Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex - Women's Review

The X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex draws upon Salomon's expertise in the field of trail running while including the additional stability you'd expect from a hiking boot. The welded synthetic upper provides protection on the trail thanks to exceptional waterproof capability as well as a TPU toe cap that will defend your feet against sharp rocks and tree stumps encountered along the way. The design offers stability and support without being too rigid and preventing necessary flexion, especially when navigating steep terrain. Overall, this shoe is perfect for those seeking a little versatility; whether out for a trail run or a day hike, these shoes won't disappoint.

Performance Comparison

Comfort

Knowing that comfort is critical in a hiking shoe and subjective to fit, we evaluate the qualities that impact everyone, regardless of foot shape. We found the X Ultra 4 to be very comfortable right out of the box, requiring no break-in period. The welded upper features soft materials specific to the shape of a woman's foot, including a padded collar and heel that provides a nice cushioned feel below the ankle without adding a ton of volume. The upper is constructed from a pliable synthetic material strategically reinforced with protective and supportive overlays. And the midfoot is cradled by the Advanced Chassis, which delivers excellent structural support both laterally and through the arch. While the toe box is roomier than previous iterations, it still delivers a narrower fit than many other options we tested for this review.

The proprietary single-pull Quicklace system proves less practical regarding adjustability and a secure fit, as there's little flexibility to cater to customized needs, and the lock can require adjustment during your hike. Our testers found this shoe to run true to size, favoring a more narrow foot shape but with a wide enough toe box to accommodate those with flat feet. The Ortholite insole is molded and perforated to add a moderate level of cushion in a thin package. It rests on top of an EVA midsole that contributes to a responsive and cushioned hiking experience. When the fit was right, we were blown away by the high level of comfort this model provided, thanks to its soft, glove-like fit, even on jagged rocks and steep descents. The low-profile design successfully combines strength, rigidity, and moderate cushioning for increased comfort over demanding terrain.

Support

The X Ultra 4 is constructed with a synthetic textile upper, incorporating the strategic placement of welded overlays, rubber, and heavier materials to optimize support and protection on the trail. The “ADV-C Chassis” improves torsional stability without preventing flexibility in the forefoot, thereby supporting lateral movement while navigating uneven terrain. SensiFit technology creates a glove-like feel from the midsole to the lacing system, offering a snug fit without binding or creating hot spots.

The X Ultra 4 also features “Active Support” mobile wings, essentially a pair of thick, wide structural straps with tubular eyelets sitting across the top of each shoe. These tighten around the midfoot just before you engage the last set of eyelets at the ankle. Their use disperses the topside pressure from the laces to increase overall stability and support, allowing the shoe to easily adapt to the foot's shape and volume while in motion. A nice feature, particularly given the micro-thin design of these specialty Salomon laces. Again, though the Quicklace system is designed for convenience, the laces themselves are thin and lack flexibility, making it difficult to achieve a customized fit. We were also bummed when the laces would sometimes loosen during our hike and require extra adjustment on the trail. Though we have some minor complaints regarding the Quicklace system, overall, our feet felt stable and supported on the trail.

Traction

The X Ultra 4 features a Contagrip MA outsole with a multi-directional chevron lug pattern designed to provide more confidence and control while moving through steep terrain. This outsole is built to handle everything from wet and slippery surfaces to loose and sandy trails and performs well, whether moving up or down demanding grades. During spring testing, we even noticed additional security when navigating icy, slick conditions.

Positive aside, after many miles, both on and off the trail, we just aren't confident recommending these hiking shoes for any cross-country, off-trail scrambles as the rubber is relatively soft compared to other beefier outsoles we've tested. While the X Ultra 4 is still a great choice for navigating the occasional rocky talus slope, we'd recommend another hiking shoe if you consider off-trail to the primary terrain for your upcoming hiking season.

Water Resistance

The X Ultra 4 features a fully waterproof, GORE-TEX membrane. Though advertised as a breathable membrane, this shoe can get hot if worn in warm temperatures at lower elevations. The design features one of the highest flood levels we tested, rising almost 4 inches above the sole for protection during those prolific creek crossings.

During our spring testing period after a record-breaking winter, we hiked through slushy snow patches, huge mud puddles, and several swollen creeks without any water penetrating the synthetic upper. The design also proved to be completely watertight in our bucket test (standing in 3 inches of water for five minutes).

Weight

Weighing in at 1.54 pounds per pair for a US women's size 8.5, the X Ultra 4 is reasonably light, especially considering the range of shoes we tested.

Though not as ultralight as some of the other hiking shoes we tested, this design feels closer to a lighter-weight running shoe than a traditional heavy leather hiking shoe. Overall, we appreciate the lightness underfoot and the increased agility and versatility on the trail.

Durability

We experienced no durability issues with the X Ultra 4 during our testing period. Though perhaps not as durable and long-lasting as their rugged, nubuck leather counterparts, we expect this shoe to provide many miles of support and protection thanks to thoughtful trail-specific features such as the Advanced Chassis and the All-Terrain Contagrip outsole. Even after miles spent along the trail, we found the synthetic upper to effectively shed dirt and dust for a cleaner look.

Though the textile upper and beefy toe cap provide ample protection, especially on technical terrain, we don't feel confident recommending this shoe for those who plan to spend most of their backcountry time traveling off-trail. The upper just isn't built to withstand the beating from constant boulder-hoping nor extended periods navigating the sharp rocks within talus fields. We also question the longevity of the laces in the Quicklace system after many miles on the trail.

Should You Buy the Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex?

The X Ultra 4 is a relatively lighter-weight and versatile hiking shoe that offers support specific to a woman's foot. The welded synthetic upper remains flexible in the forefoot while increasing lateral support thanks to its Advanced Chassis technology. The waterproof upper protects the feet from inclement weather, creek crossings, and lingering snow patches while remaining somewhat breathable. Though we do not recommend this shoe for cross-country travel, and it's not our first choice for low-elevation hikes during the heat of summer, we believe hikers will appreciate the versatility and quality within this modern, sleek design.

What Other Hiking Shoes Should You Consider?

If you're interested in a supportive and comfortable shoe that prioritizes traction and stability and is designed to tackle more cross-country terrain, we highly the La Sportiva Spire GTX. Both the Spire and the X Ultra 4 were top performers during our testing period, though the Spire has increased durability in the upper. If you're interested in a lightweight trail runner/hiking shoe hybrid, check out the The North Face VECTIV Fastpack FUTURELIGHT, which comes highly recommended for those looking to shed extra weight without reducing overall performance. If you're after a maximum cushion option and plan to stick to well-maintained trails, the Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX is one to consider. Or, if you'd like to enjoy the great outdoors in a shoe that is available at a more affordable price, the Merrell Moab 3 WP offers a solid performance without breaking the bank.