Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoe Review

Quick Overview

Salomon Men’s Speedcross 5

The Salomon Men’s Speedcross 5 is the newest version in the popular Speedcross series.

Salomon made incremental changes in the first four versions, but there weren’t many significant improvements.

With the introduction of the Salomon Speedcross 5, the shoe brand focused on the original purpose of the shoe and improved its grip, protection, and stability on technical terrain.

Who Is This Product For?

The Salomon Men’s Speedcross 5 is not just a trail running shoe. Because of its stylish look, many people use it as everyday footwear.

If you are just a casual trail runner or you just do it as a hobby, this model is perfect for you.

On the other hand, it is also an excellent choice for a full-fledged trail runner, as it provides the traction and protection needed off-trail.

What’s Included?

The package comes with a pair of the Salomon Men’s Speedcross 5.

Overview of the Features

Any Salomon trail running shoes review will not be complete without featuring the Speedcross 5. This model contains features that the other Speedcross models have and more.

With its combined features, it’s easy to see that it is made to provide the ultimate comfort and protection while running on trails.

• Anti-Debris Mesh

The Salomon Speedcross 5 has an anti-debris mesh that prevents almost all types of debris from entering the shoe, even if you are running on sandy trails.

It provides the extra breathability that you need from trail running shoes and reduces the moisture inside.

Still, even with more breathability, this model can make your feet sweaty because durable overlays cover the mesh lays.

The fact that it has a welded construction means there are no visible stitches. This also offers a perfect fit for the interior.

It is ideal for cold weather and not a good choice in hot areas.

The tongue is separated from the laces through a durable and breathable mesh, preventing debris from entering.

It also offers more padding compared with the previous versions, and it provides a natural arc that would adapt to your foot.

• Wider Forefoot

One of the best features of the Salomon Speedcross 5 is the wider forefoot that provides more room to wiggle your toes.

Even if it caters to wider feet, the SensiFit cradle and the narrow heel will provide a secure and snug fit.

With disassociated SensiFit arms, the shoes will move naturally with your foot and give more comfort while running on technical terrain.

The combination of the Sensifit upper, EndoFit, and Quicklace system perfectly fits the shoes on your feet.

• Molded OrthoLite Insole

The Ortholite Insole is one of the features that Salomon Speedcross 5 retained from its predecessors.

This technology provides comfort, long-term cushioning, and amazing performance while offering a cooler environment inside your shoes.

• Thicker Midsole

The midsole of the previous models is too thin, but this has been remedied on the fifth version.

The Speedcross 5 has the rock plate was removed and now comes with an enhanced cushioning in the forefoot.

In addition to this, the EnergyCell+ offers a high-energy return while providing decent cushioning at the same time.

• Broader and Longer Studs

The outsole of the Salomon Speedcross 5 is one of the most aggressive in the market, as it has broader and longer studs for better grip.

The positioning of the studs has been optimized to reduce the chances of dirt and mud sticking up between the studs.

This outsole offers amazing traction during different seasons. You can use it during winter and spring, as it will keep you safe on snowy, muddy, rainy, and slippery surfaces.

• Contagrip TA Outsole

The Contagrip TA outsole completely outperforms the other Speedcross models.

It is stickier and provides amazing grip on wet rock, which is a feature that you can’t find in most running shoes in the market.

Then again, the stickier outsole means that they are made from soft rubber. Although they provide better and stickier grip, they wear out faster than hard rubber.

• Comfortable to Wear

As soon as you take the Salomon Speedcross 5 from the box, you can use it immediately without break-in time.

The cushioning on your foot, along with the comfortable foam padding, provides comfort and support at the same time.

The Ortholite die-cut sockliner ensures both breathability and comfort to your feet.

• Protection

The Lightweight Muscle midsole presents a rugged and cushiony feel that ensures sufficient protection when trail running.

How to Maintain Your Salomon Trail Running Shoes

Washing and cleaning your Salomon Speedcross 5 is not only about aesthetics but also concerns hygiene. Proper maintenance also helps lengthen your shoe’s lifespan.

The Speedcross is a bit pricey, so learning how to take care of it is a must if you want your shoes to be usable for a long time.

Below are some tried and tested practical tips on how you can effectively clean your trail running shoes without damaging it.

Cleaning Your Trail Running Shoes

Cleaning your trail running shoe should be done in two parts:

Pro Tip #1: Clean it during trail running.

The most important thing when cleaning your trail running shoes is removing some of the dirt and mud while you’re resting during a trail run.

To do this, make sure you bring a soft brush and a disinfectant spray with you. Then, use water to clean your shoes, as well.

Although the Salomon Speedcross 5 reduces the chances of mud buildup on your shoe, it doesn’t mean that mud won’t stick to your shoe.

During your trail running breaks, use a soft brush and water to remove as much mud and dirt as possible from the shoes.

We recommend you do this because it is easier to clean the mud when it is still fresh.

Pro Tip #2: Clean it after getting back home.

After going back home, the first thing that you need to do after cleaning yourself and removing all your gears is to clean your trail running shoes.

Here is a short step-by-step guide to cleaning your running shoe efficiently:

Step 1: Remove the insoles first. Clean and rinse it and then let it dry on a ventilated area.

Step 2: Loosen the laces of your shoes and let running water run through them.

You can then use a sponge or soft brush to remove the remaining mud and dirt from your shoes. Don’t use soap or any kind of washing powder nor put your shoes in the washing machine.

Step 3: After washing the shoes, the next step is to dry it. Let your shoes dry in a well-ventilated area.

Do not expose them to direct sunlight or anything that can produce heat, as it would damage the outer part of the shoe.

You can fill the inside of your shoe with a newspaper to help with the drying process. It will absorb the water from your shoe.

Step 4: Put the insoles back, but don’t do so unless the shoes are completely dry. If the shoes smell bad, use an anti-odor or disinfectant spray to remove it.

Proper Storage

Aside from proper cleaning methods, you should also know how to store your trail running shoes correctly to prevent smells and prolong its lifespan.

After cleaning your running shoes, you should place them in a dry environment where they won’t be crushed or damaged.

It is better to place them under room temperature so that the midsole remains flexible when you use it again.

Never put your shoes in a box or plastic bag, especially if you plan to keep them for a long time.

There won’t be any air circulating inside the box, and it will slow down residual drying out, making them smell bad.

Ensure that they are dry before you keep them to prevent the buildup of bacteria and bad smell.

Lastly, keep your shoes stored in a higher place to prevent pets from chewing on them.

Alternatives

After reading the Salomon trail running shoes review above, you can easily tell that the Speedcross 5 is one of the best options out there.

Then again, if you have more specific requirements, there are other options available.

Salomon has some of the finest models that can rival the famous Speedcross 5.

1. Salomon Supercross Trail Running Shoe

The Salomon Supercross is very similar to the Speedcross 5, especially when it comes to appearance and the lugged outsoles.

However, the Supercross is the more affordable option because its features are not as good as the Speedcross 5.

If you are in a tight budget and you can’t afford the Speedcross 5, the Supercross model is a remarkable alternative.

• Foot Protection

The Salomon Supercross provides a balance between sensitivity and protection with its 29mm of stack height and 19mm of underfoot protection.

• Rip-Top Upper

The rip-top uppers provide a secure lock to your foot and prevent debris from entering. In addition, the OrthoLite insole provides support and repels stink.

• Size and Fit

The Supercross follows standard measurements, so if you are buying one, you can use your usual size.

What’s more, it has a semi-curved lasting board that mimics your foot’s natural curve. The spacious toe box is also worth looking at as it prevents stuffiness, chafing, and fatigue.

• Lightweight

Compared to the Speedcross 5, the Supercross is lighter on your feet; however, it also provides less protection.

If you need more protection, go for the Speedcross 5, but for a lighter feel, the Supercross is the right one for you.

• Contagrip TD

The outsole is made of Contagrip TD that would provide protection against the abrasions. It is also extremely durable and resists wear and tear even if you use it many times.

• Deep Gripping Lugs

This trail running shoe is known for its lugs, which can provide amazing traction and balance.

Every node has a slight curve to improve adhesion. Like the Speedcross 5, they are also evenly spaced to prevent mud buildup.

• EnergyCell Foam

The underfoot cushioning is made from EnergyCell, which is a standard component for most running shoes. It offers responsive steps and impact protection.

2. Salomon Alphacross Trail Running Shoes

Salomon shoes are known for their ergonomics, and they are made specifically for trail running.

Although the Salomon Alphacross is not as good as the Speedcross 5, it makes up for the weight, which most beginners look for.

• Rubber Chevrons

The rubber chevrons from the Contagrip TD outsole can provide the grip that you need when running on any type of surface.

It offers enough traction to help you push forward when required and slow down when you are descending on steep hillsides.

• EnergyCell Midsole

The EnergyCell Midsole has an EVA foam construction that offers protection and comfort while running.

It has a sufficient amount of flexibility and firmness so that you won’t feel the rocks and debris sinking on the sole, giving you a softer landing.

• OrthoLite Insoles

Just like the Speedcross 5, Alphacross comes with OrthoLite insoles that offer more cushion on your feet.

This is an alternative that makes the shoe more affordable, but it doesn’t feel uncomfortable while wearing it.

• Stitch-Free Upper Fabric

The upper fabric doesn’t have any visible stitches and feels smooth.

You don’t need to worry about abrasions, too, as it has sufficient protection against ripping and tearing. The problem with this is that it doesn’t have any waterproof features.

• Great Fit

These shoes can cater to people with slim and wide feet. The heel counter can hold your heels firmer, and the toe box is a bit flat but not too suffocating.

Lastly, the cushioning on the ankle area is sufficient and won’t cause blisters to your skin.

3. Salomon XA Pro 3D V8

If you are looking for a more flexible trail running shoe that you can also use for hiking, the Salomon XA Pro 3D V8 is your best choice. It is affordable, too, so it would fit most budgets.

This pair is a great alternative for the Speedcross 5 if you love to do hiking and trail running but don’t want to buy two separate shoes.

• Comfort

The Salomon XA Pro 3D V8 is made for trail running, but a lot of people use it for hiking, as well. This is because of the extra comfort provided by the tongue and collar paddings.

You would also be grateful for the SensiFit system, which extends from the midsole to the upper to create a secure hold on your feet.

• Protection

In terms of protection, the XA Pro 3D V8 is high up on the scale, which is not surprising since it is made for both hiking and trail running.

If you use it on the trail, it would be like a tank because of its large toe cup and rigid heel cup. When hiking, it is a lightweight shoe that would provide a balance of protection and comfort.

• Weight

The only problem with this is the weight, especially if you are going to use it on the trail. Compared with the Speedcross 5, this shoe is extremely heavy at 390 grams.

• Traction

This shoe features the Contagrip MA outsole, so it is built specifically for wet and rugged trails.

The aggressive tread and angular lugs are made for hiking, which means it would be practically invincible when used on the trail.

• Support and Stability

Compared to others, this pair is more stable and supportive of its heel counter. As such, it can be used on different terrains, and you won’t slip or lose balance while running.

Although this shoe has a wider fit, it provides amazing support and stability on your feet.

• Breathability

Because the shoe is made for protection, the XA Pro 3D V8 is not as breathable as the Speedcross 5.

It is more breathable when compared to other hiking shoes, but it is severely lacking when compared to other trail running shoes.

Conclusion

Based on several Salomon trail running shoes reviews, it's undeniable that the Salomon Speedcross 5 is impressive, especially in terms of protection, traction, grip, and comfort.

The improved cushioning and the widened forefoot make it more comfortable to wear compared to other trail running shoes.

It is a bit heavy compared to other trail running shoes, but it makes up for it when it comes to protection.

Besides, the weight is not too much of a burden, and you can run without any unnecessary pressure on your feet.

You can take it in almost any type of environment, but if you plan to go on a wet or rainy area for trail running, getting a GTX model might be the better choice.