Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX: A Closer Look
Our content may include affiliate links, through which we earn a small commission on purchases. Want to learn more about us? Read here.
Hiking in wet and muddy conditions can be uncomfortable and potentially dangerous without the proper footwear. Wet feet can lead to blisters, discomfort, and even hypothermia in extreme conditions. Traditional hiking shoes often fail to provide adequate waterproofing and traction on slippery surfaces, leading to potential slips and falls.
Hikers passionate about exploring the great outdoors want a reliable, high-performing shoe that can withstand various terrains and weather conditions without sacrificing comfort.
The Salomon X Ultra 4 hiking shoes are popular among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Designed to provide excellent traction, support, and durability on various technical terrains, these shoes have become a go-to option for many hikers. In this review, we’ll look closer at the Salomon X Ultra 4 hiking shoes to see what makes them popular.
What is the Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex hiking shoe?
The Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex hiking shoe offers a solution to the problem of hiking in wet and muddy conditions. With its advanced Gore-Tex membrane and Contragrip outsole technology, the shoe provides superior waterproofing and traction, ensuring a dry and safe experience on the trails. The shoe’s Sensifit technology and OrthoLite insole also provide excellent support and cushioning for the feet, allowing hikers to trek comfortably for extended periods. It also makes a fairly decent trail running shoe.
Best Features of Salomon X Ultra 4
Design and Construction
The Salomon hiking shoes are built with synthetic and mesh materials, making them lightweight and breathable. The shoes are designed with Salomon’s Sensifit technology, providing a snug and secure fit around the foot. This is especially important for hiking, as it helps to prevent blisters and other foot injuries.
One of the most impressive features of the Salomon X Ultra 4 hiking shoes is the Contragrip outsole. This outsole is designed to provide excellent traction on various terrains, including wet and slippery surfaces. The outsole is also designed to be durable and long-lasting, essential for hikers who put a lot of miles on their shoes.
Comfort
The Salomon X Ultra 4 hiking shoes are designed to be comfortable for long hikes or even short-day hikes. The shoes have a padded collar and tongue, which provide cushioning and support around the ankle. The shoes also have a molded EVA midsole, which helps absorb shock and provides additional cushioning.
Another feature that adds to the comfort of these shoes is the OrthoLite insole. This insole is designed to provide additional cushioning and support for the foot, which can be especially helpful for hikers with flat feet or other foot issues.
The X Ultra 4 is available in a hiking boot version for those looking for more ankle support.
Fit
One of the most important factors when choosing hiking shoes is finding a pair that fits well. The Salomon X Ultra 4 hiking shoes are designed to fit true to size, so you can order your regular shoe size and expect a good fit. The shoes are also available in men’s and women’s sizes, making finding a pair that will fit your feet easy.
However, some people have reported that the shoes can be narrow in the toe box, which can be uncomfortable for those with wider feet. If you have wide feet, try on a pair of these shoes before you buy them to ensure they will be comfortable.
Performance
The Salomon X Ultra 4 hiking shoes are designed to perform well on various terrains and live up to that promise. The Contragrip outsole provides excellent traction on wet and dry surfaces, which is essential for hikers who encounter various conditions on the trail.
The shoes are also designed to provide reasonable support and stability, which can be especially important when hiking on uneven terrain. The Sensifit technology helps to keep the foot securely in place, which can help prevent injuries and provide a more comfortable hiking experience.
Waterproof
The Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex version creates waterproof hiking shoes offering additional features designed to enhance the shoe’s performance on wet and muddy trails. The Gore-Tex membrane in the shoe is a waterproof and breathable layer that keeps water out while allowing moisture to escape, which helps to keep the feet dry and comfortable.
The Gore-Tex technology also helps to improve the shoe’s overall durability and longevity by protecting the shoe from the elements and reducing the risk of water damage or other wear and tear caused by prolonged exposure to moisture.
In addition to the Gore-Tex membrane, the Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex hiking shoe also features the same high-performance technologies as the standard version, including the Contragrip outsole and Sensifit technology, which offer excellent traction and support on a variety of terrains.
The Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex hiking shoe is an excellent choice for hikers who want a shoe that can handle wet and muddy conditions while still providing the same high-quality performance and comfort as the standard version. With its advanced waterproofing capabilities and durable construction, this shoe will keep your feet dry and comfortable no matter where your adventures take you.
Durability
One of the most impressive features of the Salomon X Ultra 4 hiking shoes is their durability. The shoes are designed to withstand the wear and tear of hiking, which means they are built to last. The Contragrip outsole is designed to be durable and long-lasting, so you won’t have to worry about the shoes wearing out after just a few hikes.
The synthetic and mesh materials used in the construction of the shoes are also designed to be durable, which means that the shoes can withstand a lot of use and abuse. Overall, the Salomon X Ultra 4 hiking shoes are an excellent choice for hikers looking for shoes that will last them for many hikes.
Salomon X Ultra 4 Pricing
The Salomon X Ultra 4 hiking shoes are priced at the higher end of the hiking shoe market, which may be a consideration for some potential buyers. However, it’s essential to understand that the price reflects the high quality of materials and construction that go into the shoes.
The Salomon X Ultra 4 hiking shoes are made with synthetic and mesh materials, which are lightweight, breathable, and durable. Additionally, the shoes are designed with features like the Contragrip outsole and OrthoLite insole, which provide excellent traction and comfort for long hikes.
All of these high-quality materials and features contribute to the higher price of the shoes. However, it’s important to remember that hiking shoes are an investment, and a good pair can last for many hikes. So, while these Salomon hiking shoes may be more expensive than others on the market, Salomon’s build quality, durability, and performance make them a worthwhile investment for serious hikers.
Salomon X Ultra 4 Pros and Cons
Looking into the pros and cons of a hiking shoe like the Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex can help you decide whether this shoe fits your needs as a hiker. By understanding the potential benefits and drawbacks of the shoe, you can make a more informed choice about whether it is worth the investment.
For example, if you are a hiker who values lightweight design and excellent traction, the Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex pros may make it an excellent option. On the other hand, if you frequently hike in wet or muddy conditions, you may be concerned about the potential for water to seep into the shoe, which could be a potential con to consider.
By looking into the pros and cons of a hiking shoe like the Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex, you can weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks and decide whether this shoe is the right choice for your needs as a hiker.
Salomon X Ultra 4 Pros
The Salomon X Ultra 4 is a popular and well-regarded hiking shoe, and there are several potential benefits to consider, including:
Lightweight design: The X Ultra 4 is designed to be a lightweight hiking shoe, making it an excellent option for hikers who want to move quickly and comfortably on the trail.
Comfort: The X Ultra 4 features a stable and cushioned midsole with EnergyCell+ technology, which provides excellent shock absorption and responsiveness, helping to reduce fatigue and discomfort during long distances.
Traction: The X Ultra 4 features a Contagrip outsole with aggressive lugs, providing excellent traction on a variety of surfaces, including wet and slippery terrain.
Support: The X Ultra 4 features a supportive chassis and SensiFit system, which cradles the foot for a secure and comfortable fit.
Durability: The X Ultra 4 is built with durable materials, including a protective toe cap and mudguard, making it an excellent option for hikers who frequently encounter rugged terrain.
Versatility: The X Ultra 4 is designed to perform well on various terrains, making it a versatile choice for hikers exploring different trails.
Overall, the Salomon X Ultra 4 is a high-quality hiking shoe designed to provide comfort, support, and performance on the trail. Its lightweight design, excellent traction, and durable construction make it popular among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Salomon X Ultra 4 Cons
While the Salomon X Ultra 4 Pro is a popular and well-regarded hiking shoe, there are some potential drawbacks to consider, including:
Price: The Salomon X Ultra 4 Pro is a premium hiking shoe, and as such, it comes with a relatively high price tag compared to other hiking shoes on the market.
Sizing: Some users have reported that the Salomon X Ultra 4 Pro sizing can be small or narrow, which may require trying on multiple sizes to find the right fit.
Durability: While the X Ultra 4 Pro is built with durable materials, some users have reported that the sole can wear down faster than expected, mainly if used frequently on hard or rocky surfaces.
Waterproofing: While the X Ultra 4 Pro is designed to be water-resistant, it may not be completely waterproof, and some users have reported that water can seep in through the seams or other areas of the shoe.
Break-in period: Some users have reported that the X Ultra 4 Pro requires a break-in period before it becomes comfortable to wear, particularly in the area around the ankle.
Overall, these potential cons may not be deal-breakers for everyone. The Salomon X Ultra 4 Pro remains popular among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts for its comfort, stability, and performance on the trail.
Salomon X Ultra 4 Alternatives
Altra Lone Peak 6 – A new and improved version of the iconic hiking shoe. It features updated upper construction and a customizable lacing system, providing a better fit for hikers. The MaxTrac outsole with TrailClaw canted lugs offers excellent traction and responsiveness on various terrains. These are great for trail hikes without pavement or concrete sections. The soles hold up great in the dirt but wear down too fast on harder surfaces.
La Sportiva Spire GTX – An ideal hiking and backpacking shoe for those seeking lightweight performance on variable to rugged trails. With durable abrasion-resistant mesh uppers, a Nano Cell 2.0 structure that ensures maximum breathability, and Gore-Tex® Surround™ aeration channels in both the footbed and midsole, your feet will remain snugly supported.
Merrell Moab 2 Ventilator – Merrell’s iconic hiker is like nothing you’ve ever experienced. With its combination of sturdy leathers, a supportive footbed, and Merrell’s exclusive Vibram® TC5+ traction, your feet can relax, knowing they are being supported with every step. I feel these are a bit heavier than others. However, they can take a beating on the trail.
My Experience Using the Salomon X Ultra 4
I have been using the Salomon X Ultra 4 hiking shoes for over a month now, and I must say, they have been an excellent choice for my upcoming Camino De Santiago trek. I was specifically looking for a lightweight shoe that would offer better durability than the other options in the market, and I was not disappointed.
To ensure I was fully prepared for the Camino, I took the shoes on several training hikes on varied terrain, including pavement, dirt, rocks, and wet conditions. During these hikes, I found that the shoes offered excellent traction, which was crucial for navigating slippery and uneven trails, especially in the wet and rugged terrain of the Pacific Northwest. The Contragrip outsole and Sensifit technology of the shoes kept my feet firmly planted on the ground and helped me maintain my balance on steep and rocky terrain.
After breaking them in, I found the Salomon X Ultra 4 hiking shoes incredibly comfortable. The molded EVA midsole and OrthoLite insole provided ample cushioning and support, which reduced the impact on my feet and minimized foot fatigue during long hikes. This is especially important for multi-day treks like the Camino, where comfort is key.
I am impressed with the performance and durability of the Salomon X Ultra 4 hiking shoes. They have exceeded my expectations, and I am confident they will perform well on my Camino adventure. I highly recommend these shoes to anyone looking for a reliable, high-performance hiking shoe that can withstand a variety of terrains and conditions.
I have to mention their upgraded laces; they are not your traditional laces. The new laces on the X Ultra 4 feature a secure locking system that keeps them in place, providing a more comfortable and customized fit. The laces are also made with durable materials designed to withstand the rigors of hiking on rough terrain.
Conclusion: Should You Buy Salomon X Ultra 4?
The Salomon X Ultra 4 hiking shoes are an excellent choice for serious hikers who want a reliable, high-performance shoe that can withstand the rigors of varied terrain and weather conditions. The shoes are designed with top-quality materials and features like the Contragrip outsole, Sensifit technology, and OrthoLite insole that offer excellent traction, support, and cushioning for the feet.
After testing the Salomon X Ultra 4 hiking shoes, it’s clear that they are an excellent investment for serious hikers who demand the best from their gear. While they may be priced higher than some other hiking shoes on the market, the quality of materials and construction justify the price point. The shoes are durable and comfortable and perform excellently on the trails.
Whether planning a multi-day trek on the Camino De Santiago or exploring the outdoors on the weekends, the Salomon X Ultra 4 hiking shoes are a great choice that won’t disappoint. With their lightweight design, excellent multi-directional grip, and durable construction, these shoes will become a trusted companion on all your hiking adventures.
See you out on the trail!
