Best Hiking Shoes · #4
X Ultra 5 GTX
Salomon
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The best-supported low hiker, with a chassis that resists ankle roll on side hill.
Pros
- Unmatched underfoot and lateral stability for a low-cut hiker
- Excellent ankle support reduces roll risk on uneven trails
- Reliable Gore-Tex waterproofing keeps feet dry
- Aggressive Contagrip outsole provides dependable traction
- Durable construction handles rough trail conditions effectively
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier than minimalist trail shoes
- Firm cushioning may not suit those preferring a plush ride
- Can feel warm in hot, humid conditions due to Gore-Tex
Best uses
- Technical day hikes
- Light backpacking
- Rocky, uneven trails
- Wet weather hiking
Specifications
- Footwear Type
- Low-cut Hiking Shoe
- Waterproofing
- Gore-Tex
- Chassis Tech
- ADV-C Chassis
- Outsole
- Contagrip MA
- Intended Use
- Day hikes, light backpacking
- Support Level
- High for a low-cut
Pricing
We don't publish a price we haven't verified. The retailer links below open the live listing for this exact model.
Best for
Technical day hikes, Light backpacking, Rocky, uneven trails, Wet weather hiking
Where to buy the X Ultra 5 GTX
Prices and stock change often, so check the current Amazon offer before you buy.
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The Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX carves out a niche for hikers who want serious underfoot stability without the bulk of a full-fledged boot. It’s built around a robust ADV-C Chassis, which is really the star of the show here, providing exceptional torsional rigidity. This means when you’re traversing uneven terrain or side-hilling, your foot stays put, reducing the strain on your ankles and the risk of a roll. It’s a confidence booster, pure and simple. While it's still a low-cut shoe, the level of support it offers punches well above its weight class, making it a compelling choice for those accustomed to light-to-midweight boots but looking to shave some ounces and gain flexibility. Salomon hasn't reinvented the wheel with the X Ultra 5, but they've refined a proven formula. The Gore-Tex membrane handles wet conditions competently, keeping feet dry through shallow puddles and light rain, which is a non-negotiable for many. The Contagrip outsole, a staple for Salomon, delivers reliable traction across a variety of surfaces, from loose gravel to muddy trails. This isn't a minimalist shoe; it’s designed for sustained effort and protection over challenging ground. For hikers prioritizing stability and protection in a low-profile package, the X Ultra 5 GTX remains a benchmark.
Who It's For
This shoe is aimed squarely at the hiker who appreciates substantial support and protection but isn't ready to commit to a full boot. It's ideal for day hikers tackling varied terrain, or lightweight backpackers carrying modest loads. If you've had issues with ankle instability in the past or frequently hike on rocky, root-strewn trails where a misstep can lead to a sprain, the X Ultra 5 GTX is a strong contender. It offers a reassuring, locked-in feel that less structured shoes simply can't match, making it a favorite for those who prioritize stability and security on the trail above all else in a low-top.
Materials & Construction
Salomon builds the X Ultra 5 with a synthetic upper, which means good durability and quicker drying times compared to leather. The key differentiator, as mentioned, is the ADV-C Chassis. This isn't just a fancy name; it’s a stiff thermoplastic plate embedded in the midsole that wraps around the heel, providing an almost boot-like level of torsional rigidity and lateral support. Coupled with the Gore-Tex membrane, this construction ensures weather protection without significant weight penalty. The integrated toe cap and mudguard add crucial protection against trail debris and abrasion, extending the shoe's lifespan under hard use. It's a thoughtful, robust build.
Real-World Performance
Out on the trail, the X Ultra 5 GTX performs exactly as advertised. The ADV-C Chassis makes a noticeable difference, especially on technical or off-camber sections, where it prevents the foot from rolling inwards or outwards. The Contagrip outsole bites well on most surfaces, from dry dirt to wet rock, though slick, mossy surfaces will always demand caution regardless of the shoe. Cushioning is firm but adequate for long days, providing good trail feel without being overly harsh. It breaks in quickly, usually within a few miles, offering a comfortable, secure fit that inspires confidence on varied terrain, feeling less like a shoe and more like a low-cut boot.
Weight & Packability
At around 13-14 ounces per shoe (men's size 9), the X Ultra 5 GTX isn't the lightest option on the market, but it's far from heavy, especially considering the support it provides. It strikes a good balance between protection and weight. While not truly 'packable' in the minimalist sense – you won't be stuffing these into a tiny corner of your pack – their relatively low profile means they don't take up excessive space for a shoe of their capability. For backpackers looking for a reliable camp shoe after a long day in heavy boots, it's a bit much, but as the primary footwear, the weight is justified by the performance.
Durability & Longevity
Salomon generally builds durable products, and the X Ultra 5 is no exception. The synthetic upper resists abrasion well, and the reinforced toe cap and mudguard protect against common wear points. The Contagrip outsole holds up to hundreds of miles, though aggressive use on sharp rocks will inevitably cause some lug wear over time. The Gore-Tex membrane typically outlasts the outsole and upper if cared for properly. We've seen these shoes withstand multiple seasons of regular use before showing significant signs of breakdown, making them a solid long-term investment for committed hikers.
How we chose
We started with a long list of best hiking shoes that people actually buy, cut anything that could not clear our baseline for durability and field performance, then ranked the 10 that were left against the same criteria. Rankings are editorial. No brand pays for placement, and affiliate links never move a pick up or down.
- Fabric behavior over time
- Breathability, DWR life, loft retention, and how the piece performs after repeated washing.
- Real-world durability
- How the material, stitching, or steel holds up after a season of hard use — not how it looks new.
- Performance in bad conditions
- Wind, rain, cold, and grit are the test. Anything that only works on a nice day gets marked down.
- Weight and packability
- Every ounce has to earn its place in the pack, but not at the cost of something that fails in the field.
- Ease of use
- Setup, adjustment, and maintenance with cold hands, in the dark, without the manual.
- Value at its price point
- Compared against the closest competitors in the same tier, not against cheaper gear in a different class.
X Ultra 5 GTX — frequently asked questions
- Is the X Ultra 5 GTX worth it?
- We rank it #4 in Best Hiking Shoes. The best-supported low hiker, with a chassis that resists ankle roll on side hill.
- What is the X Ultra 5 GTX best for?
- Best for technical day hikes, light backpacking, rocky, uneven trails and wet weather hiking. Standouts: unmatched underfoot and lateral stability for a low-cut hiker and excellent ankle support reduces roll risk on uneven trails.
- What are the downsides of the X Ultra 5 GTX?
- Heavier and bulkier than minimalist trail shoes, Firm cushioning may not suit those preferring a plush ride and Can feel warm in hot, humid conditions due to Gore-Tex.
- What are the key specs of the X Ultra 5 GTX?
- Footwear Type: Low-cut Hiking Shoe · Waterproofing: Gore-Tex · Chassis Tech: ADV-C Chassis · Outsole: Contagrip MA · Intended Use: Day hikes, light backpacking
- Who It's For?
- This shoe is aimed squarely at the hiker who appreciates substantial support and protection but isn't ready to commit to a full boot. It's ideal for day hikers tackling varied terrain, or lightweight backpackers carrying modest loads.
- Materials & Construction — what should I know about the X Ultra 5 GTX?
- Salomon builds the X Ultra 5 with a synthetic upper, which means good durability and quicker drying times compared to leather. The key differentiator, as mentioned, is the ADV-C Chassis.
Compare side by side
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