Women’s Salomon X Ultra 5 Low Review

Bottom Line

The Salomon X Ultra 5 Low is our favorite overall women’s hiking shoe because it strikes an unusually good balance between traditional hiking-shoe support and trail-runner-like agility. It feels secure on uneven and off-camber terrain, grips exceptionally well in mud, rock, and gravel, and offers more protection and durability than most lightweight trail runners.

The latest version fits smaller in both length and volume than the previous model, so sizing deserves extra attention. Our tester moved from a women’s 7.5 in the X Ultra 4 to an 8.5 in the 5. The moderate arch support and Quicklace system also won’t suit every foot, but once dialed in, the lacing holds the foot securely without loosening on trail.

We especially like that the non-waterproof model balances breathability with useful moisture resistance. It won’t replace a waterproof shoe in sustained rain, but the tightly woven upper handled wet grass, creek-side hiking, and light splashes better than most non-waterproof shoes we tested. For hikers who want one capable shoe for day hikes, rugged routes, and light backpacking, the X Ultra 5 Low is exceptionally well rounded.

How We Tested

CleverHiker tested the X Ultra 5 Low on varied northern California trails, including muddy post-rainstorm singletrack, rock, gravel, creek crossings, steep climbs, descents, and off-camber terrain. We compared it directly with the previous X Ultra generation while evaluating comfort, traction, weight, durability, and weather resistance alongside the rest of our women’s hiking-shoe lineup.

Quick Specs

• Best for: All-around hiking, technical trails, day hiking, light backpacking
• Waterproof: No; GORE-TEX version available
• Fit: Runs smaller and lower-volume than the prior version; secure heel and midfoot
• Outsole / lug depth: Salomon Contagrip; lug depth not published by Salomon
• Rock plate: No dedicated rock plate
• Available widths: Standard and Wide

Comfort

The X Ultra 5 Low was comfortable from the first hike and became even better as the miles added up. The ankle and tongue padding reduce pressure points, while the structured midsole keeps the shoe supportive without making it feel overly stiff. We experienced no hotspots or meaningful soreness during testing.

Fit is the main caveat. The newest model is noticeably shorter and lower-volume than the X Ultra 4, and our tester needed to size up a full size. The Quicklace system makes it easy to cinch the shoe precisely and kept the heel and midfoot secure on off-camber terrain.

Comfort Score: 4.6 / 5.0

Traction

Traction is one of this shoe’s biggest strengths. Salomon’s Contagrip outsole and multi-directional lug pattern gave us dependable grip on mud, rock, gravel, loose dirt, and steep slopes. The lugs also shed mud well instead of packing up during wet hikes.

The X Ultra feels precise enough for technical terrain without becoming cumbersome. We consistently felt confident rock-hopping, descending steep pitches, and moving across uneven trail.

Traction Score: 4.9 / 5.0

Weight

At a manufacturer-listed 1 pound 6 ounces per pair, the X Ultra 5 Low is light for the amount of structure and protection it provides. Our women’s size 8.5 test pair weighed 1 pound 7.2 ounces, so we distinguish that measured result from the listed spec.

It is heavier than minimalist trail runners, but the extra weight buys better protection, stability, and durability. On trail, the shoe still feels athletic and nimble rather than bulky.

Weight Score: 4.3 / 5.0

Durability

The updated tightly woven upper, reinforced heel, large toe cap, and robust outsole held up very well throughout our testing. We saw no concerning wear after repeated hikes on rocky and muddy terrain.

The only component we would watch over very long-term use is the Quicklace system, simply because it is more specialized than a traditional lace. We did not experience any failure or weakness during testing.

Durability Score: 4.9 / 5.0

Weather Resistance

Although this is the non-waterproof version, it performed better around moisture than most breathable mesh shoes in our lineup. Light water beaded or resisted penetration long enough to keep our socks from immediately getting wet, and the shoes dried quickly after exposure.

For sustained rain or consistently wet conditions, the GORE-TEX version is the better choice. For most three-season hiking, we prefer the breathability and quick-drying performance of the standard model.

Weather Resistance Score: 4.5 / 5.0

Should You Buy the Salomon X Ultra 5 Low?

Yes, if you want a versatile hiking shoe that combines excellent traction, durability, stability, and relatively low weight. It is especially compelling for hikers who regularly encounter mixed or technical terrain but do not want the bulk of a traditional hiking boot.

Look elsewhere if you prefer a very wide, natural-shaped toe box, minimal arch support, or a softer trail-runner feel. Fit is also different enough from the X Ultra 4 that we recommend trying the 5 on rather than ordering your old size automatically.

What Other Women’s Hiking Shoes Should You Consider?

La Sportiva Spire GTX: Choose the La Sportiva Spire GTX if waterproofing, maximum durability, and a more supportive platform matter more than weight and flexibility. It is stiffer, heavier, and costs more than the Salomon, but it is one of the strongest choices in our lineup for rough, wet terrain and hikers carrying heavier loads.

Saucony Peregrine 16: Pick the Saucony Peregrine 16 if you want a lighter, more flexible shoe for fast hiking, trail running, and maintained routes. Its traction is excellent and the ride is lively, but it gives up some long-term durability, weather protection, and structure compared with the X Ultra 5.

HOKA Speedgoat 7: Consider the HOKA Speedgoat 7 if you want more cushioning and a wider platform. The Speedgoat is lighter and more responsive underfoot, while the X Ultra remains the more precise and durable option for technical hiking.