Salomon Speedcross 5

The upper of the Salomon Speedcross 5 is designed for durability and protection. It features a tightly woven mesh that offers some breathability while keeping out fine particulates, making it suitable for muddy terrain and desert conditions. The welded overlay adds to the shoe's durability and provides a secure fit. However, the upper is not very breathable, which can be a drawback in hot weather.

The midsole of the Salomon Speedcross 5 is equipped with EnergyCell+ technology, providing excellent cushioning and energy return. This makes the shoe comfortable for long runs on technical terrains. The 10 mm heel-to-toe drop is ideal for heel strikers (runners who land on their heels), offering substantial cushioning in the heel area. However, the lack of a rock plate (a protective layer in the midsole) means that forefoot strikers (runners who land on the front part of their foot) might feel sharp rocks underfoot.

The Contagrip TA outsole of the Salomon Speedcross 5 is one of its standout features. The aggressive, chevron-shaped lugs provide excellent traction on wet, muddy, and technical trails. The outsole is designed to shed mud effectively, ensuring that the shoe maintains its grip even in challenging conditions. However, the soft rubber used in the outsole can wear down quickly on hard surfaces.

The Salomon Speedcross 5 has a more accommodating fit compared to its predecessors. The forefoot and toe box are wider, making it suitable for runners with wider feet. The SensiFit system ensures a snug fit, preventing the foot from moving around inside the shoe. However, the high heel and narrow arch might not suit everyone, particularly those with a preference for a lower heel-to-toe drop.

Comfort is a strong point for the Salomon Speedcross 5. The shoe is comfortable right out of the box, with a well-padded collar and a snug fit around the Achilles. The Quicklace system allows for easy adjustments, and the shoe's cushioning provides a comfortable ride on technical terrains. However, the shoe's lack of breathability can make it less comfortable in hot weather.

The Salomon Speedcross 5 offers good cushioning, particularly in the heel area. The EnergyCell+ midsole provides a responsive and cushioned ride, making it suitable for long runs on technical terrains. The 10 mm heel-to-toe drop is ideal for heel strikers, offering substantial cushioning in the heel area. However, the forefoot cushioning is less substantial, which might not suit all runners.

Breathability is one of the weaker points of the Salomon Speedcross 5. The tightly woven mesh upper provides some ventilation but is not very breathable, making the shoe less suitable for hot weather. The shoe's design prioritizes protection and durability over breathability, which can lead to discomfort in warm conditions.

The Salomon Speedcross 5 offers good stability, thanks to its wider forefoot and snug fit. The SensiFit system ensures that the foot stays securely in place, while the higher collar provides additional support around the ankle. However, the high heel and 10 mm drop can make the shoe feel less stable on uneven terrain, particularly for runners prone to ankle rolls.

Durability is a strong point for the Salomon Speedcross 5. The shoe's upper is made from tough, tightly woven mesh, and the welded overlay adds to its durability. The Contagrip TA outsole is designed to withstand the rigors of technical trails, though the soft rubber can wear down quickly on hard surfaces. Overall, the shoe is built to last, particularly when used on the terrains it is designed for.

The grip of the Salomon Speedcross 5 is exceptional, thanks to its Contagrip TA outsole and aggressive, chevron-shaped lugs. The shoe provides excellent traction on wet, muddy, and technical trails, making it a top choice for challenging conditions. The outsole is designed to shed mud effectively, ensuring that the shoe maintains its grip even in the most challenging conditions.

The Salomon Speedcross 5 offers a good balance of flexibility and support. The shoe's forefoot is flexible enough to allow for natural foot movement, while the midsole and outsole provide the necessary support for technical terrains. The shoe's design ensures that it can handle a variety of trail conditions, from muddy paths to rocky scrambles.

The Salomon Speedcross 5 is not ideal for road running. Its aggressive lugs are designed for technical trails and can wear down quickly on hard surfaces. It's best used on muddy, snowy, or rugged terrains.

The Salomon Speedcross 5 performs exceptionally well in wet conditions. Its Contagrip TA outsole provides excellent traction on wet and muddy trails, and the shoe's design helps shed mud effectively.

The Salomon Speedcross 5 is not very breathable. The tightly woven mesh upper provides some ventilation but is designed more for durability and protection, making it less suitable for hot weather.

The Salomon Speedcross 5 has a heel-to-toe drop of 10 mm, with a stack height of 30 mm in the heel and 20 mm in the forefoot.

No, the Salomon Speedcross 5 does not have a rock plate. However, its deep lugs and hard exterior Contragrip rubber provide good protection against sharp objects on the trail.