The Salomon XT Ultra 5 Mid GTX is a sturdy hiking boot designed for walkers who want dependable protection without the excessive weight and stiffness of traditional leather footwear. With a supportive mid-height collar, a waterproof membrane, and an aggressive outsole, it targets day hikers, fast walkers, and anyone who regularly covers uneven ground in changeable weather. It feels more athletic than a conventional boot, but it still provides the structure needed for rocky trails and loaded daypacks.

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Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX: Key Features

• Gender: Men’s (Women’s Available)
• Weight: 16.5 oz per shoe (Men’s 10.5)
• Wide Sizes Available: Yes
• Toe Box: Surprisingly roomy
• Fit: True to size
• Mid-height design for added ankle coverage
• Waterproof construction for rainy conditions
• Lugged outsole for grip on mud, gravel, and loose ground
• Protective toe area for rocky trails
• Lightweight build for faster walking
• Secure lacing system for a stable fit

Fit and Sizing

The Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX has a secure, foot-hugging fit that helps keep the heel in place. This is particularly useful on steep descents, where unwanted foot movement can cause discomfort and blisters.

The lacing system allows you to adjust the fit across the forefoot and ankle. The padded collar provides comfortable support without feeling excessively stiff. The boot likely suits people with average or slightly narrow feet and average lower calf sizes. Hikers with wide feet or thick ankles should try it on before purchasing, especially if they intend to wear thick hiking socks.

Comfort for Hiking

Comfort is one of the boot’s main strengths. The cushioning reduces the impact of hard surfaces, while the supportive platform helps keep feet comfortable over longer distances. The X Ultra 5 Mid GTX  feels more like an athletic hiking shoe than a traditional heavy boot, making it suitable for walkers who prefer a lighter, more flexible design.

The sole and upper feel slightly firm during the first few walks. However, this firmness improves stability on uneven trails and becomes less noticeable as the boots break in after a few miles.

Robust toe bumpers and leather reinforcements provide excellent protection against hidden roots and rocks

Ankle Support and Toe Protection

The mid-height collar offers more ankle coverage than a low-cut trail shoe while keeping more freedom of movement than a heavy backpacking boot. It offers useful support on uneven ground, though it isn’t intended for highly technical mountain routes or very heavy loads. Its main benefit is proprioception, alerting you to uneven ground; you can still twist an ankle in these mids, or any other mid-height boot, by accident.

A reinforced toe area protects against roots, stones, and accidental impacts. I’ve been using these mids during stick season here in Vermont, where fallen leaves obscure the roots and rocks lying in wait underneath. I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the stability these mids offer and the protection the toe kicks provide. I’ll be using these mids for the rest of the autumn hiking season.

The durable upper, woven with Kevlar threads for added durability, also gives the boots a reliable feel on woodland paths, rocky trails, and rough countryside routes.

Traction and Outsole Performance

The Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid delivers strong traction on a range of common hiking surfaces. Its lugged outsole performs well on:

• Muddy paths
• Loose soil
• Gravel
• Wet leaves
• Uneven woodland trails

The outsole provides useful braking grip when walking downhill. However, smooth wet rock remains challenging and relies on good footwear. Overall, the traction is dependable for everyday hiking and mixed-terrain walking.

The outsole has multi-directional lugs for traction and braking.

Waterproofing and Breathability

The waterproof construction helps keep feet dry in rain, damp grass, and shallow puddles. As long as water doesn’t enter over the collar, the boots offer effective protection on wet-weather hikes.

The main compromise is breathability. Waterproof materials can feel warm in hot weather, especially with thick socks. For summer hiking in dry conditions, a non-waterproof trail shoe may feel cooler. For autumn, winter, and rainy spring walks, however, the waterproofing is a valuable feature.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Lightweight and comfortable design
• Effective waterproofing
• Good grip on mud and loose ground
• Supportive mid-height construction
• Secure heel fit
• Protective toe area
• Suitable for varied hiking conditions

Cons

• Can feel warm in hot weather
• May be narrow for people with wide feet
• Less effective on smooth, wet rock
• Requires a short break-in period

Final Verdict

The Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX is a capable waterproof hiking boot with a secure fit, dependable traction, comfortable cushioning, and useful ankle protection. Its lightweight design makes it easier to walk quickly and reduces fatigue compared with heavier boots. Although it can feel warm in summer and may not support heavy backpacking, it performs well in the conditions most day hikers encounter. For walkers looking for a reliable all-weather hiking boot, the Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid is a strong choice. Highly Recommended!

.Disclosure: Salomon donated shoes for review.

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