Salomon X-Alp MTN GTX Forces
This product is sponsored by HQG.
The Salomon X-Alp MTN GTX is a relatively light mountain boot. I have seen this boot for the first time at the Lindnerhof Event 2018. Directly after the presentation I was confident with the concept. A tactical boot made for alpine environment – What do you want more?
Data
Colors: Slate, Black
Weight: 759g (1EA, UK 11,5)
Outher Material: 1,5mm Nubuk Lether, Cordura
Features
- 1,5mm Nubuk Leather
- 1,5 mm rubber for protecting the heel
- 1,8 mm rubber for mud and scree protection
- Closed hooks
- Lace Locker
- 3D Edging Chassis
Sole
The Contagrip® FD sole is made for flat and wet surfaces. It has got a climbing zone on the toes. This is a area without profile. This is for good grip on small rock edges. These features usually are found at approach shoes and help with easy climbing.
The shoe is usable with flexible crampons with basket bindings. The model on the picture is too stiff. With this stiff crampon the heel can jump out, since the sole is not stiff enough for that kind of crampon. Now I got Petzl Leopard and they should work out better. As sson as I used them several times, I will add this to this review.
The lacing
The civil model of this boot has got hooks. But the tactical version has got closed “hooks”. The laces are long enough, so you don’t have to pull them out of these hooks.
The locking hooks allow different tensions for the upper and lower part of the boot.
Like on climbing and approach shoes, the laces are also close to the toes. This allows a thigh fit for secure steps in steep terrain.
The toes are protected by a rubber cap. On the sides there is also rubber to protect from rocks.
Conclusion
I used this shoe for over 2 years now. I used them in different terrain from mountain to urban.
Durability
Due to the leather the boot is easy to care and robust. As usual for Gore-Tex boots, the material will get weakened and water will come inside. Usually my boots need approx. 1 year until they are not waterproof in the front area anymore.
Area of use
The shoe is designed to be a light mountain boot. And this is where it performs superb. Started from the valley, you can use trails, via ferratas and easy climbing. Even on firn you can use this boot. For crossing a glacier, this boot should also be usable. But a category C or D boot would be preferable. Here you also better use flexible crampons. I will use the boot in that area and will also change the review ASAP.
This shoe is also amazing for tactical and urban environment. The X-ALP MTN is more narrow than the Quest model. This can be less comfortable on long walks. But I had no problems so far. And for secure steps on easy climbs and via ferratas, the narrow fit is a benefit.
Temperature range
Salomon says, the comfort temperature is -12°C. I also used the boot in warm conditions, and had no problem. And now I don’t find this temperature anymore on the official website of Salomon. So maybe something changed. In summer I feel like I don’t sweat more than in other GTX shoes. For winter I would trust Salomon and combine it with good long johns and wool socks. Since it is also super important how an individual deals with the cold. When I gained more experience in these temperatures, I will let you know.
Care
I mainly use bees wax for the leather of the boot. The Cordura areas are better treated with suitable spray. Otherwise they will get soaken wet and when walking you can “pump” the water up into the boots.
Closing word
A comfortable boot, that is well suited for flatlands, urban areas and also the mountains. I mainly use this boot, when I want to be able to use my feet with precise steps. So mainly for everything related to rope work. Even for scrambling in the mountains or in tough urban environment.
Last Update:
