Footwear is paramount on the trails, and with so many options, it’s hard to know where to start. We recently tested Salomon’s Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes. They’re comfortable right out of the box, stable for a shoe without high-ankle support, and super light. Find out what else we thought about this product!
Quick look
Product: Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes
Price: $169.95 CAD / $130.00 USD / £68.00
Pros: Comfortable, stable, good longevity, light
Cons: Not the best in wet conditions, not for scree
Worth it? Yes
Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes: The Verdict
The Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes proved to be a top choice for footwear on the trails. If you prefer trekking shoes over hiking boots, this product lives up to the challenge. We tested out a pair on our local trails and found them to be comfortable and light. Initially, I thought they might be unstable on uneven terrain, and prone to causing rolled ankles, but I found them sturdy enough to hike and run all kinds of trails. Overall, great hiking or trail running shoe option.
Overview of Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes
This is the latest release in Salomon’s line of Speedcross trail runners. With four previous versions of the shoe, Salomon has now come out with a trail runner more durable, stable, and dynamic than its predecessors. Deep lugs and a thick outsole create more traction on tough terrain, and a more flexible upper construction and contouring insole make the shoe form-fitting to ensure a stable strike. For something as essential as footwear when on the trails, the Salomon Speedcross 5 delivers.
When to use
These shoes are designed for rugged trail running—they’ll perform the best on outdoor environments like dirt or dusty trails, or technical routes that could get a bit muddy. Because these shoes are so light, they’re an awesome option to pack for an overseas adventure—they’re way easier to pack than heavy hiking boots! We used this as a hiking shoe, and while the deep lugs help with traction in mud, we thought that they weren’t performing at their best in rainy conditions. Things got a bit slippery. Also, if you know that your route includes some scree scrambling, pack some gaiters to ensure secure footing.
Weight + size
You already know you’ll shave weight significantly opting for trail running shoes instead of hiking boots. Or if you’re looking at these for trail running, their light weight could increase your speed. The shoes weigh 310 g / 1 lb 7.2 oz, which split between two feet is not a lot! Salomon shoes generally fit larger in length and have a slightly narrower shape than other brands. A wide option is available, as well.
Pros
Comfortable out-of-the-box. Unlike hiking boots and other shoes, these runners fit comfortably right out of the box—no break-in required.
Stable on uneven terrain. We were pleasantly surprised to find this show provided stability and prevented rolled ankles well. We thought this might be an issue without ankle support, but it’s a very stable shoe.
Good longevity. You can trust these shoes will last you for a while. Their essence is a long-distance running shoe designed to go with you for many miles.
Lightweight. Unlike hiking boots, carrying these in your pack will not weigh you down significantly. A great shoe for adventure travel when you’ll be hiking overseas.
Cons
Not ideal in rainy conditions. Trail runners are great for mostly dry conditions, but for wet or muddy conditions we prefer a waterproof hiking boot.
Not great on scree. Being runners, taking these on scree means you end up with some rocks in your shoes—this is an easy fix if you pack some gaiters.
Built with high-quality technology
If you’ve tried a Salomon product before, you know this company integrates special technologies for maximum benefits, and these running shoes are no different. From the outsole to the insole, the Speedcross 5 Running Shoes are built with comfort and durability at the forefront. The outsole of the shoe is constructed with Contagrip® TA, designed with sharp, deep lugs for maximum traction on various terrain. Salomon uses EnergyCell™+ technology to provide supreme cushioning and energy return with each strike in the midsole.
The upper SensiFit™ construction snuggly cradles your foot to prevent your feet from slipping inside the shoe, while the OrthoLite™ insoles mold to the shape of your foot. Keep your feet secure with the minimalistic Quicklace™ feature, which omits the need to tie your shoes and instead uses a pull-tab method for one-pull tightening. With all of these unique technologies in place, your Speedcross 5 Running Shoes will contour to your feet, making each step stable and comfortable as you run or hike along the trails.
Protective + comfortable features
This trail runner boasts many technologies that make it sturdy and durable. But it’s also comfortable and built to protect you from the unfavourable elements. Its heel-to-toe drop is 10mm, ideal for those who tend to land heel first when their foot strikes the ground, ensuring a stable and comfortable stride. The toe cap is walled and protected, and the Quicklace™ system allows you to stash laces in a pocket to prevent snags on low brush and branches.
Made for the trails
These shoes are built for rugged terrain. The outsole has claw-like lugs to land on muddy or uneven terrain with grip and enough spring to take your next step without getting stuck. The upper construction is an anti-debris mesh with water-resistant fabric—and although these wouldn’t be our top pick for a super wet day, they’re fine for traipsing through a bit of mud along the way. The ventilation on the Salomon Speedcross 5 is excellent; we had no issues with breathability. These runners would perform well on hot and humid days. If you’re planning to run on pavement, consider looking at a road running shoe—these are definitely for the trails!
Should you buy the Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes?
Salomon is one of our favourite outdoor gear companies, especially for trail running and hiking. The Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes did not disappoint on uneven terrain in pleasant conditions. If you’re looking for a comfortable and light hiking or trail running shoe that can handle many miles, these should be serious contenders.
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