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    Salomon SpeedCross2
    Gear Reviews

    Salomon SpeedCross 2 Trail Running Shoe Review

    Donald BuraglioBy Donald BuraglioJanuary 25, 20107 Comments4 Mins Read

    Salomon’s heritage lies in winter sports; as you would expect from a company born in the French Alps, most of its 60-year history has been dedicated to creating world-class ski gear and apparel.  Over the past decade, the company has turned its attention toward “snowless” mountain events, and they’ve become a major player on the ultrarunning scene – recognized both for their generous sponsorship and for a diverse product line of gear, apparel, and footwear.

    About the Salomon SpeedCross 2

    The SpeedCross2 is Salomon’s leanest and lightest trail shoe, but it’s rough and tough enough to use as an everyday trainer.  Lean and mean … it’s a great combination, isn’t it?  Let’s take a closer look.

    Features

    • Upper: anti-debris nylon mesh with synthetic leather overlays
    • Lining: Ortholite sockliner
    • Midsole: dual-density EVA with medial posting
    • Midsole height: 24mm in heel, 12mm in forefoot
    • Outsole: Winter Contragrip
    • Reflective accents on all sides
    • Weight: 290g (10.23 oz)
    • MSRP: $120
    Salomon SpeedCross2

    Salomon SpeedCross 2 Review

    This shoe was designed for two purposes: 1) to help you run fast, and 2) to prevent any excuses due to external conditions.  It’s built with a low profile for freedom of movement, but boasts some protective and stability features to help you handle all kinds of terrain.

    Protection starts from the top: the SpeedCross2’s tightly-woven mesh upper is nearly impenetrable to trail debris, and provides outstanding water resistance.  After submersion, the upper is somewhat slow to dry, but on the whole this shoe is far more breathable than Gore-Tex or other waterproof materials.

    Top view: debris-resistant upper, Quicklace system, Ortholite sockliner, reflective toe accents

    The uppers are further bolstered by a wraparound mudguard at the base, and a protective synthetic toe cap.  They also feature Salomon’s trademark Quicklace system – similar to the speed laces that triathletes love – which secures the upper in a uniform fashion and allows you to customize your ideal level of tightness.  After you lock down the clasp, just tuck the laces into the tongue pocket, and you’re off.  Fit and comfort of the upper are enhanced by a Sensifit design that cradles the foot and minimizes slippage, as well as an Ortholite sockliner for cushioning and shock absorption underfoot.

    Through the midsole is dual-density EVA with the Salomon Cushioning System, which diminishes 25% of heel strike impact, reduces pronation in the arch area, and has an elastic forefoot design to transfer energy more effectively from impact to push-off.  The midsole also has medial posting for further pronation control, and forefoot plates to stabilize and protect your feet on uneven terrain.

    Aggressive outsole lugs

    For my money, the most compelling aspect of the SpeedCross2 is the outsole: big, aggressive rubber lugs that almost scream for mud and rocks to devour.  The height of the lugs enhances shock absorption, and the multidirectional Contragrip design provides excellent traction on sloppy slopes or slick rock faces.  Wide spacing of the lugs allows quick sloughing of dirt clumps and prevents rocks from getting stuck below.  The entire outsole is soft-flexing to allow some degree of natural foot grip on varied terrain.

    Good SpeedCross2

    • Comfortable, snug upper
    • Outstanding traction in sloppy conditions
    • Great debris resistance in upper
    • One-pull lace system for easy on/off and equal tension

    Bad SpeedCross2

    • Diminished ground feel compared to other low-profile racers
    • Uppers slightly slow to dry after immersion
    No problems after a muddy 15-miler!

    Bottom Line: Salomon SpeedCross 2 Trail Running Shoes

    No matter what conditions you face, the SpeedCross 2 will help you power through them quickly and nimbly.  It’s a great choice for everyday use and fast training days, as well as races where you’re gunning for a 50K PR.

    Buy Now: Search for Salomon Trail Runners at Backcountry.com

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    Donald Buraglio
    • Website

    Donald is a physical therapist, ultrarunner, barefoot aficionado, and father of three with more than 20 years of experience in endurance sports. When he's not training for ultramarathons, he enjoys hiking or slacklining with his family in Monterey County, CA.

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    7 Comments

    1. Michael Helton on January 31, 2010 10:01 am

      Great review (as always) Donald. Looks like an interesting trail shoe. However, is that $120 MSRP accurate?!

      Reply
    2. Donald Buraglio on January 31, 2010 10:06 am

      Thanks, Michael. Yes, that MSRP is correct, listed on the Salomon website as well as REI and other retailers. I’ve found some discounted pairs via Google search, but usually in limited sizes. Depending on your shoe size, you may find a deal by shopping around.

      Reply
    3. Pedro on April 20, 2010 8:30 am

      Good work with your comments!! would you use them on a 100 miles ultra trail? tks

      Reply
    4. Donald Buraglio on April 20, 2010 10:26 am

      Pedro – I see no reason not to. They’re super comfortable and definitely tough enough to take on 100 miles.

      Reply
    5. David Ferreira on July 22, 2010 11:37 am

      Dear Donald,
      I am used to run ultra trails with Salomon XA PRO 3 D ULTRA but when running on slippery and muddy rocks and surfaces i concluded they are not suitable at all as they slip a lot. Will Speed Cross do?
      Thanks

      Reply
    6. Donald on July 22, 2010 12:05 pm

      David – Yes, the SpeedCross 2 would be great for those slippery muddy conditions.

      Reply
    7. William Brown on August 2, 2015 11:09 am

      The shoe is a great for mountain terrain and wet and muddy conditions

      Reply

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