I ride bikes a lot and I do a little running. My usual choice of shoes is Merrell for riding and pair of basic running shoes as my Merrell styles aren’t appropriate to run in.
I love my Merrell shoes, I’ve had this pair for 2 years and they’ve done me very well. I’ve ridden with them in Morocco and the Alps and to honest I’ve abused them, yet they still come back for more!
The Vibram sole has worn well considering the impacts they take. The only issue I’ve found is that they aren’t water proof similarly when I run I go cross country although my running shoes are light they leak like a sieve and my feet get cold.
Ok so onto the Salomon XA pro. I’ve always liked the look of Salomon shoes however being a ski maker I’m always wary of brands that don’t specialise in one thing and maybe piggy back on the power of their brand. It turns out that footwear is actually the biggest part of their business not skis!
I’ve been using these XA pro’s for 6 months now and quite honestly they are superb. I’ve binned my running shoes as the XA pro’s completely out performing them. The Gore Tex lining keeps my feet warm and most importantly dry; I actually find them as comfortable as running shoes despite the fact that they are slightly heavier.
So onto the most important thing, biking!
What prompted this article is the ride I have just been on. It’s rained every day for the last 5 weeks this has resulted in a very wet and muddy cycle route!
Despite being wet through my feet remained dry and warm. The Salomon XA pro’s really are a great all rounder packed full of features. I love the speed lace system, it looks like a gimmick but it works brilliantly and has shown no signs of wear and tear.
It holds you foot securely and makes taking them off and on really easy. No more trailing laces and double knots!
If you want tough durable water proof, walking, running, hiking and cycling shoe…look no further!
