Salomon's iconic outdoor Shoes face to face: Salomon XA Pro 3D v9 vs Salomon Speedcross 6

If we talk about trail running, it is clear that one of the most prominent brands that is really popular among runners is Salomon, their commitment for decades to Trail is undeniable, both in sponsoring major events and in the development of shoes that suit a wide profile of runners.

In this RUNNEA Magazine article we will put two of the most popular trail running shoes of the brand from Annecy face to face, we refer to the Salomon XA Pro 3D v9 and the Salomon Speedcross 6. Although both shoes are designed to tackle difficult terrain, their characteristics make them suitable for very different profiles of runners.

In this comparison we'll break down all the details: from design and technologies to performance in specific terrains, so you can decide which one is best suited to your type of adventure.

Salomon XA Pro 3D v9

This is one of the most versatile shoes of the brand with which we can enjoy our adventures in the mountains, either running or trekking routes.

This all-terrain shoe, which in its ninth edition arrives with renewed airs, provides great traction and stability on a wide range of terrains, especially on the most uneven and with greater technical difficulties.

This model, in which we also find a hiking essence, has a good structure, a robust design and incorporates some of the best materials and technologies of the brand.

Salomon Speedcross 6

We are not wrong to say that we are facing one of the most popular and well-known models of the brand, many runners will have had some of the first versions of this shoe on their feet.

The Salomon Speedcross 6 stands out for that unmistakable design. Thanks to its great grip on the most demanding and complicated terrain it allows us to run with great security, even on wet and / or muddy terrain.

They are very comfortable shoes with a spectacular foot support, they adapt to the foot from the first trip to the mountain and their response in greasy terrain is very good from the first day. Raúl Lozano, RUNNEA Trail Team tester and runner

Detailed analysis of the two shoes

It's time to go into more detail on the highlights of both models, to know their similarities but also the differences between the two popular shoes.

Comfort and Fit

These are two of the most prized aspects for all trail running runners, the Salomon XA Pro 3D v9 stands out for providing a good fit for our feet inside the shoe, keeping them firm thanks to the presence of the 3D chassis.

Its wide last benefits those athletes with wide or bulky feet who will be assured of great comfort for walking or running over longer distances.

For its part, the Salomon Speedcross 6 offers a tighter fit, similar to that of a sock, which favors agility but without the superlative stability that we have in the Salomon XA Pro 3D v9.

It is a shoe that has a lighter and more breathable mesh and is better suited to narrower feet and faster runners.

Both models feature the popular Quicklace lacing system, a system that allows a precise and personalized fit to the preferences and needs of each athlete at all times, as it can be adapted quickly and easily.

Midsole technologies

The Energy Cell + technology is responsible for providing effective cushioning without compromising the reactivity necessary to run fast on the most favorable terrains.

The EVA foam in the midsole, in addition to great cushioning, provides good absorption of impacts with the ground to facilitate a more dynamic reactivity.

Outsole and Grip

Both shoes provide everything we need to run safely on technical terrain and even in wet or muddy conditions, but there are differences in their soles.

The Salomon XA Pro 3D v9 features the All Terrain Contagrip compound that is designed to provide a perfect balance between durability and traction.

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The design features multi-directional lugs that work perfectly on both dry and wet terrain, providing safety on steep descents and stability on technical climbs.

For its part, the Salomon Speedcross 6 incorporates the Contagrip TA outsole which highlights the prominence of its deep lugs that are designed to provide maximum grip on mud, snow and soft ground, offering exceptional performance where other shoes can slip.

The large spacing between the lugs is one of its strong points, since this way it facilitates a rapid evacuation of the mud avoiding its accumulation that would limit our grip on this type of terrain.

Ideal runner profile: who is each shoe for?

Now that we've got to know the two shoes in detail, it's time to see which runner profile is best suited to the characteristics of each model:

Salomon XA Pro 3D v9

• Ideal for medium and even long distances on long routes or technical terrain.
• Runners who need stability, protection and durability.
• Athletes who do other outdoor sports activities such as trekking or prolonged mountain hiking.
• Medium to heavy runners thanks to its robust design and solid structure.

Salomon Speedcross 6

• Ideal for runners who prioritize speed and grip.
• Runners who like to run on soft, wet and/or muddy terrain.
• Medium weight runners, thanks to its lighter design it is perfect for short and medium distances.

Which of these two Salomon outdoor proposals should you choose?

We are facing two of the most outstanding and popular shoes of the brand, both allow us to run safely through the most technical mountain terrain thanks to their protections and the all-around goodness of their soles.

However, there are differences between the two models, because while the Salomon XA Pro 3D v9 is perfect for runners who prioritize safety and support, whether running or walking in the mountains, the Salomon Speedcross 6 is aimed at those who need agility and great grip on soft terrain such as mud or snow, being an excellent choice for fast runs and short distances.

The final decision will depend on different factors and on the needs and priorities of each athlete, but we are sure that, whatever the decision, you will be guaranteed a great grip and protection to enjoy your adventures in the mountains.