Salewa Wildfire 2 GTX Hiking Shoe - Men's Bungee Cord/Black 12 Review
The Salewa Wildfire 2 GTX is designed to tackle the rugged terrains of the Dolomites and beyond. With a precise fit and advanced technical features, this men's hiking shoe is not just about aesthetics but also performance. Whether you're navigating tricky scrambles or making your way up easy alpine climbs, the Wildfire 2 promises to deliver both comfort and stability.
This shoe is constructed from recycled breathable mesh, which enhances airflow while maintaining durability. The GORE-TEX Extended Comfort membrane ensures you stay dry without overheating, making it suitable for varied weather conditions.
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Features
- Upper: Recycled breathable mesh, Kevlar Cables Cage, Protective TPU rand, 3F System with Kevlar Cables
- Lining: GORE-TEX Extended Comfort
- Outsole: Pomoca Speed Mtn, with POMOCA rubber for superior grip
- Multi Fit Footbed Plus (MFF+): Allows for a customizable fit
- Closure type: Bungee
Pros
- Exceptional grip on both wet and dry surfaces due to POMOCA rubber
- Customisable fit with Multi Fit Footbed Plus
- Lightweight yet durable construction
- Weather protection from GORE-TEX
- Switchfit adjustment for quick transitions from hiking to climbing
Cons
- Some users may find the fit too narrow
- Higher price point compared to basic hiking shoes
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | Salewa Wildfire 2 GTX | Boreal Kintail | Scarpa Drago |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | Lightweight | Moderate | Heavy |
| Grip Type | POMOCA | Vibram | Vibram |
| Water Resistance | Yes (GORE-TEX) | No | Yes |
| Customization | MFF+ | No | Standard fit |
Detailed Review
If you are seeking a high-performance approach shoe, the Salewa Wildfire 2 GTX might be the perfect fit. The shoe's POMOCA Speed Mtn outsole offers a climbing zone at the toe, enhancing edging performance significantly. With its aggressive tread lugs, you're assured of excellent traction when traversing through muddy or softer ground.
The unique Switchfit adjustment feature is particularly noteworthy, allowing you to adapt your footwear quickly depending on whether you're hiking or climbing. This flexibility can be very useful during multi-activity sessions where different footwear requirements arise.
Nevertheless, while the shoe excels in many areas, it does have potential drawbacks. Some users have reported that the fit can be somewhat narrow, which might not accommodate all foot shapes comfortably. Additionally, the price point may be higher than entry-level options, but the investment could be worthwhile for avid hikers and climbers looking for performance.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 9/10 | Designed for prolonged wear with cushioning and support |
| Performance | 10/10 | Outstanding grip and stability on challenging terrain |
| Durability | 8/10 | High-quality materials ensure long-lasting use |
| Fit | 7/10 | Precise fit but may be narrow for some users |
User Reviews
Great purchase
Some of my Salewa Wildfire shoes are getting old and need replacement. I discovered all my Salewa shoes have an extra lining on the underside of tongue except for the new pair so tongues easily buckle, and, the stitching where the tongue is attached to the shoe irritates/hurts the top of my feet.
Used these for work at a golf course. after 4 months my feet are getting wet from morning dew! My KEENS lasted longer!