Salomon XA Forces MID GTX EN Boots - Earth Brown

I think enough time has passed for me to understand the advantages and disadvantages of these shoes and to share my impressions. Firstly, comparing my various Salomon models of the same size: these, Shelter and X Ultra 360, the Shelter model is one centimeter shorter in length, while the others are half a centimeter. Meanwhile, I can fit a finger behind my heel in these boots. Conclusion: if you don’t plan to wear thick socks, get a smaller size. During the first days of wearing them, there was stiffness and tightness, especially around the ankle, but then they 'broke in' and became almost unnoticeable. Indoors, they’re very comfortable. Outside, rain and mud are no problem. The waterproof feature works flawlessly. These aren’t delicate sneakers, but rugged, durable work boots you can truly rely on. The only downside: I wish the quick lacing system was stronger, but so far it’s holding up. And one more thing—don’t get discouraged during the first week; breaking them in is a must. Overall: the boots are very reliable, tough, and built for real work. If you want something soft and light, these are not for you. But if you need shoes that handle anything and last a long time, these are the ones to get.

These shoes are extremely comfortable and lightweight, ideal for tactical use and trekking. The membrane works very well; after impregnation, they don't absorb water at all. They don't cause chafing or pressure, and the lacing system is excellent. The downside is that they get dirty easily, although they are just as easy to clean.

Very lightweight for tactical footwear, I've already run about 100 km and not a single blister. Due to the GTX membrane, it can be a bit warm during heatwaves, but there’s a trade-off: water doesn't get inside. They cushion the foot well and grip the surface solidly.

I chose these shoes due to issues with higher models and it turned out to be a very good choice. They are extremely comfortable and do not cause discomfort even after wearing them for a long time. The price may appear high, but in my opinion it matches the quality – it's hard to find other boots of this height that meet the MON requirements. A big advantage is the lacing system – it's very functional and comfortable. The insoles are soft and pleasant to the touch, which contributes to even greater comfort. I'm still testing the outer material during daily use, so I can't assess its durability yet. I'm also happy with the possibility to buy size 39, which is less common. For now, I have no complaints and highly recommend this model. We'll see how they perform after the warranty period.

I tried them on the trail to Bukowe Berdo (10/12/2024), the day after heavy rains in the area. They worked perfectly. They are sturdy, solid, and handle muddy ascents very well. They are also comfortable. These are by far the best tactical boots I have had in many years of walking on various terrains. They are excellent on rocky terrain. The sole is strong enough that you don't feel sharp stones under your feet. I highly recommend them. I will soon test them in even tougher conditions.