Great for my husband's oddly shaped feet

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

13

Height

6` 1"

Weight

215 lbs

Purchased these boots for my husband for some mild hiking in upper Michigan. We did 10 miles on his first wear and he was totally comfortable. He has his own sole inserts because he has flat feet and overpronates, and he has oddly shaped feet in general. These boots were wonderfully comfortable for him. I own women's Salomon boots and I can't say enough good things about the make and wear of their shoes. Of note, he did need to size up a half size, but this may have been due to his inserts and wearing slightly thicker socks. His height and weight are listed :)

Katy

Comfortable out of the box

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

11.5

Weight

200 lbs

I love these boots. I'm on my 4th pair now. I have kind of a weird shaped foot so these are one of the few boots that are actually comfortable for me. You can pretty much wear them out of the box. Maybe take them on one or two short hikes and then they should be broken in and comfortable from there on out. I think overall it's a good reliable boot. As I said this is my 4th pair so I know what to expect out of them. They generally last me about a year before the tread starts to go, the waterproof wears off, and they'll likely start to rip a bit in the toe area. This has happened on all 4 pairs I've owned. For reference, in a good hiking season, I'm generally doing 300-400 miles a year.

Mike S.

Exceeded my expectations!

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

9.5

Height

5` 11"

Weight

185 lbs

This is my first pair of Solomon boots and I am more than pleased with them! I bought them for some more advanced hikes, rock scrambles, crossing shallow creeks etc. My main concern was that they were truly water proof. I've put these boots to the test and they've held true to me. Completely submerged in water ( on accident ) and continued on my day with dry feet. These boots are very comfortable straight out of the box. They are also very light weight. They have over exceeded my expectations and I've recommended them to family and friends. Ordering from back country was also quick and easy, delivery on time and I even caught a slight discount on my items which is always good. I will be a repeat customer of Solomon and also Back Country. Thanks for the great boots!

Jason M.

WARNING: Runs narrow!

Familiarity:

I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions

It looks like the latest model is narrower than previous versions. I borrowed a pair from a friend of mine in size 9 and loved them so I bought a pair of my own. Unfortunately, they were way too narrow and my feet were in pain within 5 minutes of walking. Since I know a wide version of this shoe is available (though not from Backcountry at the time of this review), I'm not docking stars for the bad fit.

Jason Kent

Solomon X Ultra GTX Mid

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

10.5

Height

5` 10"

Weight

175 lbs

This review is for the X Ultra Mid GTX. I purchased a pair of these almost two years ago and have used them hiking in all conditions, and for snow shoeing as well. I even used them a few times for fat bike riding in the snow. They are light weight, but provide excellent support in a variety of outdoor activities. I have found them suitable to use as a trail running shoes for shorter distance running. My biggest complaint, which continues to increase as I use these shoes, is that they are not waterproof. i didn’t seem to have a problem with wet feet when I first got them, but after about 7 or 8 months I noticed my feet would get wet if they were in water for more than 30 seconds or so. It was not a real problem at first since usually it would take only a few seconds to cross most shallow streams, but lately my feet end up wet any time I get into water over the top of the toe of the shoe. This winter, my feet get wet just walking through snow over the top of the toe. This is the only pair of Gore Tex boots/shoes I have ever had that leak, and I have many other brands with GTX. I will add that there has been no damage to the shoe or GTX liners to cause them to leak. GTX is typically an excellent product when it comes to breathability and waterproofing, so it is a mystery why these leak. I contacted Back Country support about the issue a little over a year ago, but became frustrated when the representative I “communicated” with apparently did not understand that Gore Tex is supposed to make the shoe waterproof. She kept trying to sell me a pair of gaiters that would cover most of the shoe and keep it dry. I explained that the water was not coming over the top of the shoe, but through it. She kept insisting on the gaiters, so I finally gave up with her. Since I live in the Salt Lake City area, I tried twice to go by the store to talk with someone. Both times I called to check store hours but when I arrived the store was closed. At the time I just decided to live with the shoes as they were and wear my other brand GTX boots when conditions were very wet. However these shoes are much worse now, to the point I can’t use them during the winter. Unfortunate since otherwise they are the most comfortable hiking shoe I have. From the reviews it seems most others do not have this issue with their X Ultra GTX, but I am reluctant to buy another pair. Also, my future purchases will very likely be through a retailer that has convenient stores with actual people to talk to if there is a problem.

James H.

amazing boot with few cons after 4yrs

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

13

Height

6` 1"

Weight

188 lbs

Ive owned this boot for 4yrs now. Ive put it thru hell and back. Ive hiked devils path in the Catskills 25.2 miles in 10hrs with a 30lb pack without hiking poles. Ive hiked up machu picchu mountains steps, scrambled up breakneck ridge and many others. Hiked in Maine's wettest season with nonstop ankle high water, rivers etc... And these boots have held up to par keeping me dry and comfortable under load. The footbed is very comfortable and after miles and miles, downhill, uphill, has a comfy feel to it, even while carrying 30 to 40lbs. Once you are tied in, you dont slip around inside. You are locked in. Breathability wise, they can build up some moisture on hot summer hikes at times but not often. The majority of the time they didnt and after rainfall, snow, being in ankle high water for over an hour while moving at a decent pace they still kept your feet dry and comfortable. Warmth, though these aren't a winter hiking boot, i used them in snow in cold temps anyway. With a good trail sock, you stay warm with these. But i dont advise you to use them in the backcountry for backpacking for multiple days. Waterproof, yes they are, over and over and over again abused in water. The only thing you'll feel is the coldness of the water trying to get in but never succeeding. Lacing, is one of the bigger downfalls. The laces come undone often if you do a basic tie up. You must tie them for hiking or else. After sometime they can give way and stretch a tiny bit and need relacing. Debris gets in the boot while hiking, i recommend a bootie or high socks while wearing shorts. Materials have endured super well against the elements and abuse and basically running in them down hill and being underwater. Grip is great wet and dry, for scrambles, downhill, and basically any grade or even vertical at times. Flexibility is insane and feels like a sneaker. But still has support like a hardcore boot. Cons are only the laces and slight stretching while hiking under load. Sizing... I wear 13 for sneakers and these are 13. For other boots I'm normally a 12. I dont touch the front and still have space for a thick sock.

Keith R.

Awesome Goretex Boot Option!

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

10.5

Height

6` 3"

Weight

200 lbs

I just took these for their first hike over Memorial Day Weekend. They were probably a better boot than the trail required, but I thought why not break them in! We did a nice, short creek hike up Neff's Canyon in Salt Lake. The first thing I noticed is that the Ortholite footbed was INCREDIBLE. I have heel pain at times and I didn't notice it at all in these boots (particularly when I laced them in a way to prevents heel pain). They feel relatively sturdy and rigid, and I actually really love the mid rise. I wanted to test the waterproofing on these as well, so I made an effort at walking in the shallow creek when I could. I have never owned Goretex boots and was curious to see how it would hold up on boots (compared to jackets I have owned). Step after step I was so impressed that my feet continued to stay dry. I couldn't believe it. The only important note here is that if you let water get above the cuff and into the boot, your feet will get wet and probably stay that way. If the boot wets from the inside it's game over. Luckily the moisture-wicking footbed and upper make sweat no issue. I also noticed that the lugs felt really really good on anything loose and running down gravel trail. I can't speak highly enough, I feel confident these will last me awhile. The only thing I would say is that if you're looking for a TRUE backpacking boot it may be better to go with the Salomon Quest 4D. However, as a mid distance boot and daily driver these are awesome. Fit is true to size, and slightly roomy. If you're dead center between sizes, size down.

Thomas

Adventure worthy

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

11.5

Height

6` 0"

Weight

175 lbs

If you have 'Salomon feet' (lower volume but roomy toebox) you will love these. They are the perfect cross between a hiking boot and a trail shoe, great for fastpacking, and day hikes in rough terrain. Although they are gore tex, they WILL get wet if you are hiking in snow all day or crossing streams. I consider them to be a three season boot, although they are warm enough down to 20 degrees or so. I like this style of boot so much that I sold my old clunky leather boots. These are so lithe that I can comfortably RUN down the trail with a 2-3 night pack on. I do wish the uppers had less stitching to help with water resistance. The laces also loosen too easily.

Coldsmoke

A Stout Midweight Hiker

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

11

Height

6` 0"

Weight

195 lbs

Overall I am very pleased with these boots. They are a bit heavier than expected, and don't breathe quite was well as I want, but the total performance, durability, and quality of this boot is great. They run a bit stiff, which in my opinion is a big Pro, especially relative to other boots in the same category. After a very brief break in period (3 or 4 miles?) they they begin to shape to your foot and add a little flexibility. They keep traction while ripping on trail, but have the strength to maintain support and integrity for any steep, nasty, off trail endeavors. A really solid boot, especially at that price point.

Shaun Moyer

Very disappointed. Would never recommend

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Fit:

Runs large

Size Bought

9.5

Height

5` 9"

Weight

165 lbs

I have heard and read so many good reviews on Solomon's boots, so I figured I would try them out. I bought these because I could no longer depend on my old boots to keep water out and prevent frostbite on my long hikes in the mountains. On my second hike with these, I briefly walked through a stream, no more than 4 seconds. I thought I felt a little moisture get into my shoes but I did not believe it since they claim to be completely waterproof. But I went back and put my boots back in for a few more seconds and pulled them out. Right after, I watched water sink right into the mesh on the top of these shoes and my feet were soaked my entire hike back. They also had the worst heel support I have ever felt in a boot and are the first to make my heels throb even after such minimal use. This product is not dependable, especially if you are relying on these boots for survival and I would not recommend this product to anyone! I would not even pay $40 for these after the performance I have experienced. My off brand $50 boots (which I hate) have performed better than these. Complete waste of money and I am truly disappointed in this highly respected brand.

Alec Ochs

AMAZING BOOTS

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

8.5

Height

5` 7"

Weight

145 lbs

Probably the most comfortable hiking boots I've ever had. They're a little stiff out of the box and require a short break-in period, but super comfortable! The traction is amazing on them whether it's wet or dry conditions. I highly recommend these for anyone wanting a great boot for the trails.

Clay S.

Awesome boots!

Familiarity:

I gave it as a gift but have feedback to share

Got these as a gift for my dad so here is a review from him! "These boots are awesome, I have the red ones and the color is exactly like the picture! They offer really great support and are comfortable. I am usually a set 10.5 but had to also try these in a 10 because my heel was slipping out of the 10.5. The size 10 worked best for me! The boots have been very good on slippery surfaces and just all around supportive boots!"

Kayla Slack

Great hiking boots!

Familiarity:

I gave it as a gift but have feedback to share

Fit:

True to size

Height

5` 4"

Weight

137 lbs

Gave them as a gift, great materials. Lightweight.

Laura FM

Elk hunting in Utah

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

9

Height

5` 9"

Weight

155 lbs

Used these for my OTC bull elk hunt in Utah. Hunted for 8 days, the first 4 days was rain/sleet/snow. Feet never got wet. Overall, I climbed over 15,000 feet in mud and nasty brush. I’™ve been using Salomon boots and shoes for years, and these are my favorite light-weight boot from them. Don’t think twice about trying these out!

Theodore

Mountain terrain

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

10.5 medium

Height

5` 10"

Weight

160 lbs

Bought these for fall hunting in Colorado and they worked perfectly except for the laces squeaking. Climbed up and down rocky mountain terrain and the shoes gripped wonderfully. Super sable seems like it would be impossible to roll your ankle in these. The only feature I didn't get to try out is the waterproofing.

aoblinski@gmail.com

Try them on FIRST

Familiarity:

I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions

Fit:

True to size

They look amazing! Read the reviews, however I'm so glad I went local and tried a pair on. They have a weird tongue that puts pressure on ankle. Not sure how'd they would fare hiking up and down steep hills. Just didnt fit me in a comfortable way. Try a pair on! I went with Quest 4D much better feel. Get to try them out tomorrow.

josh M.

Amazing Boots

Very comfortable out of the box. Take very little time to break in and provide a lot of cushion for your soles with little weight. Did a multi-day hike in Peru with these boots and my feet were blister-free after 15-20 mile days. Would recommend getting the Salomon Kevlar lace system though, the laces they come with aren’t very good.

JOHN K.

Salomon Ultra Mid

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

12.5

Height

5` 11"

Weight

178 lbs

I broke these boots in four times before I hiked to summit Granite Peak Montana. The boots performed beautifully on the trail, endless boulder fields and on the technical climbs to the highpoint. I will buy them again when these wear out.

William

Too narrow for my Flintstone feet

Familiarity:

I returned this product before using it

Size Bought

11.5

Height

5` 11"

Weight

220 lbs

I'm bummed. These looked very well constructed and durable, and very light weight. They are too narrow in the toe box area for my feet. I have wide feet (see title). Had to send them back. Will probably have to go back to Merrells.

Curtis W.

Great Boot/Shoe hybrid!

Size Bought

10.5

Height

6` 0"

Weight

200 lbs

I normally hike in running shoes, and normally not Gore-Tex lined (for breathability reasons) but picked these boots up. They are really comfortable and easy to break in. I brought them down to Patagonia for two weeks of trekking and hanging around town. They did an excellent job in the variable and often wet conditions and the rough trails. When I had no choice but to get them wet fording a river they dried reasonably quickly.

Brian B.

I just bought these. They seem a little narrow in the middle of the foot. I own a pair of the quest and kinda remember they might have been but they are more bulky. Do you suggest maybe these ultras need some break in or maybe a wide? Thanks

Cory B.