Salewa Wildfire Edge Mid GTX Approach Shoe - Men's Black/Black 10 Review
The Salewa Wildfire Edge Mid GTX Approach Shoe is designed for those who demand performance in a wide array of conditions. This shoe seamlessly combines the elements of an approach shoe with enhanced climbing capabilities, making it ideal for alpinists, climbers, and scramblers alike.
What sets it apart is the innovative Salewa Switchfit system, which allows you to quickly adapt the fit from hiking to climbing mode. You’ll appreciate how tightening the laces pulls your foot forward into the toebox for increased precision during climbs. Once you’re done scaling the rocks, simply return the laces to their original position for a more comfortable hiking experience.
Furthermore, the shoe's insole features an Edging Plate that provides extra stiffness where needed while maintaining flexibility in other areas for comfort. The optimal 11 mm drop ensures superior grip and responsiveness on mountain approaches.
The upper is crafted from high-quality 1.6 mm suede leather, and the Exa Shell construction enhances stability. Inside, the GORE-TEX Extended Comfort lining is both waterproof and breathable, ensuring your feet remain dry and comfortable regardless of the weather. Plus, a stretch gaiter offers additional protection against environmental debris.
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Features
- Upper: 1.6mm suede leather
- Lining: GORE-TEX Extended Comfort
- Insole: Edging Plate for directional stiffness
- Outsole: Pomoca Speed MTN Pro for superior grip
- Footbed: MFF+ for customizable volume
Pros
- Adaptive fit for versatile climbing and hiking
- Excellent traction on wet and dry surfaces
- Durable waterproofing with breathability
- Comfortable even during long hikes
Cons
- May take time to adjust to the fit system for some users
- Weight may be heavier compared to standard hiking shoes
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | Salewa Wildfire Edge Mid GTX | La Sportiva TX4 Mid | Scarpa Drago Mid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upper Material | 1.6 mm Suede Leather | Leather and Synthetic | Suede and Microfiber |
| Waterproof Lining | GORE-TEX Extended Comfort | None | GORE-TEX |
| Insole Type | Edging Plate | EVA Foam | Vibram Sole |
| Outsole Material | Pomoca Speed MTN Pro | Vibram | Vibram |
Detailed Review
The Salewa Wildfire Edge Mid GTX Approach Shoe excels in multiple aspects crucial for outdoor enthusiasts. Its adaptive fit mechanism makes it a standout choice if you frequently transition between hiking and climbing. The ability to customize the fit enables optimal performance, whether you are navigating rocky terrains or enjoying a casual hike.
Additionally, the shoe's Pomoca Speed MTN Pro sole enhances grip across various surfaces, contributing to its versatility. Users often report feeling secure on both wet and dry rock, which is vital during technical climbs.
Comfort is another significant advantage of the Wildfire Edge. The combination of the soft suede upper and the GORE-TEX lining ensures that you can wear these shoes for extended periods without discomfort or excessive sweating.
However, it’s important to note the weight; while this shoe offers many features, it may weigh slightly more than a traditional hiking shoe. First-time users might also find the adjustment period to the Switchfit system a bit challenging.
Overall, if you're seeking a reliable, high-performance approach shoe that balances climbing precision with hiking comfort, the Salewa Wildfire Edge Mid GTX is a worthy investment.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 8.5/10 | Well-cushioned and adaptable for long wear. |
| Performance | 9/10 | Exceptional grip and stability on various terrains. |
| Waterproofing | 9/10 | Effective against moisture with GORE-TEX. |
| Weight | 7/10 | On the heavier side for an approach shoe. |
| Price | 8/10 | Valuable features justify the investment. |
User Reviews
They definitely run about 1 size small. So I normally wear 11 and a 12 fit perfectly. I bought these to wear at work and I honestly love them as far as comfort, traction and style. However, that nylon ankle ring at the top is exactly what it looks like...These boots are not easy to put on so be prepared. Alternatively, they won't come off easily, which is important in my line of work. They also aren't particularly warm, so if it's about 40 F you'll likely feel it if you aren't constantly moving. They are a niche footwear and they are awesome if this is the type of shoe you need. Not just for climbing. If you care about solid support and a lightweight, durable shoe with amazing traction and a badass look...this is it.
PROS: An excellent boot -- should be a contender for any through-hiker / trekker looking to cut weight. Fits well, and given the lacing system can be adjusted as needed. It is in fact WATERPROOF and BREATHABLE. Whaaaaat? Unheard of ... moderately thick sole with great traction, good ankle support. I am 6'3" and 210 lbs -- so light weight boots generally do not work so well for me -- as they often do not provide sufficient ankle support and/or protection for the soles of my feet. This is a MUCH better boot than most -- for carrying up to 20-25 lbs of weight, touring, trekking as well as moderate off trail activities.CONS: Does not provide much protection for your upper feet in mixed terrain. The boot sole thickness and the ankle support are insufficient for me to use them for heavy packing. Three season only. But SALEWA did not advertise the boots as such ... so no complaints.SUMMARY: light weight, water proof, breathable, great fitting -- not sure what else you could ask for in this type of boot. Buy it, or get stuck with M*rrils, and any of the other over priced poorly designed "boots." Your call ...
Wear boots out fast. If you spend extra for comfort...there is no better boots on the market. Tried them all. Only dislike is the addition of the velcro on moldable sock tongue. First pair I got were no velcro. Much better. But I get why they had to go with the velcro. Not everyone's feet are the same so velcro adds up to more comfortable fit overall.
I've now had two pair of these boots. The first, seemed to have a small manufacturing defect which caused some of the pull loop to protrude into the inner boot at the back of the ankle. It took about two months of blisters to get that worn in. They became my favorite boots after the rough break-in period. The boots were quite waterproof, at least until I dropped molten brass on them... (** Side note, don't expect these to just pull off your feet) I ordered a second pair and found them to be much more comfortable right out of the box. I have about 20 miles on this new pair and no blisters or complaints so far. I have yet to submerge the second pair, however, I feel like they are likely to be just as waterproof as the first. (Barring any molten metal incidents, for which they are clearly not cut out.)
So these are my go to every day boots. I’ve had the boots already for about a month and a half, and I will say this to you when it comes to waterproof skid resistant sea on a roof or wet surface it has held up well! I love the Velcro at the top, and the tread underneath is high qualityMy only negative is the insoles*** quickly wore down for me after a WEEK, I do a lot of walking, sometimes jogging around the house, but this is a simple fix other than that they have worked well for me. If you’re someone who doesn’t constantly expose them selves to the elements, these will last. I will do a follow up review at the end of June.** Well it’s not the end of June just yet in the boots are holding strong. I had to get some other insoles and after that it’s like a premium, feel all together!Walked my dog through puddles not a drip on my socks, jumped on the roofs off of a ladder great grip, no slip. These are worth a dollar don’t second-guess stop scrolling buy try leave your own review well worth it. I will be back for another pair. Hopefully they go on sale.
First pair of boots that I want to wear year round. I can stand in the OR all day and not experience any back pain. This is my first Salewa purchase and I have become an instant fan.I bought them because I have more clients in colder climates. After months of research, I bought a few pairs of tactical boots that had soles that were appropriate for snow and ice. However, I needed something that was waterproof as well. I also wanted boots that I would not need to take off in the hospital. Fell in love with the aesthetic design from the picture. Bought my first pair and was shocked at the perfect fit out of the box. Wore them all day the next day and bought my second pair that night. Your feet can generate about a 1/2 cup of sweat each day. It is good to give boots a day to dry out even if they did not get wet. It is best to not wear the same boots everyday. Bought a 3rd pair just in case the model is discontinued.
I do not have wide feet. I wear regular shoes and boots. The toe box in this shoe is so small that when I put my weight into them the outside of the boot would move. There was so much pressure on the outside of my foot that it hurt to just stand in them. The other issue I was having is my heal was moving a lot when I walked. I could tell these would lead to blisters if you didn't put band aids on your heal. They are really cool looking boots and I love the lacing system. Yes i tried all different ways to lace them but there just wasn't enough room in them. The material on the inside of the boot is also rough. Buy a size up and wear thick socks. I'm upset that I have to return them. I really wanted these to work for my job. I never made it out of the house. If you have narrow feet and want to wear these in a cold climate they would work for you. I bought them to work security and there is no way I could stand in these all night.
Only have a few outings in these so far, but ultimately I love them. Snug fit, even after ordering a half size larger than normal, but they fit like a glove. Personally, I don’t find getting them on & off to be a challenge and I’m liking the elastic top as well. I don’t leave many reviews, but I’m really digging these shoes.