Salomon XA Pro 3D
The Salomon XA Pro 3D shoes are a well-used and well-loved flagship model worn by runners and hikers alike. The XA Pro 3D has become a best-selling shoe by Salomon for good reasons. It is in the top 20% of favorite running shoes. The shoe features the most significant and latest technologies. It performs well on nearly any terrain.
The XA Pro 3D was designed for trails. Traction is not an issue that will cause concern. Excellent updates and changes have been made to previous versions. Some of the features include Sensifit technology that permits a customized fit, self-cleaning lugs for improved traction, and a new, improved outsole using Contragrip technology.
The soles are among the shoes with the most grip compared to any on the market. The Quick-lace system does away with tying shoes. This is a heavy-duty, durable shoe that manages to maintain comfort and flexibility. The 3D Advanced Chassis is a term used to describe a highly versatile, stable shoe for running and hiking.
- Customized fit with Sensifit technology
- Ultimate traction provided by Contragrip technology and
- lugs
- Durable, water-resistant outsole
- Does well on nearly all terrain
- Confident quick-lace system provides extra security
- Ortholite liner that reduces odor
- Weak shock absorption in the heel
- Lacks support in the ankle
- Too heavy for some runners
Outole
It is the outsole of the shoe that receives the most raves from customers. They are shocked to learn how well the shoe grips. The outsole is among the most well-designed available. It performs well on nearly any surface under wet or dry conditions.
Midsole
The midsole is made of shock-absorbent foam, designed to cradle the heel comfortably and keep it securely locked in place. The rock plate of the midsole is inflexible and sturdy. It provides excellent protection.
Upper
When running in hot temperatures, most people find their feet do not get excessively sweaty or hot. The exterior is supposed to be water resistant. Some runners report that water that gets inside takes a long time to dry. An Ortholit sockliner lines the upper interior. It has anti-sweat and anti-bacterial properties. Those are great features for running shoes. They help maintain a healthy and clean environment inside the shoe.
A covered tongue prevents debris and pebbles from entering the shoes. Salomon uses the minimalist QuickLace technology on the XA Pro 3D. It provides a simple one-pull tightening for easy on and off. The rubber cap of the forefoot serves as an extra barrier of protection.
Breathability
Comfort
Runners enjoy the toes not feeling smashed together or the feet feeling restricted. It is an excellent quality of shoes when mid-run swelling is an issue. Added arch support is a quality that is welcomed by some and not others. It depends on a person's level of comfort and whether added arch support is needed.
Many runners make positive comments about the heel area comfort. Blisters do not occur with these shoes. They are available in wide widths to accommodate the shape of different feet. The runner does not have to break-in the XA Pro 3D.
Style
Durability
A slight amount of weight added for extra durability is a worthwhile tradeoff when the number of miles the shoe can endure is taken into account. Customers have reported the shoe holds up even after many, many miles of running.
Lugs are a frequent complaint of many other running shoes. They are quickly damaged or break off. Lugs are not a concern with the XA Pro 3D. The traction system and high-quality outsole are built so well that durability issues are not a concern.
Protection
Responsiveness
The cushioning of the XA Pro 3D hits the sweet spot. At the front of the shoes is an upward arching toe spring design that aids in forwarding momentum. It feels cushiony and soft, but the extra weight makes the shoe feel more like the cross between hiking and trail shoes rather than lightweight trainers.
Support
They are incredibly well-cushioned and stable. Added arch support is a feature appreciated by people whose feet fall on the flat end of the spectrum. The support provided by the shoe is incredible when the relatively lightweight is taken into consideration. These shoes offer great support while running and when worn as everyday or casual shoes.
Terrain
A runner can feel confident the shoes will tackle any chosen terrain. The shoe is well-designed for trails. There is plenty of grip and support to provide traction on any trail. The shoes handle tough off-trail and offroad terrain rocky and woodland areas with ease. Navigating any terrain will not cause a problem except for mud areas that are wet, deep, and boggy. No trail shoes are suited for such terrain.
Price
Extra weight can be an issue for running trail races, but as a solid trail hoe, provides support and protection on the trail that makes the shoes worth the investment. When compared to other brands of trail shoes, the XA Pro 3D is averagely priced considering the comfort, durability, and high-quality construction it provides.
Traction
The lugs do a great job of digging into the ground, even in muddy or snowy conditions. They provide a stable, confident ride. Woodland with plenty of rocks and tree roots, compact and soft mud, and canals can all be navigated confidently.
Stability
The heels are wider than the uppers which assist with stability. Throughout the whole shoe, high-level stability is present, making it the ideal choice for runners who want to achieve better balance.
Having a better sense of balance when running means achieving better push-off with each stride. Between the midsoles and outsoles in the 3D chassis feet are stabilized without sacrificing forefoot mobility.
Drop
The heels are wider than the uppers which assist with stability. Throughout the whole shoe, high-level stability is present, making it the ideal choice for runners who want to achieve better balance.
Having a better sense of balance when running means achieving better push-off with each stride. Between the midsoles and outsoles in the 3D chassis feet are stabilized without sacrificing forefoot mobility.
Key Features
Protective toe cap
Quick-lace system
Lace pocket that prevents laces flapping
Covered tongue prevents debris and mud from entering the shoe
Handles on multiple terrains
Contragrip outsole
Lugs for added traction
Added arch support
Sensifit technology for a customized fit
Endofit sockliner
Midsole has dual-density EVA FOAM INSERTfoam insert
Mid-guard technology
Bottom Line
Runners get what they pay for. The Salomon XA Pro 3D is highly recommended for outdoor enthusiasts and trail runners. The shoe compares admirably with other brands of trail shoes when it comes to traction.
It offers more protection than a great many trail shoes. Support and comfort are strong features with some minor complaints about ankle support. The slightly heavy nature of the shoe is a compromise for the added support and comfort.