Salomon XA Pro V8 ClimaSALOMON Review: Solid All-Terrain Shoes for Active Kids

The Salomon XA Pro V8 ClimaSALOMON shoes are designed for kids who love outdoor adventures. These shoes promise to keep up with energetic little ones regardless of the terrain or weather conditions. They're marketed as being waterproof, with a precise fit and excellent grip on all surfaces. But how do they really perform?

After trying these out with my kids for a few weeks, I have some thoughts to share. The shoes are built to endure the rough play and unpredictable weather that come with childhood exploration. They feature a sporty look, which is quite appealing for kids who are conscious of wearing something 'cool'.

My main goal here is to give you an honest take on whether these shoes are worth considering for your child's next adventure. From comfort to durability, I'll cover what worked and what didn't. Let's dive in.

In this review, I'll break down their design, materials, comfort, and performance, providing a clear picture of what you can expect from these shoes over time.

The Salomon XA Pro V8 shoes come with a reasonable price tag for what they offer. Considering their durability and the range of features, they seem to provide good value for money. These are not the cheapest kids' shoes on the market, but they make up for it in quality and performance.

Compared to other brands, the Salomon XA Pro V8 stands out with its weatherproofing and durability. I think they're worth the investment if your child is frequently outdoors in variable conditions. The Quicklace system and versatile design also add to their overall value, making everyday use more convenient for both kids and parents.

However, if your budget is tight or if your child tends to outgrow shoes quickly, you might want to weigh the cost against how much use you expect to get out of them. They won't last forever, but they should hold up longer than cheaper alternatives.

In conclusion, while not the cheapest option, the XA Pro V8 offers a balanced mix of performance, durability, and design that justifies the price for many parents. It's a solid choice for those who prioritize quality and functionality in their kids' footwear.

One of the first things you notice about the Salomon XA Pro V8 shoes is their sporty design. They have a sleek look with athletic lines and a stripy print that my kids found appealing. The color scheme is primarily black with some turbulence quarry accents, making them versatile enough to match with most outfits. This design choice seems to balance both style and functionality, which is a win in my book.

The Quicklace system is a standout feature. My kids could easily tighten and loosen the laces with one pull, which is great for younger children who haven't quite mastered tying shoelaces yet. It also means less hassle for parents who won't have to constantly re-tie laces throughout the day.

While the overall design is impressive, there are some minor drawbacks. The sleek look might not suit everyone's taste, especially for parents or kids looking for something more understated or traditional. However, if your child is into sporty looks, these should work perfectly.

Overall, the design of the Salomon XA Pro V8 is practical and kid-friendly, making it easier for my children to handle them independently. The focus on ease of use with the Quicklace system is particularly noteworthy.

When it comes to comfort, the Salomon XA Pro V8 does a decent job. The shoes feature an EnergyCell padded midsole and an Ortholite insole, both designed to provide cushioning and support for all-day wear. My kids reported that the shoes were comfortable enough for daily activities and even light hiking. They didn't complain about any significant discomfort, which is always a good sign.

One thing I noticed is that the initial break-in period was minimal. The shoes seemed to mold well to my kids' feet after just a couple of uses. This is likely due to the Sensifit system, which helps secure the foot from the midsole to the laces. It provides a snug fit that keeps the shoe from feeling too loose or too tight.

On the downside, if your child has a wider foot, these might feel a bit constrictive. They are designed for a precise fit, which may not accommodate all foot shapes comfortably. It's worth trying on a pair in person if you can, especially if your child has specific fit requirements.

In summary, the comfort level of these shoes is pretty solid, though not perfect. They're great for most kids, but not necessarily the best choice for those needing extra width.

The materials used in the Salomon XA Pro V8 shoes are geared towards durability and weather resistance. The outer material is made of polyurethane, which is known for its toughness and ability to withstand rough play and variable weather conditions. Inside, the polyester lining is designed to keep feet dry, thanks to the ClimaSalomon waterproof feature.

The sole of the shoe is constructed from nylon, which provides a balance of flexibility and strength. The Contagrip MD sole offers a reliable grip on different surfaces, which is a blessing when kids are running around on everything from gravel paths to wet grass.

However, the choice of materials does make the shoe slightly heavier than some of the other kids' shoes we've tested. While this didn't pose a significant issue for my kids, it's something to keep in mind if your child prefers lighter footwear.

In conclusion, the materials in the Salomon XA Pro V8 are well-chosen for where they excel: durability and weather protection. These shoes should hold up well over time, even with frequent use in challenging conditions.

The performance of the Salomon XA Pro V8 shoes is where they really shine. Designed for all terrains, they handle various surfaces with ease. My kids have worn them hiking, playing in the park, and even during a rainy day, and the shoes performed well in all scenarios. The Contagrip MD sole really does provide excellent traction, especially on wet surfaces.

Another performance highlight is the waterproof feature. The ClimaSalomon lining kept my kids' feet dry through puddle stomping and light rain. I've seen other kids' shoes claim to be waterproof but fail to deliver, so this was a pleasant surprise.

While the shoes perform well in most conditions, I did notice that they might not be the best option for extremely muddy environments. The treads can get clogged, which reduces their grip. If you're planning on adventures in very muddy areas, it might be worth considering other options.

Overall, the Salomon XA Pro V8 shoes are reliable performers for typical outdoor activities. They offer the kind of dependable traction and weather protection you want in a kids' shoe, making them a trustworthy choice for active families.