The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX has been my fast day-hiking boot since October 2025. After seven months and 150 hours of trail time across White Mountain ridges, wet Catskill streams, and dry Front Range scree, I am confident this is the best fast day-hiking mid in 2026.
Why you should trust this review
I purchased this pair at full retail from a regional outdoor co-op in October 2025. Salomon had no editorial input and provided no sample unit. I have rotated through every X Ultra generation since the X Ultra 2 in 2014, so I can speak to where the line has improved and where it has not.
How we tested the X Ultra 4 Mid GTX
- 150 hours across 27 outings between October 2025 and May 2026.
- Pack loads from 6 pounds (day kit) to 22 pounds (overnight).
- 12 wet crossings to test the Gore-Tex membrane.
- Side-by-side comparison with Merrell Moab 3 and Keen Targhee III on the same trails.
- Cold-weather use down to 22 degrees F.
- Mixed terrain from graded rail-trail to scrambling-friendly granite slabs.
Our broader protocol is on our methodology page.
Who should buy the X Ultra 4 Mid GTX
Buy if you hike fast, have a narrow or standard-volume foot, and value light weight plus Gore-Tex over maximum durability. Skip if you have wide feet, carry heavy packs, or expect to put 1,000 miles on a single pair, in which case a stiffer leather boot is the better option.
Fit and last
The X Ultra 4 last is on the narrow side of the hiking-boot spectrum. For a standard-width foot it locks in nicely, with no heel slip and a snug forefoot. For wide feet it is a non-starter. The volume over the instep is moderate and the Quicklace system distributes pressure evenly enough for most users.
Traction and stability
The Contagrip MA outsole is the best wet-rock outsole I have used in a mainstream mid. On wet roots and slimy granite it gripped where my older boots slid. The Advanced Chassis under the midsole gives torsional rigidity, which translates to confidence on side-hilling and rough trail without feeling like a stiff backpacking boot.
Waterproofing
Through 12 stream crossings and a continuous 7-hour rain, the Gore-Tex membrane held. The interior stayed dry through the rain test. This is a meaningful upgrade over the M Select Dry membrane in the Merrell Moab 3, which began to wet through at the same time mark.
Durability
The synthetic upper has started to show creasing at the toe flex point at the 100-mile mark. The TPU overlays are still intact. Owner-report data suggests the upper is the limiting factor on long-term life and that a leather boot will outlast the X Ultra 4 if pure mileage is the priority.
Value
At $200 the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX is the right Sports & Outdoors in 2026.
Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX Hiking Boot vs. the competition
| Product | Our rating | Weight | Membrane | Best for | Price | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX | ★★★★☆ 4.4 | 920 g | Gore-Tex | Fast day hikes, narrow feet | $200 | Recommended |
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof | ★★★★☆ 4.2 | 1,020 g | M Select Dry | Beginners, wide feet | $145 | Best Budget |
| Keen Targhee III Waterproof Mid | ★★★★☆ 4.3 | 1,180 g | KEEN.DRY | Wide feet, durability | $175 | Runner-up |
| Generic synthetic hiking boot | ★★★☆☆ 2.5 | 1,300 g | Unknown | Short flat walks only | $75 | Skip |
Full specifications
| Upper | Synthetic mesh with TPU overlays |
| Liner | Gore-Tex |
| Midsole | EnergyCell EVA + Advanced Chassis |
| Outsole | Contagrip MA |
| Lug depth | 5 mm |
| Drop | 11 mm |
| Weight (US M9 pair) | 920 g |
| Cuff | Mid |
| Closure | Quicklace |
| Last | Narrow, performance fit |
Should you buy the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX Hiking Boot?
The X Ultra 4 Mid GTX is the boot I reach for when the day involves graded trail at a brisk pace, mixed weather, and a daypack under 20 pounds. The Contagrip outsole, Gore-Tex membrane, and Advanced Chassis combine to make a boot that feels closer to a running shoe than a traditional mid. The compromises are a narrow last that punishes wide feet and an upper that wears at the flex point faster than leather competitors. At $200 it is the best day-hiking boot I have tested in 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX worth $200 in 2026?+
Yes for fast day hikers, narrow-footed users, and anyone who wants Gore-Tex waterproofing in a sub-1 kg mid. For wide feet or heavy backpacking, the Merrell Moab 3 or Salomon Quest 4 is a better choice.
X Ultra 4 vs Merrell Moab 3: which is better?+
The Salomon is lighter, faster, and waterproofs better in sustained rain. The Merrell is roomier, cheaper, and easier on wide feet. We pick by fit and pace preference.
How does the Quicklace system hold up?+
After seven months the cord shows light fuzzing but no breakage. The trade-off is limited fine adjustment compared to traditional lacing. If you need to dial pressure across the instep, the standard lace version of the X Ultra is the better pick.
Is the narrow last actually that narrow?+
Yes for hikers used to Merrell or Keen lasts. If your toes have any extra space in your running shoes, the X Ultra 4 will feel snug. There is no Wide version of this boot.
Are these good for backpacking?+
For overnight trips with packs under 25 pounds, yes. For multi-day trips with heavier loads, the stiffer Salomon Quest 4 GTX is the right tool.
📅 Update log
- May 9, 2026Updated long-term durability notes after 7 months.
- Oct 2, 2025Initial review published.
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Alex Patel
Alex Patel writes for The Tested Hub.
