Details
Brand
Salomon
Breathability
6.5/10
Latest Version
X Tour 2
Terrain
Trail
Type
Neutral
Key Features
• SensiFit “foot-wrapping” technology• Dual EVA and IMEVA foam material• ContaGrip outsoles• Pliable TPU band
Upper
The upper of the Salomon X-Tour works hard to guard against the elements as well as the friction of the everyday run. It is comprised of an anti-debris synthetic mesh material. This material keeps a variety of debris out of your shoe which means more comfort on your runs. In addition to the anti-debris mesh, the upper uses the SensiFit “foot-wrapping” technology. This is a seamless material that cuts down on friction. Runners understand the danger of added friction, and they are always looking for ways to cut down on irritation while running. The Salomon X-Tour is padded for extra comfort.;Even after all of these features to keep your foot secure and properly ventilated, the Salomon X-Tour also includes an OrthoLite (removable) insert with an anti-microbial technology that cuts down on odor and provides a moisture wicking feature for added comfort.
Midsole
As is customary of the Salomon brand, the midsole uses some of the newest technology to provide the runner with a comfortable, cushioned ride. The midsole fo the Salomon X-Tour is made up of two different foam materials. Both the EVA and IMEVA foam of the midsole provided added durability and cushioning. Runners raved that the patented material of the midsole made allowed for maximum responsiveness without sacrificing stability or comfort. On the trails, this added feature is especially necessary.
Outsole
The outsole of the Salomon X-Tour is one of the features that sets it apart from other trail and running shoes. For starters, runners appreciate the OS Tendon flex grooves that run along the bottom of the shoe. This feature helps the runner experience a balanced stride with every step. This feature makes this shoe great for long runs because it will help return energy to your stride.;Another feature that runners liked about the outsole of the Salomon X-Tour was the comfortable construction of the ContaGrip technology. This durable rubber material helped the shoe maintain its grip even in rocky or wet terrain. Runners were relieved by the powerful grip of the shoe and, as one runner said it, “never felt like (he) were in danger of slipping”.
Breathability
Breathability on the Salomon X-Tour was one of the lowest rated features. While the shoe claims that the synthetic mesh upper is very breathable, a few reviewers said otherwise. It is important to keep in mind that the upper is made specifically for deflecting debris. This will naturally cut down on its breathability, so it is the individual runner’s decision on which feature is more important to them. While some reviewers gave the shoe low marks for its breathability, they did praise the OrthoLite technology that added to an overall dryer, more comfortable feel. Runners know that a dry foot is a happy foot, and with this removable insole, they were able to keep their feet dry and blister free.
Comfort
The Salomon X-Tour does an excellent job of creating a comfortable trail and road running shoe. A few of the features that add to the overall comfort of the shoe are the added padding of the foam midsoles, the padded collar and tongue, the seamless construction of the upper, the SensiFit “foot-wrapping” technology, and the added cushioning in the footbed and outsole. This is a rugged, durable shoe, but it doesn’t skimp on comfort either.
Style
The Saloman brand knows what it is doing when it comes to creating a good looking shoe. Reviewers gave the shoe high marks for style. They said The Salomon X-Tours were ” eye-catching ” and “unique” for a trail running shoe. The color combinations add to the unique flair of this shoe. For men, you can find the shoe in four different, eye-catching combinations. Iguana green, black, and yellow gold is one of the most popular color combinations. For women, expect to see combinations like wasabi, white, and mystic purple. Along the side, runners can look for the patented zig-zagging insignia that tells the world that you are wearing a Salomon trail shoe.
Durability
Many reviewers commented that the Salomon brand is a “high-end” outdoor brand. By this, runners meant that the brand costs more than many others but they also highlighted that the price was worth it because the shoe held up better than other brands they had used in the past. Since trail shoes can take a real beating, it is important to look for brands that offer high quality, durable materials in their design. The Salomon X-Tour is a shoe that provides a durable rubber outsole and two layers of durable foam in the midsole. Because they can take a pounding and still offer a comfortable ride, the Salomon X-Tour receives high overall marks for durability without the added weight of some other trail running shoes.
Protection
An important feature to consider for anyone who is looking to purchase trail running is the level of protection that they can offer. While out on the trail, the last thing you want to worry about is stubbing your toe on a stray rock, branch, or root. The double Foam material of the midsole does an excellent job of protecting the foot against sharp objects on the trail floor. In addition, the TPU toe cap is a technology that encases the toe box for added protection. Several reviews of the Salomon X-Tour were very pleased with the amount of protection provided by this shoe.
Responsiveness
In the category of responsiveness, the Salomon X-Tour received rave reviews. While the midsole does an excellent job of absorbing impact and protecting against hip and knee pain, neither it nor the outsole is so thick that the runner cannot feel the trail or the road beneath them. Additionally, the Salomon X-Tour is also an excellent shoe for switching quickly between road and trail. There is a stretchy TPU band that runs the length of the mid and outsole. This material that runs between both the midsole and the outsole is responsible for giving the Salomon X-Tour its amazing responsiveness. The shoe reacts to the needs of the runner and adapts accordingly.
Support
While it did seem that all types of runners appreciated the support of the Salomon X-Tour, it was heavier runners or runners with wide feet that especially loved this shoe. One runner even stated, “I enjoy the support they give. My feet do not get “tired” in these shoes.” The shoes are also available in wide sizes as well.
Terrain
One of the best things about the Salomon X-Tour is its versatility. This shoe can take you from the track to the road to the trail and back again. The Salomon X-Tour advertises itself as a trail shoe for the “urban trail runner.” If you are looking for a shoe that will hold up on the trail, but also take you effortlessly around town, this is a great shoe for you.;However, this is not the trail shoe for the adventure hiker that is seeking to go off the beaten path. It is suggested that this shoe sticks to trails and roads, and leaves the extreme adventure to a different model of trail running shoe.
Price
Salomon’s are known for being a more “high-end” brand. However, reviews were overwhelmingly happy with their purchase and repeatedly claimed that the shoe was worth the money. The good news is that this model of the Salomon brand is less expensive than many of its brothers and sisters. Runners can find this shoe for less than one-hundred dollars. One reviewer even praised the shoe by saying that the Salomon X-Tours were the “best trail running shoe for the money I’ve ever had.
Drop
The desired drop height of a shoe is all about the runner’s personal preference. Many trail runners do not like a low drop in a trail running shoe. Too much of a “natural” feel can actually be painful on the trail, for some. The drop on the Salomon X-Tour is 9 mm. This brings it right in the middle of the pack when you consider the average shoe has a 12 mm drop, and a more minimalist shoe usually starts around 4 mm.
Stability
Another important feature to look for when selecting a trail running shoe is stability. Runners will be faced with uneven terrain and need a shoe they can trust to keep their foot secure in all different situations. The Salomon X-Tour is an excellent shoe for stability. A new, suede material in the heel area of the shoe provides secure stability for the runner. It keeps the heel securely in place. This eliminates frictions and cuts down on the potential for twisted ankles and knees.
Flexibility
Even with all the support and stability that Salomon X-Tour provides to trail and road runners, it doesn’t sacrifice flexibility in order to do so. This shoe works hard to provide added stability, but it still is a highly flexible shoe.
Traction
When it comes to traction, the Salomon X-Tour’s knock it out of the park. The main reason for the X-Tour’s amazing traction is the ContaGrip outsoles. These deep flex grooves provide great traction on a variety of surfaces in all conditions. These deep grooves provide excellent grip whether you are sprinting across the slick pavement, jogging down a rocky hill, or taking a hearty hike over gravel.
Bottom Line
Salomon is a trusted brand of the highest quality. Their gear is known to feature cutting-edge technology and the newest innovations in outdoor gear. The masterminds behind the Salomon brand are not afraid to try new things in a quest to give their customers the best, most reliable, outdoor products on the market. If you are looking for a versatile shoe that you can use for a vigorous hike, a long run on the road, or speed work on the track, this is a great choice for you. Coming in under one hundred dollars, this shoe is worth every penny!
