Salewa Ultra Flex Mid GTX review

Who should buy Salewa Ultra Flex Mid GTX

For speed hikers who can afford mid-range shoes and need protection from wet elements, this is a solid option. Purchase if you prefer:

• lightweight boots
• vegan footwear

Multi-terrain performance

A Salewa-exclusive, multi-density rubber outsole, the Michelin Ultra Train lends hikers slip resistance and traction, as well as adaptability over different types of terrain. The aggressively shaped lugs dotting its surface provide grip in practically all directions. For lateral movement assistance, the engineers gave the sole treaded sides. Aiding wearers during descents, on the other hand, are curved grooves at the heel.

Forefoot protection

This grippy layer has another purpose besides slip prevention and surface traction. By making its front end extend to the upper, covering the forefoot zone by about an inch, the shoe is given a protective rubber bumper. This additional outsole feature is easily recognizable by the quirky Michelin logo embossed on it. 

Shock-reducing midsole

The Salewa Ultra Trek Mid GTX has a noticeably robust midsole for comfort and shock mitigation. It is made of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA for short) which means this cushy yet sturdy platform has ample resistance to stress, heavy weight, and even ultraviolet radiation. Its tapered construction also gives the footwear its overall sleek design. 

Multi-feature insole

Extra underfoot cushioning comes in the form of the shoe’s removable Ortholite footbed. It is engineered with a unique spring-back technology that grants it the ability to grow back up to about 95% of its original thickness, even with prolonged use. Its means of giving comfort comes not only by its cushioned surface but also by its moisture-wicking feature. 

Breathable and nimble upper

Salewa’s Ultra Trek Mid GTX is a speed hiking shoe that is endowed with breathability and agility, thanks to its mesh upper. Its mid-cut shaft is extra flexible as it is built with a stretchy material. The interior of the collar line and tongue are padded for extra cushioning. In terms of abrasion protection, the base of the upper’s front arc is layered with coated fabric, while its heel zone is covered with a plate-like, synthetic overlay. The footwear’s defenses against debris, on the other hand, are handled by the upper’s gusseted tongue. 

Wet elements are kept at bay thanks to the Gore-Tex Extended Comfort liner. This waterproofing technology is also engineered to be breathable and moisture wicking, making the shoe ideal for the summer months as well. 

Lace pocket

The shoe’s lacing system trades classic laces for synthetic cords. It features an easy-adjust locking clip made of hard plastic. It has a set of synthetic lace tunnels in place of standard eyelets. There is also a net-like clasp bridging the instep flaps of the upper. It serves as a pocket for the remainder of the cords.