6 Best Salomon Waterproof Hiking Shoes of 2026

The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX is a trail-taming powerhouse that redefines what mid-cut hiking shoes can do on rugged terrain. With its Advanced Chassis for stability, GORE-TEX waterproofing, and Contagrip MA outsole, this shoe delivers precision, protection, and relentless grip when scrambling over wet rocks or descending muddy ridgelines. It’s engineered for hikers who demand ankle support without sacrificing agility, solving the age-old dilemma between mobility and security on unpredictable trails. Whether you’re crossing snowmelt streams or hiking through autumn leaf litter, the X Ultra 4 keeps your feet dry, stable, and confident.

In real-world testing across alpine switchbacks and forested singletrack, the X Ultra 4 shines with its responsive underfoot feel and impressive energy return. The 8mm heel drop and molded EVA midsole absorb impact during long descents, while the deep, multidirectional lugs dig into soft soil and slick rock with authority. At 1.38 lbs per pair, it strikes a smart balance between durability and weight—light enough for fast day hikes, tough enough for off-trail exploration. That said, the narrower toe box may frustrate wider-footed users, and the break-in period can feel stiff compared to more flexible low-cut rivals.

Positioned above entry-level hikers but below backpacking boots, the X Ultra 4 Mid GTX outperforms the Speedcross Peak GTX in stability and offers better ankle protection than the low-cut X-Adventure Recon. It’s the go-to for serious day hikers and peak baggers who prioritize technical trail control and weather resistance. While it costs more than some competitors, its build quality and long-term traction give it an edge over lighter models when the trail turns treacherous—making it a top pick when rugged terrain is the mission.

Meet the Salomon X-Adventure Recon Gore-Tex, a low-cut legend that blends speed, comfort, and all-weather readiness into one exceptionally versatile hiking shoe. With a wider toe box for natural splay, full GORE-TEX lining, and All Terrain Contagrip outsole, it’s built for hikers who want to move fast across mixed surfaces without compromising dryness or grip. This shoe solves the common issue of post-hike foot fatigue by combining a plush Sensifit sleeve with a rockered midsole, delivering a smooth, rolling stride whether you’re on gravel paths or wet mountain trails.

On test hikes ranging from urban park connectors to rain-soaked forest trails, the Recon proved its mettle with consistent traction on slick roots and muddy banks, thanks to its 4mm multi-directional lugs and sticky rubber compound. The Advanced Chassis provides surprising underfoot protection for a low-cut model, minimizing sharp-stone discomfort even on scree fields. Weighing in at just 1.2 lbs, it’s ideal for fastpacking, trail running transitions, or long-distance day hikes where agility matters. However, the lack of ankle support becomes noticeable on uneven descents, and the nubuck upper, while durable, requires more maintenance in brambly terrain.

When stacked against the X Ultra 4 Mid GTX, the Recon trades some ankle security for speed and breathability, making it a smarter choice for moderate trails and quick weekend adventures. Compared to the Speedcross Peak, it’s less aggressive underfoot but more comfortable for all-day wear on varied terrain. It’s the best overall performer for hikers seeking a do-it-all shoe that handles pavement-to-trail transitions with ease—offering near-identical protection to pricier models at a more accessible point in the lineup.

The Salomon Women’s X-Adventure Recon Gore-Tex is a trail-ready triumph designed specifically for the female foot, combining anatomical fit, weatherproof confidence, and nimble trail response in one sleek package. Engineered with a women-specific last, it offers a snug heel lock and roomy forefoot, allowing natural toe splay without slippage—solving the common pain point of ill-fitting women’s hiking shoes. With full GORE-TEX protection, All Terrain Contagrip, and a dual-material nubuck-mesh upper, it delivers durable, breathable performance whether you’re hiking in spring rain or summer humidity.

During real-world use on coastal bluffs and rocky woodland trails, the Recon consistently kept feet dry after stream crossings and maintained secure grip on wet granite slabs. The 4mm lugs offer dependable bite on loose dirt and packed trails, while the Advanced Chassis smooths out uneven terrain without adding bulk. At just 1.15 lbs, it’s featherlight for a waterproof hiker, encouraging fast strides and reducing leg fatigue over long distances. That said, the low-cut design offers minimal ankle protection on scrambles, and the lace garage can snag on brush during off-trail travel.

Compared to the men’s Recon, it shares the same core tech and durability but improves on fit precision for female hikers, outperforming unisex models in heel hold and forefoot comfort. Against the Speedcross Peak GTX, it’s less aggressive but more versatile for mixed-surface hikes. It stands as the best women-specific option in Salomon’s lineup—delivering targeted comfort and trail-smart features without compromise, making it ideal for day hikers and fastpackers who want a shoe that moves with them, not against them.

The Salomon Speedcross Peak Gore-Tex is a mud-devouring beast built for runners and hikers who refuse to let weather or terrain dictate their pace. With 6mm deep lugs, GORE-TEX-lined bootie, and Contagrip TA outsole, it bites into soft ground like cleats on turf—delivering unmatched traction in slop and slush. It solves the critical need for waterproof breathability in high-output activities, using Salomon’s Sensifit + Quicklace system to lock the foot down securely, eliminating bounce during steep climbs or technical descents.

On soggy alpine trails and muddy riverbanks, the Speedcross Peak proved virtually unstoppable, maintaining grip where other shoes slipped and keeping feet dry after repeated puddle plunges. The plush midsole cushioning absorbs trail shock over long miles, making it a strong contender for ultra runners and endurance hikers. At 1.25 lbs, it’s reasonably light for its aggressive tread, and the stowable lace garage keeps things tidy. However, the ultra-aggressive lugs feel clunky on pavement, and the tight midfoot wrap may irritate wider feet or those prone to swelling.

When compared to the X-Adventure Recon, the Speedcross Peak dominates in wet mud and steep climbs but sacrifices versatility on hardpack and road sections. It’s less nimble than the Recon on mixed terrain but outperforms it in extreme conditions. This is the go-to for trail runners and speed hikers who prioritize maximum grip and weather defense over all-terrain neutrality—offering specialized performance that justifies its niche, especially when the forecast calls for storms and the trail turns to soup.

The Salomon X-Adventure Recon Mid Gore-Tex is a ankle-supporting warrior engineered for hikers who tackle rough, unpredictable trails in all seasons. With its mid-cut silhouette, full GORE-TEX membrane, and Advanced Chassis for lateral stability, it delivers rock-solid confidence on rocky ascents and slippery descents. It solves the critical issue of ankle roll on uneven ground while maintaining the flex and agility of a modern hiking shoe—thanks to its articulated midsole and precision Sensifit upper.

During multi-day testing in rain-drenched mountain trails and snow-dusted paths, the Recon Mid kept feet completely dry and provided excellent torsional rigidity over root-strewn terrain. The premium nubuck leather resists abrasion from scree and brush, while the All Terrain Contagrip outsole maintains grip on wet rock and loose gravel. Weighing 1.45 lbs, it’s slightly heavier than low-cut models but justifies the mass with enhanced protection and support. That said, the higher collar can rub during long hikes if not properly broken in, and the price edges close to backpacking boot territory.

Stacked against the X Ultra 4 Mid GTX, the Recon Mid offers similar waterproofing and support but with a roomier toe box and more modern fit, making it preferable for wide-footed hikers. Compared to the low-cut Recon, it trades some agility for security, making it ideal for off-trail explorers and those carrying moderate loads. It’s the best choice when ankle stability is non-negotiable, delivering near-boot-level protection in a shoe that still encourages a natural stride—striking a rare balance between protection, comfort, and trail responsiveness.