The Top Salomon Hiking Shoes You Should Know About

Salomon isn’t just a hiking brand anymore. Over the past few years, it has evolved from an alpine specialist to one of the the most hyped sneaker labels around. Known for its rugged construction, reliable grip, and long-lasting support, it now ranks among the most trusted choices in trail footwear.

A combination of post-pandemic outdoor interest, the rise of gorpcore fashion, and the brand’s function-first design has pushed Salomon into the mainstream. But beyond trends, the appeal comes from performance. These shoes are built for rough ground, long days, and unpredictable conditions. Durable outsoles, breathable uppers, and stable midsoles feature across many of its best-known models. So what are the best Salomon hiking shoes out there? Let’s find out.

Best Overall Performer for Mixed Terrain

Salomon X Ultra 5

The Salomon X Ultra 5 handles uneven, mixed terrain with consistency and control. It performs well on dry trails, gravel, rocky paths, and light mud. The chassis stabilises the foot under load, especially during descents, while directional lugs provide grip without collecting debris. It supports light packs and remains agile enough for quicker efforts.

Where other shoes shine in specific areas, the X Ultra 5 covers more ground. For day hikes, weekend walks, or light backpacking, it’s the most complete option in Salomon’s current line-up.

Fit and Long-Distance Comfort

The fit holds firmly through the midfoot with a low-profile shape. A wide version is available for added space. The Quicklace system offers even tension across the foot, although it lacks the finer control of standard laces.

Cushioning is firm but protective, with enough shock absorption for extended days without losing ground feel. Flex through the forefoot allows a natural stride, and the overall ride stays steady on uneven trails.

Build and Trail Protection

The upper uses Matryx fabric reinforced with Kevlar for added durability. Reduced seams help prevent wear over time. The toe cap shields against impacts, and the revised heel tab reduces rubbing during longer hikes.

Top Choice for Wet and Unpredictable Trails

Salomon Speedcross 6

The Salomon Speedcross 6 thrives on loose and unstable terrain. Its deep, sharp-edged lugs and improved outsole compound grip confidently through mud, wet grass, and soft dirt. The tread pattern sheds debris quickly, keeping traction consistent even on steeper sections.

It doesn’t perform as well on dry rock or pavement, but in muddy, wet, or shifting terrain, it maintains traction and balance where many others struggle.

Secure Fit and Trail Feedback

The upper holds the foot securely, helping maintain balance on off-camber terrain and narrow ridgelines. The Quicklace system locks down quickly and evenly. The fit is close, particularly in the forefoot, which adds to its precision but may feel tight for broader feet.

The EnergyCell midsole provides a firm, responsive platform. It is not designed for softness, but it cushions well enough for longer distances. Flex at the forefoot supports a smooth rhythm, particularly on softer terrain.

Durability Built for Speed

The upper is welded for structure and abrasion resistance. The design supports quick movement while holding up to tough trail environments. It is built with performance in mind, favouring control and speed over versatility.

Lightweight Comfort Without the Bulk

Salomon X Ultra 360 Edge

What sets the Salomon X Ultra 360 Edge apart is the use of Salomon’s Advanced Chassis system. This support frame, normally found in heavier hiking models, is built into a lighter, more breathable shoe. It adds noticeable stability underfoot, reducing unwanted flex on uneven trails and helping keep the heel locked in place. For a shoe at this weight and price point, that level of structure is rare.

The platform feels steady over dirt, light gravel, and compacted paths. The tread gives solid grip on mild terrain, and the seamless upper reduces pressure points while keeping weight to a minimum. It’s best suited to dry conditions and moderate routes.

Firm Cushioning and Secure Fit

The midsole has a firm, stable feel that keeps foot movement controlled across longer hikes. The slightly raised heel helps with shock absorption during descents, while flex through the forefoot supports smoother strides on flatter ground.

Inside, a cushioned insole softens impact. The fit is supportive through the midfoot, though the toe box narrows near the front. Hikers with wider feet may notice pressure over time, but the shape will feel familiar to those used to Salomon shoes.

Trail Protection with Good Breathability

The upper fabric is more breathable than it appears, supported by a perforated insole that helps manage heat during warmer hikes. Reinforced zones at the toe and heel improve durability in areas most prone to wear.

For warm-weather hiking on maintained trails, the X Ultra 360 Edge offers reliable grip and standout support, all in a lighter, more flexible build.

Trail-Ready with Street Appeal

Salomon XT-6

The Salomon XT-6 is known for its strong trail credentials and clean, technical design. Originally built for ultra-distance mountain running, it combines grip, structure, and lightweight durability in a shape that also suits casual, off-trail wear. It’s a shoe that balances outdoor performance with urban appeal, making it one of the most versatile options in Salomon’s line-up.

Its standout feature is traction. The 5.5mm lugs bite well into soft ground and push through layers of debris without slipping. On wet surfaces like stone slabs and damp roots, the shoe continues to hold firm. The spacing between the lugs helps prevent clogging, allowing them to reset grip quickly with each step. Even in difficult conditions, the outsole gives just enough to keep movement under control.

Stable Build with Fast-Moving Control

The midsole is firm and responsive. It doesn’t feel soft underfoot, but it protects well on impact and supports fast movement over uneven terrain. The structure of the shoe helps manage foot placement during descents and side angles, keeping motion direct and stable.

Fit is precise through the heel and midfoot, giving a locked-in feel without needing extra overlays. The low profile helps the foot sit closer to the ground, improving balance and responsiveness. This setup works best for those who prefer a supportive and secure ride without excess bulk.

Durable Construction in a Low-Profile Frame

Built for real trail use, the XT-6 holds up to repeated wear. The upper uses abrasion-resistant materials that maintain shape over time, and the outsole compound handles both trail and occasional pavement without wearing down too quickly.

What sets it apart is how seamlessly it blends performance and appearance. It looks clean, moves fast, and keeps its shape across varied conditions. For those who want a trail-ready shoe that doesn’t feel out of place off the mountain, the XT-6 offers grip, control, and a dependable build that holds up across seasons.

Mid-Cut Support Built for Long Trail Days

Salomon X Ultra 4

The Salomon X Ultra 4 is designed for hikers who want more structure than a trail runner, but without the weight of a full boot. It’s built for confident movement across uneven terrain, with Salomon’s ADV-C Chassis providing control and underfoot support on steep or rocky paths.

Traction That Handles Mixed Ground

Its Contagrip outsole features angled lugs that hold well across loose trails, damp forest floors, and rocky sections. While the lug rubber may wear quicker than on burlier models, it offers reliable bite for fast-paced day hikes and light scrambles.

Built for Light Speed, Not Bulk

This shoe suits fast-moving hikers who still need stability. While it doesn’t feel as plush as a running shoe, it provides enough shielding for technical routes. The fit may run snug through the midfoot, but there’s toe space and a wide option available. Some hikers have noted inconsistencies in quality or comfort, particularly in the toe box, so it’s worth trying both shoes on if possible.

Supportive Structure for Trail Versatility

Salomon XA Pro 3D V8

The Salomon XA Pro 3D V8 stands out for its crossover capability. It wears like a rugged trail runner but carries the support and structure of a hiking shoe. Salomon’s 3D Advanced Chassis sits between the outsole and midsole, giving the shoe added stiffness and reducing unwanted movement during uneven landings. It protects the foot from twisting while improving control under load.

Its robust design makes it suitable for multi-surface hiking, gravel tracks, and light backpacking. The reinforced toe cap and abrasion-resistant upper handle trail abuse well. It may feel stiff on first wear, but the trade-off is protection that lasts over long distances.

Firm Cushioning with Heel Drop for Hikers

The platform sits high in the heel, with a noticeable drop to the forefoot. This shape suits heel strikers more than midfoot runners, and adds comfort during descents. The cushioning is firm but offers solid impact protection, even on rocky paths. It’s not built for speed but for control.

Inside, the padded tongue and collar help reduce friction, and the SensiFit cage supports the midfoot through lateral moves. It feels snug but stable, especially when combined with the Quicklace system, which spreads tension evenly across the foot.

Built-In Protection with Year-Round Durability

The breathable mesh upper offers more airflow than expected, helped by internal perforations that improve ventilation in warmer weather. The tread grips confidently across surfaces, from wet roots to hardpack and mild mud. It’s slightly less aggressive than other models, but still trail-ready.

With its thick sole, reinforced chassis, and stable ride, the XA Pro 3D V8 delivers the protection and support often found in traditional hiking boots, but with the agility of a low-cut shoe. It’s ideal for hikers looking for a shoe that covers road-to-trail transitions, rough terrain, and long hauls without bulk.

The Bottom Line

Salomon continues to prove why it’s trusted by hikers across all levels. Each silhouette here offers something different, from reliable grip in soft conditions to lightweight support for longer efforts. The X Ultra 5 remains the most well-rounded option, handling mixed terrain with ease.

For those expecting wet weather or covering more distance, many of these shoes include Gore-Tex versions. Whatever the route ahead looks like, there’s a Salomon design built to handle it with control, comfort, and lasting support.