Salewa MTN Trainer Lite GTX Hiking Shoes - Men's Wallnut/Fluo Orange 12 Review
The Salewa MTN Trainer Lite GTX Hiking Shoes are a formidable choice for those who embrace mountain activities and alpine approaches. Crafted to endure rugged terrains, these shoes feature a robust upper that enhances durability while ensuring comfort through GORE-TEX Extended Comfort lining. Whether you're scaling rocky paths or embarking on outdoor adventures, these shoes promise to keep your feet dry and comfortable.
One of the standout aspects is their unique construction, offering specialized lasts that deliver a perfect fit complemented by an ideal balance of flexibility and support. The proprietary 3F system effectively connects the upper, sole, and heel, enhancing stability during your hikes. Inside, the shock-absorbing EVA midsole provides excellent rebound, while the flexible ankle shank and reinforced rubber toe cap offer added protection against obstacles along the trail.
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Features
- Pomoca outsole
- Rubber toe cup
- TPU film protection
- Heel stabilizer
- POMOCA S Path for enhanced grip
- GORE-TEX for waterproof comfort
- Climbing lacing system for precise fit
- 3F System for improved flexibility
- Salewa footbed for added comfort
- Lining: GORE-TEX Extended Comfort
- Midsole: EVA for shock absorption
- Outsole: Pomoca MTN trainer Lite
- Upper: 3F System with Kevlar Cables
- Armoured Mesh for breathability
- Protective TPU rand
- Drop: 13mm
- Fit: Wide
- Single shoe weight: 448 g
Pros
- Exceptional durability and protection
- Comfortable and breathable due to GORE-TEX lining
- Great traction from Pomoca outsole
- Flexible ankle support helps prevent injuries
- Lightweight design aids in mobility
Cons
- Fit may be too wide for those with narrow feet
- Can take time to break in for optimal comfort
- Higher price point compared to other options
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | Salewa MTN Trainer Lite GTX | Merrell Moab 2 Waterproof | Columbia Peakfreak Venture |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waterproof Lining | GORE-TEX | M Select DRY | Omni-Tech |
| Weight (per shoe) | 448 g | 453 g | 380 g |
| Traction Outsole | Pomoca | Vibram | Omni-Grip |
| Support System | 3F System | Air Cushion | Techlite |
Detailed Review
When it comes to tackling challenging terrains, the Salewa MTN Trainer Lite GTX Hiking Shoes stand out in the market. The durable upper made of sturdy materials ensures that your shoes withstand rough usage, making them suitable for rigorous activities like climbing and hiking.
The GORE-TEX Extended Comfort lining is a key highlight, providing waterproof capabilities without sacrificing breathability. This is especially beneficial during unpredictable weather conditions when you need your feet to stay dry yet cool.
The 3F system gives you the confidence that your foot is not only secured but also sufficiently flexible, helping you navigate diverse landscapes. The shock-absorbing EVA midsole makes every step comfortable, reducing fatigue as you move through demanding trails.
In terms of fit, the wide design caters well to those who prefer a little extra room, although this may not suit everyone. Nevertheless, the lightweight nature of the shoe contributes to overall ease of movement.
If you're seeking a reliable and high-performance hiking companion, the Salewa MTN Trainer Lite GTX deserves serious consideration. Despite its higher price tag, the investment is justified by its performance, durability, and comfort across various terrains.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | 9/10 | Built to withstand tough conditions and rough terrain. |
| Comfort | 8/10 | Good cushioning but requires a break-in period. |
| Traction | 9/10 | Excellent grip on different surfaces thanks to Pomoca outsole. |
| Water Resistance | 9/10 | Highly effective GORE-TEX lining keeps feet dry. |
| Value for Money | 7/10 | On the pricier side, but offers great performance. |
User Reviews
I like a heavier hiking shoe with a stiffer sole. That being said, I love these. They fit felt a little odd/loose at first, but functionally they were/are fine. After 5-6 wears, they felt great and continued to work fine. I haven’t taken them out too far, but have worn them waking on dirt, mud, rock and roots/branches. Weight is good for the type of shoe. I wear a size 10-10.5 US in most shoes; the size 10 in these fit me. Unless they fall apart prematurely, I’ll buy another pair when these wear out.
I bought this last month June, 2021.I couldn't fine any deffect. will be best to all.
These are wonderful shoes, but it took me a while to agree with another reviewer and realize they run 1/2 size small. The toe box was too narrow for me. The next size up was just fine. Once I got the size figured out, which took quite a while, they are superb. Fantastic traction, comfortable, good support, just great. Nice style too. I used to wear Oboz Sawtooth (the first one), and those were wonderful, but the II had issues with me, so I ended up with these. Couldn’t be happier. I just hope they last, but they seem durable enough.
I will say I have been very impressed with this company and how they make there shoes I have had around ten pair of salewa shoes not just this pair but others I got these to replace my current work shoes that were worn out so I do body work and I can put my shoes though pure hell these guys hold up for around a year that being said they comfortable and definitely keep the dust and water out the goretex does a great job I have only had this pair for three days know and they are feeling good on my feet for 12 hrs a day my feet do not hurt at all
Easily tear! Got two pairs. Use in the vegetable garden, rotate using them a little over a year and already damage. They should not do that when the shoe cost more than $140/pair!
I purchased both these and the supposedly identical MID version and they are quite different shoes. First one VERY big gripe. The weight listed is PER SHOE. Who does this? I was expecting a super light weight shoe, but instead got an average weight pair.The good points:The shoe fits well. It is soft and flexibile like my favorite (now discontinued) OBOZ Traverse.Style is excellent.The shoe feels like it has a rigid and sticky sole. I think it would hold up well to extensive mileage.It has really rigid edges which would really be great for technical climbing.Quality seems excellent.Although the shoe is narrow "typical for EU shoes", it has good room at the toes.I have issues with other shoes that ride too high and rub the bottom of my ankle bone. These do not.Good but not excellent inserts.The bad points:The lacing is finicky. There is no lock lace at all so you have to double knot to keep the laces tied.In order to get good support I have to really crank down on my lacing and then I experience some pressure points on the top of my foot above the arch.The supposedly identical MID boot has lock lacing and does not fit the same (it is much more comfortable) over the arch.The heel doesn't lock in perfectly (again I think this is a lacing flaw).The laces are slightly too short for technical lacing patterns.I will likely be sending these back in favor of the mids and in hopes of finding a more lightweight low cut shoe.But I can see how they might meet others needs well.
I'm older, so I'm more concerned with comfort. These are my third pair from this company. Very happy with the product