Manufactured in different incarnations since 1947, the Salomon shoe line has seen unprecedented success in its adoption in the mountain sporting arena. This is owed to the lightweight, excellent grip and compact fit of the shoe to the runner's foot.
Design and Specifications
Made of a water-resistant, Climashield membrane fabric, weighing a mere 626 grams for a size 9 (or 313 grams depending on source), and with an Ortholite(R) footbed, a 10mm fore foot height, a ContraGrip sole and an injection-moldedEVA midsole, the Salomon shoe line showcases some major technologic advances in running shoe design and development. It does not embrace the typical trend adopted by competing lines in reduced heel-to-toe drop and forefoot running. Instead, it focuses on runners who prefer to heel strike. This is aided by the fact that ample cushioning is provided in the heel section of the shoe line.
The Lugs
The shoe offers lugs that are sufficiently spaced in the heel and forefoot, allowing excellent traction on all off-road terrain. Moreover, the lugs also function to shed mud easily. Running on any surface, be it tarmac or otherwise as in the case of mixed-terrain long-distance races, discomfort caused by the pronounced lugs is eased by the heel cushioning. However, despite their resilience, the lugs suffer wear if subjected to running on hard surfaces.
The cushioning has its cons, too, in that in off-camber fell side (unusual and irregular hillsides) and off-road runs it becomes a bothersome hindrance to running. This is compensated by its tight fit, limiting instability. This in turn inspires confidence and drive.
The Quick Lace System
Salomon uses their renowned Kevlar (Sensifit) quick-lace system, which is typically ideal for quicker transitions in shorter races. A one-pull tug is sufficient to put on the shoe, and a utility tongue pocket is used to neatly tuck away the lock and lace. The relatively small size of the pocket makes tucking away the lace quite a tedious task and if not done properly, a serious trip hazard is raised. A thin mesh is to be found under the laces, above the tongue that prevents debris from getting in. The quick lace system isn't well suited to all runners as, despite its speed, it does not allow for adjusting the lace tension hence relieving the pressure points. Its thin laces slide through their guides well, aiding in evening out the tension.
Plenty of padding is put on the upper area around the ankle and heel, facilitating a comfortable fit. Good protection is given in the toe box to prevent stray debris from causing discomfort.
Why Choose Salomon Shoes?
The technical advantageous aspects of the Salomon shoe are elaborated below:
The chassis, a lightweight type, has two EVA layers in the midsole which aid in reducing the constant impact that running imposes, without make running cumbersome. The non-marking ContraGrip rubber outsole prevents mud, debris, snow and slick rock from clinging onto the shoe and slowing the runner.
A waterproof textile upper coupled with an anti-debris mesh and a mudguard help the runner master trails deemed less than ideal. The Sensifit outer design makes use of a one-pull quick lace system, guaranteeing proper shoe fit despite the travailed trail distance. The Ortholite(R) lining embraces the foot with shaped foam, and an EVA heel cup gives better impact absorption to the runner's foot.
The Pros and Cons
The overall pros of the Salomon shoe line are:
A quick lace system that is best for use in faster, more calculated races.
Excellent grip in virtually all conditions.
Comfortable cushioning that allows a runner to partake in long-distance races or sprint races.
The cons of the Salomon shoe line are:
The quick lace system is quite tedious to use.
The lugs wear down rapidly if the shoe is used on typically hard surfaces like roads.
Summary
In conclusion, the Salomon shoe line is a classic for adventurers worldwide. Coming in at a price of about $124.95 (for the Speedcross 3 version), it would be one of a hiker's best investments to be used in the great outdoors.
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