A New Breed of Hiking Boot
The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-Tex is a mid-height hiking boot designed for hikers who want the agility of a trail runner with the support and protection of a traditional boot. It’s the fourth generation in Salomon’s popular X Ultra line, and it brings a host of updates—including a redesigned chassis, improved fit, and enhanced waterproofing.
We tested the X Ultra 4 Mid GTX across varied terrain, from muddy woodland trails to rocky ridgelines, to see how it performs in real-world conditions. This review covers its comfort, traction, waterproofing, durability, and fit, and compares it to other top contenders in the lightweight hiking boot category.
Key Specs
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 425g (Men’s UK 9) |
| Upper Material | PU-coated leather + synthetic mesh |
| Waterproofing | Gore-Tex membrane |
| Outsole | Contagrip MA |
| Midsole | EnergyCell EVA + ADV-C Chassis |
| Lacing System | Traditional eyelets |
| Drop | 11mm |
| Fit Options | Standard and Wide |
| Price | £165–£180 (RRP) |
Design and Build Quality
The X Ultra 4 Mid GTX is built with a hybrid construction that blends lightweight synthetic mesh with PU-coated leather overlays in high-wear areas. The result is a boot that feels light and flexible, yet still offers toe and heel protection, ankle support, and trail-ready durability.
The Gore-Tex membrane is fully integrated into the upper, providing reliable waterproofing without compromising breathability. A protective toe cap, mudguard, and gusseted tongue help keep out debris and moisture.
Salomon’s ADV-C Chassis is embedded in the midsole and designed to provide lateral stability without restricting forefoot flexibility. This makes the boot feel nimble and responsive, especially on uneven terrain.
Comfort and Fit
Straight out of the box, the X Ultra 4 Mid feels surprisingly comfortable. The Ortholite insole offers soft underfoot cushioning, and the padded collar and tongue provide a snug, secure fit around the ankle.
The boot fits true to size, though it runs slightly narrow in the midfoot. Fortunately, Salomon offers a wide version, which is a welcome option for hikers with broader feet.
The toe box is roomy enough to allow for natural toe splay, and the heel cup locks the foot in place without causing pressure points. The traditional lacing system allows for micro-adjustments, and the ActiveSupport wings help wrap the midfoot securely when the laces are tightened.
Traction and Grip
The outsole uses Salomon’s Contagrip MA compound, which is engineered for all-terrain traction. The 5mm lugs are multi-directional and well-spaced, providing excellent grip on:
- Wet rock
- Loose gravel
- Muddy trails
- Dry hardpack
In testing, the X Ultra 4 Mid excelled on technical descents, where the heel brake zone and flexible forefoot allowed for confident foot placement. The outsole also shed mud effectively, preventing buildup that can reduce traction.
Compared to Vibram-equipped boots, the Contagrip outsole holds its own—especially in wet and mixed conditions.
Waterproofing and Breathability
The Gore-Tex membrane in the X Ultra 4 Mid provides reliable waterproofing up to the ankle collar. During stream crossings and wet weather hikes, the boots kept feet dry with no signs of leakage.
The flood height is approximately 4.5 inches, which is generous for a mid-cut boot. The gusseted tongue and tight collar seal help prevent water ingress from above.
Despite the waterproofing, the boot remains reasonably breathable. The synthetic mesh panels allow moisture to escape, and the boot dries quickly after exposure to rain or sweat. For summer hikes, pairing with moisture-wicking socks helps maintain comfort.
Stability and Support
One of the standout features of the X Ultra 4 Mid is its ADV-C Chassis, which provides torsional rigidity and midfoot support without adding bulk. This makes the boot feel stable under load, even when carrying a 10–15kg pack.
The mid-height collar offers moderate ankle support, enough to prevent rolling on uneven ground but not so stiff that it restricts movement. The ActiveSupport wings enhance lateral stability, especially on side slopes or rocky scrambles.
While not as supportive as a full backpacking boot like the Salomon Quest 4 GTX, the X Ultra 4 Mid strikes a great balance for fast-and-light hiking, day hikes, and weekend backpacking trips.
Weight and Agility
At just 425g per boot, the X Ultra 4 Mid is one of the lightest waterproof hiking boots in its class. It feels more like a trail runner with ankle support than a traditional hiking boot.
This low weight translates to less fatigue, especially on long days or multi-day treks. The boot’s flexible forefoot and rockered sole promote a natural stride, making it ideal for fast-paced hiking or technical terrain where agility matters.
Durability and Longevity
Despite its lightweight build, the X Ultra 4 Mid holds up well to regular use. The PU-coated leather overlays protect against abrasion, and the rubber toe cap shields against rock strikes.
That said, this is not a boot designed for heavy-duty alpine use or extended thru-hikes. The synthetic upper and lightweight outsole will show wear faster than full-grain leather boots or burlier backpacking models.
For most hikers, the X Ultra 4 Mid should last 1–2 seasons of regular use, depending on terrain and care. Salomon’s build quality is generally excellent, and the boot is backed by a two-year warranty.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and agile for a mid boot
- Excellent traction on varied terrain
- Gore-Tex waterproofing with good breathability
- Comfortable out of the box
- Stable and supportive for fast hiking
- Available in wide fit
Cons:
- Less durable than heavier boots
- Limited insulation for cold weather
- Slightly narrow fit in standard version
- Not ideal for heavy loads or winter use
Comparison: Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX vs Salomon Quest 4 GTX
| Feature | X Ultra 4 Mid GTX | Quest 4 GTX |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (per boot) | 425g | 655g |
| Waterproofing | Gore-Tex | Gore-Tex |
| Support | Moderate (ADV-C Chassis) | High (4D Advanced Chassis) |
| Best For | Day hikes, fastpacking | Multi-day backpacking |
| Upper Material | Synthetic + PU leather | Nubuck leather |
| Price (RRP) | £165–£180 | £200–£220 |
The X Ultra 4 Mid is better for lightweight, fast-paced hiking, while the Quest 4 is built for heavy loads and rugged expeditions.
Final Verdict: Is the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX Worth It?
The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-Tex is one of the best lightweight hiking boots available in 2025. It combines the comfort and agility of a trail runner with the support and protection of a mid-height boot, making it ideal for day hikes, fastpacking, and weekend adventures.
While it’s not the most durable or insulated option, it excels in wet conditions, technical terrain, and long-distance comfort. If you’re looking for a boot that can keep up with your pace without weighing you down, the X Ultra 4 Mid GTX is a top contender.
Rating: 9/10 Best for: Lightweight hiking, wet trails, and fastpacking Avoid if: You need maximum durability or winter insulation
