Details
Brand
Salomon
Heel To Toe Drop
7mm
Breathability
6.9/10
Latest Version
Yes
Terrain
Trail
Type
Stability
Key Features
• Salomon XT Hornet• Midsole: Molded EVA• Outsole: Contagrip® rubber• Upper: Mesh with synthetic overlays• Removable insole
Upper
Part of the versatility of the Salomon XT Hornet lies within the upper which features a breathable open mesh for lightweight coverage. Whether or not you are running in wet conditions, the upper will keep your foot cool and dry throughout every run. Another great feature is the lace-up system. If you get annoyed easily of shoelaces bouncing or getting in your way, Salomon has created the perfect solution. The quick lacing system and lace pocket keep them tucked and secured away.
Midsole
The midsole of the XT Hornet is what gives the shoe maximum cushioning. Its Molded EVA material allows the shoe to absorb shock as well as protect the foot during longer runs. A hard plastic shell known as the AC Skeleton helps prevent overpronation and guides the foot smoothly through the gait cycle.
Outsole
The Salomon XT Hornet features multiple technologies in the outsole for exceptional traction. Bi-directional lugs help runners climb on the forefoot and aid in control when running downhill. Thanks to Salomon’s Contagrip engineering, the XT Hornet delivers a durable grip made for a variety of terrains. The High Abrasion Contagrip outsole also provides an ample amount of durability in high wear areas. The heel portion of the outsole features Salomon’s AC Tendon which gives athletes a responsive ride through high energy return in every step.
Breathability
The masterfully designed upper creates a good amount of airflow through the shoe when in use. The breathable mesh wraps around the ankle and provides extra cushioning that every trail runner can appreciate. On short or long distance runs, you will not experience any hot spots in the shoe. This is great news for those who exercise during hot summer days on rough terrains.
Comfort
The specialized EVA foam technology provides extreme comfort even on long runs. The addition of midsole cushioning gives the XT Hornet an extra edge when it comes to comfort. Trail runners need comfort just as much as they need protection due to the terrain they encounter. Salomon’s engineering will provide both characteristics at a high-quality grade.
Style
Salomon offers two different color styles for the XT Hornet. For an eye-catching vibrant look, go for the Clover Green style to get that extraordinary color pop. If you like gear that is more conservative when it comes to style, look into the Detroit Red and the Black version for a more laidback look. Both versions have a three-tone color scheme that visually ties the shoe together in an appealing way.
Durability
If you are thinking about investing in a trail running shoe and the reviews on its durability are not outstanding, don’t waste your money. Salomon provides top-of-the-line durability that is sure to outlast its competitors. The beautifully designed High Abrasion Contagrip will provide traction and durability on high wear areas of the shoe.
Protection
Protection is also one of the most important things to look at when purchasing trail running shoes. The Salomon XT Hornet features a padded collar and tongue which aids in preventing debris to enter the shoe when in use. The Contagrip rubber outsole component will also provide additional protection from sharp surfaces that trail runners may encounter.
Responsiveness
The Agile Cell (AC) Muscle 2 cushioning system is responsible for giving the XT Hornet its responsive character. The system also provides extensive cushioning that will absorb any shock impacts that may come about from trail running paths. Additionally, the AC Tendon feature renders high energy returns for the ultimate responsive ride.
Support
Salomon really hit the nail on the head when it came to engineering a strong, supportive structure in their trail running shoes. The Agile Chassis (AC) Skeleton TPU exoskeleton is effective in controlling the heel-to-toe transition when running. It also keeps the foot stable for those with slight overpronating styles. If you like to hike in trail running shoes, the support of the XT Hornet is a great added incentive.
Terrain
You name the terrain and the Salomon XT Hornet will perform. Trails, tracks, loose gravel, hard and soft dirt, snow, rain and anything else you can think of is well within the range of terrain of this shoe. Take on rocky paths or muddy surfaces and be confident that your shoe will be able to provide a safe and supportive ride.
Price
Unfortunately, Salomon has stopped producing this line of shoe. Therefore if you are really thinking about purchasing this shoe, you should try to hop on a pair your size sooner rather than later. Its price point starts around $90 but can fluctuate depending on the marketplace you are looking in. Compared to other shoes that have similar qualities, the XT Hornet is a bit more pricey than others. Its proven structure and comfortability may be worth the few extra bucks.
Drop
The heel to toe drop is measured at 7 millimeters for both men and women. The Salomon XT Hornet heel height is 26 millimeters and the forefoot height is measured at 19 millimeters. This is a little bit below average when it comes to drops on running shoes.
Stability
After running with the XT Hornet, users will immediately notice that Salomon had put stability as a priority when creating this line. The supportive stabilization of this shoe will help you take on rocky trails and other types of terrain. The abrasion-resistant rubber Contagrip material with chevron lugs increases the durability and support on rough surfaces.
Flexibility
The flexibility in this shoe has been noted to be on the lower end. Some users have mentioned that they feel the XT Hornet is stiff in nature which constricts its ability to be flexible in certain situations. The toe box may be a little stiff for some users but the added protection of the toe cap may be enough to make up for its lack of flexibility depending on the athlete.
Traction
The Salomon XT Hornet has a traction that will perform in just about any environment. In normal and dry conditions, its traction excels and will offer an exceptional grip on a variety of surfaces. The outer lugs on the outsole help runners corner steep hills going both up and down. Contagrip technology will deliver reliable traction on every terrain a trail runner can think of.
Bottom Line
The Salomon XT Hornet is a pair of trail running shoes that have been proven to last. It can truly take on a very wide variety of terrains and will deliver the same quality run during short and long distances. They are breathable, stable and protect your feet from weather and debris. Although they were ideally made for runners with medium arches and slight over-pronation, the XT Hornet is sure to satisfy any trail runner.
