Why the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Hits the Sweet Spot Between Agility and Stability
An in-depth review of the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX: blending trail runner agility with boot-like stability in one do-it-all hiking shoe
We tested the newest version of the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX and liked how light they felt for such a sturdy trail shoe.
September 25th, 2025
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Our verdict
The Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX has quickly become our go-to hiking shoe after a month of testing the women’s and men’s version on the west coast of British Columbia. We’ve worn them on fast-paced mellow loops and on straight-up boulder-scrambling grinds, and have found the X Ultra 5s to be a true hybrid hiking shoe that lands squarely between a trail running shoe and a light backpacking boot. They’re light enough to move quickly in, stable enough for steep descents, and built tough for mixed, rocky terrain.
The updates over the X Ultra 4 are obvious the moment you (Quick)lace them up—more padding around the collar and tongue for less heel slip, a slightly burlier build that feels more secure underfoot, and contouring inside that gives a more customized fit.
The shoe’s biggest strength is how versatile it feels; it’s the only pair you need for everything from day hikes to multi-day trips. Both our men’s and women’s testers also loved the muted, modern styling. The cushioning does lean firm, so if you want a max-plush ride for long smooth miles you may want to look elsewhere.
Bottom line: the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX is our new favorite all-around hiking shoe, and what we'd recommend to anyone who wants one do-it-all, low-cut hiker.
For more of our favorites, check out our Best Men’s Hiking Shoes and Best Women’s Hiking Shoes guides.
The Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX won our award for Our Favorite Gear of the Year of 2025.
Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
Men's
Women's
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Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Specifications
MSRP: $170
Weight (per pair): 1 lb 10.9 oz (men’s), 1 lb 6.6 oz (women’s)
Cushion: Moderate
Stability: Neutral
Heel-to-toe drop (mm): 11 mm
Stack height (heel/toe mm): 33/22 mm
Upper materials: Matryx textile reinforced with Kevlar yarn and a breathable lining
Midsole material: EnergyCell EVA (high-performance foam)
Outsole material and lugs: Aggressive and grippy All Terrain Contagrip rubber
Waterproof technology: GORE-TEX PFC-free membrane (waterproof and breathable)
Available sizes and widths: Men’s US 7-14 in Regular and Wide; Women’s US 5-11
Suitable for vegans: Yes. Salomon doesn’t explicitly state but synthetic materials are listed.
Comparison table
| TRAIL RUNNING SHOE | MSRP* | WEIGHT (PAIR) | UPPER MATERIAL | WATERPROOFING? | MIDSOLE | OUTSOLE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Low Men's Women's |
$170 | 1 lb 10.8 oz (men's), 1 lb 6.6 oz (women's) | GORE-TEX | EnergyCell | All Terrain Contragrip rubber | |
| Danner Trail 2650 Men's Women's |
$170 | 1 lb 11 oz (men's), 1 lb 5 oz (women's) | Suede, textile | N/A (mesh) | Vibram 460 | |
| HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX Men's Women's |
$180 | 1 lb 14.7 oz (men's), 1 lb 8.8 oz (women's) | Waterproof Nubuck leather/recycled mesh | GORE-TEX Invisible Fit waterproof/breathable laminate | Compression-molded EVA (30% sugarcane) | Vibram Megagrip rubber |
| Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX Waterproof Men's Women's |
$170 | 1 lb 7.6 oz. (men's), 1 lb 4.6 oz. (women's) | Recycled polyester | GORE-TEX Invisible Fit | EVA | Trail Tread Eco rubber |
| Salomon XA PRO 3D V9 GORE-TEX Men's Women's |
$160 | 1 lb 9.4 oz (men's), 1 lb 6.2 oz (women's) | Synthetic/ textile | GORE-TEX membrane | EnergyCell+ | All Terrain Contragrip rubber |
Best for
Day hiking on rocky, rooty, and mixed terrain
Lightweight backpacking trips where you want stability without a full boot
Muddy or wet trails where traction and waterproofing matter
Beginner to expert hikers who want a durable, do-it-all shoe
Average and wide-footed hikers (Wide version only available in men’s)
The X Ultra 5 GTX is a comfortable shoe for hiking spring through fall; breathable, waterproof and stable for almost all trail conditions. Photo by Steve Redmond
What we liked
Comfortable right out of the box with almost no break-in time
Versatile enough for everything from mellow day hikes to multi-day trips
Light on your feet but stable enough to feel confident when the trail gets sketchy
Contagrip outsole really digs in on dirt and holds steady on descents
The Kevlar-reinforced upper is highly abrasion resistant
Muted, modern colorways that look good on the trail and around town (although we think the men’s version got the better color options)
What could be better
The Quicklace system is not everyone’s favorite, and traditional laces offer easier field repairs
Cushioning leans firm and supportive, so hikers who like a cloud-like ride may want to look elsewhere
Breathability is average; fine for shoulder seasons, but can run warm in mid-summer heat
How we tested
Both our men’s and women’s testers have been hiking in the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX for about a month, logging roughly 100 combined miles so far. Most of our testing took place on the trails around Squamish, B.C., including the Brohm Lake Interpretive Forest, the Four Lakes Trail, and the steep grind up the Stawamus Chief. Conditions ranged from late summer heat (close to 100°F) to early fall rain, giving us a good mix of dry, wet, and variable terrain.
For comparison, we hiked many of the same routes in the previous X Ultra 4 GTX, and we even laced up one 4 and one 5 at the same time to feel the differences directly. As with all our footwear testing, we focused on fit, stability, cushioning, traction, waterproofing, and durability. The X Ultra 5 was scored the same way we evaluate every shoe, with extra notes on where the updates delivered real-world improvements beyond just new features on a spec sheet.
Performance in the field
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Both our men’s and women’s X Ultra 5 testers reported that the shoe fit true to size. I tested the women’s version and have high-volume feet on the wider side. I’m typically between a women’s size 7.5 and 8, but following the Salomon size guide, I ordered a 7.5 and am happy with the fit, finding them straight-out-of-the-box-comfortable and requiring no break-in time. Our men’s tester, who has medium width, medium volume feet, chose a men’s size 11.5 over the size 12, and found them long enough and comfy on his first five-mile hike.
The toe box is roomy enough to wiggle toes and hike downhill without jamming, but it doesn’t feel too loose. Our heels stayed locked down without slipping. We’re glad we didn’t size up a half-size as we had read a few customer reviews that called them slightly short in length (but other reviews called them long, which is why it’s great to try them on if you can).
The women’s comes in only the standard width, while the men’s version comes in a regular and wide model. Our recommendation is to follow Salomon’s sizing chart, and try them on if you can, to find your best fit.
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This shoe leans supportive rather than plush—think snug hug, not pillow. The EnergyCell EVA midsole is firm and geared for performance, not squish. On a 10-mile day, our feet were ready for recovery slides afterward, but we didn’t have any hot spots or aching arches. The toe box gave just enough room to move across roots and rocks without feeling sloppy.
As a low-cut shoe, the X Ultra 5 gives you plenty of freedom to move. The mid version adds ankle coverage and extra support, but for us the low felt agile and secure, especially when we picked up the pace on faster hikes. Salomon’s Advanced Chassis (a molded insert embedded in the outsole), adds lateral stability, keeping your foot from rolling on uneven ground and giving the shoe just enough torsional rigidity (resistance to twisting) to feel controlled on rocky terrain. At the same time, it still allows natural forward flex, so the shoe doesn’t feel stiff or clunky.
When we first slipped them on, we were pleasantly surprised by how customized to our feet they felt. The SensiFit cradle (the wrap system that makes the whole shoe hug your foot) does an excellent job at adapting to your foot’s volume and helps hold it in place. And, the Active Support wings (those little flexible flaps on the outside of the shoe near the ankle area) pull in to hug your foot when you tighten the lace.
The cushioning leans more firm and responsive than marshmallow-soft—supportive and stable, not squishy or bouncy. That makes a big difference on technical trails where control matters, though it’s not as cushy for those who like the feeling of walking on clouds. The arch support is moderate with the Ortholite insole (a trusted insole brand used by many of the big names in hiking footwear like Salomon, Oboz, and Merrell). It should suit most hikers well, but there’s always the option to swap out for an aftermarket insole if another brand works better for you. We never noticed any pressure points even after long, rocky miles.
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The X Ultra 5’s Contagrip outsole chomps down hard on dirt, gravel, and mud. On climbs, we appreciated the big chevron lugs, which also acted like brakes on descents (very noticeable on our descent of the Stawamus Chief). The wide spacing also helps shed muck, and prevents tiny rocks from getting stuck. They feel trustworthy on roots and loose rock, though they can skate a little on slick slabs or wet boardwalks (but what shoe doesn't?).
Compared to Vibram Megagrip (like on the Danner Tail 2650 or the HOKA Anacapa 2 featured in our best women’s hiking shoes guide), the rubber isn’t quite as sticky on polished rock, but it balances grip with durability better than softer compounds. For most trail conditions, the traction is a real strength. Like their Ultra X 3 and 4 predecessors, the durability is solid; the lugs hardly look worn after multiple hikes.
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The GORE-TEX PFC-free membrane kept us bone-dry while wading through wet grass and creek crossings. We did our classic “two-minute test,” standing in a fast flowing river with our feet submerged to the top of the waterproof membrane—no moisture leaked through.
The biggest trade-off with GORE-TEX is breathability, and we were impressed by the X Ultra 5s. Late August had us hiking in nearly 100F, and while our feet warmed up, they weren’t left sitting in sweat pools. When we hung the shoes outside to dry overnight, they were dry by morning.
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The X Ultra 5 feels tougher than the 4s right out of the box. The Matryx upper, a technical yarn woven with Kevlar fiber (the same super-strong material used in climbing ropes and body armor) is engineered to be more durable than standard yarns. In our experience, it handles roots and rocky scrapes without showing wear, and it’s easy to wipe clean after muddy days.
The toe, collar, and even the side wings all get extra reinforcement compared to the previous model, which makes the shoe feel more solid. After about 50 trail miles per pair, the Contagrip outsole still looks barely scuffed. The EnergyCell midsole has stayed supportive, with very little compression even after long hikes and plenty of pavement miles.
There are a couple of small downsides. The tongue feels a bit bulkier than the last model and doesn’t snug down as much as we’d like, which can let in some debris. The Quicklace system is fast and convenient, but if it breaks on a trip you don’t have a simple backup. Although, I’ve tested over 10 pairs of Salomon shoes with the Quicklace system and it’s never failed me. Plus, the X Ultra 5 lace loops are just big enough to string a thin lace through, so you do have field repair options, and Salomon does offer a Quicklace repair kit. And like most lightweight shoes, the cushioning won’t feel plush forever the way a burlier boot might.
Overall, the X Ultra 5s feel built to last, and we expect them to stay durable through multiple seasons of day hikes and light backpacking on mixed terrain without wearing out too quickly.
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Salomon lists the weight for the X Ultra 5 GTX at about 13.4 oz per shoe for men (size 9) and 11.3 oz per shoe for women (size 7). On our scale, a women’s size 7.5 came in right around spec at 11.7 oz, while our men’s size 11.5 pair weighed a bit more at 15 oz, as expected.
At roughly 1 lb 6.6 oz per pair (women’s), the X Ultra 5s are a few ounces heavier than stripped-down trail runners, but that extra weight buys you noticeably more support and durability. For us, that tradeoff was well worth it on rocky or rooty terrain. If you’re curious whether hiking shoes or trail running shoes are the better choice for you, check out our Trail Running Shoes vs. Hiking Shoes guide.
Compared to other hiking shoes, the X Ultra 5 lands right in the middle: lighter than most traditional burly leather hiking shoes, but heavier than ultralight shoes. They’re easy enough to stash in a pack, and we’d happily carry them on a week-long hut trip without regret. On foot, they deliver a balance of agility and stability that trail runners don’t often match.
Features
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To truly enjoy Salomon hiking shoes, you have to buy into their Quicklace system— one pull of the cord locks the shoe down and a small lace pocket on the tongue keeps extra cord out of the way. It’s fast, tidy, and super convenient.
Some people prefer a traditional lacing system that allows for more customization, but our testers are big fans of the simplicity of the Quicklace system, which has always felt plenty secure. The major downside is that if the lace breaks in the field, there’s no easy repair. If you’re hesitant about getting a precise fit, spend a few minutes dialing in the tension at home before hitting the trail.
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This is one of the biggest upgrades from the previous model. The X Ultra 5 has noticeably more padding around the heel and collar, which makes the fit feel more dialed-in and secure. The ankle collar is still cut low for freedom of movement, but the extra cushioning adds comfort and cuts down on heel slippage.
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We stubbed our toes on plenty of rocks and roots, and the solid rubber toe provides more than enough protection without adding bulk. There’s also some added rubber reinforcements running along the side of the shoe for extra protection.
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Both our testers love the look of the X Ultra 5 GTX and gave them full style points. The colorways are muted but still feel fresh, with color-blocking that hits a nice middle ground—not boring, but not over-the-top loud either. They look good enough that we’ve been wearing them plenty around town, not just on the trail. However, like with many styles, we still think the men’s color options are slightly more appealing.
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This model uses a PFC-free GORE-TEX membrane, and includes some recycled materials in the upper, though what materials and how much are not specified.
Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX vs. Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
Compared to the X Ultra 4, the newly updated X Ultra 5 feels like a more capable hiking shoe. It’s a little burlier, with tougher materials, more reinforcements, and added padding around the collar and tongue that cut down on heel slippage. It’s slightly more rigid, but the tradeoff is noticeably better stability.
We hiked with both versions up the Stawamus Chief Trail, a steep grind that’s mostly rocks and roots. In the X Ultra 4 we rolled an ankle a couple of times, but in the 5 we stayed stable the whole way, which we’re chalking up to better lateral support from the updated chassis. The shoe feels more planted and resists twisting on uneven ground, which makes a big difference on a trail like the Chief.
The 4 leaned more toward a sleek, trail runner-style profile, while the 5 sits squarely between a trail runner and a lightweight backpacking boot. (Though if you are looking for more of a boot, the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX is available as a hiking boot.)
Both our men’s and women’s shoe testers liked the updated look and colorways, and we appreciated how the shoe contours to the foot more than the previous version. Overall, we’re impressed with the update and think the new X Ultra 5 is a solid choice for most hikers.
The X Ultra 4 on the left, and the X Ultra 5 on the right. Photo by Steve Redmond
Similar products
Oboz Katabatic Low GTX
MSRP: $170
Weight: 1 lb 7.6 oz. (men's), 1 lb 4.6 oz. (women's)
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX Invisible Fit
Upper: Recycled polyester
Midsole: EVA
Outsole: Trail Tread Eco rubber
The new Oboz Katabatic Low GTX waterproof hiking shoe is another solid option if you’re after a lightweight day hiker that can double as a capable light backpacking shoe. Where the Salomon feels a little burlier and more stable, the Katabatic comes across lighter and a touch more pared-down.
The big story with the newest iteration of the waterproof Katabatic, is that Oboz has made the switch from their proprietary B-Dry waterproofing to GORE-TEX, which works just as well as in the X Ultras. While the outsole didn’t feel quite as aggressive as the Salomon’s Contagrip on mud and wet rock, it held its own on dirt and rocky approaches, and both felt secure and supportive.
The Katabatic were comfortable out of the box for our male tester, but the narrower toe box on the Katabatic felt a little too tight on our female tester’s wide foot and required some breaking in. For those looking for one shoe they can wear for most hiking adventures, both the Katabatic and X Ultra 5 lean into that versatile hiker-hybrid vibe.
You can read our in-depth review of the new Katabatic Low GTX hiking shoe.
Oboz Katabatic Low GTX
Men's
Women's
Salomon XA PRO 3D V9 GORE-TEX
MSRP: $160
Weight: 1 lb 9.4 oz (men's), 1 lb 6.2 oz (women's)
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX membrane
Upper: Synthetic/textile
Midsole: EnergyCell+
Outsole: All Terrain Contragrip rubber
The Salomon XA Pro 3D V9 GTX and X Ultra 5 GTX are like cousins; they’re from the same family but have very different personalities. We think they’re both hybrids, with the X Ultras leaning toward backpacking shoes and the XA Pros leaning toward trail runners.
On paper their weights are close, but underfoot the XA Pro feels much lighter because it sits closer to the ground and has a snug, slipper-like fit. The X Ultra 5 has more padding and underfoot cushioning, which makes it feel more built-up and supportive—great for stability, but less nimble.
If you want an agile, close-to-the-ground feel for day hiking, go XA Pro; if you prefer a more cushioned, supportive ride, the X Ultra 5 is the better fit. For light backpacking (or carrying a kid on your back), we still think the X Ultra 5 is more suited to the task.
Salomon XA PRO 3D V9 GORE-TEX
Men's
Women's
Who should buy the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
Buy if you’re a fast hiker or backpacker who values the agility of trail runners with the support of hiking shoes, or are someone who needs reliable traction on muddy or loose terrain. Think of it as the middle ground between a trail runner and a burlier boot. It feels light on your feet, but still keeps you stable on more technical or sketchy trail sections. If you value agility but still want more support than a trail runner, this shoe hits the sweet spot.
Skip if you like a really cushy ride for big-mile days, or hate the idea of Salomon’s Quicklace system.
Where to buy
The Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX hiking shoes are popular footwear, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.
REI
Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members.
Backcountry
Pros: Frequent sales for Expedition Perks members (free to join), fast shipping, Gearhead chat customer service is excellent
Sizing advice
Generally, the X Ultra 5 fits true to US sizing. If you’ve worn Salomon trail runners or hiking shoes before, we recommend ordering the same size as what you’re used to with the brand. We noticed some online reviewers and testers noted a tiny bit of extra length, so if you're right on the border between sizes, you might consider sizing down.
For reference, our women’s tester is usually between a size 7.5 and 8; the 7.5 fit perfectly. Likewise, our men’s tester is usually between a size 11.5 and 12; the 11.5 was the right fit for him. The men have the advantage of also having a wide option for this model.
Why you should trust us / About the Author
I’ve spent nearly a decade testing and reviewing outdoor gear for leading publications including Treeline Review, The New York Times’ Wirecutter, Outside Magazine, The Wall Street Journal Buy Side, REI Co-op, and Forbes Vetted. I’ve interviewed dozens of industry experts over the years, and hiked in 50+ pairs of hiking shoes and boots, logging plenty of trail miles in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. I understand that there’s no one best pair of hiking shoes for everybody, but there is the best pair for you, and I’m here to help you find it.
I'm also the author of Treeline Review's Best Men's Hiking Shoes and Best Women's Hiking Shoes guide and have tested dozens of pairs of shoes over the years for those articles.
You can see all of my Treeline Review stories on my author page.
