Salewa Alp Trainer 2 GTX Hiking Shoe - Women's Syrah/Black 8.5 Review
The Salewa Alp Trainer 2 GTX Hiking Shoe is a meticulously engineered low-cut alpine shoe designed for adventurous women seeking comfort and protection during their outdoor treks. Tested in the stunning landscapes of the Italian Dolomites, this shoe stands up to the demands of rugged alpine environments.
Constructed with a robust leather upper, made from high-quality suede, it features a waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX Extended Comfort membrane. This ensures your feet remain dry while allowing moisture to escape, making it an ideal choice for long hikes where weather conditions can change unexpectedly. The full 360-degree rubber rand further enhances durability, providing exceptional protection against rocks and scree.
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Features
- Upper: Suede 1.4-1.6 mm, 360-degree full rubber rand, Reinforced Rand
- Lining: GORE-TEX Extended Comfort
- Midsole: EVA
- Outsole: VIBRAM Alpine Hiking
- Footbed: Salewa footbed
Pros
- Exceptional comfort right out of the box
- Outstanding grip on various terrains
- Durable construction with protective features
- Lightweight design
- Adjustable Climbing Lacing for improved fit
Cons
- Limited color options
- May run slightly narrow for wider feet
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | Salewa Alp Trainer 2 GTX | Merrell Moab 2 Waterproof | SALOMON X Ultra 3 GTX |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waterproof | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | Lightweight | Moderate | Lightweight |
| Outsole Type | Vibram | M Select Grip | Contagrip |
| Ankle Support | Moderate | High | Moderate |
Detailed Review
When it comes to hiking shoes, finding the perfect balance between comfort, support, and traction is essential. The Salewa Alp Trainer 2 GTX excels in all these areas. Its GORE-TEX lining not only provides excellent waterproofing but also enhances breathability, which is crucial during strenuous hikes. Many users have noted how comfortable these shoes feel even after hours of wear, thanks largely to the EVA midsole that cushions each step.
The proprietary 3F System gives the shoe a snug fit around the heel and arch, ensuring optimal support without sacrificing flexibility. Whether you're tackling rocky trails or muddy paths, the Vibram outsole offers impressive grip and traction, helping you maintain stability across diverse terrains.
One standout feature is the Climbing Lacing, which allows for precision adjustments down to the toe area, enhancing your control when navigating technical routes. However, it's worth mentioning that if you have wider feet, you might find these shoes a bit narrow; hence, trying them on before purchase is advisable.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 9/10 | Offers immediate comfort with excellent cushioning and support. |
| Support | 8/10 | Provides solid ankle support with a snug fit due to the 3F System. |
| Traction | 9/10 | Exceptional grip on both wet and dry surfaces thanks to the Vibram outsole. |
| Durability | 9/10 | Robust materials ensure longevity even under harsh conditions. |
| Style | 7/10 | Functional design with limited color options may not appeal to everyone. |
User Reviews
The only thing I disliked about any of the 7 pairs I have bought in the last 9 years is the price. However, you get what you pay for and when your feet don't hurt after hiking all day, the extra money seems well spent!
what a great hiking shoe. Fits true to size, well made and very comfortable right out of the box. This is the second pair I have purchased and both are very comfortable. Purchased this pair for an Israel tour with lots of walking. Having worn them for several weeks, they will be perfect for my trip.I would recommend them to anyone.
High quality. Made in Vietnam. Tend to slip a bit if not tighten well. This is my second pair.
pleasantly satisfied
Top quality. Will last a long time if you take care of them
They would be great shoes if the right one didn't pop every time I take a step. At first I thought it was the insole, but even without it the noise persist. It started about a week after I received them. I contacted Salewa and their response has been to ignore me. Don't buy if you expect the company to stand behind their product!!!
Great shoe, very light-feeling and comfortable to walk in as soon as I put them on. They fit true to size, unlike other Salewa footwear (I tried three sizes), so feel confident with your norm. I haven't hiked in them yet, but I believe that they will behave like a slightly beefier training shoe.Thank you Salewa.