Salomon Predict Hike Mid GTX

9.2
9.2 score
[Editors rating (9.2)] = (TheGearHunt) score (9.2)/10


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Editor rating: 9.2 / 10
User's rating: based on 0 user ratings
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Editor’s Conclusion
The Salomon Predict Hike Mid GTX is designed for hiking, trail running, backpacking, and sturdy, stylish casual use.

The silhouette is a mid-cut boot style for ankle support with the functional performance of a trail running shoe combined with hiking capability. The stand-out feature of this shoe is the Energy Surge midsole which ensures support, responsiveness, and flexibility.

Salomon has also designed in their range of popular features. A Contagrip rubber outsole, Ortholite footbed, a synthetic upper, and Gore-Tex for water-proofing. A well-padded tongue, a traditional lace-up system, and a pull tab built onto the upper rear heel.
Editor's Pros & Cons
Pros

Support

Stability

Comfort

Water-Proof

Durability

Traction

Style

Cons

Not for overly challenging technical terrain

Key Features

Comfort

Salomon has designed in comfort for putting in the miles. An Energy Surge midsole provides a comfortable combination of responsiveness, support, and flexibility. The uppers are sturdy and supportive synthetic textile with more comfort via a padded tongue and padded collar for ankle protection/support.

An Ortholite footbed is included in the construction as a popular tried and tested feature for comfort.

The toe-box allows enough room to flex your toes; the mid-section is narrow enough for a comfortable fit, and the heel locks in for support. User feedback has not flagged up any hot areas for rubbing/pressure or blistering. This shoe is ready for use, and some users mention that the break-in time is minimal, depending on your own foot shape.

If you have a notable heel impact, expect comfort resulting from a heel-to-toe drop of 11mm, a forefoot stack of 24.5 mm, and a heel stack of 35.5 mm.

A traditional lace-up system allows adjusting and securing for a comfortable FIT.

Fit

For fit, Salomon has satisfied users; the feedback is extensive and good. The toe box gives enough room for flexing tired toes; the mid-section has the usual slight narrowing for a secure fit but is wide enough to feel comfortable. The heel area comfortably locks around the heel for a secure fit without any problematic hotspots/pressure points.

The ankle collar gives good protection and support and works in combination with the lace-up system to contribute towards a feeling of stabilizing comfortable overall fit.

Traction and Stability

When the traction is good, the real-time stability is also improved. Salomons Contagrip rubber outsole has a legion of fans; it has proven to be effective. Traction works for loose surfaces, dry, moderate mud, and firm, but the design does not extend to very challenging technical terrain surfaces. The purpose of the design for traction is to give a good "standard" grip.

The lug layout gives grip, does not pick up mud, and works with the supportive padded ankle collar to balance traction and stability. Not just on a flat surface but also ascending and descending. For additional support, the lace-up system can be adjusted for personal, supportive fit to work with the ankle collar and uppers to give focused support.

Durability and Protection

The uppers are constructed with synthetic material, which can take scuffs while staying durable and protective. The shoe seams are welded, and this means no issues with seams splitting. A rubber toe cap provides good protection while prolonging durability through absorbing and fending off scuffs and knocks.

The polyester MCL lining and Ortholite footbed are a constant feature for this brand because they perform well for durability.

This brand's ever-present Contagrip outsole has a blend of compounds that are mixed for design and durability. User feedback does not highlight any durability issues for the outsole.

Water-Proofing and Breathability

Gore-Tex treatment gives this shoe a good degree of waterproof protection, and protection reaches up to the ankle. Wading through surface trail puddles and use during heavy rain is fine. Breathability in cooler weather conditions is present, but as with all Gore-Tex footwear, in hot weather, breathability is challenged.

Comparison

The Predict Hike Mid GTX provides what you want from a good hiker and trail runner.

If you want a shoe/boot that can take on more technical terrains, the Salomon Quest 4D GTX 2 is certainly a solid comparative option. Able to deal with challenging and technical terrains.

You will get the level of grip and support usually found in a multi-purpose mountain boot.

Everything about the Quest is designed and constructed to take on whatever the terrain and weather can throw at it.

The price tag is considerably higher, and that is because this product sits at the top peak for performance, protection, comfort, and durability.

Verdict

The distinction for this mid-height shoe/boot is the Energy Surge midsole which gives a good return and fends away foot fatigue.

The ankle-cut design reflects more support for the ankle, and as expected from a Contagrip outsole, traction is good for standard trail surfaces. Keep in mind the design purpose is not to target challenging technical surfaces/environments. If you are aiming to go into technical hiking, there are comparative options available from this brand focusing on technical trials.

What you get from the Predict Hike Mid GTX is a good round, nicely styled mid-cut, good traction, appreciable stability, and support at a mid-range affordable price.