Pluses and ...

By Morphie Ranked #347 - Men's Trail Run Shoes December 24, 2010

I purchased these Salomon's for several reasons: 1.) I have an old pair of more traditional hiking shoes from the same company; 2.) Backcountry is a vendor in whom I have absolute trust (returns accepted even in Y3K); 3.) The shoes are Gore-Tex; and 4.) I am OK with red (actually "rust"). Now, for the details:

The shoes are marketed as "trail running"; on that topic I cannot comment, having torn my quad tendon off of my right knee cap. On the other hand, I have never run on trails, preferring to fall on smooth, safe pavement. My hiking has been done on intermediate and easier paths, topping out on the "hard" designated areas at Acadia ( not the "ladder" variety; too much gravity for my taste). In other words, I am a recreational hiker. Accordingly, I look for a shoe that protects the sole of the foot and provides some stability, in an otherwise chaotic life. Given those demands, the Salomon's serve the purpose and are a bit of overkill.

Aspects you should consider: the shoes are, if anything, over engineered. The Kevlar "Quickfit" is more of a curiosity than an advantage. Kevlar may be good for bulletproof vests, but it does abrade; the wear is showing, as is some fraying of the shoe materials. In addition, if you like to snug the lower lacing, this is not the product for you. I have started utilizing a medium (as opposed to light) weight sock; that has helped with fit. However, adjustment is required every hour, or so.

I would guess that the shoe weighs somewhere between a true running shoe and a low cut hiking boot. Hence, it may serve the needs of a true "trail runner". Since I am not in that category, that is mere conjecture.

All in all, this is an interesting product that tries a bit too hard to be different. "Different" with a purpose is fine; in this case, a shoe with traditional lacing and light weight may be preferable.

One other criticism: the left shoe creaks when walking. My guess is that there are layers of material moving against one another. Quality control problems, perhaps?

In essence, I will probably not return the product; however, I would not purchase it again. My suggestion: try it for yourself. With Kevlar and a unique lacing system, it is a conversation piece.

View Details: Salomon XA Pro 3D Ultra 2 GTX Trail Running Shoe - Men's

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