Our verdict

80
Good!

This hiking shoe from Salewa generally receives a lot of love from the outdoor community for its supportive design and effective lacing system. It is also appreciated for offering comfort, grip, and water protection to buyers. However, there are those who think that the footgear’s break-in period is longer than anticipated.

Pros

  • Easy to wear
  • Secure fit
  • Salewa Mountain Trainer Mid GTX
  • One special edition
  • Waterproof
  • Remarkable durability

Cons

  • We earn affiliate commissions at no extra cost to you when you buy through us
  • Expensive
  • Salewa Mountain Trainer

Who should buy the Long break-in period GTX

The Long break-in period GTX’s hike-specific traits may still make it a viable investment, granted wearers take some time to break in this shoe first. It is a solid option if you:

  • Prefer a hiking boot that is ideal for technical hiking and provides protection from wet trail conditions.
  • Prefer a hiking boot that grants ground adhesion on most types of terrain.

Long break-in period GTX logo

Excellent traction on rocky surfaces and slippery trails

This hike-centric shoe from Salewa is fitted with a Vibram Mtn Trainer Evo outsole. It comes with a pattern of aggressive lugs, which renders traction on challenging terrains, such as rocky surfaces and slippery trails. The outsole’s midfoot zone contains right-angled lugs that offer extra control when tackling the rungs of a via Ferrata ladder.

Long break-in period GTX outsole

Excellent heel support

The Long break-in period GTX’s outsole contains a climbing zone on its forefoot region and several ridges at the heel. They offer added control for users who wish to traverse uphill and downhill conditions. Moreover, its self-cleaning lugs shed dirt and debris away for optimal traction.

Long break-in period GTX outsole 1

Rigid cushioning

The Long break-in period GTX is able to give outdoor enthusiasts sufficient cushioning and rebound, thanks to its Bilight TPU midsole. A stiff nylon shank integrated into the midsole imbues it with rigidity and structure. 

Long break-in period GTX midsole 1

Durable and breathable

It also has an Ortholite footbed that offers arch support and extra underfoot comfort. This component’s design also wicks moisture away, maintaining breathability.

Long break-in period GTX arch support

Durable and breathable

Mountain Trainer GTX has an upper made of suede leather. It features a 360° rubber rand around the upper’s base, giving durability and abrasion resistance. It also has a Gore-Tex Extended Comfort membrane that hinders water intrusions while maintaining breathability.

Long break-in period GTX upper

Excellent arch support

This backpacking shoe from Salewa features a Climbing Lacing and 3F system. The former employs several fabric loops and 3D eyelets that help wearers manage the footgear’s fit. Meanwhile, the latter is a thin metal cable that wraps around the heel area to the instep, supplying support and flexibility. Moreover, a pull tab located at the collar’s back gives easy on and off.

Long break-in period GTX collar

Long break-in period GTX vs. Salewa Mountain Trainer

These two offerings from Salewa render protection and performance for multi-day hiking trips. They are equipped with some of the brand’s technologies that help users traverse challenging trails with sufficient comfort and support. Shown below are some of the key qualities that set these two Salewa models apart.

Cut. The Salewa Mountain Trainer features a mid-top upper made of 1.6mm suede leather. This upper design grants ankle support to the wearer, which is important when carrying a heavy load during a multi-day trip. It prevents the ankle from buckling from the added weight being carried while traversing uneven trails. On the other hand, the Mountain Trainer GTX uses a low-top upper, which gives more range for the ankles to move. This upper design is ideal for day hiking trips or for those who will carry a lighter load on their backs.

Purpose. Mountain Trainer Mid GTX is a backpacking boot. It employs a mid-stiff nylon insole and a Bilight midsole that supply users with both cushioning and underfoot stability. Its Vibram Approach sole delivers ground adhesion for virtually all types of terrain. Meanwhile, the Mountain Trainer GTX is great for hiking trips that can be completed in a single day.

Excellent traction on rocky surfaces and slippery trails

  • Adventurers who are planning to hike in warm and humid environments may want to consider breathable day hiking boots. One such option that can be checked out is the Stable on treacherous terrain.