In-depth review
Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX Review (2027)
In-depth review of the Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX: Matryx upper, All Terrain Contagrip traction, GORE-TEX waterproofing, and the narrow-last caveat.
Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX
The current X Ultra: Matryx upper, All Terrain Contagrip, GORE-TEX.
Our verdict
The X Ultra 5 Mid GTX is the athlete's hiking boot and the current generation of Salomon's X Ultra line: All Terrain Contagrip traction, a Matryx upper that shrugs off abrasion, and GORE-TEX waterproofing in a package that moves like a trail runner. The narrow last is the non-negotiable caveat; if your feet fit Salomon's shape, nothing here is faster or more precise on technical ground.
What we like
- All Terrain Contagrip outsole grips wet rock better than most in this class
- Matryx upper is exceptionally durable for a light boot
- GORE-TEX membrane is the waterproofing benchmark
- EnergyCell midsole with a Molded OrthoLite sockliner for all-day cushioning
What to watch out for
- Narrow last squeezes wide feet; try before buying
- Less cushioned than the Moab for all-day comfort
- Premium pricing for the GORE-TEX version
What owners report: Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX
Synthesized from recurring themes in long-term owner feedback.
Most praised
- Wet rock grip is the standout, holding lines that other boots in the class slide on
- The reinforced upper survives scree and brush that tear lighter mesh boots
- Agile, precise feel suits hikers who move fast over technical, rooty terrain
Common complaints
- Narrow last squeezes wide feet, and no amount of break in changes that
- Less plush cushioning than comfort boots makes long hardpack days feel firmer
- Waterproof version pricing is premium for a boot bought mainly for speed
Who it is for
Fit, fast hikers with narrow to medium feet who prioritize agility and grip on technical terrain.
Fit and the Matryx upper
Salomon's last is famously precise: snug heel, secure midfoot, and a tapered toe box that rewards narrow-to-medium feet and punishes wide ones. Over it, the Matryx upper weaves high-strength yarns into a fabric that resists the abrasion that shreds ordinary mesh, a genuine durability upgrade for a light boot. If you have ever described your feet as hard to fit, try these in-store; the precision that makes them great is the same property that makes them unwearable for the wrong foot.
Traction and cushioning
All Terrain Contagrip is Salomon's all-condition compound, gripping wet rock and muddy traverses where harder compounds skate. The EnergyCell midsole and Molded OrthoLite sockliner give the boot a runner's cushioning character, absorbing trail shock on long descents without going soft or vague. Lateral stability on off-camber trail is a clear step above budget hikers.
Weight and waterproofing
The X Ultra 5 is noticeably lighter than traditional mids like the 2 lb 6 oz Moab 3, and you feel it on mile 15. The GORE-TEX membrane is the industry benchmark for waterproof breathability. The trade for the precision and lightness is underfoot plushness: on all-day slogs the Moab's softer ride is kinder to tired feet.
Key specifications
- Style
- Mid-height waterproof hiker
- Waterproofing
- GORE-TEX membrane
- Upper
- Matryx
- Outsole
- All Terrain Contagrip
- Midsole
- EnergyCell with Molded OrthoLite sockliner
Also consider
Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
America's best-selling hiking boot, now in its third generation.
Why consider it: More comfortable and forgiving for average feet and all-day wear.
- Style: Mid-height waterproof hiker
- Weight (pair, men's 9): 2 lb 6 oz (1.08 kg)
KEEN Targhee III Mid Waterproof
The wide-foot favorite with a roomy toe box.
Why consider it: The answer if Salomon's narrow last does not fit your feet.
- Style: Mid-height waterproof hiker
- Weight (pair, men's 9): 2 lb 4 oz (1.02 kg)
Research-based assessment. TrueGear has not hands-on tested this product; this evaluation synthesizes manufacturer specifications, retailer documentation, and published expert reviews.
Questions, answered
Are Salomon boots true to size?
Length is generally true, but the narrow last means wide-footed hikers often need to size up or choose another brand. Try before buying.
What is All Terrain Contagrip?
Salomon's outsole for the X Ultra line, formulated to grip across wet and dry surfaces in varied terrain. It is widely regarded as one of the best hiking compounds available.
Are they durable?
The Matryx upper is a durability highlight, resisting abrasion better than the mesh uppers of rival light boots. Expect 500-plus miles of realistic service.