Choosing the Right Salomon Trail Running Shoes: Our Top Picks

Finding the right trail running shoes can be a challenge, especially when the terrain can vary from muddy forest paths to hard-packed trails. Salomon is a popular brand, but with models like the Speedcross, Ultra Glide, and XA Pro, it's easy to get lost in the options. This article is designed to help. We'll highlight several popular models and provide practical tips based on product specifications, so you can make an informed decision for your next adventure.

Buyer's Guide: What to Look For?

Before you make a choice, it's helpful to understand a few key features of Salomon trail running shoes.

1. Grip and Terrain: The Contagrip Outsole

Not all outsoles are created equal. Salomon uses its Contagrip technology but tailors it for different surfaces.

• For mud and soft ground: Models with deep, widely spaced lugs provide excellent grip. They prevent mud from accumulating under your shoe. This is ideal for soggy trails found in many forests.
• For rocky and mixed terrain: If you're looking for trail shoes for rocky terrain, an outsole with a more durable rubber compound and a more versatile lug pattern is a better choice. These offer stability and grip on both hard and soft surfaces.

2. Weather Resistance: Waterproof Trail Running Shoes

The weather can be unpredictable. A waterproof shoe can be the difference between a comfortable and an unpleasant run. Models with a GORE-TEX (GTX) membrane are designed to keep water out while allowing your feet to breathe. This is an important consideration if you train year-round. Non-waterproof versions, on the other hand, often offer more breathability, which is pleasant on warm, dry days.

3. Fit and Convenience: The Quicklace System

Many Salomon shoes are equipped with the Quicklace system. This is a minimalist lace that you can tighten or loosen with a single pull. The advantage is a fast, secure fit that won't come loose while running. The excess lace can be stored in a special pocket on the shoe's tongue.

Our Top Product Recommendations

Below is a selection of popular Salomon trail running shoes, each with its own specific characteristics.

Salomon Ultra Glide 2 W

Why It Stands Out The Ultra Glide 2 is designed with long-distance comfort in mind. The shoe uses Energy Surge foam in the midsole, a lightweight material that Salomon claims provides responsive cushioning. This makes the shoe a compelling choice for runners who cover long distances and prioritize cushioning.

Benefits

• Lightweight construction for effortless movement.
• Breathable mesh upper for ventilation.
• Contagrip outsole for grip on varied surfaces.
• Quicklace system for a fast and secure fit.

Who is this shoe for? This model is aimed at the female trail runner looking for a versatile and comfortable shoe for medium to long distances on less technical terrain. If you prioritize comfort and cushioning, the Salomon Ultra Glide is a model to consider.

Salomon Speedcross Vario 2 GTX

Why It Stands Out The Salomon Speedcross is an icon in the trail running world, known for its performance on soft and muddy surfaces. This Vario 2 GTX version for men combines those features with a water-repellent GORE-TEX upper. The outsole features Premium Wet Contagrip technology, developed by Salomon for reliable grip on wet and slippery paths.

Benefits

• Water-repellent upper keeps feet dry.
• Premium Wet Contagrip outsole for grip on wet surfaces.
• Quicklace system for a snug fit.
• Mesh insert helps prevent debris from entering the shoe.

Who is this shoe for? This shoe is a great option for the male trail runner who often runs on wet, muddy, or slippery trails. If you're looking for men's Salomon trail shoes to get you through autumn and winter, this model offers the combination of grip and weather resistance you need.

Salomon XA Pro 3D v9 W

Why It Stands Out The Salomon XA Pro has long been known for its stability and durability. The v9 version for women builds on this legacy and is designed for technical and challenging terrain. The shoe offers a high degree of foot protection and a stable platform, making it suitable for rocky paths and mixed surfaces. The All Terrain Contagrip outsole is designed for durability and grip on a wide range of surfaces.

Benefits

• Provides excellent stability and support.
• High degree of foot protection against rocks and roots.
• Durable All Terrain Contagrip outsole.
• Suitable for technical runs on rocky and mixed terrain.

Who is this shoe for? This model is aimed at the female runner who trains regularly (2-3 times a week) on challenging trails and values stability and protection. If your routes are often rocky or uneven, the Salomon XA Pro 3D v9 is a reliable choice.

Looking for Something Else?

The world of athletic footwear is broad and diverse. If the specific trail running models above don't quite match what you're looking for, or if you're curious about other supportive athletic shoes, you can explore a wider range.

Check out our category of women's cushioned athletic shoes for more options with a focus on cushioning and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the Salomon Speedcross and the XA Pro?

The Speedcross is primarily designed for soft, muddy surfaces, with deep lugs for maximum grip. The XA Pro is a more all-around shoe, focused on stability and protection on harder, rockier, and mixed terrain. The XA Pro typically feels stiffer and more stable, while the Speedcross is more flexible and grips the ground more like a claw.

Are all Salomon trail running shoes waterproof?

No, not all models are waterproof by default. Salomon offers both a standard version and a GORE-TEX (GTX) version for many popular models, such as the Speedcross and XA Pro. The GTX versions are waterproof. Always check the product name and specifications to see if it is a waterproof model.

How do I choose the right size for Salomon shoes?

Salomon shoes can sometimes run a bit narrow. It's a good idea to consult the manufacturer's size chart and read user reviews about the fit. If you're between sizes, it's often recommended to choose the larger size, especially since your feet can swell slightly during a run. The ultimate goal is to find the right shoe, so buying Salomon shoes in the correct size is crucial for comfort and performance.