Almost all hiking shoes are rugged, provide added grip and some level of support. So what can a company do to make their product stand out from the crowd? Simple, double down on the innovative stuff. Salomon has don exactly that with their X Ultra 3 GTX Hiking Boot. So how well does that innovative stuff perform?
Features of the Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX Hiking Boots
First and foremost the quality of these shoes are excellent. The shoe exterior is a combination of actual leather and mesh. The PU-coated leather upper is both super tough and also breathable thanks to the mesh fabric used. The Gore-Tex Performance Comfort Footwear ensure the fabric remains waterproof as well as breathable.
In addition to the durable materials used for construction, the Advanced Chassis on this shoe works to stabilize your heel. Heel stability is quite important for anyone who is looking to run in these shoes. The Advanced Chassis is connected directly to the sole and is surrounded by foam cushioning for added comfort.
A snug, customized fit is a centerpiece of any good shoe. Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3 GTX employs what the company dubs “Sensifit”. This technology cradles your foot, starting from the midsole to the lacing system. This cradling system creates a fit based on your foot shape making the shoe essentially customized.
The lacing system is another area where Salomon is looking to set itself apart from the competition. Called the “Quicklace”, this lacing system tightens the shoe with just one pull. Minimalist, simple and effortless, it lets you slip the shoe on or of in a jiffy.
Perhaps the most ambitious thing that Salomon bakes in their X Ultra 3 GTX is their propriety Descent Control technology. This technology comes into play whenever you are tackling demanding, technical hikes. The descent on such hikes can be quite tough if you don’t have the right pair of shoes on. Salomon’s Descent Control Technology provides the needed traction and energy return to make descents easy on your feet.
Other notable features include a Gusseted tongue to protect again the debris, a rubber toe cap to protect your toe during an impact, a mud guard, external heel counter to hold your foot in place and a removeable EVA footwear featuring OrthoLite cushioning for a better overall in-shoe feel.
The X Ultra 3 GTX comes in a variety of colors with an average starting price of a hair less than a $150.
Pros
- Exceptional build quality
- Waterproofing works really well
- Comfortable to wear all day long
- Innovative advanced chassis
- Descent control technology actually works
Cons
- Pricier when compared to other brands
Salomon has done a remarkable job in designing the X Ultra 3 GTX. These are an excellent hiking boot.
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