Salewa Dropline Leather Trail Shoe - Men's Black/Pale Frog Review
The Salewa Dropline Leather Trail Shoe, designed specifically for men, is an impressive choice for those who navigate through mixed alpine terrains and varying conditions including mud, grass, snow, and rocky paths. With a focus on durability and comfort, these shoes integrate high-quality materials and advanced technology to support your outdoor adventures.
Related Products
Features
- Upper made from soft and robust 1.4-millimetre suede leather
- Reinforced poly-urethane rand for impact protection
- 3F system with nylon-coated Kevlar cables for enhanced stability
- High-performance EVA midsole for optimum cushioning
- S-Path sole design for natural roll-off and smoother transitions
Pros
- Exceptional cushioning for long hikes
- Warm and well-ventilated design
- Excellent fit for various foot shapes
- Durable construction suited for rugged conditions
- Good traction on slippery surfaces
Cons
- May require a break-in period for optimal comfort
- Weight might be slightly heavier compared to some trail running shoes
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | Salewa Dropline | Merrell Moab 2 | Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upper Material | Suede Leather | nubuck leather | Synthetic |
| Cushioning | EVA Midsole | Air Cushion | Ortholite |
| Waterproof | No | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | Medium | Lightweight | Lightweight |
Detailed Review
The Salewa Dropline Leather Trail Shoe stands out due to its quality and versatility. When tackling mixed alpine terrain, the shoe's robust suede leather upper provides exceptional protection against abrasions and impacts, making it a reliable choice for harsh environments. The incorporation of a poly-urethane rand adds an extra layer of durability.
One of the most notable features is the innovative 3F system that utilizes nylon-coated Kevlar cables. This engineering not only offers excellent support but also enhances the precision of the fit. You will appreciate this stability when traversing uneven or technical paths.
The EVA midsole contributes significantly to the shoe’s comfort by providing outstanding impact cushioning. Whether you are hiking uphill or descending steep trails, your feet will experience less fatigue thanks to this thoughtful design. Additionally, the S-Path sole design allows for a natural heel-to-toe transition, promoting a more efficient walking motion.
In summary, the Salewa Dropline Leather Trail Shoe excels in providing comfort, support, and protection across diverse terrains. While they may feel slightly heavier than standard trail running shoes, their durability and fit make them an excellent investment for serious hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 9/10 | Well-cushioned with a supportive fit. |
| Durability | 10/10 | Built with high-quality materials ensuring longevity. |
| Traction | 8/10 | Reliable grip on various surfaces, though not rated waterproof. |
| Versatility | 9/10 | Effective across multiple terrains and conditions, ideal for alpine routes. |
User Reviews
I took these out of the box and went on a 3.5 mile hike with 450' elevation drop and then back up again. That included a cobblestone beach. These shoes were very comfortable and provided ample support. I am impressed.They do run a bit small. I normally wear an 8.5 US, so I ordered a 9 US and they fit perfectly.
1/2 size up was perfect.really nice shoes. Super comfortable!
Well made shoe. It shows a US7 adn EU39 for sizing. I'd say the EU39 is correct as I am a true EU39.5. The show has a very snug fit and is narrow. Good cushing from the sole and like most Salewa is grippy.
I’m not sure if Salewa has a mold for my foot because every pair, probably 8-10 so far, fit and function great on and off road, awesome! These have a running sole with stability and comfort. Im a 10.5w and always buy11. Quality once again 👍😎
These are so narrow. Got on sale for $60 and still couldn’t use. You would need to size up 2 but I’m already a 13.
Fantastic support and cushioning. The laving system allows the shoe to litterally form to your foot creating unbeatable stability. Fashion forward styling. These shoes are ultra on trend.
Salewa shoes aren’t well known in the US, I only discovered them recently. I’m very picky about shoes and socks, proper fit is critical. I’ve always worn 10.5 shoes in standard width. I wear trail/approach shoes for work, hiking and leisure, this style of shoe supports my ankles properly. I’ve worn various Vasque shoes for 20+ years, mostly the Juxt model. After I discovered Salewa I decided to check them out. They have many similar shoes across the product line and I wanted to compare them. There’s only one retailer on my area with limited stock and there’s not much info online comparing the different models. So I ordered a few different models from Amazon.When I tried on the Droplline Leather in 10.5 I they way too narrow, couldn’t even get them on. I returned and got the 11.5. I could squeeze my feet into these, but still way too narrow and were returned. I was impressed with the construction, these appear to be very high quality and have a novel lacing system. The midsole is has a lot of cush, more than an average trail shoe. The POMOCA outsole is sticky, and should work well on a trail and rocks.I only wore these a few minutes because of the width, I can’t speak to durability.
Retired my first pair after a little over 1,500 miles on them. Fantastic shoe…thanks Salewa.