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# Salewa Hiking Boots Review: Are These the Best Boots You’ve Never Heard Of?
Are you on the hunt for your next pair of hiking boots? Maybe you’re tired of the same old brands and looking for something a little different, a little more…under the radar? If that sounds like you, then you’ve come to the right place. In this Salewa hiking boots review, we’re diving deep into a brand that serious hikers are starting to whisper about.
Salewa might not be a household name like some of the bigger players, but trust me, they’re building a reputation for quality, durability, and innovation. Are they the *best* boots you’ve never heard of? We’re going to find out. We’ll explore what makes Salewa different, highlight some of their top models, and help you decide if they’re the right fit for your next adventure. Let’s get started!
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## Top Picks Summary
Before we dive into the detailed reviews, here’s a quick peek at our top Salewa hiking boots recommendations:
* **Salewa Mountain Trainer 2 GTX:** Best overall for versatility and support.
* **Salewa Alp Trainer 2 Mid GTX:** Best for backpacking and rugged terrain.
* **Salewa Wildfire Edge:** Best for approach hikes and scrambling.
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## Detailed Reviews
Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout models from Salewa. We’ll break down what makes each boot unique, highlight their key features, and help you determine which one is perfect for your hiking needs.
### Salewa Mountain Trainer 2 GTX
**Best For:** Versatile hiking and trekking in varied terrain.
**Key Features:**
* **GORE-TEX Waterproofing:** Keeps your feet dry in wet conditions.
* **Vibram Outsole:** Provides excellent grip and traction on rocks and trails.
* **3F System:** Connects the instep area with the sole and heel to ensure flexibility, support and a blister-free fit.
* **Climbing Lacing:** Extends down to the toe for a more precise and adjustable fit.
**Why We Like It:**
The Salewa Mountain Trainer 2 GTX is a workhorse of a hiking boot. It’s incredibly versatile, handling everything from day hikes to multi-day treks with ease. The GORE-TEX lining ensures your feet stay dry, even when the weather turns, and the Vibram outsole provides exceptional grip on a variety of surfaces. The 3F system is a game-changer, offering excellent ankle support without sacrificing flexibility. The climbing lacing system allows you to dial in the fit for maximum comfort and control, especially on technical terrain. If you’re looking for one boot to do it all, the Mountain Trainer 2 GTX is a top contender. These Salewa hiking boots are a solid choice for nearly any application.
### Salewa Alp Trainer 2 Mid GTX
**Best For:** Backpacking and tackling rugged, mountainous terrain.
**Key Features:**
* **GORE-TEX Extended Comfort:** Offers breathable waterproof protection.
* **Vibram Alpine Hiking Outsole:** Designed for optimal performance on challenging trails.
* **Adaptive Foam Padding:** Provides customized cushioning and support.
* **Overlapping Tongue Construction:** Enhances comfort and reduces pressure points.
**Why We Like It:**
The Salewa Alp Trainer 2 Mid GTX is built for serious adventures. It’s designed to handle heavy loads and demanding terrain, making it an excellent choice for backpacking and mountaineering. The GORE-TEX Extended Comfort lining keeps your feet dry and comfortable, even during strenuous activity. The Vibram Alpine Hiking outsole provides exceptional grip and stability on rocky, uneven surfaces. The adaptive foam padding molds to your foot for a customized fit, while the overlapping tongue construction eliminates pressure points and enhances overall comfort. If you’re planning a challenging trek in the mountains, the Alp Trainer 2 Mid GTX is a boot you can rely on.
### Salewa Wildfire Edge
**Best For:** Approach hikes, scrambling, and technical terrain.
**Key Features:**
* **Pomoca Speed MTN Pro Outsole:** Provides excellent grip and precision on rock.
* **Edging Plate:** Enhances stiffness under the toe for precise edging.
* **Switchfit Adjustment:** Allows you to switch between hiking and climbing modes.
* **EXA Shell Grid:** Provides torsional stability and support.
**Why We Like It:**
The Salewa Wildfire Edge is a unique approach shoe that bridges the gap between hiking and climbing. It’s designed for hikers who encounter technical terrain and need a shoe that can handle scrambling and edging. The Pomoca Speed MTN Pro outsole provides exceptional grip on rock, while the edging plate enhances stiffness under the toe for precise footwork. The Switchfit adjustment allows you to customize the fit for either hiking or climbing, making it a versatile option for mixed terrain. The EXA Shell Grid provides torsional stability and support, ensuring your foot stays secure and protected. If you’re looking for a shoe that can handle both hiking and climbing, the Wildfire Edge is a top choice. These salewa hiking boots are perfect for those who like to get off the beaten path.
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## Buying Guide: What to Look For in Salewa Hiking Boots
Choosing the right hiking boots can be a daunting task, especially when you’re considering a brand like Salewa that offers a wide range of models. To help you make the right decision, let’s break down the key factors to consider when buying Salewa hiking boots.
### Intended Use
The first and most important factor to consider is how you plan to use your boots. Are you primarily going to be doing day hikes on well-maintained trails? Or are you planning multi-day backpacking trips in rugged, mountainous terrain?
* **Day Hiking:** For shorter hikes on relatively easy trails, a lightweight and flexible boot like the Salewa Alp Trainer 2 is a good choice.
* **Backpacking:** For longer trips with heavier loads, you’ll want a more supportive and durable boot like the Salewa Mountain Trainer 2 GTX.
* **Approach Hikes/Scrambling:** If you plan to encounter technical terrain or do some scrambling, consider a specialized approach shoe like the Salewa Wildfire Edge.
### Fit and Comfort
A proper fit is crucial for comfort and performance on the trail. Salewa boots are known for their precise fit, but it’s still important to try them on and ensure they feel comfortable.
* **Sizing:** Salewa boots tend to run true to size, but it’s always a good idea to measure your feet and compare them to the manufacturer’s sizing chart.
* **Lacing System:** Look for a lacing system that allows you to customize the fit and adjust the tension in different areas of the foot. Salewa’s climbing lacing system is a great feature for achieving a precise and secure fit.
* **Padding and Support:** Ensure the boots provide adequate padding and support in the areas that need it most, such as the ankles and arches.
### Waterproofing
If you plan to hike in wet conditions or cross streams, waterproofing is a must. GORE-TEX is the gold standard for waterproof and breathable membranes, and many Salewa boots feature this technology.
* **GORE-TEX Lining:** Look for boots with a GORE-TEX lining to keep your feet dry and comfortable in wet conditions.
* **Waterproof Construction:** Ensure the entire boot is waterproof, including the seams and tongue.
* **Breathability:** While waterproofing is important, breathability is also crucial to prevent your feet from overheating and sweating. GORE-TEX membranes are designed to be both waterproof and breathable.
### Outsole
The outsole is the part of the boot that comes into contact with the ground, so it’s important to choose one that provides good grip and traction on the types of surfaces you’ll be hiking on.
* **Vibram Outsole:** Vibram is a leading manufacturer of high-quality outsoles, and many Salewa boots feature Vibram soles. Vibram outsoles are known for their durability, grip, and traction on a variety of surfaces.
* **Lug Pattern:** The lug pattern on the outsole determines how well the boot will grip different types of terrain. Look for a lug pattern that is appropriate for the types of trails you’ll be hiking on.
* **Edging:** If you plan to do any scrambling or climbing, look for a boot with a stiff edging platform under the toe for precise footwork.
### Durability
Hiking boots are an investment, so you want to choose a pair that will last. Salewa boots are known for their durability, but it’s still important to consider the materials and construction.
* **Leather vs. Synthetic:** Leather boots are generally more durable than synthetic boots, but they also require more maintenance. Synthetic boots are lighter and dry faster, but they may not be as durable.
* **Stitching and Construction:** Look for boots with high-quality stitching and construction. Double or triple stitching is a sign of a well-made boot.
* **Reinforcements:** Check for reinforcements in high-wear areas, such as the toe and heel.
### Price
Salewa hiking boots range in price from around $150 to $300 or more. Consider your budget and choose a boot that offers the best value for your money. Remember that investing in a high-quality pair of boots can save you money in the long run by providing better comfort, performance, and durability.
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## Final Verdict: Are Salewa Hiking Boots Right for You?
So, are Salewa hiking boots
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