Salomon X Ultra 4 Review 2025: The Complete Guide After 200+ Miles of Testing
After extensively testing the Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX across diverse terrains from Rocky Mountain trails to Pacific Northwest rainforests, I'm sharing my honest findings about this popular hiking shoe. Whether you're considering an upgrade from the X Ultra 3 or comparing it against competitors like Merrell and Keen, this comprehensive review covers everything you need to know before making your investment. Discover more outdoor gear guides at our homepage.
My First Impressions and Unboxing Experience
When I first opened the box containing my x ultra 4 salomon hiking shoes, I was immediately struck by their sleek, modern appearance. Having previously worn the X Ultra 3 for over 500 miles, I was eager to see what improvements Salomon had made with this fourth iteration.
The x ultra 4 salomon features a noticeably different ankle cuff design compared to its predecessor. Where the X Ultra 3 sat lower around the ankle, the new model extends higher, particularly around the Achilles area. This change, while aimed at providing better protection, immediately raised concerns about potential rubbing - a concern that would prove valid during my testing.
Quick Specifications
- Weight: 14 oz (390g) per shoe
- Drop: 11mm heel-to-toe
- Upper: Synthetic mesh with PU-coated leather
- Waterproofing: Gore-Tex membrane
- Outsole: Contagrip MA rubber compound
- Price Range: $160-180 MSRP
The Quicklace system remains largely unchanged from previous models, offering the convenience of single-pull tightening with a neat storage pocket in the tongue. However, my experience with this lacing system proved mixed - while undeniably fast, it lacks the precision adjustment possible with traditional laces.
One immediate improvement I noticed was the roomier toe box compared to the X Ultra 3. This addresses a common complaint about the previous model's narrow fit, though as I discovered during testing, it may have introduced new issues for those who preferred the snugger, more performance-oriented fit of its predecessor.
Real-World Performance Testing Across 200+ Miles
Over the past eight months, I've put the x ultra 4 salomon through extensive testing across various terrains and conditions. From the rocky trails of Colorado's Front Range to the muddy paths of Olympic National Park, these shoes have seen it all.
Traction and Grip Performance
The Contagrip MA outsole truly shines in most conditions. The chevron-shaped lugs provide excellent grip on both wet and dry surfaces, and I was particularly impressed with their performance on loose gravel and rocky scrambles. During a challenging ascent of Mount Elbert, the x ultra 4 salomon maintained grip even on steep, loose scree that had other hikers struggling.
However, I did notice some limitations in very muddy conditions. While the lugs shed mud reasonably well, they don't quite match the aggressive tread patterns found on dedicated trail runners like the Salomon Speedcross series. For most day hiking scenarios, though, the traction is more than adequate.
Comfort and Fit Analysis
This is where the x ultra 4 salomon presents a mixed bag of experiences. The increased ankle height, while providing better debris protection, created hotspots for me during longer hikes. After a 15-mile day in the Cascade Mountains, I developed noticeable chafing around my Achilles tendon - something I never experienced with the X Ultra 3.
Pro Tip: If you're upgrading from the X Ultra 3, consider sizing down a half size due to the roomier toe box, and always break in these shoes gradually due to the higher ankle cuff.
The cushioning, provided by Salomon's EnergyCell+ midsole, offers good responsiveness for day hikes but feels somewhat firm for extended backpacking trips. During a 3-day traverse of the John Muir Trail section, I found myself wishing for the plushier cushioning found in boots like the Hoka Anacapa Mid.
Waterproofing and Breathability
The Gore-Tex membrane performs reliably in wet conditions, keeping my feet dry during stream crossings and rainy weather. However, like most waterproof shoes, breathability suffers in warm conditions. During summer hikes in Arizona, the x ultra 4 salomon felt noticeably warmer than non-waterproof alternatives.
Durability Issues and Long-Term Reliability
Critical Finding: Durability represents the most significant weakness of the X Ultra 4, with consistent reports of premature wear across multiple components.
After 200+ miles of testing, several concerning durability issues have emerged with my x ultra 4 salomon pair. These problems align with widespread user complaints found across hiking forums and retailer reviews.
Quicklace System Failures
The most immediate issue I encountered was with the Quicklace system. After approximately 75 miles, the synthetic lace began showing fraying where it contacts the metal guides. By 150 miles, I had to replace the entire lacing system - a frustrating experience that required special ordering from Salomon.
This isn't an isolated experience. Community reports suggest the Quicklace system represents a significant weak point compared to traditional laces found on competing models like the Merrell Moab 3.
Upper Material Deterioration
The synthetic mesh upper, while initially appearing robust, showed concerning wear patterns around stress points. The area where the upper meets the rubber toe cap developed small tears after rocky terrain exposure - something I never experienced with the more durable construction of the X Ultra 3.
Sole Wear Patterns
While the Contagrip MA compound provides excellent traction, it wears faster than expected. The heel area showed significant wear after just 100 miles of mixed terrain hiking. This rapid wear rate suggests the x ultra 4 salomon may not represent the best value for high-mileage hikers.
Silver Lining: Salomon's 2-year warranty covers manufacturing defects, and their customer service has been responsive to durability complaints in my experience.
X Ultra 4 vs Merrell Moab 3 and Keen Targhee Comparison
Having tested multiple competing models alongside the x ultra 4 salomon, I can provide direct comparisons that go beyond spec sheets to real-world performance differences.
Against the Merrell Moab 3
The Moab 3 offers superior all-day comfort and proven durability, making it the better choice for high-mileage hikers. However, the x ultra 4 salomon provides better traction on technical terrain and weighs notably less. If you prioritize performance over longevity, the Salomon has the edge.
Against the Keen Targhee IV
Keen's offering excels in durability and provides excellent toe protection with their signature rubber toe cap. The Targhee IV also offers superior stability for heavy pack loads. The X Ultra 4 counters with better traction and lighter weight, making it preferable for fast-and-light hiking styles.
User Reviews and Community Feedback Analysis
Beyond my personal testing, I've analyzed hundreds of user reviews across Amazon, REI, and hiking forums to provide a comprehensive picture of the x ultra 4 salomon ownership experience.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Sarah M. - Amazon Verified Purchase
"After 6 months of weekend hiking, these shoes have been fantastic. The grip on wet rocks is incredible, and my feet stay dry in all conditions. Yes, they're not as comfortable as my old Moabs, but the performance trade-off is worth it for technical trails."
Miles logged: ~150 | Terrain: Pacific Northwest trails
⭐⭐ Mike D. - REI Member
"Huge disappointment coming from the X Ultra 3. The heel slippage is terrible, and the quicklace system broke after just 2 months of light use. The ankle height causes constant rubbing. Going back to traditional laces next time."
Miles logged: ~75 | Previous model: X Ultra 3 GTX
⭐⭐⭐ Jennifer K. - Backpacker Forum
"Mixed feelings about these. The traction is genuinely excellent - better than my previous Keens. However, durability concerns are real. The upper material shows wear after moderate use, and I'm worried about longevity."
Miles logged: ~200 | Use: Day hiking and light backpacking
Common Praise Points
- Exceptional traction on varied terrain types
- Lightweight feel compared to traditional hiking boots
- Reliable waterproofing in wet conditions
- Quick break-in period due to synthetic construction
Recurring Complaints
- Durability issues across multiple components
- Ankle cuff chafing for many users
- Quicklace system failures reported frequently
- Heel slippage in some foot shapes
- Reduced comfort compared to X Ultra 3
Complete Buying Guide and Best Deals
Making the right choice with the x ultra 4 salomon depends heavily on your specific hiking style, foot shape, and priorities. Here's my comprehensive buying guide based on extensive testing and community feedback.
Who Should Buy the X Ultra 4
✅ Ideal Candidates:
- Day hikers prioritizing lightweight performance
- Technical terrain enthusiasts needing superior traction
- Hikers transitioning from trail runners to hiking shoes
- Those who appreciate quick-drying, synthetic construction
- Hikers with narrow to medium-width feet
❌ Poor Fit For:
- High-mileage hikers prioritizing durability
- Backpackers carrying heavy loads regularly
- Hikers with wide feet (despite wide options available)
- Those prioritizing all-day comfort over performance
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking maximum longevity
Sizing and Fit Recommendations
Based on my testing and community feedback, the x ultra 4 salomon runs about a half-size larger than the X Ultra 3. I recommend trying them on in-store if possible, as the roomier toe box may require size adjustment from your previous Salomon shoes.
The wide version is available but still feels narrower than competing brands' standard widths. If you typically wear wide shoes, consider trying competitors first.
Best Alternatives to Consider
Where to Find the Best Deals
Based on my price tracking over several months, Amazon typically offers the most competitive pricing on the X Ultra 4 series, especially during seasonal sales periods. REI's member dividend and return policy make them worth considering despite potentially higher base prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the X Ultra 4 compare to the X Ultra 3 in terms of durability?
Unfortunately, the X Ultra 4 shows reduced durability compared to its predecessor. Multiple users report premature wear in the upper materials and Quicklace system failures that were less common in the X Ultra 3. The synthetic construction, while lighter, doesn't match the longevity of the previous model's build quality. If durability is your primary concern, consider the X Ultra Pioneer or stick with proven models like the Merrell Moab series.
Are the X Ultra 4 shoes suitable for wide feet?
While Salomon offers a wide version, the X Ultra 4 remains narrower than competitors like Keen or Merrell. Even the wide version feels snug compared to other brands' standard widths. The toe box is roomier than the X Ultra 3, but the midfoot and heel remain quite narrow. Wide-footed hikers often find better success with the Merrell Moab 3 or Keen Targhee series. If you're set on Salomon, definitely try the wide version in-store first.
Can I replace the Quicklace system with traditional laces?
Yes, but it requires some modification. The eyelets are designed for the Quicklace system, so traditional round laces may not thread as smoothly. Several users have successfully converted using flat hiking laces, though it affects the shoe's intended quick-adjustment feature. If traditional laces are important to you, consider the X Ultra Pioneer model, which comes with conventional lacing from the factory. This avoids potential issues with the frequently-failing Quicklace system while maintaining similar performance characteristics.
How waterproof are these shoes in real-world conditions?
The Gore-Tex membrane performs well in most waterproof scenarios, keeping feet dry during stream crossings and moderate rainfall. However, the higher ankle cuff can create entry points for water during deep puddle encounters. In my testing, they remained waterproof through typical hiking conditions but aren't as bombproof as taller boots. The breathability trade-off means they can feel warm in hot conditions. For maximum waterproof protection, consider the mid-cut version which provides better water entry protection.
What's the break-in period like for the X Ultra 4?
The synthetic construction means minimal break-in for most components, typically 10-20 miles for full comfort. However, the higher ankle cuff can cause chafing during the adaptation period, especially for users coming from lower-profile shoes. I recommend gradually increasing mileage over several shorter hikes rather than immediately committing to long distances. The toe box accommodation happens quickly, but ankle adjustment takes longer. Consider using hiking-specific socks and possibly moleskin on potential hotspots during initial use.
Are these shoes worth the premium price over budget alternatives?
The premium pricing becomes harder to justify given the durability concerns. While the traction and initial performance are excellent, the longevity issues mean cost-per-mile may not favor the X Ultra 4. Budget alternatives like the Merrell Moab 3 often provide better long-term value, though they sacrifice some technical performance. The X Ultra 4 makes sense if you prioritize lightweight performance and superior traction over longevity. However, if you're budget-conscious or high-mileage hiker, consider waiting for sales or exploring the proven reliability of alternative models.
Final Verdict and Recommendations
After 200+ miles of rigorous testing across diverse terrains and conditions, the x ultra 4 salomon presents a complex picture of exceptional performance marred by concerning durability issues.
My Final Rating: 7.2/10
Excellent for: Day hiking, technical terrain, lightweight performance
Avoid if: You prioritize durability, comfort, or have wide feet
Best Alternative: Merrell Moab 3 for durability, X Ultra Pioneer for traditional laces
The x ultra 4 salomon succeeds brilliantly at its intended purpose: providing lightweight, technical performance for demanding terrain. The Contagrip outsole offers genuinely superior traction compared to most competitors, and the Gore-Tex waterproofing performs reliably in wet conditions.
However, the durability concerns cannot be ignored. From Quicklace system failures to premature upper wear, these issues significantly impact the long-term value proposition. The higher ankle cuff, while providing better protection, creates comfort issues for many users that the X Ultra 3 never had.
For day hikers prioritizing performance over longevity, especially those tackling technical terrain requiring superior traction, the X Ultra 4 remains a viable choice. However, high-mileage hikers and those seeking maximum value should seriously consider alternatives.
👍 Choose X Ultra 4 If:
- Superior traction is priority #1
- You're a day hiker (under 15 miles typically)
- Lightweight feel is crucial
- You have narrow to medium feet
👎 Choose Alternatives If:
- Durability is your main concern
- You prioritize all-day comfort
- You're a high-mileage hiker
- Wide feet or prefer roomier fit
The hiking shoe market offers excellent alternatives that address the X Ultra 4's weaknesses while maintaining competitive performance. Don't let brand loyalty prevent you from exploring options that might better suit your specific needs and foot shape.
Whatever you decide, ensure you try on any hiking shoe before committing to significant mileage. The investment in proper footwear dramatically impacts your outdoor experience, and the right shoe varies significantly between individual hikers.