Verdict from +100 user reviews
6 reasons to buy
- Numerous adventurers laud the Salomon OUTbound GTX for its effective waterproof membrane.
- Droves of buyers confirm that it is indeed an astonishingly lightweight hiking shoe.
- Its comfort level is astounding, based on a considerable number of consumer reviews.
- According to more than a handful of outdoor enthusiasts, the arch support of this Salomon offering is satisfactory.
- A bunch of hikers mentions that the OUTbound GTX’s breathability is amazing.
- A minority of outdoorsy individuals find the durability of this footgear to be remarkable.
3 reasons not to buy
- According to several shoppers, the Salomon OUTbound GTX’s outsole loses traction on slippery surfaces.
- Some purchasers declare that it takes a substantial amount of time to break this shoe in.
- A few users state that the footgear’s laces untangle easily during a hike.
Bottom line
Outdoor lovers who require a waterproof pair for urban hiking may find fulfillment with this Salomon product. At the same time, its lightness and comfort are also well-received by those who have worn it during a trip.
On the other hand, the shoe’s lack of traction on slippery ground conditions may be a deal-breaker for some. All in all, the Salomon OUTbound GTX’s trail-specific characteristics may be a good choice, granted there are minimal slick surfaces to traverse.
Tip: see the best hiking shoes.
Good to know
The Salomon OUTbound GTX is an urban hiking shoe furnished with several technologies that provide comfort and performance. The footgear’s anti-debris mesh upper houses a Gore-Tex membrane to render protection from various wet trail conditions.
This Salomon offering sports a patented EnergyCell midsole made of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) for lightweight cushioning. Its Contagrip MD outsole is engineered to deliver grip on virtually all types of surfaces.
The OUTbound GTX is a low-top hiking shoe made for men and women. It comes with a conventional lacing system, which enables wearers to adjust the fit to their liking. This component features flat laces, which reduces pressure over the foot to create a comfortable in-shoe environment.
Outdoor lovers are able to traverse most types of terrain, thanks to the Salomon OUTbound GTX’s Contagrip MD outsole. This proprietary technology is made of a durable rubber compound, making it resistant to abrasive elements. It uses a pattern of trapezoid and diamond-shaped lugs to supply grip on challenging surfaces. Its heel region contains several grooves for extra control when going downhill. The outsole’s front tip reaches upward to provide protection from accidental knocks.
The Salomon OUTbound GTX is fitted with the brand’s patented EnergyCell midsole. It is made of EVA foam, a lightweight material that delivers cushioning and shock reduction when traversing uneven terrain. This component is paired with an Ortholite midsole. It is designed to wick moisture away while adding arch support and underfoot comfort with each stride.
The Salomon OUTbound GTX’s low-top upper is made of abrasion-resistant mesh and textile fabric. The pairing of these materials imbues the shoe with lightness and breathability. A Gore-Tex membrane is integrated into the upper to prevent water from entering while allowing excess moisture to pass through.
This hike-centric shoe from Salomon employs a flat lace and a series of eyelets to help the wearer manage its fit. Its forefoot zone houses a rand to provide protection from trail dangers. A molded counter is found at the rearfoot region for added heel support. The footgear’s tongue and cuff are padded to supply a comfortable in-shoe environment.
Both the OUTbound GTX and the X Ultra 3 are low-top hiking shoes manufactured by Salomon. These offerings come with several of the brand’s technologies to give users the performance they need during a day hike. Shown below are some key differences that set them apart and similar qualities they share.
Weight. The Salomon X Ultra 3 is designed to be a lightweight hiking shoe for outdoor enthusiasts. The men’s version weighs in at 365g while its women’s variant comes in at 318g. On the other hand, the Salomon OUTbound GTX is lighter than the X Ultra 3. The version made for male hikers weighs 305g while the women’s version is lighter at 265g.
Upper. Salomon engineered the X Ultra 3 with a below-the-ankle upper made of mesh fabric. It is reinforced with synthetic overlays that give support to the shoe. Its toe box is fitted with rubber rand for added durability. The shoe’s rearfoot zone has a counter for extra protection and heel security. On the other hand, the Salomon OUTbound GTX’s mesh upper contains a Gore-Tex membrane to provide protection from wet trail conditions without compromising breathability.
Lacing System. Salomon equipped the X Ultra 3 with a Quicklace system. This technology uses cord laces that can be adjusted in a single motion. It also employs a series of lace loops and plated eyelets that allow the wearer to manage the shoe’s fit. A clip mechanism is included to keep the lace securely in place. Meanwhile, the Salomon OUTBound GTX comes with a conventional lacing system that grants users a customized fit.
-Those who require an upgrade in protection and support may want to consider a pair of day hiking boots. Among the options that may be explored is the Keen Targhee III Waterproof Mid and the Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof.
-Buyers who need durable backpacking boots may want to explore the benefits offered by the Lowa Camino GTX.
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