Wow, what a great review - totally pro and knowing how much you walk any recommendation you give on here should be enough for prospective buyers to have confidence in their purchase. PS Sound sorted, great stuff. Just arrived back from my walk and read some fabulous feedback on my latest release - tired but happy chappie, catch up with you soon. Atb Al
Thanks Al. I enjoyed making this video and it was 1800 miles in the making!! I enjoyed your vlog today. I commented and I stand by my observations on what is real and what isn't in the online world!!
Really helpful review, Dave. I’ve just worn out my sixth pair of Scarpa Vortex XCR trail shoes and am wondering what to get next. They wear out at pretty much exactly 750 miles on the dot every time, and aren’t cheap. But they are super comfortable and the goretex does generally seem to last as long as the boot. So I’m loath to change but your review has certainly given me food for thought. Thanks. Adam.
We all tend to find shoes that work for us as our feet are all different. 750 miles is a pretty good return and even though I did 1000 miles in the Salomons, I should have stopped wearing them at about 800 miles. The Keen shoes are waterproof and I should have mentioned that in the review but I stress again, there is a lack of padding and support for the sole of the foot. I'm pleased the video has given you food for thought. Thanks for taking the time to comment Adam.
Cheers David, was after a new pair of shoes after coming back home from my walk today with very sore feet. Have just purchased a pair of the Salomon X Ultra 3's for a rather excellent £45. Looking forward to meeting up with you when we can all start walking together again. Jim
Hi Jim. You won't regret buying the Salomon X Ultra 3 assuming you bought the bigger size!! I would be interested to hear how you get on with them this year. Thanks for dropping by and taking the time to comment!
My Salomon X Ultras GTX with the quick laces split across the fabric from the bottom of the laces where your toes fold. Add to that wearing through the heal box in around 1000km I would struggle to recommend the Salomon! I have keen winter hiking boots and they have been flawless
Great review David! Was looking at getting a pair of Salomons already so think this has sealed the deal! Is there a difference between the X Ultra 3 and X Ultra 3 Prime?
Hi Scott. Thanks for commenting. I don't know anything about the X Ultra 3 Prime as I only ever search for the X Ultra 3 and have never seen the Prime in my searches. So, I'm sorry but can't provide any further information that will help. You won't regret the X Ultra 3!!
An interesting review. you say that you don't go for goretex lined shoes as it breaks down eventually, so how do deal with damp conditions and wet feet?
Hi Antony. Thanks for commenting. I tend to wear the shoes in spring and summer and accept wet feet. Because they are made of fabric I find that the socks dry out quite quickly. If I'm on a long day walk I often change my socks too. My feet have never suffered at all. I think wet feet is a mindset thing and I'm quite comfortable.
Having owned a pair of both shoes I am very much in agreement. The Keens are very well made, wide and the only shoes I've found to be totally waterproof, however they lack cushioning and the grip is almost non existent especially on wet rocks and mud. The Salomons are extremely comfortable, good grip and not as robust as the Keens, but still good for a couple of years walking. I have the GTX mid boot version of the Salomons and use them in the winter, these are also available in a wide fitting if you can find them.
Thanks for dropping by Rob. It's great to read that you have the same view as me. I should have stated that the Keen shoes are really well made and waterproof. Thanks for the information about the Salomon boots and in particular the fact that there are wider fittings available for those who might need them.
im a size 8 in keen new ports witthout socks not sure if i should size up a full size in the targhee or go to an 8 and half! although i am looking at the raghee 4s
Are you wearing big socks? I have a pair of the ultra 3, they are a super light shoe, almost verging on trail runner. Also have a pair of x ultra trek full height boots. Im not so sure i agree with the 1 1/2 size up as all my shoes are 8 to 9 with both salomons being bang in the middle 8 and a half, as is 70% of my shoe collection. I wear the same Darn Tough socks for every shoe/boot.
Hi Dinga, I always wear two socks. I wear a very thin cotton sock and then use a Bridgedale sock on top of that. I have walked for years and years and learned a long time ago that any friction in the shoe and on the foot is best managed by having the friction take place between the socks. I never ever suffer from blisters as a result. Thanks for taking the time to comment.
Good review. You will not like the X Ultra 4 because we feel the rocks underfoot as much, if not more than the keen ... The Quest 4s are necessary for long treks.
So you size up from a 11 to 12 with keens? I did the same not by choice but because that's what stock they had in the keen revel high polar boot. So do think my jump from 9 to 10 will work out for me?
Hello. No, the Keen is a wider shoe and has plenty of room. I wouldn't recommend sizing up with Keen shoes without trying them on to be sure first. Thanks for taking the time to comment.
@@morgs4mountains well i'll know 2 days or so. I do wear thick wool redhead socks. plus I would be adding a wool insole as well. thanks for the reply, even if it's making me doubt my purchase. o also going to wear a vapor barrier sock as well.
@@morgs4mountains Can I ask one more question? I'm undecided between the "Low" and Mid". I only walk 3 seasons, not in winter and not in the rain (after the rain, yes). I'm a senior, so I don't take risks in difficult terrain or on long-distance hikes. Still, about 2000 km a year Thanks for your opinion.
900 miles and the Keen still has quite a bit of sole left ... the Salomon was worn flat in several areas ... the Keen obviously has more durability ... plus the Keen is waterproof.
I've had both Salomon and Keen and much prefer the Keen in all departments . I'm a dog walker and my Keen last 1500 miles on average . Salomon last at best 1000.
Very fair and honest review. Many thanks for your work as LDWA Chair, badge and Covid were tricky issues to say the least.
Many thanks for dropping by Stewart and for your kind comments. The last three years will be memorable for me for a variety of reasons!! 😊
Great review. Thanks a lot. I have watched many reviews because I am looking for a new pair of hiking shoe. Your video is the best.
You're very kind indeed. Thank you for taking the time to comment.
Wow, what a great review - totally pro and knowing how much you walk any recommendation you give on here should be enough for prospective buyers to have confidence in their purchase. PS Sound sorted, great stuff. Just arrived back from my walk and read some fabulous feedback on my latest release - tired but happy chappie, catch up with you soon. Atb Al
Thanks Al. I enjoyed making this video and it was 1800 miles in the making!! I enjoyed your vlog today. I commented and I stand by my observations on what is real and what isn't in the online world!!
Really helpful review, Dave. I’ve just worn out my sixth pair of Scarpa Vortex XCR trail shoes and am wondering what to get next. They wear out at pretty much exactly 750 miles on the dot every time, and aren’t cheap. But they are super comfortable and the goretex does generally seem to last as long as the boot. So I’m loath to change but your review has certainly given me food for thought. Thanks. Adam.
We all tend to find shoes that work for us as our feet are all different. 750 miles is a pretty good return and even though I did 1000 miles in the Salomons, I should have stopped wearing them at about 800 miles. The Keen shoes are waterproof and I should have mentioned that in the review but I stress again, there is a lack of padding and support for the sole of the foot. I'm pleased the video has given you food for thought. Thanks for taking the time to comment Adam.
Cheers David, was after a new pair of shoes after coming back home from my walk today with very sore feet. Have just purchased a pair of the Salomon X Ultra 3's for a rather excellent £45. Looking forward to meeting up with you when we can all start walking together again. Jim
Hi Jim. You won't regret buying the Salomon X Ultra 3 assuming you bought the bigger size!! I would be interested to hear how you get on with them this year. Thanks for dropping by and taking the time to comment!
My Salomon X Ultras GTX with the quick laces split across the fabric from the bottom of the laces where your toes fold. Add to that wearing through the heal box in around 1000km I would struggle to recommend the Salomon! I have keen winter hiking boots and they have been flawless
We all have our favourites. My salomons have never let me down and have been very long lasting. Thanks for taking the time to comment!
thanks for the well informed review :)
Thanks Max. I appreciate you taking the time to comment. Glad it was helpful.
Great review!
You're very welcome. Thanks for dropping by.
Great review David! Was looking at getting a pair of Salomons already so think this has sealed the deal! Is there a difference between the X Ultra 3 and X Ultra 3 Prime?
Hi Scott. Thanks for commenting. I don't know anything about the X Ultra 3 Prime as I only ever search for the X Ultra 3 and have never seen the Prime in my searches. So, I'm sorry but can't provide any further information that will help. You won't regret the X Ultra 3!!
An interesting review. you say that you don't go for goretex lined shoes as it breaks down eventually, so how do deal with damp conditions and wet feet?
Hi Antony. Thanks for commenting. I tend to wear the shoes in spring and summer and accept wet feet. Because they are made of fabric I find that the socks dry out quite quickly. If I'm on a long day walk I often change my socks too. My feet have never suffered at all. I think wet feet is a mindset thing and I'm quite comfortable.
Having owned a pair of both shoes I am very much in agreement. The Keens are very well made, wide and the only shoes I've found to be totally waterproof, however they lack cushioning and the grip is almost non existent especially on wet rocks and mud. The Salomons are extremely comfortable, good grip and not as robust as the Keens, but still good for a couple of years walking. I have the GTX mid boot version of the Salomons and use them in the winter, these are also available in a wide fitting if you can find them.
Thanks for dropping by Rob. It's great to read that you have the same view as me. I should have stated that the Keen shoes are really well made and waterproof. Thanks for the information about the Salomon boots and in particular the fact that there are wider fittings available for those who might need them.
im a size 8 in keen new ports witthout socks not sure if i should size up a full size in the targhee or go to an 8 and half! although i am looking at the raghee 4s
My advice would be to go a size up. They will still fit and give your toes room at the front of the show too.
What would you recommend for ladies ?
Are the shoes better than the mid rise? Sorry new to hiking / walking
Hi Helena. I'm sorry but I'm not really in a position to advise. However, I have several female friends who do wear both brands.
Are you wearing big socks? I have a pair of the ultra 3, they are a super light shoe, almost verging on trail runner. Also have a pair of x ultra trek full height boots. Im not so sure i agree with the 1 1/2 size up as all my shoes are 8 to 9 with both salomons being bang in the middle 8 and a half, as is 70% of my shoe collection. I wear the same Darn Tough socks for every shoe/boot.
Hi Dinga, I always wear two socks. I wear a very thin cotton sock and then use a Bridgedale sock on top of that. I have walked for years and years and learned a long time ago that any friction in the shoe and on the foot is best managed by having the friction take place between the socks. I never ever suffer from blisters as a result. Thanks for taking the time to comment.
Good review. You will not like the X Ultra 4 because we feel the rocks underfoot as much, if not more than the keen ...
The Quest 4s are necessary for long treks.
Thank you very much for passing on your views on the X Ultra 4. I haven't worn them yet.
So you size up from a 11 to 12 with keens? I did the same not by choice but because that's what stock they had in the keen revel high polar boot. So do think my jump from 9 to 10 will work out for me?
Hello. No, the Keen is a wider shoe and has plenty of room. I wouldn't recommend sizing up with Keen shoes without trying them on to be sure first. Thanks for taking the time to comment.
@@morgs4mountains well i'll know 2 days or so. I do wear thick wool redhead socks. plus I would be adding a wool insole as well. thanks for the reply, even if it's making me doubt my purchase. o also going to wear a vapor barrier sock as well.
@@morgs4mountains sizing up turned out to be the right call. wearing wool sucks even fills up the ten!
Pleased it's worked out well for you. Enjoy the adventures you have with the shoes!
Hi. Just double checking. When u say a size and a half bigger. I am a UK size 8. So I should get a UK 9,5?
That's what works for me with Salomon. Much better fit for the front of the foot as a result. Thanks for dropping by.
Excellent
Thank you Richard.
Time is running out, what is better to buy? Salomon X Ultra 3 or 4? If you had the opportunity to test version 4.
I've worn the Ultra 4. That would be my preference. Don't forget to buy at least one size bigger than you are normally as Salomon size them small.
@@morgs4mountains Thank you very much for your help in choosing the right shoe.
@@morgs4mountains Can I ask one more question? I'm undecided between the "Low" and Mid". I only walk 3 seasons, not in winter and not in the rain (after the rain, yes). I'm a senior, so I don't take risks in difficult terrain or on long-distance hikes. Still, about 2000 km a year Thanks for your opinion.
@@frenkihunter7523 then I would go with the low based on what you have described.
@@morgs4mountains OK thanks.
900 miles and the Keen still has quite a bit of sole left ... the Salomon was worn flat in several areas ... the Keen obviously has more durability ... plus the Keen is waterproof.
Interesting to read that. I found little support in the Keen and limited grip in wet weather. I'm pleased for you that you've had such success.
I've had both Salomon and Keen and much prefer the Keen in all departments . I'm a dog walker and my Keen last 1500 miles on average . Salomon last at best 1000.