Salomon Madcross review

Who should buy the Salomon Madcross

Buy the Madcross from Salomon if you want a: 

• tacky-gripping running shoe for aggressive, muddy trails
• warm and comfy option for winter runs 
• trail shoe that doesn't break the bank but is built to take a beating

Traction is the Madcross' ultimate highlight

On wet, hard, dry, and muddy trail surfaces, experts agree that the Salomon Madcross' outsole is a surefire killer. It offers ground-digging traction; there are NO reports of slips or missteps. 

Built to last

After over 50 miles of rough wear testing, reviewers claim that the outsole still looks good as new. The midsole is not packing out, and the upper is free from wear and tear. 

It's built like a solid tank; many are estimating it to last beyond 300 miles.

Tackle the snow with confidence

Traction aside, the upper also keeps the foot warm, especially during cold, winter days. Those who have tested it under this condition all claim that the shoe has kept them feeling warm and cozy.

However, this can be a letdown if you live somewhere hot or tropical. The rather thick upper can make you feel toasty. 

Don't worry about lace bites

Contrary to its trail sibling—the Salomon Wildcross 2—the Madcross has a traditional lacing system that runners find comfortable. According to them, these laces don't dig into the skin, and there's enough padding on the tongue to prevent lace bites.

You won't feel tippy in this shoe

Together with the shoe's outsole, the upper and laces work hand in hand in creating a stable ride. Together, these lockdown elements of the shoe keep it feeling snug, especially during sharp turns and cornering.

Run in the Salomon Madcross straight out the box

Thanks to the shoe's Ortholite insole, and the midsole's perfect balance between softness and rigidity, trail runners claim that they didn't have to adjust to it.

 It's ready for a trail run straight out of the box. 

Doesn't hurt the feet, doesn't hurt the wallet

On average, trail shoes retail for $129. However, the Salomon Madcross only costs $100, making it among the budget-friendly trail runners on the market. 

A no-no for runners with small feet

Those with slim feet share the gripe of having "too much room" in this shoe. Their feet wiggle too much in the Madcross because the upper is stretchy. 

And true to the shoe's premise, it's on the accommodating side when it comes to fit. That is why many wide-footed runners enjoy it.