Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Hiking Shoe Review
Updated:
Nov 10, 2025
Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction
Durability
Foot Protection
Sustainability
Weight
1 lb. 10.8 oz.
Waterproof
Yes (non-WP available)
Upper
Synthetic
Outsole
All Terrain Contagrip
Pros
Cons
Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
For this season's top models, see our guide to the Best Hiking Shoes.
Having worn the X Ultra series since the 2, slipping on the Salomon X Ultra 5 felt immediately familiar. The nicely padded tongue and collar, along with the easy-to-use Quicklace system, create a secure, glove-like fit, and the semi-stiff base provides excellent isolation from the ground. On my first wear, the shoe felt a little rigid underfoot—especially noticeable since I was coming from softer models like the Hoka Anacapa hiking shoe and Nike Zegama trail runner. The reinforced upper material also felt fairly rigid out of the box, but after a few wears, the X Ultra 5 broke in nicely, and I experienced no hot spots or foot fatigue even after full days on the trail.
In terms of pure plushness, the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX remains thinner and firmer than trail runner-inspired designs, such as Merrell’s Moab Speed or Hoka’s Anacapa series. Those hiking shoes offer softer landings and superior shock absorption, making them ideal for covering miles while day hiking. By contrast, the X Ultra 5’s stiffer and slightly lower-slung design provides a closer connection to the ground and excellent trail isolation. Once broken in, I found it easy to move moderately quickly—the forefoot has enough flex to feel natural while hiking. The quality midsole hits a nice balance between cushioning and support, making it equally comfortable for day hikes and for carrying a 30-pound backpack over rough terrain. As long as the somewhat narrow fit works for you—we cover this in our Fit and Sizing section below—the X Ultra 5 is a well-rounded option.
With its stiff base, low-slung design, and foot-hugging fit, the X Ultra 5 is among the most stable hiking shoes we've tested. The lacing system locks the foot securely in place, and plastic reinforcements underfoot and along the sides stiffen the shoe, helping to limit ankle rolls. Twisting the shoe by hand reveals very little torsional flex, and it feels equally solid and confidence-inspiring on the trail. I’ve carried loads up to 30 pounds while wearing the X Ultra 5 and found it easy to trust—even when rock-hopping or navigating loose, slippery terrain.
Compared back-to-back with a trail running shoe, the difference in support is substantial. This level of stiffness and stability makes the X Ultra 5 GTX a standout choice for backpacking trips and more technical hikes. That said, not everyone will want this much structure—it's likely overkill for casual hikes on well-maintained trails. But for bigger objectives, heavier loads, and rougher terrain, the added support is a real asset.
Salomon keeps their outsole design in-house, and their Contragrip rubber is a proven performer. The lugs on the X Ultra 5 are well-spaced to prevent mud from collecting and provide a solid grip on soft surfaces, such as dirt, mud, and light snow. Under the heel, the taller lugs offered good braking power on steep descents, even on dry, loose surfaces that felt like kitty litter. For most hiking and backpacking trips, the grip is perfectly reasonable, and the relatively firm rubber compound is more resistant to rapid wear than softer alternatives.
That said, traction on rock is where the X Ultra 5 falls a little short. Compared to tackier compounds like Vibram’s excellent Megagrip, the Contragrip outsole feels slightly less confidence-inspiring during creek crossings or scrambling over smooth rock. It’s far from a dealbreaker—the shoe is still above average overall—but for those who prioritize maximum grip in wet or technical conditions, shoes like the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 (Continental rubber) or Hoka Anacapa 2 (Vibram Megagrip) offer better all-around traction.
Salomon made a notable leap forward in durability with the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX. The upper uses a new, tightly woven textile reinforced with Kevlar, and the difference compared to traditional mesh hiking shoes and trail runners is immediately noticeable. I haven’t hesitated to jam the shoe between rocks or brush against trail debris, and the material has shown essentially zero signs of wear. Adding to its toughness, there are extra reinforcements along the lower portion of the upper and the heel, which not only protect your foot but also boost overall longevity.
The rest of the shoe’s construction also impresses: The large rubber toe cap, sturdy eyelets, and overall fit and finish all feel built for the long haul. The outsole, which features a moderately firm compound and substantial lugs, is similarly designed to last. For high-mileage users, the X Ultra’s burly construction has true appeal compared with thinner and more delicate alternatives.
One final note: The X Ultra 5 relies on Salomon’s Quicklace system rather than traditional laces. While it’s a little trickier to repair in the field if something were to go wrong, I’ve never had a failure across years of testing Salomon footwear, including trail runners like the Speedcross and Sense Ride and previous generations of the X Ultra.
Among low-cut hiking shoes, the Salomon X Ultra 5 is impressively tank-like in its construction. Up front, a large rubber toe cap effectively shields the toes and easily absorbs direct hits without causing pain. And unlike lighter-weight alternatives, the protection doesn’t stop there: layers of tough synthetic material wrap around the sides of the foot, providing excellent impact resistance against rocks, roots, and other trail hazards. Even after catching my foot between rocks, the cushioning held up and minimized any discomfort.
Further adding to the shoe’s robust protection is thick padding around the collar and tongue, along with a rigid, reinforced heel that helps guard against knocks and abrasions. Short of stepping up to an approach shoe or full over-the-ankle hiking boot, the X Ultra 5 offers about as much foot protection as you can get in a low-top shoe. (Note: Salomon does offer the X Ultra 5 in a mid-height version.)
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Longevity
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Recycled Materials
Recycled materials are prevalent in outdoor gear, with nylon, polyester, wool, and down among the most common, but the composition varies widely. A green check mark indicates the product is made with a substantial amount of recycled materials (100% recycled or the core fabric that makes up most of the product is recycled), a yellow check means it contains a moderate to small amount of recycled materials, while a red X means there are no recycled materials in the product.
PFAS-Free DWR
Durable water-repellent (DWR) finishes can contain PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These highly persistent “forever chemicals” are used in outdoor gear for their strong resistance to water, oil, and heat, but are linked to environmental contamination and a range of health concerns. A green check mark indicates the product uses a PFAS-free DWR, while a red X means the DWR contains PFAS.
PFAS-Free Waterproof Membrane
The membranes used in waterproof products such as rain jackets, ski jackets, and shoes can contain PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These highly persistent “forever chemicals” are valued for their resistance to water, oil, and heat, but are linked to environmental contamination and a range of health concerns. A green check mark indicates the product’s waterproof membrane is PFAS-free, while a red X means it contains PFAS.
Bluesign Approved
Bluesign Technologies, based in Switzerland, operates a third-party textile management system that ensures materials are manufactured to strict environmental, chemical, and worker safety standards. A green check mark indicates a product is either a Bluesign Product (contains at least 90% Bluesign-approved fabrics and 20-30% Bluesign-approved accessories) or features a significant amount of Bluesign-approved materials. A yellow check mark means it uses some Bluesign-approved materials but less than the aforementioned category, and a red X means there are no Bluesign-approved materials in the product.
Responsible Manufacturing
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Recycled and/or Reduced Packaging
Packaging can add significant waste to outdoor gear purchases, so many brands work to reduce its impact by using recycled materials, incorporating Forest Stewardship Council-certified paper products, and minimizing plastic and paper use. A green check mark indicates a brand uses recycled or reduced materials across all of its packaging, a yellow check indicates moderate or limited use of recycled or reduced packaging, and a red X indicates the brand does not make either of these efforts.
Resale and/or Recycling Services
Resale and recycling programs help keep outdoor gear in circulation longer and out of landfills, ranging from trade-in resale platforms that offer store credit to take-back initiatives that recycle products at the end of their usable life. A green check mark indicates a brand offers both resale and recycling programs, a yellow check mark indicates it offers one or the two, and a red X indicates it offers neither.
Carbon Footprint Tracking
This criterion evaluates whether a brand measures, reports, and works to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions using established frameworks such as the Higg Index, Greenhouse Gas Protocol, or The Change Climate Project. A green check mark indicates a brand publicly reports greenhouse gas emissions data, sets clearly defined reduction targets, and uses established tracking frameworks such as Higg or The Change Climate Project. A yellow check mark indicates the brand tracks emissions and outlines reduction goals but provides limited data, lacks science-based verification, or does not clearly report progress. A red X indicates the brand does not appear to track greenhouse gas emissions or provides so little information that its efforts cannot be verified.
Annual Impact Report
Annual impact reports provide transparency and accountability by outlining a brand’s sustainability efforts across areas such as material sourcing, greenhouse gas emissions, waste, water use, supply chains, and packaging. A green check mark indicates a brand publishes a detailed, brand-specific impact report that closely aligns with our sustainability criteria and leaves little room for ambiguity. A yellow check indicates a brand provides some relevant sustainability reporting but lacks detail in key areas or is covered only briefly within a parent company report. A red X indicates a brand does not regularly publish an impact report.
Salomon lists the men’s X Ultra 5 GTX at 1 pound 10.8 ounces per pair, and my men’s size 9 clocked in exactly at that weight, down to the tenth of an ounce. That puts the shoe squarely in the middle of the hiking shoe spectrum: heavier than trail runners (which often weigh around 1 pound 5 ounces) but lighter than traditional hiking shoes, which typically weigh closer to 2 pounds.
On trail, the X Ultra 5 feels true to its spec. It’s not featherlight or particularly nimble like a dedicated trail runner, but it’s far from sluggish and doesn’t feel like a burden during full-day hikes. For hikers who prioritize protection, support, and durability, the extra ounces are a fair tradeoff. That said, if your top priority is speed or you want a shoe versatile enough for occasional runs, a more minimalist trail runner is the better fit.
Like many Salomon designs, the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX runs somewhat narrow. I ordered my standard men’s size 9 and found the length true to size, with a snug, glove-like fit through the midfoot and toe box. My forefoot is an average width and my heel slightly narrow, and the shoe hugged my foot securely without feeling restrictive. It’s worth noting that hikers with wider feet—or those who prefer a roomier toe box for natural toe splay—may find the standard fit too tight. Fortunately, Salomon offers the X Ultra 5 in a wide version, which should help accommodate a broader range of foot shapes. The secure fit is a confidence booster on technical trails, but it’s definitely a performance-oriented fit that won’t work for everyone.
In place of standard laces is Salomon’s long-standing Quicklace design, which is easy to use with a single pull (you then tuck the plastic tab and laces into a built-in pocket). The Quicklace style means you can’t customize the fit as much as traditional laces—for example, leaving the middle portion looser than the top—but otherwise it’s a reliable and easy-to-use system.
Merrell Moab Speed 2 GTX ($170): More Cushion, Less Protection
The Merrell Moab Speed 2 and X Ultra 5 GTX take different approaches to lightweight hiking. The Moab Speed 2 leans toward comfort, offering a noticeably softer, more cushioned ride and a roomier fit that’s ideal for casual hikers and those who value out-of-the-box comfort. By contrast, the X Ultra 5 feels stiffer and more planted, offering better foot protection and durability over rough terrain. However, it has a snugger, more performance-oriented fit that may not work for everyone. If you prioritize comfort and cushioning for moderate trails, the Merrell gets the edge; if you want better protection, stability, and confidence over technical ground, the Salomon is the more capable choice. For a deeper dive, see our Merrell Moab Speed 2 GTX review.
Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX ($180): Plush Comfort But Less Precise
Both the Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX and the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX are wildly popular, but they approach their business quite differently. The Anacapa prioritizes plush cushioning and a rockered sole for easy miles on established trails, offering a soft and forgiving ride that’s ideal for hikers prone to foot fatigue. The X Ultra 5, on the other hand, is firmer and closer to the ground, delivering much better precision and stability on technical terrain. The Hoka is the clear winner for pure comfort and long days, but if you’re tackling rocky, root-filled trails or carrying a heavier pack, we give the slight edge to the Salomon. For more, read our review of the Hoka Anacapa 2 Low.
La Sportiva Prodigio Max ($185): Max Cushion Meets Mountain Grit
If the low weight and agility of the X Ultra 5 GTX appeal to you, it might be time to consider a trail running shoe. Compared to the X Ultra, the La Sportiva Prodigio Max feels downright pillow-like, with a nitrogen-infused EVA foam midsole that puts a spring in every step—something you’ll appreciate on long, high-mileage days. Despite its plush feel, it remains impressively stable and durable thanks to a highly abrasion-resistant upper, a broad forefoot, and a FriXion rubber outsole that grips confidently on slick terrain. The main downsides are its high price and lack of a waterproof version. The max-cushioned feel may also take a few miles to get used to—but once you do, it’s hard to go back. For a deeper dive, read our Prodigio Max review.
Salomon’s popular lightweight hiker offers a nice balance of agility, protection, and durability for everything from easy trails to cross-country travel. It’s not as soft and cushioned as a trail runner, and the fit runs narrow, but it’s otherwise a top all-around performer.
Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction
Durability
Foot Protection
Sustainability
An approachable design, the Moab Speed 2 combines hiking-shoe-like stability and support with the low weight and rockered style of a trail running shoe. It's comfortable out of the box and adept both on and off-trail. However, it lacks the performance fit and agility you’d get with a trail runner.
Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction
Durability
Foot Protection
Sustainability
The Anacapa offers the plush cushion of a running shoe, alongside the stability, protection, and durability of a hiking shoe. It's a great option for hikers who regularly experience foot fatigue or log high-mileage days. However, the wide platform lacks precision on technical terrain and the large sections of exposed foam can break down over time.
Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction
Durability
Foot Protection
Sustainability
Is the Salomon X Ultra 5 for You?
If you want a hiking shoe that blends the durability and stability of a light hiking boot with the agility of a trail runner, the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX is a standout choice. Its tough build, supportive feel, and excellent protection make it a great match for everything from day hikes on technical terrain to multi-day backpacking trips with a loaded pack. However, the snug fit and slightly stiffer ride may not be ideal for hikers who prioritize out-of-the-box comfort or need extra toe room. But if you value precision, stability, and long-term durability, the X Ultra 5 is hard to beat.
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