Disclosure: I’m a proud Salomon brand ambassador, but I want to assure you that this review is based on my honest experience with the product!

 

The Salomon X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex is, without a doubt, one of the most dependable and versatile hiking shoes I’ve ever had the pleasure of wearing. Having tried out several generations of this line, I can confidently say that the latest model is truly a step up. It beautifully blends technical innovation with all-day comfort, making it the perfect choice for serious hikers who take on all kinds of weather and terrain, especially in rugged areas like the Lake District.

 

Thanks to the Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, your feet stay nice and dry, even during those classic British downpours or while navigating through muddy valley paths. Plus, it’s breathable, which is a game-changer on warmer days or during long climbs. The Contagrip® outsole provides fantastic traction on wet rocks, loose scree, gravel, and muddy trails—truly making it an all-terrain champion.

 

What really sets this shoe apart is the Advanced Chassis™ technology. It’s positioned between the outsole and midsole, delivering outstanding stability without sacrificing flexibility or adding extra weight. Think of it as a suspension system that helps reduce fatigue and provides a secure base on uneven ground. Additionally, the anti-roll design and enhanced heel hold help minimize the risk of ankle injuries, especially when you’re moving quickly over tricky terrain. If you’re someone who tends to roll an ankle while descending or scrambling, this feature offers peace of mind without the need to switch to a full boot.

 

Salomon has really struck the perfect balance between support and comfort. The fit feels secure, especially around the heel, while still allowing enough space in the toe box for your feet to move naturally. The midsole cushioning does a great job of absorbing impact during those long hikes, and the Quicklace™ system makes it easy to get a snug fit that stays put all day long.

 

Whether you're climbing Helvellyn, navigating wet ridges, or trekking across rocky, uneven trails, the X Ultra 5 handles everything with confidence. It combines the grip and precision of a lightweight approach shoe with the stability of a mid-boot, all while offering the comfort of a trail runner! That said, we all have different foot shapes and sizes, so even the best hiking shoe out there can't be a ‘one size fits all.’ I always suggest trying them on in-store first.

 

In short, I believe the X Ultra 5 GTX is the best yet in an already impressive line of hiking shoes.