Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GORE-TEX Hiking Boot Review
AN IN-DEPTH REVIEW OF THE SALOMON X ULTRA 4 MID GORE-TEX WATERPROOF HIKING BOOT
The waterproof, lightweight, and durable Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GORE-TEX boot. Photo by Erica Zazo.
Home > Gear Reviews > Footwear
April 11th, 2024
OUR VERDICT
For hikers who want waterproof boots that are as durable as they are comfortable, make the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GORE-TEX hiking boots your pick. These lightweight, fully waterproof hikers are built for lasting comfort over long and short distances. An impressively grippy outsole provides traction over technical features like rocks and roots, and deep treads help you power through muddy, wet trails.
I put these boots to the test on long day hikes during the Midwest’s rainy season to test their waterproofness and comfort in varying conditions. These boots are durable, supportive, and fully-featured enough to take on backpacking trips or wear on shorter day hikes. They provide the agility of a trail-running shoe with the stability, grip, and protection of a long-distance boot.
Salomon designed the women's version of the X Ultra 4 Mid hiking boots specific to the female anatomy. Made with a bigger last and lower-density chassis, they more effectively cradle the heel, support articulations on the outer edge of the foot, and offer greater stability.
A buttery soft padding on the heel tab, collar, and tongue provides extreme comfort around all sides of the ankle. These boots run true to size but feature an average width and toe box size. If you’re someone with wider feet, they may cause some discomfort.
Winner of Best Lightweight Hiking Boots in our Best Lightweight Hiking Boots guide, the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX is a beloved hiking boot. The hiking shoe version of the X Ultra 4 also earned the distinction of Best Hiking Shoe with Traction, Support, and Comfort in our Best Hiking Shoes guide. In this review, we’ll dive deeper into what makes this hiking boot so great so you can decide if it’s the right one for your outdoor excursions.
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
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SPECS
Cushion: Medium
Stability: Stable
Heel-to-Toe Drop (mm): 11 mm
Stack Height: 31.5 mm/20.5 mm (heel/toe)
Lugs: 4.5 mm
Upper: PU-coated leather and textile
Midsole: EnergyCell
Outsole: Rubber
Weight (pair): 1 lb, 14.4 oz (men's), 1 lb, 10.1 oz oz (women's)
COMPARISON TABLE OF SIMILAR MODELS
MEN’S
| HIKING BOOT | HEIGHT | MSRP | WEIGHT PER PAIR | SOLE MATERIAL | MIDSOLE | UPPER MATERIAL | WATERPROOF TECHNOLOGY | WIDTH | AVAILABLE SIZES |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX | Mid | $175 | 1 lb, 14.4 oz | Rubber | EnergyCell | PU-coated leather and textile | Gore-Tex | Medium | 7 to 14 |
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof | Mid | $150 | 2 lbs, 4 oz | Vibram TC5+ | Merrell Air Cushion | Suede and mesh | M Select Dry | Medium, wide | 7 to 15 |
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX | Mid | $170 | 1 lb, 15.7 oz | Vibram TC5+ | Merrell Air Cushion | Leather, 100% recycled laces, webbing, and mesh | GORE-TEX® | Medium, wide | 7 to 15 |
| La Sportiva TX Hike Mids | Mid | $190 | 2 lbs 2.6 oz | Vibram Ecostep EVO | Compression EVA | recycled air mesh | Gore-Tex Extended comfort | Medium | 38-49.5 (EU sizing) |
| KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof | Mid | $165 | 2 lbs 8.6 oz | TPU | Luftcell polyurethane | Nubuck Leather | KEEN.DRY waterproof/breathable membrane | Medium, wide | 7 - 15 |
woMEN’S
| HIKING BOOT | HEIGHT | MSRP | WEIGHT PER PAIR | SOLE MATERIAL | MIDSOLE | UPPER MATERIAL | WATERPROOF TECHNOLOGY | WIDTH | AVAILABLE SIZES |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX | Mid | $175 | 1 lb 10.1 oz | Rubber | EnergyCell | Polyurethane-coated leather/textile | GORE-Tex | Medium | 5 - 11 |
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid WP | Mid | $150 | 1 lbs 13 oz | Vibram TC5+ | Merrell Air Cushion | Pigskin leather/mesh | M Select Dry | Medium, wide | 5 - 12 |
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX | Mid | $170 | 1 lb, 13 oz | Vibram TC5+ | Merrell Air Cushion | Leather and mesh | GORE-Tex | Medium, wide | 5 - 12 |
| Salomon Quest 4 GTX | Mid | $230 | 2 lbs, 6.4 oz | Contagrip TD | EVA Foam | Leather & textile | Gore-Tex | Medium | 6 - 11 |
| La Sportiva TX Hike Mids | Mid | $190 | 1 lb, 12.6 oz | Vibram Ecostep EVO | Compression EVA | Recycled air mesh | GORE-TEX Extended Comfort | Medium | 36 - 43 (EU sizing) |
WHAT WE LIKED
Fully waterproof with GORE-TEX protection
Lightweight and agile design that’s built for both longer-distance trails and shorter day hikes
Thoughtful details to provide optimal comfort including padded heel tab, collar, and tongue
Sturdy and durable to stand up to technical terrain
WHAT COULD BE BETTER
Waterproofing leads to a lack of breathability, and traps heat and moisture
Overpadding of the heel cuff, tongue, and collar may bother some hikers
Could use more cushion for thru-hiking and/or distance hiking
DETAILS
FIT
The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GORE-TEX boots are the Goldilocks of fit: not too wide, not too narrow, but just right. With an average width and toe box size, most feet will fit comfortably in these mid-height boots. I tend to prefer shoes with a wider mid-foot and toe box, but I didn’t have any problems with hot spots or tightness while hiking in these Salomons. The fabric-covered and padded heel tab, collar, and tongue were extra comfortable, where I typically feel rubbing and irritation on the trail.
These boots are impressively stable for their weight, which are lighter than other competitor boots on the market, like the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof or KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof boots (or KEEN Targhee III Mid Waterproof boots as long as they’re still available).
The X Ultra 4 Mids are equipped with an updated chassis aimed at better protecting sensitive or vulnerable spots without compromising movement and agility.
CUSHIONING
The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GORE-TEX boots fall within the medium cushion category for hikers. Sewn onto the insole is an Ortholite footbed that provides extra support and comfort without adding weight or unnecessary bulk. While this footbed doesn’t feel overly cushioned, like what you’d find in the Hoka Anacapa 2 or Hoka Kaha 2, it did provide extra support underfoot while hiking on chunky rocks, roots, and uneven surfaces along the trail.
These boots are impressively stable for their weight. As mentioned above, they are significantly lighter than other competitor boots on the market, like the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof or KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof boots (or KEEN Targhee III Mid Waterproof boots).
The X Ultra 4 Mids are also equipped with an updated chassis aimed at better protecting sensitive articulations without compromising movement and agility. Salomon argues their lower-density chassis design provides greater stability and cushion on the trail. I’d agree. I found these boots felt very stable underfoot thanks to their firm footbed and sturdy outsole, especially when walking along root-filled trails and uneven ground.
Erica Zazo stomps through mud puddles in the fully waterproof Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid boots in Ryerson Conservation Area. Photo by Erica Zazo.
COMFORT
These boots provide impressive comfort that’s not overly cushioned or over-designed with unnecessary features. I hiked with these boots for 5 miles right out of the box on a mix of dirt, gravel, and pavement, and didn’t feel any discomfort. If you’re looking for a boot for thru-hiking or big distances, I wouldn't recommend these boots right out of the box (see break-in time section below). However, I was impressed by the initial comfort compared to both more flexible and sturdier boots. I also appreciated the cut of this mid-height boot that fell right below my ankle, which helped avoid rubbing and irritation the further I hiked.
The X Ultra 4 Mids have a snug heel pocket that cups the base of your heel, providing a tight fit without squeezing or compromising comfort. I noticed this right away when slipping my foot into the boot, almost as if the boot locked my foot into place. I typically wear wide shoes, so I was impressed with how comfortable these were given they’re not explicitly marketed as a boot that caters to wider feet.
The unique lacing system on these boots also provided surprise comfort and stability by keeping the boots secured around all sides of my foot. The laces attach to Salomon’s Active Support system design which connects from the eyelets to the upper and down side panels that attach to the sole of the boot. My laces required no tightening or adjusting while hiking for hours at a time.
One potential downside to comfort on these boots is that some hikers may feel the padding around the cuff and tongue of the shoe is too much. If you’re used to having a more minimal cushion around the ankle, this design may need some getting used to before trekking over long distances.
GRIP AND TRACTION
I wore these boots in my local forest preserve after several days of rain to see how they’d hold up on wet trails and soggy boardwalks. I found these boots to be extremely grippy, especially on slippery, wet wooden walkways over small streams along the route. Walking over large roots and rocks along the trail, these boots performed with agility I hadn’t seen before in a mid-sole hiker. I was able to easily hop and step down the trail without feeling like a clunky outsole was impacting my ability to navigate obstacles.
The rubber outsole of the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid boots is pliable and grippy.
The rubber outsole of this boot is soft and pliable, morphing with the rocks, roots, and inconsistencies in the trail underfoot. I found the boot flexed easily as I walked along the trail without compromising support or stability. In boots with more cushioned midsoles, I often have trouble feeling what’s underfoot because there’s so much extra foam surrounding the midsole. However, that was not a problem in the X Ultra 4 Mids. I was able to feel larger objects like rocks and roots without any sort of compromised pain or pressure.
The deep lugs in these boots carved their way through deep mud but let go of the collected debris as I kept hiking. Other boots I’ve worn, like the Merrell Moab 3 or Hoka Anacapa 2, tend to hold onto the mud that gets stuck in the heel break and lug divots. The X Ultra 4 Mids let go of the mud they picked up as I hiked, making for a lighter trek on particularly wet days.
VERSATILITY
With the fit and feel of a lightweight trail runner but the feel of a rugged hiking boot, the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GORE-TEX boots are perfect for all types of adventures – from long-distance backpacking trips to local day hikes. Best for three-season (spring, summer, fall) hiking, these boots are ideal on wet trails or in rainfall as they’re fully waterproof and will keep your feet dry even if briefly submersed. A lightweight design allows for agile movement as you hike, like hopping through boulder fields, navigating riverbanks and streamsides, and trekking over long, flat distances.
RESPONSIVENESS
These lightweight hikers are more responsive than most thanks to a design that forgoes a stiff upper for more pliable materials, including PU-coated leather and synthetics. I felt a seamless connection between my foot and the ground, as the midsole and insole of these boots don’t compromise on the ability to feel what’s underfoot. As such, I was able to navigate varying terrain, including rocks, roots, and washed-out trail, with ease.
The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mids are more responsive than most hiking boots thanks to the pliable materials used in the upper, including PU-coated leather and synthetics.
WARMTH
I wouldn’t recommend these boots for cold conditions, including winter hiking and high-elevation where running into snow is possible. These three-season hikers are best for more moderate climates where waterproofing will come in handy, including the PNW, Midwest, and East Coast.
With a standard pair of wool socks in these boots, my feet stayed fairly regulated in 40-degree temperatures. No part of the boot design added any extra warmth to my foot temperature, and if anything, my foot built up its own heat within the boot as I hiked.
BREAK-IN TIME
Unlike competitors like Hoka, these boots do require some getting used to and break-in time. While I didn’t experience any hot spots, blisters, or irritation on my initial 5-mile hike in these boots, they did not have that out-of-the-box comfort I felt when first putting on my Merrell Moab 3 or Hoka Anacapa 2 boots. We’d recommend breaking in the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mids on a few shorter-distance hikes before taking them out for longer treks (over 5 miles).
WATERPROOFING
My favorite feature of the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GORE-TEX boots was their waterproof protection. You can instantly see water beading on the surface of these boots in rain or hiking through a shallow puddle. I trudged through deep puddles and in steady rain without these boots getting wet inside. The only time I felt wetness seep in was any precipitation or splashing that caused water to go up and over the cuff of my boot (a good pair of gaiters, like Dirty Girl Gaiters, can help with that). Other than that, my feet stayed completely dry.
The author trudged through deep puddles and in steady rain without the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid boots getting wet inside.
BREATHABILITY
While these boots excelled in keeping water, they unfortunately trapped moisture in. One major downside of these boots is their lack of breathability. I found my feet worked up a sweat in 40-degree temperatures on a mostly flat, five-mile hike.
Not only did my feet get hot along the route, but they also built up a small amount of moisture that couldn’t escape out of the boot. For this reason, I recommend these boots when you’re hiking in rainy weather or moderate climates, and avoid wearing them in hot environments like the desert or in muggy summer weather. Note: I am someone who tends to run hot when hiking and adventuring outdoors.
DURABILITY AND LONGEVITY
Heavier boots made of leather and industry-standard rubber outsoles, like Vibram, may last longer over time. All to say, these boots are solidly durable given their lightweight design.
A thick, rubber toe cap keeps the top of the boot from scuffing and tearing. 4.5 mm lugs and an All Terrain Contagrip outsole are two features that help with the longevity of these boots by providing durable and rugged support over challenging terrain.
With durability and stability prioritized in their design, roots, rocks, and varied terrain are no trouble for the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid boots. Photo by Erica Zazo.
You’ll want to keep an eye out on the seams and upper stitching of these boots as you wear them, as the synthetic fabric may see some wear and tear, especially if you’re hiking more variable and rugged landscapes. This is pretty typical for the lightweight boot category, where boots are more pliable and flexible, therefore leading to faster wear and tear.
However, several reviews across other backpacking review sites, like Switchback Travel and GearLab, claim these boots have held up in extremely rugged conditions without much wear and tear to show for the adventure.
PRICE AND VALUE COMPARED TO OTHER HIKING BOOTS
At under $200, these boots come at a more affordable price as compared to other major brands on the market, like Hoka and Altra. While slightly more expensive than Merrell hiking boots, the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mids boast features like full waterproofing with GORE-TEX and a lightweight build that you won’t find in most other boots in this category of hikers.
SUSTAINABILITY AND ETHICAL COMPANY PRACTICES
I couldn’t find much information about Salomon’s sustainability efforts when designing and manufacturing this shoe. Some websites did share that Salomon is committed to reducing the company’s impact on the environment by not using harmful PFC (Perfluorocarbons) throughout their waterproof and water-repellency treatments on their boots. For example, their waterproof GORE-TEX models are all free from PFCec (Perfluorocarbons of environmental concern) but may contain some traces of PFC.
You can learn more about PFAs and PFC-free waterproofing in our All About PFAs and PFC-Free Waterproofing article here.
FEATURES
VOLUME
With a roomier fit than most boots in their category, the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mids will easily accommodate a variety of foot shapes and sizes. Brands like Altra and Hoka are known for their extra-wide toe box. The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mids have an average-sized toe box. Yet even as someone who has a wider foot, I found the toe box provided ample room and comfort. For folks who want more width and extra space in the toe box, the X Ultra 4 Mids also come in a wide version in both women’s and men’s sizing.
WEIGHT OF SHOE
The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mids are 370 g (13.05 oz) for women's and 427 g (15.02 oz) for men's per boot. This is on the light to average weight of similar lightweight hiking boots. You'll find lighter options with high-top versions of trail running shoes, like the Altra Lone Peak Mid. You'll find heavier options in dedicated hiking boots made of full-grain leather.
HEEL-TO-TOE DROP
The Salomon X Ultra 4 mids have a stack height of 31.5 mm in the heel and 20.5 mm in the forefoot. This means it has a heel-to-toe drop of 11 mm. Many hikers find that having a stack height like this helps propel them forward. However, if you are used to wearing a zero drop or lower drop hiking shoe or street shoe, this may take your feet some time to adjust.
LACES AND EYELETS/SECURITY ON FOOT
As previously mentioned, the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mids come with a unique lacing system that provides added comfort and stability. The laces attach to Salomon’s Active Support system that runs from the eyelets, to the upper, and down side panels before attaching at the sole of the boot.
These laces required no tightening or adjusting while hiking for hours at a time. My foot felt extra secure on all sides of the boot when tightening the laces. At no point while hiking on both flat land and elevation did I feel there was an issue with slipping, loosening, or instability.
DOES IT HAVE REFLECTIVE MATERIAL? WHERE IS THE REFLECTION ON THE SHOE DESIGN?
The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mids do not have any added reflective material on the outside of the boot. Some boot colorways feature bright pops of accent color, including the version of the women's boot I wore which has a highlighter green/yellow on the bootstrap and an accent on the outsole.
STYLE AND DESIGN
The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GORE-TEX comes in a variety of colorways across both men's and women's boots. The colors feature a mix of traditional blues, greens, and tans with bright pops of accent colors to add some personal style to the boots. That means you can make the boots your own by picking the vibe and style that fits your hiking personality.
I wore the Stargazer / Carbon / Stone Blue version of the women's boots, which I felt matched well with a darker color palette of gear. I particularly love how Salomon designed both men's and women's styles with bright pops of accent colors. These eye-catching features are helpful not only to grab the attention of other hikers on the trail, but to also better see the sole of your foot while walking.
The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid boot comes in a variety of colorways and has a more technical look than brands like Hoka or Danner.
These boots have a more technical look to them than some of the more lifestyle-oriented hiking boots, like Hoka. If you want a boot that looks more like a sneaker, consider Danner or Hoka over Salomon. But if you’re okay rocking a look that’s a more modern take on a technical boot, make the Salomon X Ultra 4 GORE-TEX your pick.
DIFFERENCES FROM X ULTRA 3 MID
The biggest difference between the Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid and the new version is a newly designed chassis that Salmon claims is better at supporting sensitive articulations without compromising freedom of movement while wearing the boot. With more emphasis on designing a pliable, lightweight, agile boot, Salomon created the new X Ultra 4 Mid GORE-TEX with the agility of a trail-running shoe but with all the stability, grip, and waterproofing needed to tackle technical terrain. Simply put: You’ll find more durability, increased responsiveness, and more stability than in the brand’s earlier versions of this boot.
OTHER MODELS AVAILABLE
Salomon X Ultra 4 Low GTX
With the same stability, performance, waterproofing, and long-lasting durability as the mid-height boot, the X Ultra 4 Low shaves off 2 ounces (women's size 8.5) and comes in at a lower price ($160). You’ll have fewer choices of colors on the lower cut version of the boot, which features three colorways versus five in the mid-height. If you’re a fan of a lower boot height but want the same great features, protection, and agile light hiker as the X Ultra 4 Mid, this may be a better choice for you.
SALOMON X ULTRA 4 LOW GTX
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
Salomon X Ultra 4 Non-GORE-TEX
If you live in a dry climate or want a boot with a bit more breathability, opt for the X Ultra 4 Non-GORE-TEX boot. It is nearly the same weight as the GORE-TEX version of the low-cut boot and comes in four unique colorways. This boot is great for three-season hikers who aren’t as concerned about inclement weather on the trail, but crave a stable, durable, and comfortable boot on varied terrain.
SALOMON X ULTRA 4 NON-GORE-TEX
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
WHO SHOULD BUY THE SALOMON X ULTRA 4 MID GTX?
If you’re looking for an agile, lightweight hiking boot that provides long-lasting comfort on variable terrain, consider the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GORE-TEX hiking boot. Built and designed to fit and feel like a trail-running shoe, this boot provides more stability and support than your average trail runner.
The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX is ideal for day hikes and the occasional short backpacking trip.
Best for day hikes and the occasional short backpacking trips, these waterproof boots will stand up to challenges ranging from rainy days to scrambling up technical terrain. These boots will fit most feet but you can also order a wide version of these boots in both women’s and men’s sizing. Make sure to try them on at your local outdoor retailer before committing.
SIMILAR MODELS / OTHER SHOES YOU MAY CONSIDER
Merrell Moab 3
Weight: 2 lbs, 4 oz (men's) and 1 lbs 13 oz (women's)
Waterproofing: M Select Dry
Sizes available: 7 to 15
Outsole:
Sole material: Vibram TC5+
Upper: Suede and mesh
The affordable yet highly capable Merrell Moab 3 is a fan favorite for a reason. The Merrell Moab 3 won the best budget winner in our Best Hiking Boots guide and our Best Lightweight Hiking Boots guide, as well as the Best Hiking Shoe winner in the low-top version of the boot.
MERRELL MOAB 3
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
Keen Targhee 4
Weight: 2 lbs 8.6 oz (men's) and 2 lbs 2.6 oz (women's)
Waterproofing: KEEN.DRY waterproof/breathable membrane
Sizes available: 7 - 15
Outsole:
Sole material: TPU
Upper: Nubuck Leather
The Keen Targhee 4 boots are another budget-friendly waterproof and comfortable hiking shoe. A great choice for hikers with wide feet, the Keen Targhee 4 toe box and boot width will accommodate larger and wider feet than the Salomon X Ultra 4 boots. Hikers love these boots for their springy midsole and durable outsole which Keen claims is twice as durable as regular rubber.
KEEN TARGHEE 4
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid GTX
Weight: 2 lbs 4 oz (men's) and 1 lb 13.4 oz (women's)
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX waterproof/breathable membranes
Sizes available: 7 - 15
Outsole:
Sole material: Vibram Megagrip rubbere
Upper: Waterproof nubuck leather
If you’re looking for a boot that crosses over into lifestyle and provides a comfortable fit that almost feels like you’re hiking in a tennis shoe, try the Hoka Anacapa 2. They’re slightly more expensive than the Salomon X Ultra 4 GORE-TEX boot but many hikers swear by their extra cushioned comfort makes a big difference when hiking over long distances. If waterproof protection is a big factor in your boot choice, Hoka also makes the boot in a GORE-TEX version, the Anacapa 2 GTX, which we reviewed here.
HOKA ANACAPA 2 MID GTX
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
ABOUT THE AUTHOR / WHY YOU SHOULD TRUST US
I’m Erica Zazo—a freelance writer and gear reviewer who has covered outdoor products and adventure travel for more than a decade. I’ve reviewed products for numerous outdoor and travel publications, including Backpacker Magazine, CNN Underscored, Popular Mechanics, GearJunkie, and more, educating readers about what they need to know to get outdoors safely and enjoyably. I’m an expert in all things outdoor adventure and have spent countless days in nature testing the best gear along the way.
My gear reviews and outdoor stories span topics from where to hike year-round for Backpacker Magazine to how-tos like sleeping comfortably outdoors, deep-dives into the best car camping tents, rigorous tests of fire starters, and the best backpacking food all for CNN Underscored.
An avid camper, hiker, biker, and angler who values creature comforts—even in the backcountry—I know what to look for in products to make sure you stay safe and comfortable along the way. With roots in the Midwest, most weekends you can find me making the trek from my home in Chicago to remote forests in Wisconsin and Michigan, or traveling across the country to get out in more rugged nature within the national parks and lesser-traveled wilderness areas.
You can see all of Erica’s stories on their website and author page, or follow along on Instagram at @onecurioustrvlr.
