The Salomon Speedcross 6 is one of the most recognisable trail shoes on the market and for good reason. After years of testing trail shoes in all conditions, we keep coming back to it. But is it the right shoe for you? In this review, we cover everything you need to know — grip, fit, durability, and who it’s actually best suited to — so you can make the right call before you buy.
Salomon Speedcross 6 – The Cost and Models
The Salomon Speedcross 6 are a similar price point to their peers, retailing currently at £140.
Be careful when choosing the shoe as you will find a GTX version of the shoe – this means Gore-Tex – also known as waterproof. Only choose GTX if you want a waterproof trail running shoe. A waterproof shoe is ok when it’s wet but if it’s hot and sunny, you are going to end up with hot and sweaty feet.
For those with wider feet, the good news is, that you can also buy the Salomon Speedcross 6 in a wide model.
The Salomon Speedcross 6 has become one of the most popular trail running shoes, a popular choice amongst elites and seasoned trail runners. Between these particular shoes, the Hoka Speedgoat and the Altra Lone Peak 7, you will see them on the feet of many a hardy ultramarathon runner.
Let’s look at what you can expect from a pair of these award-winning trail shoes with our detailed Salomon Speedcross 6 review.
Overview
The Salomon Speedcross 6 is billed as the ideal trail shoe for rugged terrains. They are great for dirt trails, grassy sections, rocky terrain, muddy trails, streams, and snow/ice (not that we get too much of that). We would rate them as moderate to technical trail shoes suitable for multi-terrain events over longer distances.
For a while, Salomon seemed to step away from some of the traits that made the original Speedcross so popular, losing that edge a little amongst the competition but with the Salomon Speedcross 6 they have brought back and enhanced these features, putting them at the forefront of the field.
It’s no secret that this is in our top 3 trail shoes. They tick all the boxes and many of our running friends own at least one pair.
CHECK OUT THE MEN’S VERSION HERE
CHECK OUT THE WOMEN’S VERSION HERE
Pros and Cons of the Salomon Speedcross 6
Pros
The Salomon Speedcross 6 is a popular trail running shoe, especially renowned for its performance on rugged and technical terrains. Here are some of the key pros:
1. Exceptional Traction
- The Speedcross 6 features aggressive, deep lugs made from a durable rubber compound, offering outstanding grip on various surfaces, including mud, loose dirt, and wet terrain. This makes it an excellent choice for trail runners who frequently tackle challenging, uneven landscapes.
2. Comfortable Fit
- Salomon’s Sensifit technology ensures a snug, precise fit that comfortably wraps around the foot. The Quicklace system allows for easy adjustments, ensuring your foot stays securely in place, reducing the risk of blisters and hotspots.
3. Lightweight Design
- Despite its rugged construction, the Speedcross 6 is relatively lightweight. This allows for a more agile feel, enabling runners to maintain speed and efficiency on the trails.
4. Durability
- The shoe is built with high-quality materials, including a durable upper that resists wear and tear. This durability ensures that the Speedcross 6 can withstand the rigours of tough trail conditions over time.
5. Cushioning and Support
- The midsole provides ample cushioning, absorbing impact and protecting your joints on rocky or uneven trails. This makes the shoe comfortable for longer runs, where sustained support is crucial.
6. Water-Resistant Upper
- While not fully waterproof, the water-resistant upper helps keep your feet dry when running through wet conditions or shallow puddles, adding to overall comfort. If you wanted a waterproof version, check out the Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX. Discover more in our guide to waterproof trail running shoes.
7. Versatility
- While primarily designed for trail running, the Speedcross 6 can also be used for other outdoor activities like hiking or obstacle course racing, thanks to its combination of grip, comfort, and durability.
8. Stylish Design
- The Speedcross 6 is available in a range of vibrant colours and sleek designs, appealing to those who want a shoe that performs well and looks good.
9. Breathability
- The upper is made from breathable materials that allow for good airflow, helping to keep your feet cool and reduce sweat build-up during intense runs.
10. Protective Toe Cap
- A reinforced toe cap offers extra protection against rocks and roots, reducing the chance of injury when navigating technical trails.
Cons
While the Salomon Speedcross 6 is a highly regarded trail running shoe, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:
1. Narrow Fit
- The Speedcross 6 has a relatively narrow fit, which may not be comfortable for those with wider feet. Some runners might experience discomfort or require a break-in period to adjust to the fit.
2. Limited Versatility on Hard Surfaces
- The aggressive lugs that provide excellent traction on soft, muddy trails can feel uncomfortable and less effective on hard surfaces like pavement or rocky paths. The lugs can also wear down quickly if frequently used on these harder terrains.
3. Not Fully Waterproof
- Although the upper is water-resistant, the Speedcross 6 is not fully waterproof. This means that in very wet conditions, your feet may still get wet, especially in deeper water or heavy rain.
4. Lack of Breathability
- While the upper provides some breathability, it may still feel somewhat restrictive in warmer climates or during intense activities. Some users have reported that their feet can get hot and sweaty, leading to discomfort over time.
5. Less Cushioning Than Some Competitors
- The Speedcross 6 offers good cushioning, but it may feel less plush compared to some other trail running shoes. Runners who prefer a more cushioned ride, especially on longer runs, might find it a bit firm.
6. Heavier Than Some Trail Shoes
- While not overly heavy, the Speedcross 6 is slightly heavier than some other trail running shoes designed for speed. This could be a downside for runners looking for the lightest possible option for racing or fast-paced runs.
7. Higher Price Point
- The Speedcross 6 is on the pricier side compared to some other trail running shoes. While it offers high quality and durability, budget-conscious runners might find it a bit expensive although it is comparable against other leading trail shoes coming in at the same price point.
8. Quicklace System Limitations
- The Quicklace system, while convenient, may not be preferred by everyone. Some users find that it doesn’t allow for as much customisation in fit as traditional laces and might not be as secure for certain foot shapes.
9. Breaking In Required
- Due to its structured design and snug fit, some runners might find that the Speedcross 6 requires a break-in period before it becomes truly comfortable, particularly if they are new to the Salomon brand or trail running shoes in general.
10. Limited Cushioning for Road Use
- The Speedcross 6 is specifically designed for off-road use, so it lacks the cushioning and flexibility needed for comfortable road running. Transitioning from trail to road can feel jarring and uncomfortable.
Overall, while the Salomon Speedcross 6 is a strong performer on trails, these potential cons are worth considering based on your specific needs and preferences.
Our Overall Salomon Speedcross 6 Review
There is no doubt that Salomon Speedcross 6 is a serious contender in the world of trail running. Built for rugged trails and designed to go the distance, these shoes are the choice of many ultra runners.
The Salomon Speedcross 6 is best for:
- Trail Running on Soft Terrain: Excels on muddy, loose, and uneven surfaces with exceptional grip.
- Wet Conditions: Ideal for muddy trails, shedding mud efficiently for consistent traction.
- Short to Mid-Distance Runs: Lightweight and supportive, perfect for agile trail runs.
- Obstacle Course Racing (OCR): Popular for its durability and ability to handle challenging terrains.
- Rugged Hiking: Great for hiking on rough, mountainous terrain where stability and grip are key.
Overall, it’s perfect for those tackling tough trails in wet or technical environments.
Don’t just take our word for it, there are a wealth of reviews online about these shoes so you can carry out a bit of research for yourself.
We hope that our Salomon Speedcross 6 review will help you make the decision as to whether these are the trail shoes for you.
CHECK THE WOMEN’S VERSION HERE
Disclaimer: Many of our posts may contain affiliate links. We may earn commissions if you shop through the links on this page although we only ever recommend products that we genuinely believe will enhance your trail running experience.