running.

If you're not in the US, here are today's best offers on Salomon Sense Ride 5 trail running shoes where you are.

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain
• The best trail shoes for ultra runners: these robust and comfy rides are built for serious outdoor adventures

In what it calls a move to reinvent the sport of trail running, French sports brand Salomon has appointed a renowned physiologist and researcher in sports science to head up the development of its Athlete Performance Program.

Researcher in Exercise Physiology and Metabolism Aitor Viribay joins the Annecy-based brand as Global Sports Performance Director where he'll be in charge of supporting some of the best trail runners in the world including Courtney Dauwalter, Mathieu Blanchard, Remi Bonnet and Marianne Hogan.

Viribay has worked as Head of Human Science for the INEOS Grenadiers cycling team for three years, where his athletes stood on the podiums of Grand Tours and won Olympic Gold medals. He will be bringing his experience as a researcher and consultant in the fields of exercise metabolism, nutrition and physiology to his role.

"Growing up in the Basque Country, cycling and hiking in the mountains have always been the foundation in my life. After developing myself in professional cycling, I am proud and humbled to join the Salomon brand and to be associated with what it represents – pure innovation," says Viribay.

According to Salomon Global Chief Brand Officer Scott Mellin, his selection is grounded in the brand's mission to revolutionize trail running through cutting edge research.

“We intend to reinvent the sport of trail running from its current state to a future state where athlete performance in the biggest races is highly science-based, engineered and predictable."

This science-based approach is already evident in recent product drops like the S/Lab Ultra Glide, which we reported incorporates six years of biomechanical research by the brand and features its proprietary RelieveSphere outsole, which places spheres under the most sensitive areas of your foot to diffuse pressure and minimize impact and discomfort.

Salomon's trail running shoes have been no stranger to the podium in recent years. Its S/Lab Genesis shoes have been on Dauwalter's feet as she took first at eight 100-mile races in the last two years, and helped Blanchard win the brutal Grand Raid de la Reunion in 2024.

“I am super excited to have Aitor join the Salomon team to help us play with the puzzle pieces of performance, health, and training with a little more background knowledge and expertise," says Dauwalter.

The runner notoriously runs and wins without a plan or a coach, but reveals that she has already started working with Viribay on some aspects of her personalized program together.

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain
• The best hydration packs: on-the-go refuelling for your runs

Recent years have seen a seismic shift in trail running shoes, which have taken a leaf out of road running’s book – light and minimalist have long given way to chunky rocker soles and carbon plates designed to help with energy return. But Salomon’s newest trail running shoe drop leaves out one of those key ingredients – and it might just be a winning recipe.

The Salomon S/Lab Ultra Glide joins the French brand’s family of shoes that focus on long-distance comfort with maximal cushioning. Like its predecessor the Ultra Glide 2, the S/Lab Ultra Glide sports a big stack of EVA foam underfoot and a rocker sole – which the brand calls “reverse camber” in homage to its skiing roots – that’s thought to relieve pressure on your ankles and assist forward momentum.

The new model has the same All Terrain Contragrip outsole as the 2 for full-coverage traction (and is more durable than leaving exposed midsole) but boasts deeper 4 mm lugs to keep skidding to a minimum. That’s where the similarities end.

The new S/Lab Ultra Glide has doubled down on foam in the midsole – literally. First, there’s a layer of bouncy EnergyFoam+ to put a spring in your step and help with running economy, but then there’s a second layer of regular EnergyFoam to provide cushioning and cut down on foot fatigue as the miles rack up. This layer of foam extends to the sides of the shoe to cradle your foot which also adds stability, which is a good thing because that double serving of foam means a whopping 41 mm under the heel which puts it in line with some of Hoka’s bounciest road shoes.

But despite these characteristics which earn the shoe "super" status, there’s no carbon plate. Instead, Salomon reveals it has spent the last six years doing biomechanical research and the result is its proprietary RelieveSphere outsole, which places spheres under the most sensitive areas of your foot to diffuse pressure and minimize impact and discomfort – it sounds a lot like Columbia’s Omni-Max technology.

Now, it’s true that Salomon hasn’t gone all in on the craze for carbon plates – in fact, they’re distinctly missing from its elite trail running shoes like the S/Lab Genesis. But, it is a feature we’ve become used to seeing on such high-stack shoes, and the S/Lab Ultra Glide is nearly 10 mm higher than its predecessor.

The lack of a carbon plate isn’t necessarily a bad thing. When we spoke to Olivier Garcin, a leading podiatrist for UTMB athletes, he said you need a strong foot to handle a carbon plate, since they have such a stiff sole. If your foot has good strength and dexterity, this may be okay, but if you have a weaker foot where you can’t flex well at your toes, then a carbon plate can mean you adopt that gait where you externally rotate at the hip and pronate when ordinarily you wouldn’t.

His take was that carbon plate shoes aren’t ideal for slow trail running over long distances, so Salomon’s instinct to go after increasing comfort and reducing pressure in a shoe that’s designed to go the distance might just be genius. Whether it marks a turning point for super shoes or not probably depends on whether it starts making its way onto podiums this year.

The Salomon S/Lab Ultra Glide trail running shoe is available now in unisex sizing for $250 /£230 in Fiery Red/ Vanilla Ice at Salomon.

• The best trail shoes for ultra runners: robust and comfy shoes

Trail running shoes need grip and stability for uneven ground, but some runners just love the extra oomph of a maximalist shoe no matter where they're running. Right now, you can scoop up the highly-rated Salomon Glide Max TR trail running shoes for as little as $64 at Salomon. That's an enormous 60% off the regular list price for these shoes, which runners give an average four-star rating.

This deal applies to women's sizing in all colorways, while those shopping for men's sizing can take a very respectable 50% off for a grand total of $80.

The Glide Max TR is one of Salomon's softest and most cushioned trail shoes, boasting a bouncy 36 mm of foam under the heel that makes them ideal for long-distance trail runners. Reasonable 3.5 mm lugs will give you some grip on neutral terrain, but these shoes are best for light trail and mixed surfaces.

Sizes are starting to sell out and at this price, we don't imagine there will be many pairs sitting around for long so we recommend you act fast to secure this deal.

Not in the US? Scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on Salomon trail running shoes where you are.

These shoes sport a neutral 6 mm drop and a lightweight engineered mesh upper for reliable long-term comfort and breathability.

If you're not in the US, here are today's best deals on Salomon trail running shoes where you are:

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain

The latest shoe in Salomon's S/Lab premium line has dropped, and it might look like a mountaineering boot, but the brand promises it's built for ultra runners tackling the most rugged trails at high speed.

Taking a leaf out of the S/Lab Genesis Spine's book, the Salomon S/Lab Ultra Dust looks at first glance like a technical boot, but it's a running shoe nestled inside a built-in gaiter. The gaiter is designed to keep dust, sand, snow and water out while you cross deserts, rivers and alpine terrain and the French brand says it's breathable and fortified with a protective toe cap for when the going gets tough.

Unzip the (waterproof) zipper and inside you'll find a more familiar-looking upper secured with the same quickLACE bungee lacing system we're used to seeing on shoes like the S/Lab Genesis that's so loved by Courtney Dauwalter. Together with the zipper, it means you can quickly pull these on, tighten them and hit the trail without delay.

Underfoot, you'll find what looks like a massive of responsive EVA foam, though the drop isn't as extreme as the design makes it look – it's a fairly neutral 6 mm from heel to toe. That said, you can most likely expect plenty of bounce and comfort even as the miles rack up.

For traction, the brand uses its proprietary All Terrain Contagrip outsole to help protect you against skids on hard, slick, steep, crumbly and sloppy surfaces. Again, this is the same grip you'll find on other S/Lab shoes like the Genesis and explains why runners like Dauwalter can tackle the desert and beaches on the Transgrancanaria and rivers and snow fields of the Hardrock 100 all in the same shoes.

The Ultra Dust is built for elite runners and Salomon recommends you don't wear it more than once per week and for those times when you need a lot of protection. It is available now in unisex sizing in White / Fiery Red / Vanilla Ice for $250 / £260 at Salomon.

If you're going the distance this year and looking for new hooves, check out our guide to the best trail shoes for ultra runners.

S/Lab stands for Salomon Lab and its shoes are designed in collaboration with Salomon athletes like Dauwalter, Mathieu Blanchard, Marianne Hogan and Remi Bonnet.

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain
• Want to run faster? These are the shoes elite ultra runners have used to dominate this year’s biggest trail races

Salomon was born in Annecy, 1947, just a snowball’s throw from Mont Blanc in the French Alps. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the first products it created and sold were ski edges and the mountains have always played a huge role in the brand’s story. Founded by François Salomon, the brand rose to prominence on the global stage thanks to the drive and leadership of François’ son, Georges Salomon. Today, it’s owned by Amer Sports, the Finnish conglomerate that also lists Arc’teryx among its brands.

These days, Salomon creates gear for runners, hikers, skiers and snowboarders, specializing in kit aimed towards mountain exploration at speed, rather than slower-paced pursuits. The brand struck gold with once-in-a-generation endurance athlete Kilian Jornet, who it sponsored between 2003 and 2022, raising the brand’s profile and its association with fast-paced mountain pursuits across the world.

Salomon’s X Ultra hiking shoes bridge the gap between its trail running shoes and its hiking shoes – footwear tailored towards a more contemplative pace. Sharing many features with its running brethren, such as the patented Quicklace system and proprietary Contagrip rubber, Salomon’s hikers have a solid reputation in the trekking world. Of the X Ultra fleet, the Alpine version is the toughest and the priciest – a sleek yet protective, mountain-conquering cross between a standard hiker and an approach shoe.

The wonderful people at Trekitt, UK outdoor gear specialists, supplied me with the goods and I was lucky enough to put them through their paces in some of the UK's more mountainous national parks.

First impressions

There are plenty of times that I’ve opened up a box of hiking shoes and been greeted by a pair that closer resembles casual trainers than footwear fit for the fells, hills and mountains. This is certainly not the case with the X Ultra Alpine. Its rigid outsole and muscular reinforcements around the heel and toes have more in common with a winter mountaineering boot than a trail running shoe. If it wasn’t already apparent from the Alpine in the name – the is a shoe that means business.

However, this isn’t a mountaineering boot, and Salomon also stop short of calling it an approach shoe too, despite having many features in common with one. So, what is it exactly? Salomon developed the X Ultra Alpine to deliver in ‘all aspects of alpine adventuring, from mountain scrambling to high-stakes hiking’, in other words, this is a hiking shoe that should be in its element on the rocky stuff, but should also provide better stability, comfort and grip in sludgy mud and on the trails than the average approach shoe does.

It's undoubtedly an attractive piece of footwear, looking like the secret love child of the Speedcross 6 and La Sportiva’s Trango Tower GTX. I previously enjoyed testing the X Ultra 04, a very capable, lightweight hiker. With the 04, I found that the fit wasn’t quite right for my foot; my heel wasn’t as locked-in as I’d have liked. I was interested to see if this would also be the case in the much burlier Alpine version.

Meet the reviewer

Alpine features

Perhaps the most striking element of the X Ultra Alpine is its hybrid outsole, with its two distinctly different lug patterns. The first occupies the area around the heel and outside foot, featuring the kind of standard mug-gripping lugs you often see in hiking footwear. The other runs in an arc from the midfoot, around the instep to the toes and features rounded lugs clearly designed for grip on rock when scrambling. The space between the four lugs around the toes and instep is mostly filled in, creating a flat ‘climbing zone’ style area. This feature, seen universally in approach shoes, provides maximum traction on the rocky stuff, particularly when edging, a climbing term for stepping on a small hold and using the rubber of your shoe for grip.

Salomon uses its own Contagrip rubber to get the job done, rather than using third party rubber like Vibram. The compound, which Salomon say it’s its "stickiest ever", is designed for ironclad hold on alpine terrain and is durable too.

The sole curves up at the toes, providing a solid shield at the front of the shoe along with a protective rand. Meanwhile the heel is guarded by a bulky region of reinforcement that puts me in mind of a bumper car. This makes the X Ultra Alpine one of the most protective hiking shoes I’ve ever worn, underlining its suitability for technical, rocky terrain.

Moving up through the shoe, we come to the EnergyCell midsole, boasting an EVA foam designed to absorb some of the shock from each stride. Lateral stability combined with forefoot flexibility are achieved using Salomon’s Edging Chassis. This also, as its name suggests, provides high performance and precision when edging.

The upper deploys durable, nubuck leather and synthetics around the laces, all of which is enhanced by a Gore-Tex membrane. This makes the shoe nicely waterproof, though given its low cut, you’d want to pair it with gaiters if hiking in regions where boggy terrain is common, such as the Scottish Highlands.

Salomon’s classic Quicklace system brings everything in tight and there’s a little mesh lace pocket integrated into the tongue to keep everything tidy. To anyone unfamiliar with the patented Quicklace system, instead of traditional shoelaces it uses a cinch mechanism. You simply pull the lace-cord to the desired fit and slide the ‘S-Buckle’ down to secure it. When it’s time to loosen off, all you have to do is move the S-Buckle upwards. It makes taking the shoes on and off easy as pie. Beneath all of this, the tongue is gusseted to stop debris invading the inner sanctum.

High-stakes hiking

The choice of phrasing in Salomon’s description of the X Ultra Alpine made me smile: "high-stakes hiking". Does this mean I’d have to literally risk my neck to test these properly? Or perhaps I should wager a huge sum of money on reaching an objective. “I bet $1,000 that I can get to the summit. Any takers?”

I sought out scrambling terrain found in both the Lake District and Eryri (Snowdonia) National Parks for the test – hopefully Salomon will consider the stakes to have been high enough – as well as easier hikes closer to home in the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. I encountered everything from dry rhyolite and amenable trails to committing icy slabs and boggy peat hags on my fall and winter adventures, really putting the Contagrip outsole through its paces. I was hugely impressed with its ability to hold on to the terrain throughout. This is a shoe that inspires confidence in the mountains.

Nevertheless, there’s a limit to its ability in cold climes. The X Ultra is a hiking shoe, not a mountaineering boot. It’s not crampon compatible, so isn’t suited to more ambitious winter mountaineering or alpinism. Of course, winter hikers always have the option of attaching alternative traction devices, like microspikes or Yaktrax, but these are only safe to use of relatively gentle gradients.

I found the X Ultras to be comfortable and warm throughout the test period. They’re a little heavier than most hiking shoes and more breathable options exist for the summer months – so if you’re after something for easy, warm weather walks, these mountain goats are probably overkill. As ever, the Quicklace system is a joy to use, bringing the shoe nicely snug around the midfoot for a precise fit. Unlike with the X Ultra 04, my heel felt nicely locked in with the Alpine version too.

During descents, I’d treat the shoes to the occasional run, which they coped with fairly well. I’m not suggesting you run an ultra in them but they’re fine for a short burst when you want the walk out back to the car to pass a little quicker.

The Gore-Tex inner kept water ingress at bay up to a point, though the low-cut nature of these shoes means that water can – and will – get in over the top when covering really boggy ground. I found that this was an issue in the UK’s hills and mountains during the colder months. Admittedly, I wasn’t wearing gaiters, which would have helped. If you often hike on waterlogged terrain, the mid-cut versions will suit better.

What all this adds up to is that the X Ultra is a great choice for technical trails, scrambling missions, via ferrata adventures and hut-to-hut hikes – basically it’s great for ambitious hiking. It’s a cut above the average hiking shoe in terms of protection and traction, though it isn’t a substitute for a mountaineering boot in winter.

Start your year off right, by saving 25% and stepping into the backcountry with a terrific pair of hiking boots from Salomon.

Right now, you can snag the Men's Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex hiking boots for only $172.50 on the Salomon website, well down from their list price of $230.

Built to tackle harsh backcountry terrain, these hiking boots aim to deliver enhanced stability and support for a smooth, pain-free hike through the wilderness.

The outsole features Salomon's own Contragrip technology to keep you upright in slippery, damp, and snowy conditions. Combing a rubber profile with an aggressive lug pattern, the Quest 4's Contragrip outsole digs into uneven surfaces to maximize balance and stability.

Emphasizing comfort, these boots also boast a new 'ADV-C 4D' chassis, which provides extra support to the most sensitive parts of your feet.

Perhaps the best thing about the Salomon Quest 4 hiking boots is their breathable and waterproof Gore-Tex outer. Used in all manner of hiking shoes, Gore-Tex material lets vapor pass through to your feet while blocking any water, allowing for a dry, airy trek through the backcountry.

If you're not in the US, here are today's best offers on Salomon Quest 4 hiking boots in men's and women's sizes.

• The best hiking boots 2025 keep your feet warm dry and protected on the trails with our top choices
• The best hiking boots and shoes for wide feet 2025 stride out with confidence in well-fitting footwear

The queen of ultra running Courtney Dauwalter hasn't been shy about declaring her love of Salomon running gear, having won the iconic UTMB Mont Blanc three times in kit like the Salomon S/Lab Genesis shoes and her signature Shortneys. This week, the runner announced that her partnership with the brand is set to continue.

Wrapping up a year that saw her take gold in four 100-mile races, Dauwaulter inked the deal for an additional five years of sponsorship until 2029.

"In 2017 the USA Salomon team took a chance on me and added me as an ambassador," says Dauwalter.

"They sent a box with some pairs of shoes and a few running outfits. They told me they believed in me and had no problem when I asked for my shorts to come from the men’s line. I was over the moon."

A press release from Salomon says that the relationship will continue even after Dauwalter retires from competition, after which she will transition to a new role with Salomon that will involve her in athlete mentoring, product development and marketing.

The Minnesota native lives and trains in Leadville Colorado. In the last three years alone, she has set women's course records in the UTMB, the Hardrock 100, Western States 100, Transgrancanaria and Mt Fuji 100. Despite that, she claims not to race with a training plan or a coach.

Her UTMB record fell to Katie Schide this year, and the trail running world is waiting with baited breath to see if the two will go head-to-head in 2025.

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain

No one knows how to keep you moving on the trails quite like Salomon, and they're offloading some of their popular styles for Black Friday. Right now, you can pick up the top-rated Salomon Men's Quest Element Gore-Tex Leather Hiking Boots for just $133 at Amazon. That's a healthy savings of 30% off a pair of boots that are well-loved by those who roam the mountains in them, receiving an average rating of 4.3 stars.

The Quest Element is a backpacking boot built for adventure with a higher-cut design that shields you from rugged terrain, obstacles and the elements. A Nubuck leather upper and a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane provide ample weather protection. This deal applies to men's sizing in the Black/Deep Lichen Green/Olive Night colorway.

If moving fast on the trails is more your thing, you can make similar savings on the Salomon Men's XA Pro 3D Gore-Tex trail running shoes, which are just $119 on Amazon. These shoes that runners describe as "outstanding" are designed for the most challenging trails, offering superior cushioning, waterproof weather protection, stable support and rugged grip for those slick, steep slopes. This deal applies to the Black/Black/Magnet colorway.

If you're in the UK, you can also find some fantastic savings on the XA Pro shoes as well as the ever-popular Speedcross GTX. If you're looking for other hiking gear, we're keeping tabs on all the best Black Friday hiking deals this week.

Not in the US? Scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on Salomon hiking boots and shoes where you are.

US deals

UK deals

If you're not in the US, here are today's best deals on Salomon hiking boots and shoes where you are:

• Best hiking boots: hit the trails

Salomon Outerpath 2.5L rain pants: first impressions

When you’re out in nature for extended periods of time, or even decide to brave the conditions after a less than favorable weather forecast, a good set of rain pants is pretty much essential. Salomon Outerpath 2.5L waterproof pants are exactly that.

Salomon Outerpath 2.5L waterproof pants aim to balance comfort, breathability, and waterproof protection while still allowing freedom of movement. After putting these to the test during some wetter days in the Swiss Alps, they’ve proven to be an impressive addition to my hiking kit, though there are a few areas where they fall just short of perfection.

At first glance, the Outerpaths stand out for their lightweight design and solid waterproof rating. As the 2.5L name suggests, the Outerpaths are made using a 2.5-layer waterproofing construction. This means the trousers are made using a face fabric and a waterproof/breathable membrane but with a partially bonded inner liner. Generally speaking, this tends to be a great option for lightweight products but can lack durability compared to three-layer alternatives.

Salomon’s AdvancedSkin Dry technology offers 10,000mm waterproofing and breathability of 40,000g/m²/24h, so they promise to keep you dry without trapping sweat. I couldn’t find any evidence to the contrary here, as I remained comfortable in both cooler and more muggy lower altitude conditions. (See also: What is hydrostatic head? How waterproofing is measured.)

Weighing in at just 8.36oz (237g), the Salomon Outerpaths are among the lightest waterproof trousers I’ve tested. However, compared to my Berghaus Paclite Gore-Tex overpants, I noticed the Outerpaths don’t pack down quite as small, which could be a consideration for those focussed on keeping pack size to a minimum. Still, these pants offer a great deal in terms of protection and breathability, and around 50g less than more expensive competitors such as the Rab Ladakh Paclite Plus Pants.

Meet the reviewer

Salomon Outerpath 2.5L rain pants: sizing and fit

The fit is pretty large on these trousers, and offers plenty of length in the leg, which is great for extending down over your hiking boots. I tested a men’s size M, and the pants provided plenty of room to comfortably layer over my hiking pants without feeling bulky or restrictive. The elastic waistband was just about tight enough for my 30” waist over some trousers, and the durable Ripstop fabric feels tough enough to handle rough conditions while offering plenty of freedom of movement. For context, I am 6ft tall, and quite a slight build at 70kg.

Salomon Outerpath 2.5L rain pants: in the field

I tested the Salomon Outerpath 2.5L rain pants over several hikes in the Swiss Alps, facing varying degrees of wet weather. In both heavy rain and persistent drizzle the Outerpaths performed admirably. The AdvancedSkin Dry membrane does a stellar job at keeping water out while still letting moisture escape, which – particularly at lower altitudes where it was still pretty muggy – was a really big help.

On warmer days, the breathability was noticeably effective, preventing the clammy, overheated feeling you sometimes get with waterproof gear. Though the trousers don’t feature a totally waterproof zip, the storm flaps provide ample coverage and prevented water ingress in all weathers.

The addition of a two-way zipper along the legs is a nice touch too. Not only does it make slipping the pants on over hiking boots far easier, but it also allows easy access to my phone or snacks without having to peel layers off. Though I did find that the combination of the storm flap and stiffer zip seam often made the trousers fold in a slightly odd way when walking, which was noticeable when hiking steeper trails. It’s not a deal breaker, far from it in fact, but worth noting, and something I haven’t noticed so much on pants with waterproof zippers and no storm flap.

Back-to-back wet weather days were where the trousers shone through most. When wild camping, you don’t always have access to much dry space, and therefore getting your gear ready for the next day can be a little bit of a struggle. I found the breathability aided drying time, making back-to-back days in poor conditions that little bit easier to handle.

• How Advnture tests products

Prime Day is over, but there are still great deals to be found on Amazon for hikers. Right now, you can get your hands on a pair of the highly-rated Salomon X Ultra Pioneer Mid CSWP Men's Hiking Boots for just $105 at Amazon. That's a generous savings of $45 off the list price for these boots, which receive an average rating of 4.4 stars with over 2,000 reviews. 

These waterproof hiking boots are no longer available at Salomon, but Amazon still has them in all sizes. With leather uppers and rubber outsoles, these boots are described as grippy and flexible enough to head anywhere, and the ClimaSalomon breathable waterproof membrane keeps out wet weather. 

On long days over rough ground, the advanced Chassis between the outsole and midsole promises to improve motion control, energy management and protection for a stable, efficient and responsive ride.

Users note that these boots are not suited to hikers with wide feet, and recommend you size up for the perfect fit. This deal applies to the Peat/Quiet Shade/Biking Red and we suggest acting fast if you want to cash in on this deal.

Not in the US? Scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on Salomon hiking boots where you are.

If you're not in the US, here are today's best deals on Salomon hiking boots where you are:

• Best hiking boots: hit the trails

Right now, you can get 30% off the men's version of Salomon's Thundercross Trail Runners, which are now just £98 on the Salomon website. 

Suitable for all manner of terrain, the Thundercross features 5mm lugs, which dig in to provide grip, while their oversize profile and aggressive mold ensures a stable run, walk or hike regardless of the conditions. Typically durable, this pair holds up after several hundred miles of harsh terrain. 

The Energy Foam EVA Midsole and 0.2in / 4mm drop allow for added comfort, creating a cushioned feel and minimising the risk of injury.

Still available in a wide range of sizes, the Thundercross are reduced in the Heather / India Ink / Shocking Orange, Safari / Sulphur Spring / Black, and Plum Kitten / Black / Pink Glo Colorways. 

• The best trail running shoes 2024 get a grip on the trickiest terrain
• These are best three running shoes I've tested this year

Meet the reviewer

Salomon Amphib Bold 2: first impressions

Most water shoes are – if we’re being completely honest – ugly looking things that we wear purely for their practical applications (and quickly kick off once we’re clear of the wet stuff). Salomon Amphib Bold 2 water shoes, however, are an entirely different kettle of fish.

Immediately impressed by their stylish look, I was quick to put these versatile, smart shoes on long before I was anywhere near the water, and I have henceforth always been happy to keep wearing them long after leaving the beach behind.

But good looks only get you so far – I wasn’t so bedazzled by their beauty that I’d be willing to give them a free pass or forgive them for any poor performance issues during the testing process. So, to discover how they compare to the best water shoes on the market, for the last nine months I’ve been putting the Salomon Amphib Bold 2s through their paces, tackling shore-hugging trails, exploring rocky beachside paths, going coasteering, wading out into the waves for wild swimming sessions, doing the occasional SwimRun adventure and wearing them while paddling a range of craft, from canoes and kayaks to SUPs.

Salomon Amphib Bold 2: design and materials

In order for any water shoe to work effectively, it’s imperative for the chassis to drain very quickly – this happens automatically with sandals of course, but with sneaker-style shoes such as the Amphib Bolds, it’s more of a challenge. To facilitate rapid draining, the designers at Salomon have stretched a loose-knit mesh across a TPU skeleton, forming an upper that protects the top of your foot from the sun and other things, but lets water in and out freely. Made from a hydrophobic synthetic material that barely absorbs any water, this upper is very quick to dry after being submerged (but it’s just a shame it’s not constructed from recycled fabric).

The other main element of the handsome upper is a floating tongue, which covers your forefoot beneath the lace system (to provide more weather protection and keep debris from getting into the chassis) but isn’t attached to the sides of the shoe. It is, however, integrated with the soft heel, which is itself an innovative and highly functional feature.

It’s important, of course, that water shoes can be secured tightly to the foot (so they don’t get ripped off in surf or stuck in silty conditions), while also being quick and easy to put on and take off. There are two ways to wear the Amphibs: you can put your entire foot in them and tighten the shoe using the Quicklace system (which has a BOA-style cord and toggle, and works really well), or you can push your forefoot into them and crush the heels down (they’re designed to fold for this purpose), and wear them like a slider.

The Quicklace system passes through six robustly stitched eyelets, and there’s an elasticated band to tuck the toggle through, which keeps it from flapping around or becoming a snag hazard.

Salomon don’t wax lyrical about the materials used in the midsole, because this is less of a priority in an aquatic shoe than it is in a running hoof, but there is quite a bit of padding between the insole and the outsole, which supplies some bounce when you’re bounding around.

Protection is more important than cushioning in a water shoe, partly to prevent the risk of sharp sticks, stones or other things puncturing the sole of your foot when you’re walking around or stepping down into murky water from a boulder, board or boat, and the Amphibs certainly have this side of things covered. There’s no rockplate, but the depth of the sole is substantial enough to supply a really good buffer.

The second form of protection the sole needs to serve up is some grip to keep you on your feet in potentially very slippery environments, such as wet and weed-covered rocks. To this end the Amphibs boast a contoured Contragrip outsole complete with rubber lugs, arranged to provide traction in watery terrain.

Salomon Amphib Bold 2: on the water and trails

As a water shoe first and foremost, the Amphibs are designed to be worn like barefoot shoes, without socks, which can lead to comfort concerns, with blisters a potential worry (especially in salty water). However, in all the different ways I’ve used these shoes over the last three seasons, I’ve never had a problem in this regard – not a single blister or any hint of rubbing discomfort. The collar is really soft around the lower ankle area, and the mesh doesn’t appear to be at all abrasive on the upper foot. 

I particularly love the fact that the Quicklace system enables me to put the Amphibs on fast, but then secure them tightly to my feet, so I never have to worry about them coming off in the water. This snug, comfortable fit also means I can happily walk and run reasonable distances in these shoes. They’re not as high-performing on rocky routes as a proper pair of good trail running shoes, of course (especially in terms of having a cushioned midsole), but Salomon know what they’re doing here, and the Amphibs have sufficient suspension where it counts – certainly more than you’ll find in a barefoot shoe – and I’ve found them to be perfectly capable of getting me around most SwimRun courses.

I also enjoy having the capability to just slip my foot quickly into the shoes and wear them like Crocs – although they can easily come off when you adopt this approach, and I definitely wouldn’t recommend it when running or wading through water.

When laced up properly, however, I feel very secure and confident in the hold these shoes have on my feet, which inspires confidence. The floating tongue does a good job of keeping grit and pebbles out of the main shoe too, and it has saved me from sunburn on the top of my feet while paddling several times.

I’ve also found that the grip, traction and control supplied by the Contragrip outsole is really decent, and I don’t recall having ever lost my footing while wearing the Amphibs, even when hopping across weed-covered rocks or dragging boats around on slimy slipways.

Essentially, this versatile sneaker really comes into its own during summer, but while it doesn’t offer a great amount of thermal protection from the cold, I found that I was completely comfortable wearing the Amphib Bolds in and around water from early spring to mid fall, without freezing my pinkies off, especially when engaged in high-energy activities such as paddling.

• How Advnture tests products

Right now, you can pick up the top-rated Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GORE-TEX Hiking Boots for 25% off at REI. That's a healthy savings of $45 off a pair of boots that are well-loved by those who roam the mountains in them.

The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GORE-TEX Hiking Boots have an average rating of four stars with over 1,000 customer reviews. The users who love them commend their impressive grip, weather protection and ankle support for moving over rough ground and in harsh conditions.

The deal applies to the men's sizing in the Black/Magnet/Pearl Blue colorway, and women's sizing in all colors.

This is just one of the many great deals on REI's 4th of July summer clearance sale which runs through Independence Day, and we've been rounding up their best deals on Arc'teryx and Patagonia gear to help you find the biggest savings.

If you're not in the US, scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on Salomon hiking boots where you are.

If you're not in the US, here are today's best deals on Salomon hiking boots where you are:

• Best hiking boots: hit the trails

Salomon Sense Flow Vest: first impressions

Often, especially in the shoulder seasons, you don’t need an extra layer that fully covers your entire top half when you’re out trail running or doing a brisk hike, you simply need something that will help keep your torso toasty and fend off the negative effects of windchill, so that your core temperature doesn’t drop. 

This is where a good gilet is the perfect piece of apparel, and the new Sense Flow Vest from Salomon is an extremely lightweight version of exactly this kind of windproof garment. 

Designed primarily for runners, and small enough to be easily stuffed into any hydration pack, daypack or fanny pack, it can also be used by hikers and fastpackers as a super minimalist extra layer. 

It’s essentially the vest version of the more comprehensive Sense Flow wind jacket, but the gilet style enables you to keep your arms free whilst running and hiking, and permits a whole lot more airflow to areas such as your armpits.

Salomon Sense Flow Vest: on the trails

I began testing the Salomon Sense Flow Vest by running and hiking on a variety of coastal and countryside trails and hillsides – many of them extremely exposed – just as fall began to bite, with high winds barreling in, often spiked with an icy chill. 

And this is exactly the kind of conditions the Sense Flow Vest has been designed to perform in. Incredibly lightweight, this minimally insulated sleeveless gilet top from Salomon is excellent for keeping wind chill off your body during outings in blustery but changeable weather, when you might be running in to a Baltic-feeling breeze one minute, only to turn a corner and find yourself sweating along a sun-splattered section of sheltered trail.

The smart design features pinprick vents on the back panel of the vest that make the Sense Flow Vest extremely breathable, while still shielding the wearer from the wind at the front, where the zip extends up into a high neck for extra protection. In really warm conditions, you can open the zip partially or fully, but stop it flapping around by using a purpose-made popper that keeps the two sides together.

There are reflective flourishes across the shoulders of the vest for safety while running along lanes and roads shared with motorized traffic, and a zipped pocket on the chest can be used for carrying small items such as a gel, key or credit card.

• How Advnture tests products

Meet the reviewer

Salomon Genesis: first impressions

A pared-down (and cheaper) version of Salomon’s more elite S/Lab Genesis, these Salomon Genesis trail running shoes are primarily aimed at people who hit the rough stuff two to three times a week, and don’t want to squeeze their pinkies into the super-sporty narrow chassis that usually feature in the French brand’s high-performance shoes. But do they still give the best trail running shoes a run for their money?

Salomon says the Genesis has been designed to excel on rocky terrain, and the upper – protected by a densely woven Matryx material (the same technology that appears on the more expensive S/Lab iteration of the shoe) – makes them more resistant to wear and tear when you’re running on the rough stuff. However, somewhat surprisingly (given they’re designed for running across rugged landscapes), there doesn’t appear to be a rockplate in these shoes to protect feet from bruising and potential puncture wounds from sharp stones and sticks.

They have a heel-to-toe drop of 8mm, a generously cushioned midsole and an impressively toothy Contragrip outsole, with 4.5mm lugs arranged in a two-part pattern intended to give the wearer a high level of confidence and control on technical terrain.

We are pleased to see that 34% of the upper is made with recycled materials (hopefully Salomon will raise this ratio in future generations of the shoe).

Salomon Genesis: on the trails

I’ve been wearing the new Genesis running shoes from Salomon while tackling extremely wet and fairly technical trails around the coast, countryside and moorland in South West England during a relentlessly rainy winter. The brand tout these shoes as mountain runners, but I think they’re pretty decent across a range of terrain, including muddy hills – which is just as well, because I can’t move for muck on the woodland paths and cliff-top tracks around me at the moment.

Unlike many of Salomon’s more high-end, performance-focused running shoes, this model of the Genesis has a much more relaxed fit and feel, with more space around the ball of the foot. This makes them comfortable trail running shoes for a lot of people – very much including me (with broad feet and bunions, I often struggle to wear Salomon shoes because they’re typically narrow and tight). The toe box is still pretty tight, but not to the point that it has caused me any significant problems so far.

Despite this extra expansion room in the chassis, during testing I’ve found that the hard-wearing woven Matryx upper still supplies excellent support for my feet, and the Quicklace system enables me to get as tight a fit as I could possibly require (the Quicklace includes a top eyelet for extra security, so you don’t lose a shoe going through deep bog).

This more accessible version of the Genesis doesn’t have the elasticated inner sock and ankle gaiter built into the chassis, but there’s still an integrated and gusseted tongue that effectively keeps grit and other trail debris out of the shoe. This tongue is also padded and very comfortable.

The Energy Foam in the midsole brings some bounce to the party, and absorbs plenty of impact too. The stack height is 30mm under the heel, reducing to 22mm at the toes, and I find this 8mm drop perfect for running on a range of terrain, offering the ideal balance between supplying protection and maintaining a low center of gravity on more technical trails.

When all this is combined with Salomon’s ‘Active Chassis’ design – whereby your heel is cradled by a super-supportive upper – these shoes really inspire confidence when tackling technical trails, a feeling further enhanced by the grip, traction and braking control provided by the Contragrip-covered outsole, with its smartly positioned 4.5mm deep chevron-shaped lugs.

Despite the apparent lack of a rockplate, I haven’t felt anything really protruding through the soles or experienced any discomfort, and I’ve deliberately sought out rocky trails to run on while testing these shoes.

It’s early days, so I can’t comment too much on the genuine durability of the Matryx-protected chassis, but the conditions I have been wearing these shoes in (ankle deep mud, bogs and saltwater-lashed rocks) will soon reveal any weaknesses, and I’ll keep you posted. So far they’ve held up just fine – but you’d expect that from a shoe that still has a pretty premium price tag (even if it is considerably cheaper than its fancy S/Lab cousin).

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Named after the legendary Italian alpinist Walter Bonatti, Salomon’s Bonatti range is designed to be ‘ultralightweight, practical and packable’, aimed squarely at runners looking to brave tough conditions but not wanting the weight penalty of a heavier clothing. The most expensive jacket in the range, the Bonatti Trail, features a premium 2.5-layer Pertex Shield fabric and is designed to take on the sort of tough conditions skyrunners come up against.

Meet the reviewer

Salomon Bonatti Trail Jacket: first impressions

The Bonatti Trail is a smart, modern looking running jacket, with angular reflective detailing and a slim fit. To wear, it feels like it’s barely there, weighing in at 190g, which is impressive for a jacket that claims to be waterproof. I could also scrunch it into a fist-sized ball, highlighting its packability. Straight away, I knew this would be a practical jacket that I’d use for more than just adventurous runs.

The Bonatti Trail is designed to accommodate up to a 12-liter hydration pack underneath. Towards the top of the jacket and beneath the front zip is a button closure that enables the wearer to partially unzip without having the jacket flapping about all over the place. This is great for both dumping heat on the go and for ease of access to the hydration pack.

To keep weight low, the hood is fairly minimal, designed to essentially hug the head, fitting snugly without the need of adjustable cords and the like. The downside is that it’s not really helmet compatible, but it’s not intended as a mountaineers’ jacket in any case.

The main fabric is a 2.5-layer polyamide, boasting Pertex Shield waterproof protection. Lighter and more breathable than a standard Gore-Tex membrane, Pertex Shield is also wonderfully packable, ticking plenty of boxes for trail runners and adventure racers. However, it’s not as durable and doesn’t boast the robust “You shall not pass!” level of waterproofing experienced with Gore-Tex jackets.

However, as you’d expect, the jacket is also treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) coating, to assist the Pertex Shield in its mission to repel downpours. So, this is still a very water-resistant package that’ll cope with most conditions for the duration of a run. Potential weak points are also reinforced to a degree, such as storm flaps beneath the front zip and over the chest pocket.

As well as being lighter and more breathable, the main fabric also has a degree of elasticity, making the Bonatti Trail much less rigid than a traditional waterproof. There’s also more elastic at the cuffs and the dropped back hem, which keeps chilly updrafts at bay.

Salomon Bonatti Trail Jacket: on the trails

I’ve been testing the Bonatti for several months, donning it on hilly runs and hikes in Wales’ Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) and Eryri (Snowdonia) National Parks, wearing it on hikes along England’s south coast and in the Lake District National Park and frequently wearing it around my home city of Bristol, which is no stranger to the rain.

Let’s start with what it’s been designed for – wild runs. On those cold fall days, the sort where the wind has brought Scandinavian chilliness across the North Sea, the Bonatti is a blessing, particularly when hitting high ridges exposed to the full brunt of the elements. In warmer conditions, breathability suffers a little and moisture accumulates on the inside. But, to be honest, the only reason I had it on in these warmer conditions in the first place was to test it – I wouldn’t usually have worn a jacket at all in such heat.

So, back to cooler climes – it’s a magnificent yet breathable windbreaker and the ability to open up the front zip to dump heat, while the Smart Vent button closure stops the jacket from flapping about, is a nice touch. This system also enabled me quick access to my hydration pack. The front zip was often a bit fiddly, a minor qualm that I often find occurs with uberlight jackets.

As well as being lightweight, another advantage of the softshell face fabric is elasticity, which makes the jacket much more pleasant to run in than a hard shell. I never felt as though my movement was being restricted at any point during the test period.

Taking on the wet

All this is good and well, but when it comes down to it, a waterproof jacket is judged on its ability to see off the rain.

Ah! The beading of water on the surface of a new waterproof jacket is always a welcome sight, giving an impression of impregnability. This occurs thanks to the layer of durable water repellent (DWR) that the main face fabric is treated with. Imagine a heavily armoured starship under heavy bombardment from an alien battleship. In this analogy, the Pertex Shield fabric is the armour and the DWR is the protective force field that the missiles (the rain) bounce off.

Did this level of protective shielding meant that I managed to live long and prosper on the rainy trails? Well, I found my DWR force field wore off after several wears in wet weather, perhaps a little faster than the average waterproof jacket. Of course, I still had the heavy armour of the waterproof fabric, but each onslaught from the rain now had a detrimental effect on my mothership, wetting out the fabric. This doesn’t mean water was seeping through – yet – but the wetting out of a jacket’s fabric severely impacts its breathability. In short, my missions to boldly go where no trail runner has gone before were now compromised a little.

Nevertheless, the Bonatti was keeping me broadly dry and did so for the vast majority of my runs. It was only when I was out for longer periods in consistent downpours that it began to struggle – though I should stress that this is to be expected for a softshell running jacket of this weight. I found it was also wonderfully fast drying – good news if you are fortunate enough to escape the rain while still on the trail. As well as all of this, once you notice your jacket beginning to wet out, you can always launder it with a reproofer, such as Nikwax’s TX Direct Wash In, which essentially applies a new DWR force field for future exploratory forays.

With these findings in mind, the Bonatti isn’t a jacket I’d recommend for winter or shoulder season hiking, or for longer mountain marathons, where there’s always the chance of being out in the rain for a substantial amount of time. However, if my run was only going to be a matter of hours, I wouldn’t hesitate to put it on, even if the forecast was unfavorable.

A great option for everyday wear

As well as being great for adventurous runs, I found myself reaching for the Bonatti Trail time and time again for everyday use. As a softshell, it’s lighter, more comfortable and more packable than most other waterproof jackets, making it perfect for stuffing in my pack when heading for a local walk or to the shops. The only things it’s missing are handwarmer pockets, but I totally understand this omission, as they’d have added weight and represented weaknesses in the jacket’s ability to repel the elements.

So, for adventurous runs, summer hiking and everyday use, the Bonatti really shines. It’s only if I was heading out into challenging conditions at a slower pace or for a considerable length of time that I’d swap it out for a more robust waterproof hard shell.

Salomon Sense Flow: first impressions

The Salomon Sense Flow jacket instantly impressed me with its almost ridiculously featherlight weight and easy packability. This is clearly a lightweight running jacket that’s been designed to be carried as much as worn, and it works brilliantly as a just-in-case measure on many runs – an insurance policy against temperatures that suddenly plunge when you’re out on the trails.

Once you do put it on, several things become instantly clear. It has a trim fit, with very little in the way of excess fabric left to flap around, and this is something to consider if you’re wavering between sizes (if in doubt, go for the larger option). 

It’s also important to note that the Sense Flow is not waterproof, and neither does it claim to be (other waterproof running jackets are available). Although there is some insulation across the top of the body and arms, its main role is to protect you from the wind, and it does that with style. But at the same time, the jacket also boasts some intelligent venting – especially on the back panel – which allows you to breathe.

Salomon Sense Flow: on the trails

As mentioned, the new Salomon Sense Flow jacket is extremely lightweight and very easy to stuff into a hydration pack or a pocket in a running pack (although it is a slight shame that it hasn’t been designed to stash away in its own pocket). 

Of course, excellent portability is no good if a coat isn’t effective when you do put it on, so I’ve been testing the Sense Flow all through fall – which is the exactly the time of year a garment like this comes into its own – to see how it compares with the competition.

For a very lightweight running jacket, there is a lot going on here. The Flow features a thin layer of synthetic insulation on the inside, which does a reasonable job of keeping you warm, but reducing windchill is definitely its main focus, and to this end it zips right up to the chin, and features thumb loops on the cuffs to cut out breezes and stop sleeves rolling up your arm.

The Sense Flow also has some well-thought-through features to allow airflow and ventilation, to prevent you from overheating. For starters, it has a full zip, so you can throw the jacket wide open to dump heat quickly when necessary, but a popper on the chest also allows you to keep the coat semi-secured while the zip is partially or even fully open. There’s also a series of vents on the rear of the jacket that allow your back to breathe without letting cold air in.

Additional useful features include an adjustable waist chord and a zipped pocked on the chest for carrying some cash, keys or a gel. There are reflective elements on the sleeves for safety when you’re sharing lanes and roads with traffic, but I would have liked a few reflectors on the back of the jacket too. All the zips have pull chords so you can operate them easily even with cold hands or when you have running gloves on.

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Salomon Elixir Mid Gore-Tex hiking boots: first impressions

These new hiking boots from the company that’s well-known for their trail running shoes left us scratching our heads a little. Pulling them out of the box, they look a lot more like a basketball boot than a hiking shoe, with enormously chunky rocker soles. The extravagantly cushioned midsole is designed to fortify you with comfort and a smooth stride when walking over long distances, and we can verify that it does do that, with zero breaking in time required. The wide geometry and high side walls also mean they’re a lot more stable than they look, which was a relief.

That said, they’re just a bit of an anomaly. The extra padding means you can’t feel the trail at all underfoot, and the uppers offer tons of protection for your feet and ankles, which sounds great until you consider that the outsoles aren’t really adequate for technical trails anyway. It also means they’re relatively heavy for a synthetic boot. The lacing system is great and they offer lots of ankle support, and with a Gore-Tex lining you can comfortably wade through boggy ground in them without getting soggy socks, but they’re definitely too warm for summer hiking. They’ll be comfortable for long walks in cooler and cold weather, and keep the worst of the weather off, but we can’t really see why you’d need this much protection – or such a thick sole – for a non-technical day hike.

Salomon Elixir Mid Gore-Tex hiking boots: in the field 

I received these boots in a color called “Vanilla Ice” and in some ways, that sums them up quite well since that’s exactly who you’d expect to wear shoes like these and not a 42-year-old hiker in Scotland. I've already made my feelings on white hiking shoes public, so I won't harp on about that. They don’t look at all like a pair of hiking boots and rather, they look like a pair of basketball shoes my 15-year-old would love. Sadly, his feet are much bigger than mine so we weren’t able to test my theory on the court. Instead, I got them out on a recent 10k rainy hike in the Highlands.

Here’s how they performed:  

Sizing and fit 

I went up a half size to a UK 4, which is what I always do with hiking boots to give my feet room to swell and I’m actually not sure I needed to. It wasn’t disastrous, but with only a thin pair of wool socks, I did find my feet had a lot of room and, when I don’t lace them well, my toes bash against the toe box on the downhills. I’d recommend ordering these in your usual size and I think they’ll be roomy enough.

Comfort and breathability

I can say with confidence that these are super comfortable, right out of the box, and I can wear them for miles without getting sore feet thanks to all the padding and cushioning underfoot.

The breathability isn’t amazing, since they are waterproof, and I actually deliberately waited until things had cooled off before testing them as I could tell they’d be too warm for summer hiking.

Grip and performance

One look at the outsoles shows that the grip is going to be moderate on these shoes, and I did slip twice, falling once, on my way down a very steep, grassy hill. It was a wet day and the conditions were a bit muddy, and these lugs just aren’t big enough to bite into the ground meaningfully when you add a steep grade. They’re perfectly adequate for moderate walking on non-technical stuff though.

The massive rocker sole does help with a smooth stride, especially on flatter terrain, but I really can’t feel the trail underfoot at all, which isn’t ideal once the ground gets a little rockier.

Protection and stability

There’s no argument that these boots offer tons of protection around my entire foot and ankle, and I definitely would feel confident kicking rocks in them, but given that the sole isn’t really designed for that type of walking, I’m left unsure as to why it’s warranted. 

The lacing system is great to keep my ankle locked in place when I lace them up properly, and I will say that even though the sole is massive, my foot sits deeper than it looks like it will. This combined with a wide geometry means that the walking is actually a lot more stable than it looks, even if you can’t feel what you’re walking on which takes some getting used to.

Salomon Elixir Mid Gore-Tex hiking boots: bottom line

If you want to walk for many hours on non-technical terrain in cool, wet weather, you can do so pretty comfortably in these boots. However, you don’t really need this much protection, or cushion, for that type of walking, in our opinion.

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Salomon Sense Ride 5: first impressions

The latest update of the Sense Ride the Salomon Sense Ride 5 is very impressive. It’s bang on the average weight for a mixed-terrain trail running shoe at 18.4oz / 523g with an 8mm drop heel to toe. The shoe feels robust and built to last, while still keeping some mesh over the upper for ventilation in warmer weather.

The Energy Foam padding in the midsole provides a firm ride rather than a super bouncy one (like the Hokas we’ve run in) and plenty of cushioning for longer distances over a wide variety of surfaces underfoot, from rocks and tree roots to grass and gritty tracks.

The 4mm-deep lugs on the Contagrip All Terrain sole are not super aggressive for deep, gloopy mud but again, like the cushioning, this works well over a wide variety of ground apart from oozing bog. The Quicklace system provides a very quick and easy way to get a secure fit and the toe box feels roomy for a regular-fit Salomon shoe, which a lot of runners will appreciate, especially on ultra distances where feet can swell.

Overall the Sense Ride 5 is a fantastic all-rounder for those tackling all distances on many different types of trail, tracks and roads.

Salomon Sense Ride 5: on the trails

In the past we’ve found Salomon shoes to be a little narrow in the toe box, so it was wonderful to discover that the new Sense Ride 5 is nice and roomy in this area, particularly as the shoe is designed to cover ultra distances as well as any other shorter runs. 

They feel a little stiff when you first pop them on but to run in they’re comfy straight from the box. It’s odd to explain but it feels like the Sense Ride 5 is a confident shoe that knows what it’s doing – the cushioning is firm and propulsive but not overly bouncy, the Quicklace system efficiently locks the foot comfortably in place and you can just get on with the job of running without worrying about anything foot related.

Thanks to the good level of cushioning, an 8mm drop, the breathability of the uppers and the versatility of the grip, we’ve been wearing the Salomon Sense Ride 5s for absolutely everything lately: short runs with the club over the Lincolnshire fields, 50k training in the Peak District, lugging a toddler around in a kid backpack and even mowing the lawn.

We never used to get on with the Salomon Quicklace system, preferring the precision of traditional laces, but with that wider-feeling toe box and foot-hugging SensiFit cradle we’ve honestly never found a Salomon shoe comfier.

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Salomon Speedcross 6: first impressions

The Salomon Speedcross 6 (review sample provided by SportsShoes.com) is a sublimely comfortable trail shoe, which feels like pulling on a favorite pair of slippers right out of the box. It's very unusual, but I'm certainly not going to complain.

The upper (made from a ripstop fabric) is woven in a single sock-like piece that cocoons your foot and extends right over the tongue, so there's no chance of stray stones working their way in, though bear in mind that it's not water-resistant. If you're going to be heading out in the rain and want dry feet, you'll need a pair of waterproof running socks underneath.

The lack of a separate tongue means standard laces wouldn't work. Instead, the Speedcross 6 employs a Quicklace system that essentially works like a drawstring, avoiding the need to fiddle with knots when your hands and cold and dirty. Just press the button on the toggle, pull the lace to tighten, then tuck the whole assembly away into a little pouch. It's a neat system that works well.

There's a wide choice of colors, but personally I wouldn't have opted for this one. It didn't stay that way for long, and you have to clean the shoe with the lacing system still in place, which is a bit of a hassle.

The outsole is studded with chunky, chevron-shaped lugs, which extend right onto the end of the toe for extra purchase when running up hills. The lugs are sharply angled to really dig into the ground, giving as much push-off as possible.

The Speedcross 6 is in the mid price bracket, but you may be able to find it at a discount if you're lucky. In my opinion, the fit and comfort combined with the excellent traction definitely justify its price tag.

Salomon Speedcross 6: on the trails

As mentioned above, the Salomon Speedcross 6 is so blissfully comfortable, I didn't want to take my review pair off, even when they were caked in mud. It's a standard fit shoe and comes up true to size, with the single-piece upper cradling your foot. Previous models had a strip of TPU on the top, but this omission from the 2022 version doesn't seem to make much practical difference, and helps shave off a few grams.

This is one of the more flexible trail shoes I've tested, with a surprising amount of flex in the midfoot. Although you can't see it, there's also a decent wedge of foam packed into the midsole, which provides welcome cushioning with each step.

It's not a shoe that's suited to really rocky terrain, but on moderately tough routes it'll really help you stay connected to the trail. Tree roots and thick mud are no trouble; even slimy clay falls off the lugs, so you're not carrying heavy clots of mud on your feet. On wet days, it's a game-changer.

I loved the Quicklace system, which is a piece of cake to use and very neat. The little storage pouch is a particularly nice touch, preventing anything from snagging on branches or errant undergrowth. It's not possible to create a heel lock as you can with regular laces, but the one-piece upper means that's not really a problem. Once on, this shoe isn't going to be sucked off by wet mud.

It's breathable too, with the upper providing plenty of airflow to keep your feet cool. Overall, the Solomon Speedcross 6 is one of the best trail running shoes we've tested this year on Advnture. Just think carefully about the other colors before opting for the white version.

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Salomon Outpulse Gore-Tex: first impressions

With the release of the new Salomon Outpulse Gore-Tex, the brand has produced a marvelous mudblood – part hiking shoe and part trail running shoe. And we mean this as a compliment. If you’re looking for lightweight footwear, built for moving at a fast trot across walking trails during day hikes, then this shoe could be for you.

Obviously there are compromises that need to be made with such a design. Don’t expect the level of protection that a more traditional hiking shoe would offer your feet: the Outpulse doesn’t feature a big chunky toe-cap or outsole, and neither is it likely to last as long as some of the heavier and more robust walking shoes on the market right now.

But what Salomon Outpulse Gore-Texes do include are a fully breathable and waterproof upper (courtesy of the Gore-Tex membrane): a highly cushioned and dynamic midsole loaded with Fuze Surge foam and enhanced with a TPU “Energy Blade”; and a reasonably grippy Contagrip rubber outsole with artfully arranged lugs that provide propulsion traction at the front and braking control at the rear.

Salomon Outpulse Gore-Tex: on the trails

I’ve been testing these walking shoes out on the twists and turns of the Serpent Trail, part of the South Downs Way, and along the coast and through the hilly hinterland of Devon, Dorset and Somerset. This kind of terrain – especially in the hot and dry conditions that have prevailed in Europe recently – is exactly the sort of landscape the Outpulse was born to barrel along. 

These shoes want to move fast. There’s a modest 10mm heel-to-toe drop, which keeps your center of gravity nice and low, and helps with balance (for more on drop see: What is drop in running shoes and why is it important?). Your feet are securely and comfortably cradled by the SensiFit design, while the geometry of the chassis and midsole creates a reverse camber effect, which helps your walking or trotting cadence flow nice and efficiently. All this is further enhanced by the “Energy Blade”, a lightweight TPU plate incorporated into the well-cushioned midsole. 

The breathable Gore-Tex membrane means you can walk through puddles, shallow streams and across dew-soaked grass and soggy moorland without getting your feet wet, and the lightweight design of the shoe and thin mesh material used on the upper mean that your feet don’t overheat. The integrated tongue keeps debris out of the shoe, and the flat laces don’t tend to come undone.

There is a toe-cap and a thin rand, but the Outpulse don’t offer enough support or protection for multiday backpacking adventures, and they’re not going to survive as much rough treatment as many more robust hiking shoes. But if you’re travelling light, tackling terrain that isn’t super technical and want to cover ground quickly, the Outpulse are perfect.

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Salomon Outspeed Wool Seamless T-shirt: first impressions 

After putting on the Salomon Outspeed Wool Seamless straight out of the packet, the next-to-skin feel is immediately lovely. In fact, with its lightweight and close-fitting construction, you barely know you have it on. It immediately feels like it belongs up there with the best running tops.

Salomon have used an interesting material mix with the Outspeed, making it with almost 60% Merino wool, which brings so much to the table in terms of breathability, moisture wicking, comfort, odor control and thermal capability. 

Merino, being a natural product that has worked well for sheep for millennia, knows how to perform in challenging outdoor conditions, and this makes it excellent for adventure garments. The problem with it is, if you’re not re-growing and replenishing it, like those canny sheep do, it tends to wear through quite fast – especially if you’re doing things like wearing a running backpack with abrasive harnesses and sticking safety pins through it with race numbers on. By including a hefty element of a tough manmade material like polyamide, Salomon are ensuring that you get a good bit more wear from this top – which, for the price, you will both want and expect. 

It still won’t last as long as an entirely synthetic top, but it’s a lot more environmentally friendly, and feels a whole lot nicer to wear. 

There is one reflective element, but it’s on the front, so it’s not the best T-shirt for running safely at night along dark lanes.

Salomon Outspeed Wool Seamless T-shirt: on the trail 

I’ve been running regularly in the Outspeed in a wide range of weather conditions, including on sun-baked days, chilly mornings and through torrential afternoon downpours. In all of these situations, the top has proved exceptionally comfortable, with no rubbing whatsoever. The seamless design helps with the comfort levels and lack of irritation too. 

True to form, the Merino element has kept me warm or cool when I needed it to, wicked sweat away when required, and there has been no buildup of any odors under the pits.

The style is trim, so there’s no material flapping about, and there’s a waist hem, to stop it riding up if you’re running with a pack, but the close, sporty fit doesn’t impact or restrict your movement at all.

• Best running tops: for trail training to road races and everything in between

Salomon Sense Ride 4: first impressions

The Salomon Sense Ride 4s feel even lighter than they actually weigh, with a breathable upper and slim, bendy Optivibe foam midsole, which allows your feet to feel more of the terrain than a more cushioned road to trail running shoe would. This means that, for most runners, this shoe is better suited to softer terrain – like grassy, muddy trails – more so than huge expanses of rock and road, especially with the excellent All Terrain Contagrip outsole with wide-spaced 4mm lugs. 

The fit of the shoe comes up around a half size big, which is actually a good size for those after an even roomier toe box, and the padded tongue and gusset are very comfortable too (see also: How should trail running shoes fit?).

Salomon’s trademark Quicklace system works really well for most runners. However, in this model the top laces criss cross the lace lock housing, which makes it very tricky to stow them away quickly. Doh!

The OrthoLite footbed may not work for every foot shape, as the arch curve may sit in the wrong place for your foot; if this happens simply replace the footbed with one from another shoe that works for you. The wide range of colors for men and women is another bonus for this shoe.

Salomon Sense Ride 4: on the trails

These shoes are super easy to slip on and pull tight, but I found it more tricky to tidy the laces away with the lace lock housing obscured by the top criss-cross of lace. I ended up not faffing about trying to hold the lace lock it away from the laces, but rather just slotting the lace end into the laces near the toes and winding it round a few times, which worked just fine. 

Discovering the fit was on the larger side was surprising, as in the past I have found Salomon shoes to come up small. But this was a refreshingly roomy fit, allowing space in the toe box for wider feet. 

Inside, unfortunately, I found the OrthoLite footbed to be blister-inducing, as it rises in the arch area in just the wrong place. However, changing the footbed solves this problem immediately. 

Running on mixed terrain, I found the Sense Ride 4s a little different to most of the other road to trail shoes I’ve tested, because you can feel a lot more of the ground under your feet. So I preferred using it on softer terrain rather than jagged rocks and long distances on roads. I also found this encouraged more of a forefoot or midfoot strike, rather than a heel strike, which may be preferable for some runners (see also: How to choose trail running shoes: drop, sole, grip, weight and more explained).

Salomon Sense Ride 4 women’s: first impressions

Salomon Sense Ride 4 women’s trail running shoes could be your solution to a perennial problem. Choosing the best trail running shoes is, of course, and very subjective process with every runner having their own personal preferences (see: how to choose trail running shoes). Many runners will only seek out waterproof trail-running shoes for the coldest, wettest weather, but they don’t let feet breathe very well. Not so Salomon’s Sense Ride 4, which boasts a waterproof membrane but is also breathable enough to keep your feet cool on warm, rainy runs. 

This shoe is not quite as waterproof as, say, Gore-Tex hiking boots would be (it has a lower collar, of course, so water can get in the top), but it does repel rain well, and if it does get saturated in puddles, it’s quick to dry – we’d class it as water-resistant. 

Salomon Sense Ride 4 women’s: on the trails

The Ride 4s are pleasingly lightweight and speedy to wear, and we like the quick-adjust laces – no more faffing with knots mid-jog, and getting a custom fit makes the shoes feel snug underfoot mile after mile (see also: how should trail running shoes fit?).

The lightweight and mesh-like outer fabric feels freeing to wear, but does offer a tad less protection than a stiffer shoe would, making these shoes better suited to groomed trails rather than going off-piste on rocky ground or doing more scrambly skyruns.

All in all, this is a quality choice for runners dealing with mercurial weather, and their breathability is ideal if you’re taking on running events in hotter climates. 

We also like the looks of the Sense Ride 4 but the ones that come in paler hues do look dirty quickly when you’re exploring dirt trails (we will never understand why trail shoes come in pastel colorways!).