Fit & Sizing

Some Salomon shoes run narrow, The X Raise has an average heel space width, and the toe box gives room to flex those toes if you are a person with extra wide feet along the lines of size 2E; this shoe won't work for you.

The quick lace system is user-friendly and makes putting on and taking off the shoe quick. The downside is that it's not easy to customize for fit with this type of lace system. User feedback says it can be done but requires some practice and patience.

Durability

With an upper mesh construction of woven synthetics, which works for summer hiking. These shoes can handle some rain and mud without impacting overly on the durability of the uppers.

The rubber outsole should have the durability known for this brand's footwear. Wear and tear will come as with all footwear, and so far, durability is as expected for this hiking shoe style.

The toe area has TPU protection and can handle scuffs and knocks. User feedback for the cushion lining is good, with no complaints about wear or pilling.

Breathability

If you hike in hot weather, you will appreciate the breathability of a non-water-proofed shoe. Users' feedback shows high satisfaction with this shoe's ventilation. If you do wade in the water or get heavy rain, the dry-out time will be slow due to the thickness of the cushion lining.

Support

Stability is not up to the performance of a hiking boot. There is a lot of flex in the mid-sole. Some users like this, and some suggest it knocks stability on technical trails. Support is there in the shoe but at the level expected for a warm-weather hiking shoe.

The heel has been designed to give lateral support, and the makers appear to have focused on creating a light shoe for comfort and performance, With less emphasis on features to enhance stability.

Traction

Contagrip rubber is tried and tested and delivers good traction. Surprisingly, some user feedback felt the shoe slide at times on wet, muddy surfaces. This probably is because the design context of the shoe is for use in warm weather. The lug layout does give bite, but it is designed for majority use on dry surfaces. That said, the shoe does work for wet and muddy if you are caught out in a heavy downfall of rain.

Comfort

This shoe excels for comfort, and that is the purpose of design—a lightweight, agile shoe for comfortable, warm weather use.

The heel and collar have comfortable padding, and hikers suggest caution as the heel/collar area can let in dust and grit. The shoe inner is lined with a good quality cushioned lining. For more comfort blended with protection, this shoe has an EVA Mid-Sole for day-long supportive comfort.

Users report no issues with blisters or hotspots and wearables for hiking from day one. You can expect long-lasting comfort while putting in the miles.

Weight

Another plus with comfort in mind is that these are light weighing in at only an average of 1 pound 6 ounces. The weight can differ slightly depending on shoe size.

Low-cut lightweight hikers are increasingly popular, and comparative options are around, such as the X Ultra 3 from Salomon's. This shoe is only a few ounces heavier than the X raise, and it has Gore-Tex, which means it's good for wet weather environments. However, it will feel warmer in hot weather hiking.

This option also has an Eva MidSole, a solid protective mud-guard designed around the shoe, and is a good choice for ladies.

For those who like leather, check out the Danner’s Trail 2650. This shoe has textile and leather uppers. Comfort is good, and it is light on the feet, with lots of cushions and a stylish design. This shoe can run narrow, so those with wide feet will need to check out the wider version. You will find the price tag is a little lower.

For summer, hiking and putting in the miles, comfort is important, and the X Raise hit the mark for performance.

Breathability appears to be ok; support is at the level expected for this type of shoe; you can haul a backpack without any issues. There is a Gore-Tex version for those looking to be out in wet weather seasons. If you have to wade in these shoes, you will get wet feet and need drying out time.

This shoe is worth trying out for those looking for a reasonably priced, well constructed, and comfortable shoe for use on trails during warmer seasons.