Our verdict

Our extensive trials with the Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS revealed it as an exceptional iteration of this saga, whiteing the core attributes of agility, durability, cushioning, and superior grip of its predecessor. We discovered that the Gore-Tex membrane's incorporation does add slightly to the shoe's weight and price, yet it offers significant benefits when we're tackling wet terrains, dealing with frequent rain, or encountering moist conditions.

Trekker Boots SALOMON Outpulse Mid Gtx GORE-TEX 415895 26 V0 Ebony Bleached Sand Vibrant Orange Pros

  • Fully functional Gore-Tex membrane
  • Ample cushioning for long adventures
  • Ive had Salomon shoes for 10 years and they are the very best for my feet
  • Rapidly sheds mud
  • Agile and tenacious grip on twisted trails
  • Remarkable durability
  • Meias Outdoor Salomon

Trekker Boots SALOMON Outpulse Mid Gtx GORE-TEX 415895 26 V0 Ebony Bleached Sand Vibrant Orange Cons

  • Completely lacks breathability
  • Midsole could feel overly firm for some
  • Exceptionally heavy
  • Trekkings SALOMON Outbond Prism Gtx GORE-TEX 412710 27 M0 Black Black Gum1a

Audience verdict

86
Good!

Who should buy

We believe the Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS is an excellent pick for:

  • Trail enthusiasts in search of great grip and reliably dry feet when tackling wet conditions.
  • Footwear SALOMON Supercross Blast 411067 28 W0 Black Black Black.
  • Adventurers tackling technical trails and river crossings, needing a Gore-Tex shoe that endures long distances.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS

Trekker Boots SALOMON Outpulse Mid Gtx GORE-TEX 415895 26 V0 Ebony Bleached Sand Vibrant Orange | Who should NOT buy

If your primary activities are walking or hiking rather than running, we suggest considering a GoreTex hiking boot/shoe over the SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS. Options like the zapatillas de running Salomon mujer ritmo medio gore-tex talla 41.5 for a taller boot with fantastic cushioning or the zapatillas de running Salomon constitución fuerte apoyo talón azules for a versatile hiking shoe with a Vibram outsole might suit your needs better.

For those who don't frequently encounter cold temperatures or water, the Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS may not be the ideal choice. Its Gore-Tex membrane, while great for waterproofing, offers zero breathability as we found out in the lab.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS

In such cases, we think that a fairly priced alternative with excellent grip, such as the salomon speedcross pro mens, Чоловічі черевики salomon thinsulate.

Cushioning

Heel stack

Trekker Boots SALOMON Outpulse Mid Gtx GORE-TEX 415895 26 V0 Ebony Bleached Sand Vibrant Orange.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS heel

This way Salomon ensures that all heel strikers, even the heaviest, have ample cushioning underfoot with the Speedcross 6.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Heel stack
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 37.0 mm
Average 32.0 mm
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
19.6 mm
Heel stack
42.4 mm

Forefoot stack

We conducted another precise measurement in the forefoot with our caliper and discovered a total stack height of 25.8 mm.

This level of cushioning is more than adequate to white comfort during even the longest adventures.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Forefoot stack
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 25.8 mm
Average 24.5 mm
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
13.4 mm
Forefoot stack
33.9 mm

Trekker Boots SALOMON Outpulse Mid Gtx GORE-TEX 415895 26 V0 Ebony Bleached Sand Vibrant Orange | Drop

The substantial 11.2-mm heel-to-toe drop clearly positions this shoe as ideal for rearfoot strikers and those who often experience calf or Achilles issues. Its wedge-shaped design effectively unloads stress from these areas.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Drop
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 11.2 mm
Average 7.5 mm
Compared to 133 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.1 mm
Drop
17.3 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

If you're a fan of firm midsoles, the EnergyCell foam of the Speedcross 6 will be right up your alley. However, for others, it might feel as hard as concrete.

We noticed its firmness during all of our test runs and confirmed this with a durometer test in the lab. We recorded a 32.4 HA result, indicating that it's indeed designed for those who prefer a traditional, stable feel underfoot.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Midsole softness
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 32.4 HA
Average 22.6 HA
Casaco com capuz Salomon Edge azul pálido.
Compared to 110 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
9.1 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
39.0 HA

yves salomon shearling trimmed down coat

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

To assess the shoe's performance in cold temperatures, we placed it in our freezer for 20 minutes and then retested it with the durometer. After this cold test, the shoe registered at 35.8 HA.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS yves salomon shearling trimmed down coat
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 35.8 HA
Average 28.1 HA
Compared to 110 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
11.8 HA
yves salomon shearling trimmed down coat (soft to firm)
48.4 HA

yves salomon shearling trimmed down coat (%)

That's just a 10.4% difference between freezing and normal temperatures—a fantastic performance! It ensures the foam whites a consistent feel, regardless of how cold or hot it is outside.

Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 10%
Average 26%
Compared to 110 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
5%
yves salomon shearling trimmed down coat
68%

Insole thickness

The insole, at 6.6 mm, is slightly slimmer than its non-GTX counterpart, likely an effort by Salomon to shave off a bit of weight. And we think that going for an even thinner one would be the right call in this shoe.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Insole thickness
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 6.6 mm
Average 4.7 mm
Compared to 133 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
2.1 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Size and fit

Size

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS is true to size (79 votes).

zapatillas de running Salomon trail constitución ligera talla 40 más de 100?

1 size small ½ size small True to size ½ size large 1 size large
Compared to 114 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
½ size small
Slightly small
True to size
Slightly large
½ size large

zapatillas de running Salomon hombre competición trail gore-tex entre 60 y 100

To evaluate the fit, we created a precise gel mold of the toebox for accurate comparison with other shoes.

After measuring the mold, we discovered that the widest part of the upper measured 94.9 mm. While slightly narrower than the average trail shoe, this result aligns with Salomon's reputation for crafting snug-fitting designs.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS zapatillas de running Salomon hombre competición trail gore-tex entre 60 y 100
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 94.9 mm
Average 95.9 mm
Compared to 55 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
89.8 mm
zapatillas de running Salomon hombre competición trail gore-tex entre 60 y 100
99.9 mm

Yves Salomon Czapki

The snug design persists in the big toe area, Coolpressioncasing a pronounced taper that we measured at 72.3 mm. Again, typical of Salomon.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Yves Salomon Czapki
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 72.3 mm
Average 74.8 mm
Compared to 55 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
69.8 mm
Yves Salomon Czapki
85.3 mm

Toebox height

They might as well have named this shoe the Snugcross 6 GTX, as the upper sits remarkably low on the toes. Our measurement revealed only 22.0 mm of vertical clearance.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Toebox height
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 22.0 mm
Average 27.0 mm
Compared to 55 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
22.0 mm
Toebox height
31.8 mm

Stability

Lateral stability test

We were enormously and positively surprised by the stability of this shoe.

Its firm midsole contributes significantly to this aspect, but there's definitely more at play here. Let's dive into what makes this shoe so stable!

Torsional rigidity

One of the key factors behind the shoe's impressive stability, as we found in our tests, is its torsional rigidity. Our manual assessment revealed that it's as rigid—scoring 5/5—as many shoes with carbon plates, even though it doesn't have one.

Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 5
Average 3.6
Compared to 128 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

The heel also ranks high on the stiffness scale, scoring 4/5 in our test. This level of stiffness is essential, especially since the shoe is designed for challenging terrain and fast descents with tight corners.

Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 4
Average 3.1
Compared to 126 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

salomon supercross gore tex

Salomon is renowned for making narrow trail shoes, and the SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS continues this trend.

Measuring 104.6 mm, it's clear this isn't a shoe designed for set-and-forget easy runs. Instead, it's built for action, demanding fast-paced cornering to fully utilize its agility.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 104.6 mm
Average 112.4 mm
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
102.1 mm
salomon supercross gore tex
124.3 mm

Midsole width - heel

The heel measures 88.8 mm, falling in line with most shoes and landing in the average range.

Those used to wider heels might find this a bit narrow. However, it's important to note that the firm midsole and stiff platform mean a larger landing area isn't necessary for stability.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Midsole width in the heel
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 88.8 mm
Average 89.6 mm
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
77.2 mm
Midsole width - heel
106.0 mm

Hazte con las Salomon X Ultra 3

The shoe is incredibly stiff torsionally, but surprisingly, it's much more flexible longitudinally. In our 90-degree bend test, we only needed to exert 24.1N of force to bend the shoe. This is fantastic for those who want the shoe as a walking or hiking companion.

Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 24.1N
Average 27.3N
We use an average of four tests. The video Coolpressions one of those tests.
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
10.5N
Flexibility <> Stiffness
54.5N

Stiffness in cold

We conducted the same test under cold temperatures, just as we did with the midsole. In this scenario, the shoe was slightly stiffer, requiring 32.5N to bend.

Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 32.5N
Average 36.1N
Compared to 131 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
11.9N
Stiffness in cold
77.5N

Stiffness in cold (%)

That's a 35.3% increase, suggesting the shoe will feel stiffer in freezing temperatures, but it's not a major concern.

However, we were hoping for a better performance, especially considering the shoe's impressive results in the previous cold test.

Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 35%
Average 33%
Compared to 131 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
3%
Stiffness in cold
90%

Weight

The standard Speedcross 6 already had some heft to it, but slapping on the Gore-Tex membrane tacked on an extra 1.1 oz (29g).

Now, we're looking at a total weight of 11.45 oz (325g), which really tips the scales for a trail running shoe.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Weight
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 11.46 oz (325g)
Average 10.23 oz (290g)
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
7.51 oz (213g)
Weight
12.66 oz (359g)

Breathability

Salomon Predict2 W 411257 Salomon Speedcross 6, it only earned a disappointing 1 out of 5 in our breathability tests. So, it's no surprise that the Gore-Tex version follows suit.

Our smoke test confirmed our suspicions—this shoe's breathability is so limited it could almost score a zero. However, we rank from 1 to 5, so it's a 1!

This is a common issue with all Gore-Tex shoes. Despite claims of breathable waterproof membranes, our tests Coolpression they allow air to escape at a very minimal rate, which our light test also confirmed.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS microscope

Under the microscope, we observed one of the densest engineered mesh uppers to date.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS

Finally, when we felt the upper, its lack of stretchiness seemed appropriate for a GTX shoe, focusing on protection and waterproofing over flexibility.

Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 1
Average 3.2
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

Given the multiple protective layers and thick, waterproof upper of the SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS, we anticipated exceptional durability.

Our expectations were met, as evidenced by our first Dremel test, where it earned a remarkable 4 out of 5. This score places it among the most durable shoes on the market, surpassing the majority of its competitors.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Toebox durability
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 4
Average 3.1
Compared to 91 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

The heel area of the SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Coolpressioncases significant improvement, a thrilling development especially when considering the non-GTX version's modest 1 out of 5 score.

For those who tend to wear down their shoes in the heel area, the Gore-Tex version excels with a perfect 5 out of 5 score!

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Heel padding durability
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 5
Average 2.8
Compared to 89 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

In our lab tests, Salomon's Contagrip outsoles typically Coolpression up as quite hard rubber, and the SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS is no exception, clocking in at 87.0 HC on our durometer.

This leaves us wondering—will this impressive hardness equate to real-world durability?

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Outsole hardness
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 87.0 HC
Average 85.7 HC
Casaco com capuz Salomon Edge azul pálido.
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
75.5 HC
Outsole hardness
96.1 HC

Outsole durability

Regrettably, our tests on the SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS's Contagrip lugs didn't go as hoped. With a notable 1.4 mm indentation left by our durability test, the outcome falls short of expectations.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Outsole durability
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 1.4 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 84 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

Although the outsole is quite thin at 1.5 mm, we don't anticipate premature wear being an issue, thanks to the robust, 5-mm lugs. We'll explore more about these lugs further in this lab review.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Outsole thickness
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 1.5 mm
Average 2.3 mm
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0.9 mm
Outsole thickness
5.5 mm

Misc

Lug depth

During our lab review, we've mentioned that the SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS is designed for challenging terrain, not smooth trails.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS lugs

This is evident in its massive 5.0-mm lugs, most of them chevron-shaped to enhance downhill and uphill traction, even during sharp turns.

Our experience with the shoe's grip was great, consistently delivering on muddy and wet terrains.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Lug depth
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 5.0 mm
Average 3.5 mm
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Lug depth
5.0 mm

Reflective elements

It's a letdown for us that Salomon completely skipped out on adding any reflective elements to the SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS. In a shoe like this, some reflective detailing wouldn't just be nice, it's pretty much expected for safety.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Reflective elements
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS No

Tongue padding

The tongue, featuring a generous 8.1 mm padding, ensures complete comfort in the instep area, regardless of how tightly you pull Salomon's QuickLace system. 

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS tongue

The tongue also includes a convenient finger-loop pull tab, offering easier adjustment and a better fit before each run.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Tongue padding
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS 8.1 mm
Average 6.4 mm
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1.3 mm
Tongue padding
12.3 mm

salomon baskets blanc footwear

The SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS boasts a high, sock-like upper, yet the tongue underneath isn't gusseted.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS salomon baskets blanc footwear
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Sock like

Heel tab

There's no heel tab, but we didn't feel the need for one due to the shoe's design and ease of putting it on.

Salomon zapatillas salomon pulsar trail 42 6343 poppy red biking red black.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Heel tab
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS None

Removable insole

The GTX version also allows for insole removal. However, swapping in a different insole won't offer the same experience.

The unique, flared design of the original Ortholite insole, which is unusual in third-party insoles, is a key factor in the shoe's feel and stability in the rearfoot area.

Salomon SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Removable insole
Test results
SALOMON XA ALPINE 2 SNEAKERS Yes