Since their release in the spring of 2021, Salomon’s X Ultra 4 boots have been among the most exceptional outdoor footwear. They were so good that they made the top pick (“Best Overall”) on our best hiking boots list.
However, they weren’t perfect — a fact the brand appears to be aware of. With its successor, the Salomon X Ultra 5, the brand has improved its best boot design in numerous crucial ways.
Upper crust
As mentioned, the Salomon X Ultra 4 — the predecessor to this new release — was an outstanding all-around hiking boot (and shoe). However, it had some problems. Namely, its toe cap and sidewalls were prone to blowouts — a big problem on an otherwise sturdy boot.
The 5 rectifies this with its new Matryx woven upper — a Kevlar-like material — and some strategically placed reinforcements.
The Matryx weave ensures a much greater degree of durability across the upper without hampering its flexibility or comfort. The reinforcement points add a little extra strength where the boot needs it most.
