Details
Brand
Salomon
Breathability
8/10
Latest Version
Yes
Terrain
Trail
Type
Neutral
Key Features
• Wet Traction Contagrip outsole provides an aggressive lug system• IMEVA midsole foam provides added cushioning and responsiveness• Sensifit technology gives a snug, supportive fit throughout the entire shoe.• Mud guard system helps shake off excessive mug to keep the lugs extra grippy on the trail• Anti debris mesh of the upper keeps harmful debris from entering the shoe• ClimaShield Membrane along the upper provides a breathable protection against water entering the shoe.• Ortholite sock liner adds cushioning and helps keep the foot dry and free from odor and bacteria
Upper
The upper of the Salomon Speedcross 4 CS is loaded with new technology that protects the shoe and offers the runner an incredibly comfortable ride. The upper is made from a breathable material that also manages to be water resistant. It is covered in what Salomon calls a ClimaShield Membrane. The mesh also protects against debris from the trail to keep the foot safe. If the shoe is covered with mud, the guard system that is designed to shake off mud will help keep the runner safe from slipping. Using Salomon’s patented SensiFit design, runners can expect a snug and supportive fit. Finally, this shoe utilized an Ortholite Sock liner to add cushioning and support. It also keeps the foot cool and dry and free from odor and bacteria.
Midsole
The midsole foam used in this shoe’s design is an IMEVA foam. This runs the entire length of the shoe and provides superior cushioning and protection for the runner. This midsole foam is designed to absorb the shock and helps prevent potential injuries. Additionally, the midsole does a great job of returning energy to the runner which helps prevent premature fatigue and also provides a high level of responsiveness. This level of responsiveness allows runners to quickly and efficiently change direction and speed and adapt to changes in the terrain.
Outsole
Runners who train on the trail know that the secret to a good trail running shoe starts from the bottom up. What this means is that in order for a trail shoe to be considered a good purchase, it has got to have an impressive outsole. The Salomon Speedcross 4CS has an impressive, protective outsole unit that is lined with an aggressive lug system to keep the runner safe and secure. It utilizes Salomon’s patented Wet Traction Contrgrip technology. This uses an aggressive lug system to latch onto the ground below and hold on tight. Runners reported that this shoe is not just great for flat terrain or rolling hills, but it can easily hand steep up and downhill runs due to the unique lug pattern found underfoot.
Breathability
This shoe offers the runner a unique combination of protection and breathability. Even though the upper of the shoe is constructed using a water-resistant material, the entire upper is also made using a unique breathable mesh. This mesh keeps the foot cool and dry even on long hikes and runs. Salomon knew that a good trail running shoe needed to have protection against blisters and hot spots, and they ensured the upper to be breathable in order to reduce the risk.
Comfort
Runners really liked this shoe for longer, tougher hikes and runs. In order to make this possible, Salomon added cushioning in high wear areas. This helped runners feel supported throughout their entire run. Another comfort element is the breathable yet water resistant upper. This upper does an amazing job of helping the foot stay dry and comfortable.
Style
Runners liked that this shoe came in a wide variety of different vibrant color options. Often times it is difficult to find a colorful trail running shoe because many come in more neutral, darker colors. Luckily, Salomon offers both darker, more neutral option as well as a bit brighter option for both men and women.
Durability
The outsole of the Speedcross 4 CS was changed the most. Runners who purchased the previous version commented that it did not provide the level of traction and durability that they were hoping to experience. With the redesigned outsole, runners can now expect to find a more durable shoe, which translates to a better value in the long run. The ClimaShield Membrane of the upper helps protect the upper from dangerous debris and keeps the shoe looking and feeling newer for a longer period of time.
Protection
The Salomon SpeedCross 4 CS offers superior protection in a few key areas. First, it has a ClimaSheild Membrane across the upper that is uniquely designed to deflect dangerous trail debris in order to protect the foot. Another protective element is that the shoe uses an IMEVA foam in the midsole. This helps to return energy to the foot and keep the runner from experiencing premature fatigue. A smaller, yet just as important detail is the lace pockets. These little pockets are used to stash the laces so they do not come untied or get in the way.
Responsiveness
Due to the IMEVA midsole material used in the Salomon SpeedCross 4 CS, runners reported a high level of responsiveness. Runners were impressed that although the shoe has a high drop and a relatively higher level of cushioning, they were still able to feel the trail below them and respond to changes in terrain, speed, and direction.
Support
The key support element of the shoe can be found through the unique design of the upper. The upper provides the runner with a snug yet breathable fit. Runners reported that they felt very secure and protected in the shoe, but they didn’t feel weighted down by cumbersome overlays. The shoe also comes with a more rugged heel counter to lock the foot into place and avoid unwanted side to side movement.
Terrain
Runners love this shoe for all different types of trails. The aggressive lug system on the outsole makes this a great shoe to take on more extreme terrain, but runners also loved these shoes for the groomed trails too. The features in the Speedcross 4 CS make this a versatile shoe.
Price
The price on this shoe is slightly higher than other trail running shoe, but it is important to remember that a quality trail running shoe with many features, including a mud guard, anti debris mesh, and the ClimaShield membrane along the upper. These technological updates are well worth the higher price tag.
Drop
The drop on this shoe is a more traditional 10 millimeter. Runners commented that they felt protected due to the added cushioning provided in the heel of the shoe. This is not a shoe for the runner looking for a zero drop or minimalist running shoe.
Stability
This is a neutral running shoe and it does not include some key features that would help a runner struggling with issues of over or underpronation. Runners did comment that injection molded EVA midsole foam did provides a great landing pad and added cushioning which some runners found to help with arch support.
Flexibility
This shoe focuses more on durability and protection and less on flexibility. Runners liked this shoe for a stable running partner, and due to the added features, this shoe loses some of its flexible feeling in the outsole in order to give you a more solid, stable ride. However, the upper of the shoe is very flexible. It utilizes Salomon’s patented Sensifit technology which contours to the shape of the foot and provides a snug, yet flexible fit.
Traction
One of the Speedcross 4 CS’s best details is its high level of traction. Runners reported feeling safe and secure on steep inclines, uneven or jagged surfaces, and even downhill descents on loose terrain. This can be attributed to Salomon’s patented Wet Traction Contragrip. The outsole is lined in an aggressive, multi-directional lug system that is designed to keep the runner safe regardless of the conditions of the trail.
Bottom Line
This shoe is a great addition to your trail running shoe arsenal. It comes with some of the newest technology by Salomon to provide you with an optimal trail running experience. The upper molds to the shape of the foot providing superior fit and water-resistant protection. Runners love the color options offered, and although it is slightly higher than the average trail running shoe, runners commented that the solid durability makes it worth the money.
