Description of Salomon XA Pro 3D Ultra GTX Trail Running Shoe - Women's:
The Salomon Women's XA Pro 3D Ultra Trail Running Shoe excels at multisport adventure races and extended trail runs where comfort and durability are key. The Gore-Tex XCR seam-sealed inner booties let your feet breathe while keeping your feet protected from moisture and trail debris. Ortholite insoles and a triple-density EVA midsole cushion your feet, while the 3D Advanced Chassis keeps you stable on uneven terrain. The protective toe and heel caps reduce abrasion and add durability.
These shoes are awesome! They seem bomb-proof, but without too much weight. They survived all sorts of wet, slippery terrain on the trails in Alaska. I would definately recommend them!
I have been running in the XA Comp GTX Pro shoe for 3-4 years now with no problems (size 9.5). I use them mainly for running in the snow, and my feet have stayed dry, even on long (1.5-2 hr) runs. However, I am having bad luck with this new version (XA Pro 3D Ultra GTX). I originally ordered a 9 because of multiple reviews about the large sizing; the length was great but the toebox was very tight. So I replaced them with a 9.5, which felt much better in the toe box. However, this model puts your heel closer to the ground and the arch is narrow - combined with the additional length, my feet ended up sliding in the shoe too much, and irritating the inside of my heel bone. It seems the heel platform is quite narrow as well as the toe box compared to the XA Comp GTX. I guess my feet aren't made for this newer model or vice-versa. My husband, however, absolutely loves them. If you have wide or flat feet, I would recommend getting the men's size equivalent, as they are wider than the same women's length. If you prefer a more solid platform shoe with the same weight, I would go for the XA Comp GTX.
Haven't used these as they were intended (wet, trail conditions), but after wearing them out and about, I can tell they'll be great. You can't beat having Gortex, and I like the quick-laces. Prior to these shoes, I had Vasque trail runners which functioned well on the trail but weren't as "strudy" as these feel, if you plan to use them as light hikers.
My only complaint is that the laces are too long and that the heel is a bit loose...we'll see how that works on the trail.
I chose a 1/2 down from what I wear in Asics running shoes.
