| Quick answer: Best Salomon Shoes in 2026. The Salomon Ultra Glide 4 is the best Salomon shoe for most trail runners because it combines plush cushioning, a 6 mm drop and versatile 4 mm lugs. Choose the Speedcross 6 for mud, the XA Pro 3D V9 Gore-Tex for a stable trail shoe, the X Ultra 5 Mid Gore-Tex for hiking, the Aero Glide 4 for road running or the XT-6 for casual wear. Salomon shoes often fit snugly, so check the size chart and available widths before ordering. Check latest Salomon prices on Amazon. |
Salomon makes shoes for very different jobs, from running through deep mud to hiking in wet weather and walking around the city. That range is useful, but it also makes choosing a model confusing. The best Salomon shoe is not simply the newest or most expensive one. It is the shoe designed for the terrain and activity you have in mind. This guide compares six current Salomon models widely available in the fall of 2026. It covers fit, cushioning, traction, waterproofing and the compromises that matter before you buy.
See also: 2025 Salomon shoes.
Best Salomon shoes at a glance
Each model below serves a distinct purpose. Waterproof Gore-Tex versions are warmer and less breathable than standard mesh shoes, while deep trail lugs can feel awkward and wear more quickly on pavement.
Salomon model (click to scroll to review) | Best for | Key details | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|
Best overall trail shoe | 6 mm drop, 4 mm lugs, maximum cushioning | ||
Mud and soft ground | 10 mm drop, 5 mm lugs, secure Quicklace fit | ||
Stable trail use | Waterproof, protective chassis, 3.5 mm lugs | ||
Hiking | Mid-cut waterproof boot, stable platform, 11 mm drop | ||
Road running | 8 mm drop, high-stack cushioning, regular laces | ||
Casual wear and travel | 10 mm drop, supportive chassis, trail-inspired style |
How we chose these Salomon shoes
We selected models that fill clearly different roles and that were still being sold as current products by Salomon or through active Amazon listings by resellers. We checked the technical details against Salomon’s U.S. product information rather than relying on marketplace descriptions alone. Amazon inventory changes by color and size, so a listing can remain active even when a particular option sells out.
This is a comparison of designs and intended uses, not a hands-on wear test. The recommendations are based on each shoe’s construction, outsole, cushioning, fit and position in Salomon’s lineup. We excluded older models when a more useful current option was available. That is why the Aero Blaze and regular Sense Ride 5 from the previous article are no longer top picks here.
Salomon Ultra Glide 4
Best overall Salomon trail running shoe
The Ultra Glide 4 is the easiest Salomon trail shoe to recommend to runners who value comfort over an especially firm or close-to-the-ground feel. Salomon gives it a 41 mm heel and 35 mm forefoot, creating a 6 mm drop and an ultra-plush platform. Its optiFOAM midsole is paired with a curved sole and a wavy relieveSPHERE outsole geometry intended to spread pressure underfoot.
The 4 mm All-Terrain Contagrip lugs are more versatile than the deeper lugs on the Speedcross 6. They suit maintained trails, gravel, dry dirt and mixed surfaces without making the shoe feel excessively aggressive. Quicklace provides fast adjustment, while the internal EndoFit sleeve helps hold the midfoot. Salomon lists the men’s version at about 10 ounces.
This is the better choice for long trail runs and regular training. It is less convincing in deep mud, where the Speedcross 6 clears soft ground more effectively. The high stack may also feel less precise to runners who want strong ground feedback on technical terrain.
Key specs
- Launch price: $160
- Drop: 6 mm
- Stack height: 41 mm heel, 35 mm forefoot
- Lug depth: 4 mm
- Listed men’s weight: 10 ounces
- Cushioning: Ultra plush
- Outsole: All-Terrain Contagrip with relieveSPHERE geometry
- Lacing: Quicklace
Pros
- Plush cushioning for long trail miles
- More versatile tread than a mud-specific shoe
- Lighter and more breathable than the previous version
- Quick and secure lacing system
Cons
- Tall platform provides less ground feel
- Not the best choice for deep mud
- Regular-width fit may not suit every wide foot
Gender-specific buy links: Men’s Ultra Glide 4 | Women’s Ultra Glide 4
Salomon Speedcross 6
Best Salomon shoe for mud
The Speedcross 6 remains Salomon’s specialist for soft and messy trails. Its 5 mm chevron-shaped Mud Contagrip lugs bite into loose soil, wet grass and mud, and their spacing helps the outsole release dirt as the foot lifts. That focused design gives the Speedcross an advantage off-road but makes it a poor everyday road shoe. Hard pavement can feel harsh beneath the deep lugs and may wear them faster.
Salomon pairs a 32 mm heel and 22 mm forefoot with a 10 mm drop. The EnergyCell+ midsole feels protective, while the SensiFit upper and Quicklace closure create the secure foothold needed on steep terrain. Anti-debris mesh and ripstop fabric add protection without turning the non-waterproof model into a heavy boot.
The trade-off is fit. The Speedcross line is known for a close performance shape, although Salomon also sells a men’s wide version. Runners who need more toe room should compare the regular and wide options rather than automatically sizing up and making the heel too loose.
Key specs
- Launch price: $150
- Drop: 10 mm
- Stack height: 32 mm heel, 22 mm forefoot
- Lug depth: 5 mm
- Listed women’s weight: 9 ounces
- Cushioning: Soft and protective
- Outsole: Mud Contagrip
- Lacing: Quicklace
Pros
- Excellent traction on mud and loose ground
- Secure upper and one-pull lacing
- Good protection from trail debris
- Men’s wide version available
Cons
- Too aggressive for regular road running
- Close fit may crowd wide feet
- Non-waterproof version will not keep out sustained rain
Buy: Men’s Speedcross 6 | Women’s Speedcross 6
Salomon XA Pro 3D V9 Gore-Tex
Best stable and protective Salomon trail shoe
The XA Pro 3D V9 Gore-Tex sits between a trail runner and a low hiking shoe. It is heavier and firmer than the Ultra Glide 4, but its 3D Advanced Chassis adds lateral structure and underfoot protection. That makes it a strong option for rocky walks, day hikes and trail users who prefer a planted feel over soft cushioning.
This Gore-Tex version adds waterproof protection for wet grass, rain and shallow puddles. As with any waterproof shoe, the compromise is reduced airflow and slower drying if water comes over the collar. The All-Terrain Contagrip outsole uses 3.5 mm lugs, which are less mud-focused than those on the Speedcross 6 but better suited to mixed ground.
The shoe has an 11 mm drop, with a 28.7 mm heel and 17.3 mm forefoot. Salomon describes the cushioning as soft and protective, but the chassis makes the overall ride feel more structured than the Ultra Glide. Buy it for stability, durability and weather protection, not for a light or highly flexible running experience.
Key specs
- Launch price: $170
- Drop: 11 mm
- Stack height: 28.7 mm heel, 17.3 mm forefoot
- Lug depth: 3.5 mm
- Listed women’s weight: 11 ounces
- Waterproofing: Gore-Tex membrane
- Outsole: All-Terrain Contagrip
- Lacing: Quicklace
Pros
- Structured and stable platform
- Waterproof upper
- Protective toe cap and chassis
- Useful traction across mixed surfaces
Cons
- Heavier and firmer than a typical trail runner
- Waterproof membrane runs warmer
- Not intended to correct overpronation or treat a foot condition
Buy: Men’s XA Pro 3D V9 Gore-Tex | Women’s XA Pro 3D V9 Gore-Tex
Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid Gore-Tex
Best Salomon hiking shoe
The X Ultra 5 Mid Gore-Tex is a hiking boot, not a running shoe. It is the right choice here for full-day hikes and rocky or technical routes where waterproofing, protection and a more supportive platform matter more than speed. Salomon uses an Advanced Chassis insert for lateral support, Active Support wings to hold the foot and a mid-height collar for additional coverage.
The men’s model has a listed weight of 16 ounces per shoe. Its 33 mm heel and 22 mm forefoot create an 11 mm drop. EnergyCell cushioning absorbs impact, while the All-Terrain Contagrip outsole is designed for wet, dry, hard and loose surfaces. The Matryx upper uses high-tenacity fibers for abrasion resistance, and the Gore-Tex membrane keeps external moisture out under normal use.
The mid collar can help the boot feel secure, but it does not guarantee protection from an ankle sprain. Fit, fatigue, terrain and pack weight still matter. This model is also warmer and substantially heavier than the XA Pro 3D V9, so it is more boot than many people need for short, dry walks.
Key specs
- Launch price: $190
- Drop: 11 mm
- Stack height: 33 mm heel, 22 mm forefoot
- Listed men’s weight: 16 ounces
- Waterproofing: Gore-Tex membrane
- Upper: Matryx with Active Support wings
- Outsole: All-Terrain Contagrip
- Lacing: Regular laces
Pros
- Waterproof construction for wet hikes
- Stable platform and protective upper
- Mid-height collar adds coverage
- Built for full-day and technical hikes
Cons
- Heavier than Salomon’s trail running shoes
- Warmer than a non-waterproof hiking shoe
- More boot than necessary for casual walks
Buy: Men’s X Ultra 5 Mid Gore-Tex | Women’s X Ultra 5 Mid Gore-Tex
Salomon Aero Glide 4
Best Salomon road running shoe
The Aero Glide 4 is Salomon’s high-cushion road trainer. It replaces the outdated women’s Aero Blaze recommendation in the previous article and is available for both men and women. A 41 mm heel and 33 mm forefoot create an 8 mm drop, while the optiFOAM2 midsole and Reverse Camber shape produce a cushioned, rolling transition for daily road miles.
The fourth version uses a seamless inside-out upper intended to improve step-in comfort and ventilation. Unlike most of the trail shoes in this guide, it has standard laces. The Road Contagrip outsole uses broad, flat contact areas for asphalt rather than deep off-road lugs. Salomon lists the men’s version at 9 ounces and the women’s at 8 ounces.
This is the clear pick for sidewalks, paved paths and road training. It can handle a clean park path, but it lacks the tread and protection required for rough trails. Its high stack also means runners who prefer a low, flexible shoe may find it more cushioned than they want.
Key specs
- Launch price: $160
- Drop: 8 mm
- Stack height: 41 mm heel, 33 mm forefoot
- Listed weight: 9 ounces for men, 8 ounces for women
- Cushioning: Ultra plush
- Midsole: optiFOAM2 with Reverse Camber
- Outsole: Road Contagrip
- Lacing: Regular laces
Pros
- High level of cushioning for road training
- Separate men’s and women’s versions
- Improved upper comfort and breathability
- Road-specific rubber coverage
Cons
- Not designed for technical trails
- High platform may feel less natural to some runners
- No wide version listed in the standard lineup
Buy: Men’s Aero Glide 4 | Women’s Aero Glide 4
Salomon XT-6
Best Salomon shoe for casual wear
The XT-6 began as an endurance trail design but now sits in Salomon’s Sportstyle collection. It is best viewed as a rugged lifestyle sneaker for city walking, travel and everyday outfits, not as the brand’s current performance choice for trail running. Its technical appearance is backed by practical features, including Quicklace, SensiFit, an Agile Chassis and a protective toe cap.
Salomon lists the unisex XT-6 at 13 ounces with a 10 mm drop. The EnergyCell midsole and molded OrthoLite sockliner provide cushioning, while the Mud Contagrip outsole adds grip. Those aggressive trail roots also create the main limitation: the XT-6 is heavier and less road-specific than a true walking or running shoe such as the Aero Glide 4.
Sizing needs attention because the model is unisex and Salomon displays paired men’s and women’s sizes. Check the conversion shown on the listing rather than ordering from the number alone. The XT-6 also commands a fashion premium, so buyers focused only on athletic performance will get better value elsewhere in this list.
Key specs
- Launch price: $185
- Drop: 10 mm
- Listed weight: 13 ounces
- Fit: Unisex sizing
- Midsole: EnergyCell
- Chassis: Agile Chassis System
- Outsole: Mud Contagrip
- Lacing: Quicklace
Pros
- Distinctive trail-inspired styling
- Secure Quicklace fit
- Supportive chassis and protective toe cap
- Practical for travel and everyday walking
Cons
- Expensive for a casual sneaker
- Heavier than a dedicated road shoe
- Unisex sizing requires careful conversion
How to choose the right Salomon shoe
Start with the surface under your feet. A shoe designed for the wrong terrain can feel less comfortable and may wear faster, even if it is an excellent model in its intended setting. Then compare fit, cushioning and weather protection.
Match the outsole to the terrain
The Speedcross 6 has 5 mm lugs for mud and loose ground. The Ultra Glide 4 uses shallower 4 mm lugs for mixed trails and longer runs. The XA Pro 3D V9 Gore-Tex is a structured mixed-terrain option, while the X Ultra 5 Mid Gore-Tex adds hiking-boot protection. For asphalt, the Aero Glide 4 is the only road-specific choice in this group. The XT-6 has trail DNA, but Salomon now positions it primarily as a lifestyle sneaker.
Decide whether you need Gore-Tex
Gore-Tex helps keep outside moisture from reaching the foot, which is useful in rain, wet grass and shallow puddles. It also reduces ventilation. A waterproof shoe can feel hot in warm weather, and water that enters over the collar may take longer to escape. Choose Gore-Tex for consistently wet conditions, not simply because the label sounds more protective.
Check the fit and width
Many Salomon shoes have a secure, performance-oriented fit. That does not mean every model runs the same or that everyone should size up. Measure both feet, compare the brand’s size chart and read the width option carefully. The Speedcross 6 is available in a men’s wide version, while the standard models listed here use regular widths. The XT-6 uses unisex sizing, so confirm both the men’s and women’s equivalent.
If you are unsure which shape and support level suit you, use the free shoe finder before buying.
Choose cushioning for the job
More cushioning is not automatically better. The Ultra Glide 4 and Aero Glide 4 use tall, plush platforms for long trail or road miles. The XA Pro 3D V9 feels more structured because protection and stability are priorities. The X Ultra 5 Mid is heavier because it is built as a hiking boot. Choose the level of cushioning that feels comfortable without sacrificing the control you need on your usual terrain.
Frequently asked questions about Salomon shoes
The Ultra Glide 4 is the most broadly useful choice in this guide. It combines plush cushioning, a 6 mm drop and 4 mm lugs that work across many maintained and mixed trails. Runners who spend most of their time in mud should choose the Speedcross 6 instead.
The answer depends on the surface. The Aero Glide 4 is the better option for long walks on pavement if you like a tall, cushioned platform. The XT-6 works for casual city wear and travel, while the XA Pro 3D V9 Gore-Tex makes more sense for wet, uneven paths.
Salomon shoes often have a snug performance fit, especially through the midfoot. Fit varies by model, however. Measure your feet and compare the size chart instead of automatically buying a larger size. If you need more room, look for a model specifically sold in a wide version.
Some are. Salomon sells wide versions of selected models, including the men’s Speedcross 6 and Ultra Glide 4 Wide. A larger regular-width shoe is not the same as a wide shoe because it also adds length. Check the exact model name before ordering.
No Salomon model can be recommended as a treatment for plantar fasciitis. Some people may prefer the cushioning of the Ultra Glide 4 or Aero Glide 4, but comfort depends on foot shape, symptoms and the advice of a qualified clinician. Persistent heel pain deserves professional assessment. See also best shoes for plantar fasciitis.
Contagrip is Salomon’s name for several outsole designs and rubber compounds. Mud Contagrip uses deep, sharp lugs for soft terrain. All-Terrain Contagrip balances grip and durability across mixed surfaces. Road Contagrip uses flatter, broader contact areas for pavement.
The membrane is designed to stop external water while allowing some moisture vapor to escape, but the shoe has limits. Water can still enter over the collar, and wear or damage can reduce protection. Gore-Tex models are usually warmer and less breathable than non-waterproof versions.
Salomon’s current U.S. lineup includes several shoes specifically marked as wide: Speedcross 6 Wide, Genesis 2 Wide, XA Pro 3D V9 Wide, XA Pro 3D V9 Wide Gore-Tex X Ultra 5 Wide Gore-Tex, X Ultra 5 Mid Wide Gore-Tex. The Speedcross 6 Wide uses a men’s EE fit, while the unisex Genesis 2 Wide is currently Salomon’s main wide trail-running option available to women. Wide sizes and colors can vary by retailer, so check the model name carefully before ordering. Salomon’s standard-width shoes often fit snugly through the midfoot and toe box, making the designated wide version the safer choice for broad feet. Click for wide Salomon shoes on Amazon.
