Salomon SPEEDCROSS 5

This version 5 of the Speedcross is amazing! We expected a variation of the 4 (https://www.test4outside.com/produit/salomon-speedcross-4/) but they seem to be very different shoes. Of course, we still have the great Speedcross grip. But comfort seems to have improved, they seem less like a racing car shell. The foot’s envelopment seems more comfortable, especially the heel is soft and the materials at the front of the foot are also cozy.

The foot strike is still as precise as the version 4.

The weight is almost identical, just a few grams different: 310g size 42 2/3 Speedcross 5, 305g for the 4.

So what’s new? The upper. The sole goes up high  at the rear of the design of this model, changing its lines, you either love or hate it. In any case, you lose the light, fluid lines of the Speedcross 4. But what is gained is the foothold which is greater with less feeling of balancing on top of high heels.

The foot strike is direct but not as stiff as we would’ve imagined, the lug height plays in the cushioning as well as the heel. Filtration is reduced but it’s not mattress-like.

The best part of these new Speedcross is the grip – you can go hell for leather in the mud and it is sheer joy. All all-terrain, flat or steep, the grip of the wider and more spaced studs is excellent. A grip that we very much appreciated going uphill and not necessarily in soggy conditions (the notched tip of the shoe is a formidable weapon …)
The Speedcross 5 may be formidably efficient in the mud, but it should also be noted that its comfort foam also sucks up moisture increasing the weight of the shoe.

The traditional Quicklace as always present,  handle with care so as not to over tighten the instep. The excess lace storage pocket is wide, and easily accessible. The thick, comfortable tongue goes up very high. A netting on the instep prevents bits from entering the shoe.

There’s nothing wrong with the construction: it’s (very) beautiful work, no gluey blobs, no visible seams, ultra-precise construction.

The Salomon Speedcross 5 has softened in terms of comfort but has lost none of its bite on slippery and muddy roads. Its sole is more pertinent than ever for trail runners wanting an indisputable grip.

"The Salomon Speedcross 5 has softened in terms of comfort but has lost none of its bite on slippery and muddy roads. Its sole is more pertinent than ever for trail runners wanting an indisputable grip."

Rating

• 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
• Foot hold
  8
• Cushioning
  7
• Grip
  9
• Foot strike
  6
• Stone guard
  8