Hiking shoes

The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX is the shoe that just won't quit. Whether you're trekking up steep and rocky terrain or need extra grip for snowy hikes, the Zodiac Plus performs. Able to support long-distance backpacking trips, this shoe is a fantastic choice for safety and durability.

Weighing in at just 19.2 oz/545 g (men's model), the lightness of the Zodiac Plus takes nothing away from its midsole cushioning. The unique design is crafted without a shank, meaning less weight, balanced stiffness, and cushioned shock absorption. Throw EVA foam and TPU into the mix, and the result is a cushioned midsole that can go the distance, supporting heavier loads over miles of hiking. The upper of the Zodiac Plus is classy: suede—though a durable suede with a Gore-Tex membrane underneath—keeps feet breathing through every stride. The material also proves just flexible enough for a comfortable, albeit secure, trek. Testers were quite impressed with the waterproofing of the shoe that effectively fends off humidity.

The shoe's outsole provides excellent traction, making it a great choice for maneuvering technical trails and scaling boulders. Widely-spaced lugs prevent sludge from getting stuck in the tread, making it easy for the Zodiac Plus to maintain its grip.

While this shoe is undoubtedly a top-notch choice for long hikes, users noted a few downsides of the Zodiac Plus. For one, the suede upper makes every scratch, mark, and stain extremely obvious. After just one use, the shoe will look used. Of course, it's only superficial and does not decrease the protection of the shoe. Also, the EVA in the midsole may wear out with multiple uses. However, the durability of TPU will make up for any EVA wear and tear, ensuring excellent long-term results overall. Finally, the Zodiac is initially rigid and requires a long break-in period to be truly comfortable.

To summarize, the Zodiac Plus GTX is a very good hiking boot that offers impeccable grip and effective protection of the foot against shocks and the elements. Despite a few shortcomings, it's a reliable model ranking among the best in its category.

With so many great models in its trail range (like the S/Lab Sense, to name just one), it's normal to wonder why the XA Pro 3D is one of the most popular Salomon shoes. Here it is in its eighth version, and the craze is still going strong. Let's see in detail why and if it can suit you.

Its massive size says it all: the XA Pro 3D is a workhorse. It's a beast of a shoe with a broad and stable platform. In fact, it's one of the few trail running shoes with a support feature explicitly designed for overpronation. However, there's a downside: at 340 g/12 oz for men and 300 g/10.6 oz for women, it's closer to a hiking shoe than a trail running model. It's one of the recurring points made by testers, with some of them even preferring the XA Pro 3D for walking. Besides its bulkiness, the platform is relatively rigid, according to the trailers who tested it. This type of configuration has the advantage of offering more stability but can considerably reduce comfort.

The traction is outstanding with the Contagrip rubber and its moderately deep lugs that give a good grip on the different terrains—even ice. The foot lockdown is precise and allows to control downhill runs perfectly. Let's also note that trailers who have tested the Gore-Tex version appreciated its effectiveness. Finally, Quicklace continues to work miracles and simplifies laces adjustment, which can be a tricky process with regular laces.

In short, the Salomon XA Pro 3D v8 is faithful to the series with its advantages and disadvantages. It's a sturdy shoe capable of withstanding the most challenging conditions. However, its bulky and rigid build will deter trail runners looking for speed or lightness.

Think rocky terrain. Imagine wet weather or crossing a creek in the woods. Picture maneuvering over and around rocks and tree roots. Does any of this sound like you? If so, the Merrell MQM Flex 2.0 GTX is designed for outdoor enthusiasts like you! Fitting snuggly enough to support your feet and providing waterproof protection against the elements, the Flex 2 does it all. From hiking to trail running, this is one shoe that's versatile enough for any adventure.

When it comes to the midsole, the Flex 2.0 is cushioned to absorb shock. In fact, the shoe is crafted with a rock plate between the midsole and outsole to protect feet better. With FLEXconnect technology for enhanced agility and the tried and true Merrell Air Cushion in the heel for proper foot alignment, this midsole is a hiker's dream. Meanwhile, the upper is a waterproof mesh, which means that your foot can breathe without absorbing outside moisture. The shoe's wide tongue supports this design, as it's attached to the sides of the upper for added protection. Finally, the Quantum Grip outsole grips terrain and helps control footing, especially when hiking downhill.

Though users of the Flex 2.0 listed its versatility as a plus, some complained that the shoe was too versatile. Basically, in catering to a range of trail activities, the shoe is not specialized or technical enough. Some users remarked that the Flex 2.0 fell short on longer or more complex hikes, where more rigidity would have been useful. Others noticed that the toe box is very narrow, posing a problem for those with wider feet. However, those who enjoy recreational trail runs and hikes may find that the Flex 2.0 is exactly what they need!

Note that the Flex 2.0 comes with GTX (Gore-Tex) technology, or without. GTX is what makes this model waterproof, which adds a significant price jump to an otherwise standard shoe. Users who tested GTX said it worked well for light rain but would not work in unpredictable weather. Thus, the price may not warrant the "waterproof" delineation.

The MQM Flex 2.0 is available for $110, making it a cost-effective option for short, easy hikes. The GTX version of the 2.0 is priced at $140, which is probably better skipped.

In short, the lightweight and versatile profile of the Merrell MQM Flex 2.0 makes it a good option for trail runners who moonlight as hikers or the other way around.