Salomon continues to refine their product offers in both footwear and apparel for 2009. While at Outdoor Retailer, I got a glimpse into the future of Salomon’s trail running shoes, water sandals and lightweight, performance outerwear. They are definitely pushing the line in a great direction with lightweight and technical products for active outdoor pursuits.
Of particular interest was their trail running and apparel lineup for next year. With killer athletes and smart design, Salomon produces smart products that are built to last.
Salomon XT Wings GTX Trail Runners
With new colors for 2009, the Salomon XT Wings trail running shoes are lightweight and solid trail shoes. Built with Salomon’s Quicklace lacing system, ACS (Agile Chassis System) for comfort and stability, the XT Wings should provide solid support and a great fit out of the box. Available with or without a Gore-Tex liner. Pricing will be $130 (unlined) and $160 (GTX – shown). The women’s version is built with a women’s-specific last to better fit the needs of a woman’s foot–something not all shoe manufacturers do. The XT Wings scored a “2008 Best Debut” from Runner’s World Magazine. You can also read my Salomon XT Wings shoe review.
Salomon Techamphibian 2 Sandals
Revised and built to handle everything the river, beach or lake can dish out to your feet. Utilizing an amazing drainage system, the Techamphibian 2 sandals will ensure you feet don’t remain soggy hours after a dip in the drink. And, another cool feature… the Techamphibian (as with all Salomon sandals for 2009) is built using a bamboo lining for odor resistance. A collapsible heel turns these into slides on-the-fly. At a scant 11 oz., these won’t weigh you down. Priced at $85, these sandals will be available in Spring 2009.
Salomon Minim Package
Everyone is trying to shave weight these days. While dropping the gut is the most efficient method, outfitting yourself with lighter gear is the next best thing. For those interested in a flexible and comfortable 3-season head-to-toe package, check out the new Salomon Minim Package, which includes a jacket, softshell, shirt, pant and pack. Made for swift backcountry trips, this one will get you there and back without breaking your back in the process.
Minim Jacket
Built from Gore-Tex Paclite, the Minim Jacket is only 8.36 oz, but still provides heavy weather coverage on-the-fly. All seams are taped and it includes an adjustable hood, full zipper, chest pocket and an athletic fit.
Minim Softshell Jacket
Once again, this lightweight piece (13.05 oz) is flexible enough to be worn alone on cool days or as part of a layering system. Utilizing Climawind and Salomon softshell fabrics, this piece is the workhorse of the Minim package.
Minim Tee
A lightweight, wicking tee provides a perfect next-to-skin layer featuring climaUV 35+, Actilite fabrics and flatlock seams (a nice touch). Once again, it features an athletic fit (as with all Minim line). It tips the scales at 4.94 oz.
Minim Pant
A lightweight softshell pant has you dialed with comfortable and durable performance while hiking or climbing. Stretch woven Actilite fabrics and three pockets round out the 10.93 oz. package.
Revo Minim Backpack
Topping things off is the Revo ultralight backpack. Built to be light and fast, it also features the awesome airVENT suspension design to keep you from soggy back syndrome. It comes with a bladder compartment, airmesh straps and belt, ice axe loop, waterproof zippers that tips the scales at 28.80 oz.
The complete Salomon Minim Package weighs in at 4.13 lbs. with pack or 2.33 lbs. without.
Buy Now: Search for Salomon Gear at REI.com
