How to Choose Hiking Boots and Shoes

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You dream of following unknown paths to wild places. Find them—and protect your feet—with the light weight and flexibility of the men's Salomon Quest Element GTX hiking boots.
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View the Salomon Quest Product LineView all Salomon Men's Backpacking Boots| Best Use | Backpacking |
|---|---|
| Footwear Height | Over-the-ankle |
| Footwear Closure | Lace-up |
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Type of Waterproofing | GORE-TEX |
| Upper | Nubuck leather |
| Lining | Textile |
| Midsole | EnergyCell |
| Outsole | Contagrip rubber |
| Weight (Pair) | 2 lbs. 6.4 oz. |
| Gender | Men's |
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I have had these boots for just over a year, and it has not been an easy year for them. I have worked in Law Enforcement for 20 years and I have never had a boot like these. I have put these through the ringer, from muddy backyards, super hot nasty summer, to standing in one spot for a long period of time these boots are amazing. Everyday I pack an extra 10-35 pounds of gear on a not so small framed person and I love these boots. I have had Merrells, Bates, Danners and more and nothing I have ever had has held up to this abuse. I can’t say enough good things. I will be buying another set as the tread had started to wear down, otherwise I would still be running these boots for probably another year.
I bought these Salomon quest element boots about 8months ago after previously buying cheaper makes that split after about 6 months. I liked the high cut and have a pair of Salomon trail running shoes that are a great fit (size 9) so thought these would be similar. Wore them couple of time walking the dog just to break them in and felt comfortable straight away, a bit rubbing at top of the boot but this was sorted by just slackening laces at top of boot. I like how the boot holds in place around the middle of the foot so plenty room in toe space and even on steep descents your foot doesn't slide forward so toes don't press against front of the boot. I have done a lot of hill walking over past 8months in all weather and feet have stayed dry even through boggy marsh and did a 3 day hike over 67 miles with 15kg pack without any problems or blisters. There is no sign of any splitting or sole coming away or burst stitching love the support they give your ankle and amazingly comfortable. Only issue I've found is grip not good on wet rocks and tread has worn down quite quickly on the heals ( see pics) would buy Salomon again but probably quest4 gtx to see if grip on wet rocks any better.
Brand new shoe and it already has a few defects. I would have returned it but I am unable to since my hiking trip will be tomorrow.
I find these are one of the best boots I have own in my rotations over the years. I had lost the perfect pair years ago and have searched. Each time getting close but never quite get that feeling of the lost pair until now. Wow! I love the lightweight and absolutely great ankle support. It did not give any blisters and worn right front the start. Met the element of the wonderful joy of having a great boot.
So far, I've done some moderate day hikes with these boots. They're comfortable, warm (January, February), great ankle support, and really light--the lightest I've owned. They haven't had a proper test in wet conditions, nor over real distance, I'll update once I have more data, but so far, they're great! Update: I really want to like these boots, but...I took them out on a modest 8-mile hike yesterday. After crossing a few minor streams--barely ankle deep--my right boot began to leak (at least the Gore-tex worked on one foot!). These were minor challenges. I have a pair of beat up Bean boots I've been using for four years that stay bone dry crossing streams, very disappointing. I'll be returning these pronto.
I bought these after owning a previous model Salomon hiking boot hoping they would hold up just as well. Like the previous pair they were supremely comfortable right out of the box. Unfortunately the Gore waterproofing failed after only a couple uses, and I'm not talking full boot submersion. I walked less than a mile through a field wet with morning dew and after 20 minutes my feet were soaked through. I live in the desert so unfortunately I didn't discover this until after the REI 1 year warranty. Hopefully Salomon will cover under their 2 yr manufacturer's warranty.
I take very good care of my Quests, have put close to 1000kms on these babies. Those soles have held up well but are now almost worn flat. My only complaint is that they're not quite wide enough for my feet. Can these be re-soled?
This is a comfortable boot that required no break in. It felt durable and seemed well made. Although it's the size of a boot, it wore like a tennis shoe, and felt very light on my feet. I had the chance to compare this to the Quest 4. The Element is noticeably more flexible and soft. Although they are near the same weight, the Element felt lighter. The inside sizing was the same - my foot didn't notice a fitment difference, but the Element seemed larger on the outside, a little less 'streamlined.' The Quest 4 seemed a little more tough or rugged, but also less comfortable out of the box. Overall, I like the Element more for my intended use.
So, I’ve had great success with other Solomon hikers in the past, so I figured I’d give these a try - I’m glad I did! They have fantastic insulation without sacrificing breathability. They provide ample ankle support without being restrictive. These boots have verified my faith in Solomon - so far, no deductions, but I’ll surely update my review is anything happens to come up!
Rock Solid. When you are wearing the Salomon Quest Element GTX Boots it's like walking on soft sand, but your feet are ready to F up some trail yah know ;) Tested these on a rainy-day hike along and through the river. Feet stayed dry and warm. Been tearing up crunchy snow and ice in these babies lately. Salomon is a solid brand you're truly getting what you pay for.