Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX Review: Lightweight Hiking Boot

Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX Review: Lightweight Hiking Boot

Picking the right hiking boot can make or break your outdoor adventure. Too heavy, and your legs turn to jelly after a few miles. Too light, and you risk ankle rolls on rocky terrain. The Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX promises to solve this puzzle with a perfect balance of weight, support, and protection.

But does it really deliver, or is it just another overpriced piece of gear? After digging deep into real trail tests, expert reviews, and countless miles of feedback, this review gives you everything you need to know before dropping $185 on these popular hiking boots. Whether you tackle steep canyon descents, muddy forest trails, or rocky alpine paths, this guide helps you decide if the X Ultra 5 Mid GTX belongs on your feet.

Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX Review: Lightweight Hiking Boot

Key Takeaways:

Lightweight Performance Champion: Weighing just under 2 pounds per pair, these boots deliver serious protection without the leg fatigue that comes with traditional leather boots. You get the support you need for technical trails while maintaining the agility to move fast.

Waterproof Gore-Tex Protection: The reliable Gore-Tex membrane keeps your feet dry through stream crossings, rain showers, and muddy trails while still offering better breathability than most waterproof boots in this category.

Superior All-Terrain Traction: Salomon’s proprietary Contagrip outsole grips confidently on wet rocks, loose gravel, slick roots, and hard-packed dirt, making these boots incredibly versatile for mixed terrain adventures.

Quick Break-In Period: Unlike stiff leather boots that torture your feet for weeks, the X Ultra 5 Mid GTX feels comfortable right out of the box and reaches peak comfort around 10 to 15 miles of use.

Best for Fast-Moving Hikers: These boots excel for day hikers, weekend backpackers, and anyone carrying light to moderate loads who values speed and comfort over maximum ankle support and heavy-duty protection.

Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX Hiking Boot

Salomon Mens X Ultra 5 Mid GTX® Black/Asphalt/Castlerock 8 Medium
  • Conquer your ascents and master your descents with confidence.
  • Grip and Traction

The Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX represents the latest evolution of one of the most popular hiking boot lines on the market. Released in 2024, this fifth generation brings meaningful upgrades over its predecessor while maintaining the core philosophy that made the X Ultra series famous. These boots target hikers who refuse to choose between lightweight comfort and serious trail performance. The design uses advanced synthetic materials reinforced with Kevlar, a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, and Salomon’s tested Contagrip rubber outsole. At $185, the X Ultra 5 Mid positions itself in the competitive midweight hiking boot category where every ounce and every feature matters. This boot works for three-season hiking, light backpacking trips, and challenging day hikes where the trail gets steep and rocky. Early reviews suggest Salomon nailed the balance that frustrates so many boot manufacturers.

Why Weight Matters for Long Trail Days

Carrying extra weight on your feet takes a serious toll on your energy levels during long hikes. Studies show that one pound on your feet equals five pounds on your back in terms of energy expenditure. The X Ultra 5 Mid GTX weighs approximately 1 pound 15 ounces per pair in men’s size 13, placing it firmly in the lightweight category for mid-height boots. This reduced weight translates directly to less fatigue during 10-mile days or steep climbs where every step counts. Hikers consistently report finishing long days with fresher legs compared to heavier leather alternatives. The weight savings comes from the synthetic upper materials and streamlined construction rather than cutting corners on protection. When you compare this to traditional backpacking boots that often exceed 3 pounds per pair, the difference becomes dramatic over thousands of steps. Fast-and-light hikers particularly appreciate how these boots feel more like athletic shoes than clunky mountaineering equipment. The trade-off exists, though. You sacrifice some of the rigid support and bombproof durability of heavier boots, so understanding your hiking style matters before making this choice.

Comfort That Works Right Out of the Box

Breaking in hiking boots traditionally meant accepting blisters and hot spots for weeks before achieving comfort. The X Ultra 5 Mid GTX changes this frustrating equation. The flexible synthetic upper molds to your foot shape quickly, typically requiring only 10 to 15 miles before reaching optimal comfort. The secret lies in the materials and construction approach. Salomon uses a soft, breathable fabric upper with strategic padding around the ankle collar and tongue, preventing the pressure points that plague stiffer boots. The cushioned midsole provides immediate underfoot comfort without a harsh break-in phase. Testers report wearing these boots for entire day hikes right out of the box without developing painful blisters. The snug fit through the midfoot and toe box works perfectly for average foot shapes but can feel tight for those with wider feet or high arches. Fortunately, Salomon offers wide width options for those who need extra room. The overall fit runs slightly small, so sizing up a half size makes sense if you wear thick hiking socks or fall between sizes. Heat buildup can occur during warm weather hikes due to the Gore-Tex waterproof liner, but this remains typical for any waterproof boot design.

Ankle Support for Moderate Terrain

The X Ultra 5 Mid GTX provides a middle-ground approach to ankle support that works well for most hiking situations but has clear limits. The mid-height collar extends just above the ankle, offering enough structure to reduce ankle rolling on uneven ground while maintaining natural flex for comfortable walking. The padded collar hugs the ankle comfortably without creating pressure points, and the lacing system allows you to dial in the perfect tension for your preferred level of security. This design philosophy favors mobility over maximum lockdown. When carrying lighter loads under 35 pounds on well-maintained trails, the support feels confidence-inspiring and protective. Rocky descents, root-covered paths, and moderate scrambling all work well within the boot’s capabilities. The flexibility helps you maintain a natural gait and reduces the stiff, clomping feeling of heavier boots. However, limitations appear when you push into more demanding territory. Heavy backpacking loads over 35 pounds or extended sections of loose scree and steep, technical terrain reveal the boot’s lighter construction. The ankle flex becomes more noticeable, requiring extra attention to foot placement. Adjusting the lacing helps improve security, but the boot simply cannot match the locked-in structure of purpose-built backpacking models. For most three-season hikers who move at a good pace without massive packs, this trade-off makes perfect sense.

Top 3 Alternatives for Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX

Merrell Men's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot Olive 9.5 W
  • Waterproof membrane for dry feet in all conditions.
  • Mid-height design for additional ankle support on rugged trails.
Merrell Men's Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX® Asphalt 1 10.5 Medium
  • GORE-TEX waterproof membrane, exceptional breathability and waterproof performance
  • Nylon ripstop and TPU upper
Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX Men's Hiking Shoes
  • Advanced Chassis: Protects outer ankle, ensures stability, and maintains shoe flexibility for smooth stride
  • Active Support: Adaptable side wings secure foot, conform to foot shape and volume, and support foot movement

Traction That Inspires Confidence on Mixed Terrain

Grip makes all the difference between confident hiking and sketchy scrambling. The X Ultra 5 Mid GTX uses Salomon’s All Terrain Contagrip outsole with multidirectional lugs that handle diverse surfaces impressively well. This proprietary rubber compound strikes an effective balance between softness for rock grip and firmness for durability and support. The lug pattern features moderately deep, widely spaced treads that bite into loose gravel, grip wet roots, and hold steady on polished granite slabs. Field testing across Colorado’s varied terrain shows the Contagrip outsole performing well in conditions ranging from dry, dusty trails to rain-soaked singletrack and even early-season snow. The heel lugs dig in nicely for confident braking on steep descents, while the forefoot pattern provides excellent climbing traction. One particularly impressive trait involves debris clearing. Unlike some aggressive treads that pack with mud and lose effectiveness, the X Ultra 5’s lug spacing allows mud and small pebbles to shed relatively quickly. However, the tread depth and pattern design favor versatility over specialization. Deep, thick mud can still cause some clogging, and the moderate lug depth provides less bite than more aggressive hiking boot outsoles designed specifically for loose terrain. Technical rock scrambling reveals another limitation. The Contagrip rubber does not match the precise edging capability or slab-gripping stickiness of premium Vibram Megagrip compounds found on climbing-focused footwear. For everyday hiking, backpacking, and mixed terrain adventures, the traction stands out as a genuine strength.

Gore-Tex Waterproofing for Wet Weather Protection

Keeping your feet dry transforms miserable hikes into enjoyable adventures. The X Ultra 5 Mid GTX incorporates a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane that provides reliable protection against rain, puddles, and shallow water crossings. This proven technology works by blocking liquid water while allowing water vapor from sweat to escape, at least in theory. Field testing shows the Gore-Tex liner performs well in typical wet hiking conditions. Light rain showers, muddy trail sections, and creek crossings where water stays below the ankle collar all prove manageable without any internal dampness. The gusseted tongue design helps seal out splashes and puddle spray effectively. After getting wet, the synthetic upper dries reasonably quickly when exposed to sun and airflow. Reality sets in with more extreme water exposure. Deep water crossings that submerge the boot collar inevitably allow water to pour over the top, overwhelming the waterproof membrane. This limitation applies to all mid-height waterproof boots, not just the X Ultra 5. Some testers report dampness seeping in at flex points after several weeks of heavy use, particularly on steep, wet ascents where the boot bends aggressively with each step. This wear-related moisture intrusion raises questions about long-term waterproofing durability. The trade-off for waterproof protection comes in the form of reduced breathability. The Gore-Tex liner traps heat during warm weather hikes, leading to sweaty feet and discomfort on hot days. Pairing these boots with lightweight merino wool socks helps manage moisture, and occasional applications of DWR treatments on the upper fabric can extend the waterproof performance.

Durability for Multi-Season Performance

Lightweight boots often sacrifice longevity for weight savings, but the X Ultra 5 Mid GTX aims to break this pattern. The upper features tightly woven synthetic fabric reinforced with Kevlar, providing impressive abrasion resistance while keeping weight down. A molded rubber toe cap protects the vulnerable front of the boot from rock strikes and trail hazards. Strategic reinforcements along the lower upper and heel area add extra protection in high-wear zones. The construction shows clean, uniform stitching throughout with less exposed thread than previous X Ultra generations, potentially reducing weak points. Early real-world testing shows promising results. After approximately 70 miles through rocky canyon terrain, desert brush, and technical scrambles, test pairs show minimal wear. The upper resists scuffing and fraying well, the outsole lugs maintain their sharp edges, and no stitch failures or delamination issues appear. However, longer-term durability remains an open question. Online user reviews frequently mention problems with the X Ultra 5 compared to older models, particularly reports of lace eyelets breaking and seams splitting near the toe flex point after extended use. These complaints suggest potential quality control issues or design weaknesses that may not appear in short-term testing. For most three-season hikers who replace boots every 500 to 800 miles, the X Ultra 5 Mid should provide adequate service life. Just do not expect the multi-year, thousand-mile durability of full-grain leather boots like the Lowa Renegade or Salomon’s own Quest 4 GTX.

Foot Protection for Rocky Terrain

Your feet face constant threats on challenging trails, from sharp rocks and roots to unexpected impacts. The X Ultra 5 Mid GTX delivers solid protection for a lightweight boot without feeling bulky or restrictive. The molded rubber toe cap wraps cleanly over the front of the boot, absorbing impacts from rock strikes while maintaining flexibility for natural toe movement. This toe protection proves its worth during rocky descents and off-trail scrambling where toe strikes happen frequently. Lateral protection comes from the reinforced synthetic upper that resists abrasion when your feet scrape against rocks or brush through dense vegetation. The ankle padding helps cushion bumps and brushes without adding excessive bulk or weight. Underfoot protection involves a balance between cushioning and ground feel. The midsole provides enough structure to shield your feet from sharp rocks and rough terrain while maintaining sufficient flexibility to feel connected to the trail surface. This approach works well for most hiking situations but cannot match the rigid, protective platforms found in heavy-duty backpacking boots with full-length shanks. The overall protection package suits the boot’s intended use perfectly. You get enough security for rocky trails, light scrambling, and moderate off-trail travel without the overbuilt feel that slows you down on easier terrain.

How the Lacing System Affects Performance

A quality lacing system makes the difference between a secure, comfortable fit and constant readjustment stops. The X Ultra 5 Mid GTX uses a hybrid lacing design with reinforced fabric loops along the lower and midfoot sections and open metal hooks at the top for ankle adjustment. This setup allows you to dial in precise tension through the midfoot for a secure wrap while making quick adjustments to the ankle area. The system holds tension well throughout long hiking days without requiring frequent retightening. The quick-adjust hooks at the top make it easy to loosen the boots during breaks and snug them back up when you hit the trail again. However, the boot’s design creates one frustrating limitation. The thick, cushioned tongue makes it difficult to achieve a truly tight cinch around the ankle collar. This padding prioritizes comfort but reduces the locked-in feeling that some hikers prefer for technical terrain. The result can be a slightly looser fit at the ankle compared to more structured boots, even when you crank down the top laces. Adjusting your lacing technique helps compensate for this issue. Experimenting with different lacing patterns, particularly techniques that lock the midfoot separately from the ankle area, can improve the overall security. The system works respectably for a lightweight boot but cannot match the precise, multi-zone tensioning capabilities of premium lacing systems with roller eyelets and locking mechanisms.

Breathability and Heat Management

Waterproof boots face an inherent challenge with breathability and heat buildup. The same Gore-Tex membrane that keeps water out also restricts airflow, trapping heat and moisture inside the boot during warm weather or intense activity. The X Ultra 5 Mid GTX handles this trade-off better than many waterproof competitors but cannot escape the physics of waterproof membranes. The synthetic upper fabric incorporates mesh panels in strategic areas to maximize airflow where the Gore-Tex liner allows, and the overall construction feels less stuffy than boots with leather or heavily coated uppers. Field testing in temperatures ranging from 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit shows reasonable performance. Cool weather hiking with temps in the 50s and 60s feels comfortable throughout the day with minimal heat buildup. As temperatures climb into the 70s and beyond, especially during uphill climbs or full sun exposure, the boots start trapping noticeable heat. Feet feel warm and slightly damp from sweat, though not uncomfortably so for most hikers. Smart sock choice makes a significant difference in heat management. Lightweight merino wool socks wick moisture effectively and regulate temperature better than synthetic or cotton options. Taking breaks to remove the boots briefly allows heat and moisture to escape, refreshing your feet for the next section. For hot weather hiking or those who naturally run warm, consider non-waterproof versions of lightweight hiking boots for better breathability.

Fit Considerations for Different Foot Shapes

Getting the right fit determines whether your boots become trusted trail companions or torture devices. The X Ultra 5 Mid GTX features a snug, athletic fit that works beautifully for average foot shapes but creates challenges for those with wider feet or higher volume foot types. The toe box provides adequate room for toe splay without feeling sloppy, and the heel cup locks securely to prevent slippage on descents. Length-wise, the boots run slightly small compared to standard sizing. If you typically wear size 10 boots, going up to 10.5 in the X Ultra 5 Mid makes sense, especially if you use thicker hiking socks or your feet tend to swell during long hikes. The midfoot hugs snugly, providing excellent support but potentially feeling restrictive for wider feet. Salomon addresses width concerns by offering wide width options in select colorways, though availability remains limited compared to standard widths. The wide version provides significantly more room through the midfoot and toe box while maintaining the same supportive structure. Those with high arches may find the stock insole lacks sufficient support. Swapping in aftermarket insoles with better arch support addresses this common issue and allows you to customize the fit precisely. The ankle collar padding distributes pressure evenly, avoiding the hot spots that plague some boots. Overall, the X Ultra 5 Mid works best for average to slightly narrow feet. Wide-footed hikers should definitely try on the wide version before committing.

Value Proposition at $185 Price Point

Spending nearly $200 on hiking boots feels significant, so value matters. The X Ultra 5 Mid GTX sits in the competitive midrange hiking boot market at $185, where it faces strong competition from brands like Merrell, Oboz, and Lowa. This price point places it above budget options like the Merrell Moab 3 Mid ($150) but well below premium leather boots like the Lowa Renegade GTX ($270). The value equation depends on your hiking style and priorities. For fast-moving hikers who cover lots of trail miles without heavy packs, the combination of low weight, quick break-in, solid traction, and adequate protection delivers excellent performance per dollar. You get technology and features typically found in more expensive boots without paying for overbuilt specs you do not need. The synthetic construction keeps costs reasonable while providing good performance for most three-season conditions. Concerns about long-term durability affect the value calculation. If these boots last only 400 to 500 miles before showing significant wear, the cost per mile increases compared to more durable alternatives that survive 800 to 1000 miles. Early reports suggest reasonable durability, but the jury remains out on long-term performance. For hikers who replace boots every few years anyway and prioritize comfort over maximum longevity, the X Ultra 5 Mid represents strong value in its category. Those seeking boots to last for many years of heavy use might find better long-term value in more expensive, burlier alternatives.

Performance in Different Weather Conditions

Boots perform differently as seasons and weather change. The X Ultra 5 Mid GTX handles three-season conditions well but shows clear preferences. Spring and fall hiking represents the sweet spot for these boots. Cool to moderate temperatures keep heat buildup manageable, frequent wet conditions justify the Gore-Tex waterproofing, and moderate trail difficulty matches the boot’s support capabilities perfectly. Rain showers, muddy trails, and cool mornings all play to the X Ultra 5’s strengths. Summer hiking in hot climates reveals the waterproof liner’s limitations. When temperatures exceed 80 degrees, especially during full sun exposure or steep climbs, your feet will run warm regardless of sock choice or break frequency. The Gore-Tex membrane simply cannot breathe enough for truly hot conditions. Consider non-waterproof trail runners or hiking shoes for desert hiking and hot summer trails. Early winter and shoulder season conditions test the boot’s limits in different ways. Light snow and frozen trails work fine, providing good traction and adequate warmth with proper socks. However, deep snow or icy conditions quickly overwhelm the moderate lug depth and outsole design. The mid-height ankle also allows snow to enter easily. Winter hiking demands dedicated winter boots or at minimum, gaiters to seal the gap between boot and pants.

Comparing to Popular Alternatives

Understanding how the X Ultra 5 Mid stacks up against competitors helps you make informed decisions. The Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX ($175) offers similar waterproof protection at a slightly lower price with a wider, more accommodating fit. However, it feels noticeably heavier and less agile, better suited to casual hikers who prioritize comfort over speed. The Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid GTX ($185) targets the same fast-and-light crowd with even more cushioning underfoot. The Hoka excels in comfort but sacrifices some of the X Ultra 5’s durability and structure. For those wanting maximum plushness, the Anacapa wins. For balanced performance, the Salomon takes it. The Oboz Katabatic LT Mid GTX ($175) provides similar lightweight performance with slightly more flexibility and a touch less structure. It suits hikers who want trail runner agility in boot form. The La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX ($229) steps up in both price and performance, offering superior ankle support and more aggressive traction for technical terrain. You pay for the upgrades in weight and stiffness. None of these alternatives clearly dominates the others. Each targets slightly different priorities within the lightweight hiking boot category, and your personal preferences determine the best fit.

Maintenance Tips for Maximum Lifespan

Proper care extends boot life and maintains performance. Start by cleaning your boots after every few hikes, especially following muddy or dusty conditions. Use a soft brush and lukewarm water to remove dirt and debris from the upper and outsole. Avoid harsh detergents or washing machines, which can damage the Gore-Tex membrane and synthetic materials. Allow boots to air dry naturally at room temperature, stuffing them with newspaper to absorb moisture and maintain shape. Never place them near heaters or in direct sunlight, as excessive heat damages glues and synthetic fabrics. The Gore-Tex waterproofing requires periodic maintenance. Apply a DWR treatment to the outer fabric every 20 to 30 days of use to restore water repellency. When water no longer beads on the surface, reapplication time has arrived. Store boots in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use. Inspect stitching, eyelets, and sole attachment regularly for early signs of wear that can be repaired before major failures occur. Replace insoles when they compress or lose support, typically after 300 to 400 miles. Consider professional resoling if the upper remains in good condition but the outsole wears through, though this option makes more sense for expensive leather boots than synthetic models.

Who Should Buy the X Ultra 5 Mid GTX

This boot excels for specific hiker profiles while disappointing others. Ideal candidates include day hikers tackling moderate to difficult trails, weekend backpackers carrying loads under 35 pounds, and anyone transitioning from trail runners to boots who wants minimal adjustment period. Fast-paced hikers who cover big miles appreciate the low weight and athletic feel. Those hiking primarily in shoulder-season conditions with frequent wet weather benefit from the Gore-Tex protection. Hikers with average foot shapes find the fit comfortable and secure. The boots work well for three-season hiking on well-maintained trails and moderate off-trail travel. Less ideal candidates include heavy backpackers carrying loads over 40 pounds who need maximum ankle support, winter hikers facing snow and ice, those with very wide feet or high arches unless they secure the wide version, and hikers seeking maximum durability for years of heavy use. Hot weather hikers may find the waterproof liner too warm. Those who frequently traverse deep mud or extremely technical rock terrain need more specialized footwear. Understanding these distinctions helps prevent disappointment from mismatched expectations.

Breaking Them In for Best Performance

Despite requiring minimal break-in, following smart practices optimizes comfort and performance. Start by wearing the boots around the house for several hours to identify any pressure points while you can still easily return them. Adjust the lacing and experiment with different sock combinations during this initial phase. Your first trail outing should be a moderate hike of 3 to 5 miles with minimal elevation gain. This allows your feet to adjust to the boots without committing to a long day if problems arise. Pay attention to any hot spots or discomfort and adjust lacing accordingly. Gradually increase distance and difficulty over your next few hikes. By 10 to 15 miles total, the boots should feel broken in and comfortable for longer adventures. Some hikers find applying a small amount of leather conditioner to the synthetic upper helps soften stiff areas, though this remains optional for the already flexible X Ultra 5. If persistent hot spots appear, consider moleskin or hiking-specific blister prevention tape during the break-in period. Most hikers find the break-in process nearly painless compared to traditional leather boots, with the boots feeling trail-ready almost immediately.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability Considerations

Modern hikers increasingly care about the environmental footprint of their gear. The X Ultra 5 Mid GTX uses synthetic materials throughout, avoiding the environmental concerns associated with leather tanning but introducing different issues related to petroleum-based fabrics and plastics. Salomon has not made major sustainability claims for this particular model, and the boots do not feature recycled materials or eco-friendly construction methods prominently. The durability question affects environmental impact significantly. Boots lasting 500 miles create more waste and environmental impact per mile than boots surviving 1000 miles, regardless of materials. Early durability concerns with the X Ultra 5 raise questions about its environmental efficiency. The lack of resoling options for synthetic boots means the entire boot enters the waste stream when the outsole wears through, unlike leather boots that can be resoled multiple times. On the positive side, the lighter weight reduces the energy required for manufacturing and transportation compared to heavier boots. For environmentally conscious hikers, this represents a mixed bag without clear answers.

Final Verdict on the Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX

After examining every angle, the Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX emerges as a top choice for specific hiking applications while showing clear limitations outside its sweet spot. The boot truly excels at delivering lightweight, comfortable, waterproof performance for fast-moving hikers on three-season trails. The combination of low weight, quick break-in, reliable traction, and adequate support makes it one of the best options for day hiking and light backpacking. Hikers who cover big miles without massive packs will appreciate how these boots feel more like athletic shoes than clunky traditional boots, reducing fatigue while maintaining sufficient protection. The Gore-Tex waterproofing works well for wet conditions, the Contagrip outsole grips confidently across varied terrain, and the build quality appears solid for the price point. However, limitations exist. Heavy backpackers need more support, hot weather hikers need more breathability, and long-term durability questions linger. The fit works best for average foot shapes, and the ankle support cannot match burlier boots for technical terrain. The X Ultra 5 Mid GTX deserves serious consideration if your hiking style aligns with its strengths, but other options serve different needs better. Overall, this represents a refined, well-executed lightweight hiking boot that delivers strong performance for its intended audience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX true to size?
The X Ultra 5 Mid GTX runs slightly small compared to standard hiking boot sizing. Most hikers find that going up a half size provides the best fit, especially when using thicker hiking socks or if your feet tend to swell during long hikes. Always try them on with the socks you plan to wear hiking before committing to a size.

How long do the Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX boots last?
Expected lifespan varies based on hiking frequency and terrain difficulty, but most hikers report these boots lasting between 400 to 600 miles before showing significant wear. This represents average durability for synthetic hiking boots in this weight class, though not matching the longevity of heavier leather alternatives that can exceed 1000 miles.

Can I use the Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX for winter hiking?
These boots work adequately for early winter conditions with light snow and frozen trails when paired with warm socks, but they lack the insulation and aggressive traction needed for true winter hiking. The mid-height collar also allows snow to enter easily without gaiters. Dedicated winter boots serve better for deep snow and icy conditions.

Do the Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX require waterproofing treatment?
The Gore-Tex membrane provides waterproof protection from inside, but the outer fabric benefits from periodic DWR treatments to maintain water repellency. Apply DWR spray every 20 to 30 days of use or when you notice water no longer beading on the surface. This maintenance extends the waterproof performance and keeps the boots from absorbing water weight.

What is the weight difference between the X Ultra 5 and X Ultra 4?
The X Ultra 5 Mid GTX weighs approximately the same as the previous X Ultra 4 model at around 2 pounds per pair for men. The main improvements come in materials, durability, and comfort features rather than weight reduction. Both generations target the lightweight hiking boot category with similar specifications.

Are the Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX good for wide feet?
The standard width runs narrow to average and may feel tight for wide feet, particularly through the midfoot and toe box. Salomon offers wide width options in limited colorways that provide significantly more room while maintaining the same support structure. Wide-footed hikers should specifically seek out the wide version for best results.

Last update on 2026-02-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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