Salomon X Braze Men's Outdoor Shoes Review: Reliable Traction for Every Hike

I recently got my hands on the Salomon X Braze Men's Outdoor Shoes, intrigued by its promise to handle a variety of outdoor adventures. Marketed as being waterproof with a trusty Contagrip outsole, these shoes seemed like a safe bet for anyone wanting reliable footwear for hikes or casual outdoor strolls.

After a couple of weeks using them on different terrains, from wet forest trails to dry rocky paths, I felt I had a good grasp of what these shoes have to offer. They aim to combine versatility with practicality, and for the most part, they do hit that mark.

One thing that stands out right off the bat is the shoe's design language, taking cues from Salomon's popular trail running line but focusing on a more robust build suitable for hiking. But do they really hold up over time and use? Here's my take.

While not without flaws, these shoes seem to be a sensible option for the average hiker looking for something reliable without breaking the bank. Let's delve into the specifics.

Taking a closer look at the design of the Salomon X Braze, the first impression is of a shoe that balances modern aesthetics with functionality. The color scheme of black, gray, and green is fairly muted but does offer a subtle nod to more vibrant trail running shoes.

The design is practical, with a focus on durability and grip. The combination of synthetic and textile materials ensures the shoe is lightweight yet sturdy. Ankle support is decent, helping maintain stability on uneven ground. However, if you're into striking or flashy designs, this might come across as somewhat plain.

What I found notable was the inclusion of a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, which kept my feet dry on wet trails and during unexpected downpours. This is a clear highlight in the design, especially for those who frequently encounter wet conditions.

Overall, the design is solid, if not groundbreaking. It's functional and does the job without any unnecessary flair. If you're looking for practicality over style, the X Braze won't let you down.

Comfort is a big deal when it comes to hiking shoes, and the Salomon X Braze delivers reasonably well in this department. From the first time I wore them, they felt quite supportive thanks to their cushioned midsole.

The shoe's fit is true to size for my feet, but if you have wider feet, you might find it a bit snug, especially around the midfoot area. The ankle support is competent, which is useful on uneven terrain, reducing the risk of twists or sprains.

One downside, however, is that the shoes require a bit of breaking in. For the first few days, I experienced some stiffness, particularly around the heel area. It took a few hikes for them to mold comfortably to my feet.

Once broken in, they become quite comfortable for extended wear. The cushioning helps absorb shocks on rocky paths, and the grip doesn't disappoint. Overall, not perfect out of the box, but they do get better with wear.

In terms of materials, the Salomon X Braze uses a combination of synthetic and textile for the outer construction, which contributes to its lightweight feel. This makes it a bit easier on long hikes when every gram counts, but there are trade-offs.

While the synthetic upper does offer some breathability, I found that on particularly hot days, my feet would get a bit warmer than I'd like. The textile elements, however, are decent at allowing some airflow, but it's not the shoe's strongest feature.

The rubber sole is noteworthy for its durability. After several hikes, including some quite rocky routes, there was minimal wear, indicating the shoe could hold up well over time. It's also worth mentioning the Gore-Tex lining, which is pretty effective at keeping moisture out, although after a full day, some dampness can sneak in.

Overall, the materials are chosen with durability and functionality in mind, but they do come with some compromises in terms of breathability.

Durability is often a key concern with outdoor shoes, and the Salomon X Braze seems built to last. After putting them through several challenging hikes, the shoes show minimal signs of wear, which is promising for long-term use.

The rubber sole is particularly robust. Even on rocky trails, it hasn't worn down much, and the grip remains as strong as when I first tried them. The synthetic upper has also withstood scrapes and abrasions well, without any tearing or significant scuffing.

One thing to watch out for is the stitching around the toe cap. While I haven't had any issues yet, it seems like an area that might be prone to wear over time. Regular checks and maintenance should help keep them in good condition.

In terms of durability, these shoes are pretty reliable, and with proper care, they should last through many hiking seasons.

Performance is where the Salomon X Braze shines, largely due to its Contagrip outsole. Over different trails, it consistently provided good traction, even on wet and muddy surfaces. This is a real plus for anyone venturing into unpredictable conditions.

On steep and uneven terrain, the shoes held firm, and I felt confident in my steps. The support around the ankle and midfoot also contributes to its reliable performance, ensuring you can tackle various terrains without worry.

However, the waterproofing could be slightly better. While the Gore-Tex lining does its job for the most part, prolonged exposure to wet conditions seemed to test its limits. It's not a deal-breaker but something to keep in mind if you're often hiking in very wet environments.

Overall, the performance of these shoes is quite dependable for most outdoor activities. They handle well across diverse terrains, making them a worthy companion for a variety of outdoor adventures.