Men's X Ultra 360 Leather Gore-tex Walking Shoe Review: A Sturdy Companion for the Outdoors

When I first laid eyes on the Salomon Men's X Ultra 360 Leather Gore-tex Walking Shoe, I was drawn in by its rugged appearance and the promise of all-weather protection. The shoe is marketed as a reliable option for outdoor enthusiasts who aren't deterred by challenging terrain or unpredictable weather. With a design built on a legacy of previous X ULTRA models, it seems to promise both stability and comfort.

After wearing these shoes for a couple of weeks, I can say they’re built to endure. They don’t try to impress with flashy colors or unnecessary bells and whistles. Instead, they focus on practicality with a solid construction that seems to cater specifically to serious hikers.

In this review, I'll break down how these shoes held up in various conditions and whether they really offer the protection and comfort they claim. From materials to performance, I’ll give you the lowdown on what you can expect from these walking shoes.

Overall, the initial impression is promising, but there's more to uncover as we put them through their paces.

The design of the Salomon X Ultra 360 is straightforward and functional. It doesn't scream for attention, but it’s not meant to. Instead, the focus is on durability and practicality. The color scheme is quite muted with a 'Dark Earth Delicioso Sharkskin' aesthetic, which is a fancy way of saying it’s primarily brown with some grey accents. This makes it easy to pair with most hiking gear without looking out of place.

One of the standout features of this shoe is the molded toe cap and full-foot mudguard. These elements are crucial when you're navigating rocky or muddy terrains as they offer additional protection and durability. The shoe also boasts a GORE-TEX membrane, which is supposed to keep your feet dry while allowing them to breathe. So far, my feet have stayed dry on wet trails, which is a definite plus.

What I liked is the seamless foothold the shoe provides. Thanks to the All Terrain Contagrip outsole, the grip is reliable even on wet surfaces, which boosts my confidence on slippery trails. The design focuses heavily on functionality rather than aesthetics, which I can appreciate when the primary goal is performance.

In summary, the design is nothing flashy but focuses on elements that enhance durability and functionality, which is exactly what I'd expect from a shoe aimed at serious hikers.

Comfort is often subjective, but there are a few key things that stood out to me about these shoes. Firstly, the cushioned midsole is a big plus. It has kept my feet from feeling too tired even after long hikes, which is essential for anyone planning to cover a lot of ground.

However, the fit was a bit snug initially. This might be due to the leather construction which can take a little time to break in. After a few days of wear, they started to feel more comfortable, but the initial tightness was noticeable. If you have wider feet, this might be something to consider.

One thing I liked is the Energy Cell EVA midsole. This feature genuinely helps in cushioning and provides a bit of a spring in your step, which is always appreciated during long hikes. It does make a difference in reducing the impact on your joints.

Overall, the comfort level is decent once the shoes are broken in, but they may not be the best choice for those with particularly wide feet or who are looking for that 'out-of-the-box' comfort. They're good for long hikes, but you might want to allow some time for them to mold to your feet.

When it comes to materials, the Salomon X Ultra 360 does not disappoint. The outer material is primarily leather, which not only gives it a robust feel but also contributes to its overall durability. Leather is known for its toughness and longevity, and in this shoe, it seems to live up to that reputation.

The addition of a GORE-TEX membrane is a smart move for anyone who finds themselves hiking in unpredictable weather. It's designed to offer waterproof protection while still allowing for some breathability. In my experience, the shoes kept my feet dry in damp conditions without making them feel overly sweaty, which is a good balance.

The sole material is rubber, providing flexibility and grip on various surfaces. The rubber outsole is complemented by the Contagrip technology, which ensures that the shoe bites into the ground effectively, even in slippery conditions. I found this especially useful on wet, rocky trails where slipping is a concern.

Overall, the combination of leather, GORE-TEX, and rubber makes for a shoe that feels resilient and prepared for most outdoor challenges. The materials seem to reflect the brand's focus on durability and protection, which is critical for any hiking shoe.

Durability is one area where the Salomon X Ultra 360 really shines. The leather construction gives it a robust feel that suggests it's built to withstand a good amount of wear and tear. After a few weeks of heavy use on challenging trails, there were no signs of significant wear, which is promising.

The reinforced toe cap and mudguard are particularly good at protecting the shoe from rocks and debris. I've scuffed them against stones and roots quite a few times, and they hold up well with minimal visible damage.

One thing I appreciated is how well the grip lasts over time. Sometimes with hiking shoes, the grip tends to wear down, but the Contagrip outsole still looks and feels as effective as it did on day one. The rubber sole seems to be quite resilient.

While I can't speak to years of use just yet, the initial signs suggest that these shoes are indeed built to last. If you’re someone who hikes often and needs something that can handle repeated abuse without falling apart, these could be a solid choice.

I took these shoes out on a variety of trails, and they performed well across the board. The grip is one of the most impressive aspects, thanks to the Contagrip outsole. It handled everything from gravel paths to muddy hills without any slipping issues, which is a big relief when you’re miles from safety.

The waterproofing held up as well. Walking through morning dew and shallow puddles didn't lead to any wet socks, which is a real pain when you're out on longer hikes. The GORE-TEX membrane does its job effectively, without overheating my feet, which is a fine balance to strike.

Another strong point is the shoe's stability. The sturdy construction combined with the cushioned midsole provides a stable platform, reducing the risk of ankle injuries. On uneven trails, I felt secure, which is vital when you're navigating unpredictable landscapes.

In practice, these shoes perform effectively for what they're designed for: hiking and outdoor activities. While they're not the lightest on the market, the performance in various conditions makes them a reliable choice for serious hikers.