Salomon Speedcross 5 GORE-TEX Trail Running Shoes

The rebirth of Salomon's legendary trail shoe with unmatched grip and fit. To create the next generation SPEEDCROSS 5, we went back to the source code, capitalizing on the values that make SPEEDCROSS legendary. Even more grip, and a more dynamic upper set a new high-bar on performance and fit. And with better stability and a refined look, a new legend has arrived.

Welded Upper

Welded mesh uppers will encase each foot in breathable comfort. Perforations in the fabric increase airflow to create a better, healthier environment for your feet to thrive in. Moving naturally with your foot, the welded upper ensures maximum comfort and unrivalled durability. Additionally, a heel unit cradles the foot ensuring a clean foot strike and added stability through each stride. A Sensifit system cradles the foot providing a precise and secure fit. Completing the upper is a Quick Lacing System which provides a minimalistic and strong lace for a one-pull tightening ensuring you get the shoes on and off with minimal effort. A lace pocket is useful as it allows the laces to be stowed away making sure the laces do not get caught or snagged on any sticks or bushes out on the trail, reducing distractions. Adding a waterproof finish is the signature GORE-TEX Membrane, ensuring that your feet remain dry inside and out.

EnergyCell+

EnergyCell+ is a high-rebound midsole technology that delivers substantial cushioning and durability. This midsole compound provides superior cushioning, stability and motion control to provide an efficient, stable and responsive ride. Energycell+ works to provide exceptional energy return by absorbing shocks when the foot strikes the ground and using it to propel you forward in the next step, this works to improve your foot's natural gait. Whilst, superior cushioning is generous, soft and durable, it spares your joints as you strike down onto hard, unforgiving surfaces. The predict RA delivers a 60% reduction in joint forced to deliver a great balance of cushioning resiliency and smooth ride. Anatomically mirrored grooved match the anatomy of the foot that cushion, guide and propel the foot for an ultra-smooth forward transition ensuring a more fluid ride. Completing the midsole is a moulded ortholite sockliner which provides added comfort and excellent moisture wicking properties.

Contagrip Outsole

Tackle any trails in supreme confidence that you won't be let down by your shoe's grip. Using Contagrip, the outsole is able to form a solid grip between shoe and terrain. Contagrip FA is built for the widest variety of surfaces; it ensures confidence on wet, dry, hard or loose surfaces whilst still offering long-term durability. Built with larger lugs, the Speedcross 5 delivers optimum grip to keep you grounded on tough terrain. When you are running on the wet and muddy ground, the shoe's deep chevron lugs dig into the ground, anchoring you in place. This will also benefit you by acting as a solid base for you to push off from when taking a stride, as well as digging into the ground when braking and changing direction.

Shoe Review

The best thing about the Salomon Speedcross, is that you know exactly what you're going to get if you've previously owned a pair. The Speedcross is a tried and tested design, with only small additional improvements being made every time that a new model is introduced to the market. It's safe to say that Salomon knows exactly what they're doing when it comes to trail running. As with previous models, the new Speedcross 5, look and feel fantastic. The level of comfort that this shoe provides is second to none. It's a bulkier shoe compared to the Salomon Sense range, but it's designed to take more impact and provide extra cushioning and comfort, especially during longer runs.

The upper materials are welded together and merge seamlessly into the sole, offering tons of protection against loose rocks and debris. This unique design helps to preserve the life of the shoe and prolong damage and wear. The outsole has plenty of bounce, loads of cushioning and deeper lugs than its predecessors to provide even more grip than before. There is the option to buy this model with or without Gore-tex protection. It's also available in a range of colours, mostly VERY bright, so you'll be easy to spot from a mile away!

In terms of sizing, I'm usually a UK 10 in most brands, but a UK 10.5 in Salomon. Bear this in mind if you're considering buying online without first being able to try them on. I can confidently say that this shoe will suit every type of trail runner, in all shapes and sizes, from beginner to elite.

KEY FEATURES

1. The Quick Lacing system that Salomon shoes are so famous for, along with a lace pocket to stow them safely away once they've been adjusted.

2. The Salomon Speedcross 5 offers supreme comfort and quality and is a shoe that's built to last.

Reviewed by Ben Mouncey, Seasoned Mountain Runner from Yorkshire.