Verdict from 11 experts and +100 user reviews

6 reasons to buy

  • It is an ideal shoe for all weather because of its cool, breathable, quick drying upper.
  • Its lightweight nature makes it ideal for trail running and hiking.
  • It has a dependable waterproof design that allows running on muddy or wet surfaces.
  • It is comfortable to wear in wild environment and on rocky grounds.
  • The lacing system is impressive with its innovative and convenient design.
  • The weight is trimmed down, but the quality and performance are powered up for better trail running experience as commented by many runners.

3 reasons not to buy

  • This trail shoe from Salomon is expensive.
  • The heel part provided minimal shock absorption for testers.
  • The support in the ankle was lacking in this shoe, as commented by some runners.

Bottom line

The Salomon XA Pro 3D is a trail running shoe that’s built with some of the most impressive technologies. The features of the upper were really made dependable, and the mid-sole offers a very comfortable system to keep the foot protected and supported. Although it is an expensive shoe, its quality, value, performance, and design are worth the price.

Tip: see the best trail running shoes.

Expert reviews:

User reviews:

Good to know

  • Salomon aims to gather more fans with the latest updates in the XA Pro 3D. As it is an extremely versatile trail shoe, the outsole gets the lion’s share of the changes for an even better performance on technical and really tough outdoor surfaces. Salomon uses a new version of the Contagrip technology to provide more traction in the most challenging conditions. Furthermore, the lugs that are now used are configured to be self-cleaning. They effectively release mud and keep the weight as normal as possible.
  • A new Sensifit technology is used as well. This refers to the new type of customizable fit that the shoe provides through the entire upper, particularly through the laces.

Just like in the popular Salomon Speedcross series, the outsole features moderately-sized and aggressive lugs that offer superior grip on technical and challenging trails. Salomon upgrades its Contagrip rubber compound for even better traction. With engineered spacing between the lugs, muds are kept from clinging to the outsole and adding more weight to the shoe.


A dual-density EVA occupies the main midsole section as it provides full-length cushioning and decent midsole durability. Salomon uses a flexible heel chassis it calls the 3D Advanced Chassis. It is made of composite foam that helps absorb shock and keeps the heel from moving.


The quick-drying breathable mesh is the primary upper construction of the Salomon XA Pro 3D. Made of lightweight mesh threads and weaved with nylon, the mono layer mesh is extremely durable. Salomon’s proprietary Sensifit tech uses the sole and the upper to work in tandem through the laces to provide a more comfortable and personalized fit. There is an Ortholite sockliner with anti-bacterial and anti-sweat properties. A rubber toe cap and a gusseted tongue act as protective elements on the trail.

How XA Pro 3D compares

This shoe: 91
All shoes average: 82
55 94
This shoe: £130
All shoes average: £130
£60 £240
This shoe: 410g
All shoes average: 297g
170g 680g
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Author
Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob Andersen

Jens Jakob is a fan of short distances with a 5K PR at 15:58 minutes. Based on 35 million race results, he's among the fastest 0.2% runners. Jens Jakob previously owned a running store, when he was also a competitive runner. His work is regularly featured in The New York Times, Washington Post, BBC and the likes as well as peer-reviewed journals. Finally, he has been a guest on +30 podcasts on running.

jens@runrepeat.com