SALOMON SPEEDCROSS 6 GORE-TEX Review: The ultimate off-road running shoe that continues to make history is now even more durable on rough terrain and more comfortable to run in

This iconic trail running shoe, which has been making history since long ago when the activity of "trail running" was not yet established, has once again taken a step closer to completion

SPEEDCROSS , a perennial favorite among Salomon's trail running shoes, combines the toughness and speed required for shoes for effortless off-road travel, and this season sees its first model change in three years. Launched in 2006, this shoe astonished the world when Kilian Jornet wore it to win the 2008 UTMB. While retaining its simple yet powerful concept, it continues to evolve steadily, remaining at the forefront of the scene 16 years later.

I've been wearing these since the fourth generation, and they offer a reliable all-around stability on everything from forest roads to muddy, slushy, grassy, ​​and rocky terrain, and from flat to tricky terrain. They're comfortable to wear and run in, and even if I've had a fling with them, I always end up coming back to them. They're my favorite shoes, like a home away from home. So what has changed in the sixth generation? I've experienced the evolution and changes by comparing them with the previous model on a perfect test field: a trail that's a mix of muddy and rugged rocks after a typhoon, so I'll give you my review right away

Main features of the SALOMON SPEEDCROSS 6 GORE-TEX

The SPEEDCROSS series , a legendary, popular, and proven trail running shoe not only for Salomon but , has been updated to its sixth generation. excellent grip (traction) on any terrain yet stable running performance (while also being suitable for casual wear), this latest model boasts improved fundamental trail running performance, including a lighter weight, an outsole designed for tougher off-road conditions with improved mud shedding and grip on wet surfaces, and a more flexible and adaptable upper for comfort. This is a SPEEDCROSS evolution, even more so than its predecessor. Featuring waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX construction, and available in both standard and wide lasts, this shoe has the potential to be a hit with many, from trails to the streets.

Recommended points

• Improved outsole for more consistent grip on wet or muddy terrain
• Even lighter and more nimble
• The upper gently wraps around the entire foot while providing ample space in the toe box for a comfortable fit
• Midsole with excellent shock absorption and rebound properties
• The thinner sole and lower center of gravity provide a more stable and agile running experience
• Double tongue construction for waterproofing and a comfortable fit
• Easy to use quick shoelaces
• GORE-TEX provides excellent waterproof and breathable performance

Points of interest

• For courses with harder surfaces or for runners who prioritize speed, the stiffness that comes from the shoe's sturdiness may be a concern.

Main specifications (compared to the previous model) and evaluation

Detailed Review

stylish than the previous model and is definitely more comfortable to wear.

The upper, which greatly affects the appearance and comfort of the shoe, has undergone subtle revisions, although no fundamental changes have been seen in this update. These changes have not been mentioned much officially, but they have certainly improved the appearance, and especially the comfort of the shoe

If you compare the 5th and 6th generations side by side as shown in the photo below, you will see that the highly stretchable and breathable mesh part that was only on the instep in the previous model (right side of the photo) has been changed to cover the toes in the latest version (photo below)

This resulted in a better fit in the toe area (see photo below), and the softer toe box meant that the movement of the toes wasn't restricted, resulting in a more comfortable fit. Of course, this GORE-TEX model has a waterproof and breathable membrane attached to the back of the mesh, so it doesn't directly affect the elasticity of the mesh, but even so, the elimination of the pressure-bonded part clearly improved flexibility and mobility

Furthermore, the appearance is sleeker and more streamlined. This flexibility also makes it easier to fit a wide range of runners, from those with narrow to wide feet, and in the case of models other than GORE-TEX, wide sizes are also available, so another great thing is that there is almost no chance that you won't be able to wear them because your foot shape doesn't fit

SensiFit™" technology that is synonymous with Salomon shoes is still there. When you tighten the laces, the shoe fits gently around the arch of your foot, providing the ultimate comfort that always remains.

The mesh cover on the instep has a fine mesh, which is a great feature for preventing pebbles and sand from getting in. The GORE-TEX version also has a waterproof and breathable membrane on the inside that prevents water from getting in. The tongue is a double structure that is separated from this cover, and its soft, thick material provides a gentle yet firm hold (see photo below)

The heel cup is lightweight yet deep enough to cover the heel and provides a firm, secure hold, just as reliable as ever. The padding around the tongue and ankle feels thicker and more comfortable than in the previous model, and I also like the heel support even more than in the previous model

The "QUICKLACE" shoelace system, which provides a secure hold with just one touch, is as convenient as ever. The size of the tongue box is just right, preventing it from slipping around during your run

Outsole for improved performance in muddy, tough conditions

One of the highlights of this update is the reconstructed outsole, which is said to make this shoe even more robust, even on tough surfaces

Mud Contagrip® ," which is one of the several types of material in Salomon's outsole lineup and is particularly focused on traction and braking on wet roads and soft mud. SPEED CROSS , now have a new "Y"-shaped lug pattern mixed into the center line, which makes mud shedding smoother and improves grip on wet, soft roads (left in the photo below).

Personally, the 5th generation had wider groove spacing and was more resistant to mud, so I haven't noticed any obvious changes with the 6, such as it dramatically reducing slippage in mud or shedding mud better, but I still think it's the best! (If anyone had the chance to try them on at the same time, they would have noticed, even if it was subtle, that the 6 had better grip on loose ground.)

Although the groove depth has been reduced by about 1mm (approximately 5mm), the sharp, high lugs still grip the road firmly, allowing me to step out confidently even on wet trails with rocks and mud. The grip when kicking off and braking is also excellent. The stability on roads, which has been improved recently, has not been compromised, making these shoes an even more all-around trail shoe

By the way, if you wear this type of sole too much on the road, it will inevitably wear out quickly, so even if it makes riding on the road easier, it goes without saying that it is still best suited to courses that are mainly off-road

The high-rebound, high- cushion, and highly durable "EnergyCell™+" and the "thinner and lighter" midsole make for a lighter running experience.

The "EnergyCell™+" midsole, which was introduced in the previous model, is also firmly implemented in this model, providing sufficient support despite its light weight by maintaining shock absorption when landing and rebound force when pushing off for a long time, resulting in excellent stability for long rides . Let's not forget that the highly rigid heel area, which combines protection and support, also contributes to excellent stability.

The smooth transition from a firm landing with your heel to a firm push-off with your forefoot allows you to enjoy the thrill of off-road riding. The video below shows a test run on a relatively difficult downhill terrain with many obstacles, but braking was solid and footwork was smooth

This time, the heel thickness has been reduced by about 2mm in both the heel and forefoot (the drop remains the same as the previous model at 10mm), which has also led to a slight weight reduction. This may seem like a subtle difference, but when I tried running shoes 5 and 6 separately on each side (see photo below), the difference in ride feel was surprisingly clear

First and foremost, the lighter weight makes walking easier. The shorter distance between the soles of your feet and the ground also conveys the unevenness of the ground more sensitively, giving you a more natural feeling of walking barefoot. The lower center of gravity also improves stability. Of course, there are some aspects that are more sensitive because you're wearing them, but in terms of the lightness and comfort of the running experience, the new version clearly wins

Of course, there are concerns that a thinner sole will result in a loss of cushioning, but rest assured that even though the sole is thinner, the heel is still only 33mm thick ( 32mm for non-GORE-TEX models), which is by no means a lacking level of thickness. It allows for a more sensitive touch on the ground, while also effectively cushioning the impact of rough rocks on the ground.

Good protection against hard obstacles and water

The synthetic material used on the sides of the upper is a ripstop fabric that is resistant to abrasion and tearing. The reinforcement from the toe to the heel is heat-pressed to minimize weight while effectively cushioning impacts from rocks, tree branches, and roots (see photo below). The reinforcement around the heel , a tradition from the original SPEEDCROSS, not only provides protection but also enhances heel support.

The SPEEDCROSS midsole combines high resilience and protection, providing rock-solid comfort and stability on tough trails, but it may be a little too heavy for those looking for a flexible feel like a running shoe, so be careful. For example, if you compare the sole flexibility of a more road-oriented model like the Salomon Sense Ride series, even though they are both all-rounders, you'll see a big difference, as shown in the photo below

Summary: Recommended for these people

SPEEDCROSS now in its 16th year, was born based on the concept of "lightweight, grippy, and protective shoes" at a time when "trail running" was still called "mountain racing." In this sixth generation, it has continued to steadily evolve, becoming stronger and more comfortable while firmly inheriting the solid legacy of its original creation.

Not only is the new model perfect for Japan's trail scene, which is often characterized by bad weather and soft, rough terrain, but it also has a more dressy, comfortable feel, which I strongly believe will appeal to a wide range of people, from trail running beginners to casual users who mainly use them for everyday wear. In fact, since I got these monotone patterned shoes, I've been wearing them nonstop in my daily life. Not only are they stylish and comfortable to walk in, but they're also waterproof, so I can wear them without hesitation even on rainy days. I find them to be the ultimate all-around shoe, which is a luxury I find almost too much

These shoes offer the safety and balance needed for people looking to try mountain running for the first time and are recommended for anyone looking for both protection and speed, from those who want to run aggressively to those who want to walk quickly for activities like fastpacking, or those who want to walk in ultra-light gear

For detailed product information, please check the official online store .

NEWS: Salomon concept store opens at the foot of Mount Takao!

On October 1st, Salomon opened a new concept store, "SALOMON TOKYO TAKAO CONCEPT," at TMH. (TAKAO MOUNTAIN HOUSE), which will open at the foot of Mount Takao. Salomon already operates a support facility for Mount Takao's trail runners at "SALOMON RUNNING BASE TAKAO," but this concept store will not only sell Salomon products, but also collaborate with new brands and companies that share its values, and hold events in the community space on the second floor of the store, promoting the values ​​born from Salomon's mountain sports DNA along with the appeal of Mount Takao to the world

Mount Takao, with its easy-to-run courses and ample support facilities, is also a great place to start trail running. It's definitely worth a visit for anyone, from those who are new to mountain running to those who enjoy hiking

TMH. (TAKAO MOUNTAIN HOUSE)

TMH. (TAKAO MOUNTAIN HOUSE) is a "mountain house" that reuses a private home at the foot of the mountain with a minimalist design that makes the most of it. By making the most of the abundant charms of Mount Takao, such as its natural resources, location, ability to attract visitors, and proximity to the city center, we propose new ways to spend time in the mountains and at the foot of the mountain, aiming to further revitalize and increase the value of the area

As a short-term rental space for various companies and brands, it will provide a place for content development and new communication that is unique to the foot of Mount Takao, and will aim to attract a wide range of visitors as a place to enjoy not only mountain climbing but also for other purposes, while creating a new communication hub at the foot of Mount Takao, which is representative of the mountain side

   

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