Salomon Brand Guide
Salomon didn't arrive on the fashion scene — the fashion scene arrived at Salomon. For 79 years, this Annecy-born brand has been engineering footwear for the world's most demanding mountain terrain. When the Speedcross crossed 10 million pairs sold and the XT-6 started appearing on runways alongside Maison Margiela, it wasn't a pivot — it was proof that genuine engineering outlasts every trend. As authorised UK stockists, we stock Salomon because it translates Alpine engineering into modern style — performance with cultural currency.
1 | Brand Overview — Precision Born in the Alps
Founded in 1947 in a small workshop in Annecy, France, Salomon began as a ski edge manufacturer created by Georges Salomon and his son. Georges's own words defined the brand's DNA from day one: "What fascinates me the most is what I'm going to invent tomorrow." That restlessness drove Salomon from ski bindings to boots to snowboards to trail running — and ultimately into a global force spanning footwear, apparel, and equipment for mountain sports.
Today, Salomon's Annecy Design Centre — ISO 14001 and ISO 50001 certified — remains the engineering hub where every outsole compound is formulated, every chassis system stress-tested, and every lacing mechanism refined. The brand sits under Amer Sports alongside Arc'teryx, Wilson, and Peak Performance.
Key Information
- Founded: 1947, Annecy, French Alps
- Founder: Georges Salomon
- Parent Company: Amer Sports
- Category: Technical footwear, trail running, hiking, outdoor apparel
- Core Collections: Speedcross (10M+ pairs) | XA PRO 3D (best-selling multisport) | XT-6 (fashion crossover icon) | X Ultra (10M+ hiking pairs since 2018)
- Price Position: Mid-premium (£80–£210 footwear, £30–£210 apparel)
- Competitor Set: The North Face | Hoka | Arc'teryx | On Running | Saucony
- Values: Imagination, Family Spirit, Commitment, Simplicity, Diversity
Salomon's Purpose
"We exist to unleash the best in people through mountain sports." — Alpine engineering for mountain sports, organically adopted by global street culture. Utility as luxury.
2 | Heritage & Philosophy — From Ski Bindings to Street Icons
The Salomon Timeline
The Gorpcore Movement
In the late 2010s, Salomon's technical trail footwear — particularly the XT-4 and XT-6 — became the anchor of the "Gorpcore" aesthetic trend, where functional outdoor gear was adopted for urban fashion contexts.
The term "Gorp" (Good Ol' Raisins and Peanuts, traditional trail mix) became shorthand for technical outdoor aesthetics repurposed as high fashion. Salomon's decades of Alpine engineering credibility made it the authentic foundation of this movement — no other trail brand achieved this cultural crossover because no other brand had 79 years of genuine engineering to back the aesthetic.
Philosophy
Authentic trail engineering became the fashion uniform — utility as luxury. Salomon achieved cultural crossover because 79 years of genuine Alpine engineering backs the aesthetic. The XT-6 now stands where Nike's Air Max once did: the street's authentic choice for technical credibility.
3 | Core Technologies — The Science of Stability
Salomon's footwear incorporates several proprietary technologies designed for mountain terrain performance. Each technology also contributes to the aesthetic and functional appeal that made Salomon a fashion staple. Here is every system, explained.
Contagrip Outsole System
Salomon's proprietary rubber compound and lug profile system — the signature outsole technology. Terrain-specific formulations are optimised in the Annecy Design Centre for different conditions.
Contagrip MA (All Terrain)
Versatile compound designed for mixed surfaces including wet rock, mud, and pavement. Found on XA PRO 3D, XT-6, and Genesis models. The workhorse compound — handles everything from station tiles to Peak District gritstone.
Contagrip Mud
Softer compound with deeper, more aggressive chevron lug patterns designed specifically for soft, muddy terrain. The signature technology of the Speedcross series — inspired by motocross tyre tread for maximum mud evacuation.
Contagrip TA (Technical Alpine)
Compound formulated for high-grip performance on rock surfaces in alpine conditions. Precise edge grip on wet granite and slate.
Mud Contagrip (XT-6)
Specific variant used on the XT-6 — outsole optimised for traction on soft and muddy terrain while maintaining the iconic aesthetic profile.
Chassis Systems — Stability & Control
The chassis is the structural backbone between midsole and outsole — the frame that controls how your foot interacts with the ground. Salomon's chassis systems were developed by studying biomechanics of traversing uneven terrain in their lab.
advancedCHASSIS
All-terrain stride efficiency. Provides medial and lateral biomechanical motion support, reducing foot roll for stability, control and comfort. Featured in X Ultra hiking range and performance trail models. Lab-developed specifically for ankle injury prevention on uneven ground.
agileCHASSIS (ACS)
A thermoplastic urethane (TPU) frame embedded in the midsole with a translucent finish. Lightweight midfoot stability that defines the signature Salomon silhouette. Featured in XT-6 and ACS Pro Advanced — the visible caged structure that stylists and fashion editors recognise instantly.
3D Chassis
The original H-shaped structure designed for the XA PRO 3D. Provides mid-foot and heel stability with forefoot agility. Evolved over 20+ years to include toe reinforcements. The engineering heart of Salomon's best-selling multisport shoe.
Active Chassis
Dynamic support variant used on the Genesis trail shoe. Designed for raw, rugged trail adventures where responsive support matters more than rigid control.
Fit Technologies
sensiFIT
An engineered foot cradle securing the foot from sole to laces. Connected, custom-like fit with enhanced foot control and hold. The upper construction wraps the foot from the midsole to the lacing system for a secure, customised fit. Streamlined upper profile — no bulk, clean lines from every angle.
Quicklace System
Easy-on, easy-off single-pull tightening using Kevlar-reinforced laces. Ultra lightweight and low profile. Includes a lace pocket on the tongue to prevent snagging. Reduces fatigue, increases blood flow, comfort and endurance. Long-lasting, repairable design — replacement kits available at OD's.
EndoFit
An internal sleeve construction that cradles the foot, providing a sock-like fit inside the shoe. Works in harmony with sensiFIT for a locked-in, blister-free experience.
SensiFlex
Flexible upper construction allowing natural foot movement on technical terrain. Found on select models where range of motion matters as much as lockdown.
Waterproofing
GORE-TEX Membrane
Licensed technology consisting of a microporous PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) membrane that blocks liquid water while allowing water vapour to pass through. Available on select models marked with "GTX" designation. Year-round wearability in British weather — GTX versions maintain the aesthetic without compromise. Available across trail, hiking, and select lifestyle models.
Cushioning
EnergyCell
Salomon's EVA-based midsole compound for standard cushioning and energy return. The versatile foundation beneath most Salomon models.
EnergyCell+
Enhanced EVA compound for improved cushioning on performance models. Tuned for longer distances where sustained comfort matters.
Dual-Density EVA Midsole
Two density layers working together for support and comfort. Used on the XT-6 — softer layer absorbs impact, firmer layer provides stability.
4 | Cultural Presence — From Trailhead to Runway
Notable Collaborations
Salomon has partnered with various fashion brands and designers, creating collectible pieces sold through fashion boutiques rather than outdoor retailers:
- Maison Margiela — deconstructed luxury meets trail tech
- COMME des GARÇONS — avant-garde reinterpretations
- Palace — London skate culture crossover
- Kith — New York streetwear authority
- END. — UK-based heritage retailer collabs
- Sandy Liang — feminine, fashion-forward designs
- Atmos — Tokyo sneaker culture
- L'Art de L'Automobile — automotive-inspired S/LAB Phantasm collaboration
Seen On
When the fashion world pivoted from logo-driven luxury to functional credibility, Salomon became the uniform of cultural relevance.
- A$AP Rocky — Made the XT-6 a symbol of "performance aesthetic"; wore Salomon in music videos and street photography
- Bella Hadid — Cemented status as fashion-week footwear; paparazzi shots in XT-6 went viral
- Hailey Bieber — Off-duty model uniform; Salomon as elevated casualwear
- Rihanna — Paired Salomon with designer pieces, legitimising trail tech as luxury
- Drake — Featured in music videos; Toronto street style adoption
- Frank Ocean — Quiet luxury through utility; Salomon as understated status symbol
- Kendrick Lamar — Worn during appearances; West Coast cultural endorsement
What This Means
Authentic trail engineering became the fashion uniform — utility as luxury. The XT series now stands where Nike's Air Max once did: the street's authentic choice for technical credibility. No other trail brand achieved this cultural crossover because no other brand had Salomon's decades of genuine Alpine engineering to back the aesthetic.
OD's Take
That cross-cultural pull is why we stock Salomon. It's engineering with edge — performance with cultural currency. Our customers aren't choosing between fashion and function; they're choosing both.
5 | Top Picks & Fit — Fashion-First, UK-Ready
For universal sizing guidance and how to measure yourself, see our Master Size Guide. Below are Salomon product-specific fit notes and OD's curated picks.
We curate Salomon for modern wearers — people who value both Alpine engineering and cultural relevance. These models represent the intersection of performance and style.
1. XT-6 GTX — Year-Round City/Travel Icon
Best For: Urban explorers, travellers, year-round British weather, fashion-conscious buyers
Why We Recommend It: The street icon with real wet-weather credentials. Originally a long-distance trail shoe designed by Benjamin Grenet in 2013, the XT-6 became fashion's technical uniform through organic adoption by stylists, musicians, and designers. Dozens of colourways released annually. The GORE-TEX membrane handles British rain, Mud Contagrip grips wet pavements, the agileCHASSIS with its signature translucent TPU frame provides all-day urban stability, and the dual-density EVA midsole cushions every step.
Key Tech: agileCHASSIS (ACS) | Mud Contagrip | GORE-TEX membrane | sensiFIT | Quicklace system | Dual-density EVA
Sizing: True to size for standard fit. +0.5 for thick winter socks or relaxed streetwear comfort.
UK Climate: GTX version essential for year-round British use. Standard mesh XT-6 is summer-only.
2. XA PRO 3D V9 GTX — The Multisport Legend
Best For: Hikers, trail walkers, multisport athletes, all-weather outdoor use
Why We Recommend It: Created by Fred Cretinon in 2002, the XA PRO became the world's best-selling high-performance multisport shoe — and the V9 GTX is the latest evolution. Light and fast with stability for the roughest terrain. The 3D Chassis provides mid-foot and heel stability with forefoot agility. Also adopted by hikers and walkers who want trail-running speed without sacrificing support.
Key Tech: 3D Chassis (H-shaped, toe-reinforced) | Contagrip MA | GORE-TEX membrane | sensiFIT | Quicklace system
Sizing: Snug trail fit. True to size for running. +0.5 for hiking with thick socks. Wide (2E) fit available.
UK Climate: GTX model is year-round. Non-GTX versions for summer trail running only.
3. ACS Pro Advanced — Fashion Flagship
Best For: Fashion-forward buyers, collectors, runway-inspired looks, everyday comfort
Why We Recommend It: The runway-ready Salomon. The ACS Pro Advanced showcases Salomon's signature caged chassis aesthetic in its most refined form. This is the pair fashion stylists shoot first, the model worn in lookbooks, and the silhouette that defines Salomon's modern design language.
Key Tech: Prominent agileCHASSIS structure (visual signature) | Contagrip outsole | sensiFIT upper | Quicklace system
Sizing: True to size. Many fashion buyers prefer +0.5 for relaxed fit with premium socks.
UK Climate: Standard mesh; not waterproof. Consider for dry conditions or apply water-repellent treatment.
4. Speedcross 6 — Mud Specialist (10M+ Pairs Sold)
Best For: Trail runners, muddy UK conditions, fell racing, technical terrain
Why We Recommend It: Deep chevron lugs inspired by motocross tyre tread, designed specifically for British mud. This is the Lake District/Wales weapon — purpose-built for soft, slippery terrain. The aggressive tread aesthetic is worn by fashion editors for the technical look, but this is genuinely a performance tool. Over 10 million pairs sold since 2006.
Key Tech: Contagrip Mud (deep 6mm chevron lugs) | sensiFIT system | Quicklace | EnergyCell cushioning | Available in GTX and standard
Sizing: Snug trail fit. True to size for running. +0.5 for hiking with thick socks.
UK Climate: Standard drains quickly. GTX for Scottish/Welsh year-round hiking.
5. XT-4 OG — Heritage Icon
Best For: Sneaker collectors, heritage aesthetics, casual wear, Salomon purists
Why We Recommend It: The lower-profile XT aesthetic that predates the XT-6. Slightly sleeker silhouette, same trail DNA, different cultural moment. Notable collaborations with Palace, COMME des GARÇONS, and END. have made certain XT-4 colorways collectible.
Key Tech: Agile Chassis Skeleton | Contagrip MA | Quicklace system
Sizing: True to size for snug fit. +0.5 common for relaxed streetwear fit.
UK Climate: Standard mesh; not suitable for wet weather without treatment. Dry-weather lifestyle shoe.
6. Sense Ride 5 — Road-to-Trail Trainer
Best For: Runners mixing surfaces, parkrun, canal towpaths, fast-paced hiking
Why We Recommend It: Lighter than hiking shoes, more versatile than pure trail models. The Sense Ride handles both pavement and light trails without sacrificing either. Lower-profile lugs won't chew up on tarmac like Speedcross, but still grip wet grass and dirt paths.
Key Tech: Contagrip MA (lower-profile lugs) | EnergyCell cushioning | Quicklace system
Sizing: True to size with slightly relaxed toe box.
UK Climate: Not waterproof. Best spring/summer/early autumn when trails are drier.
Salomon Sizing Guidelines
Performance Trail Models (Speedcross, XA PRO)
- Designed for a snug, performance-oriented fit for precise control on technical terrain
- Consider sizing up 0.5 UK if using thick hiking socks or preferring more toe room
- Wide (2E) fit available on XA PRO 3D
Lifestyle/Urban Models (XT-6, XT-4, ACS Pro)
- Generally fit true to standard UK sizing
- Some wearers size up 0.5 for a more relaxed, casual fit
- Women's models use narrower lasts — not just scaled-down men's versions
The Downhill Space Test
Critical fitting check: With shoe on and laced, stand on a stair and lower your heel one step down (simulating downhill). If you feel toe-nail pressure or your toes hit the front, size up 0.5. This one test prevents most sizing-related returns.
6 | Shop Salomon at OD's — Real Stock, Real Prices
Footwear
Women's Footwear
Apparel & Accessories
Not Sure Which Salomon Is Right for You?
Visit us at 44 Barrow Street, St Helens (Mon-Sat 9am-5pm) for expert fitting advice, or browse our full Salomon collection online.
7 | Gravel Running Hub — Road to Trail (2025/26 Range)
The UK reality: most runs aren't purely road or purely trail. You start on tarmac, cut through a park, hit a towpath, cross grass, then finish on pavement. Traditional road shoes lack grip; pure trail shoes wear fast on concrete.
Salomon's Gravel (GRVL) line solves this — and their dedicated gravel running category proves how seriously they take mixed-surface running.
AERO GLIDE 3 GRVL (Women's)
Plush cushioning for long mixed-surface runs. Durable outsole that handles both pavement and gravel. Ideal for: Canal towpath long runs, parkrun to trail extensions.
AERO BLAZE 3 GRVL (Men's & Women's)
Lighter, more responsive daily trainer feel. Versatile compound balances road durability with trail grip. GTX version available. Ideal for: Daily training miles on mixed UK surfaces.
AERO GLIDE 4 (Men's & Women's)
Latest generation road-to-gravel runner. Enhanced EnergyCell+ cushioning with Contagrip outsole for mixed surfaces. Ideal for: Longer distances where comfort meets versatility.
Ultra Glide 4
Ultra-distance trail comfort with enough road manners for mixed approaches. Available in men's and women's. Ideal for: Ultra training, long fell runs with road sections.
8 | UK Climate & Terrain Guide
Scottish Highlands (Cairngorms, Ben Nevis)
Rocky, technical terrain with unpredictable weather. Consider: XA Pro 3D GTX, Speedcross GTX. Waterproofing highly recommended year-round.
Lake District (Scafell Pike, Helvellyn)
Muddy slate paths common. Consider: Speedcross series for aggressive grip. GTX versions valuable in wetter months.
Peak District (Kinder Scout, Stanage Edge)
Mixed terrain including peat bogs and gritstone. Consider: XA Pro 3D, XT-6. Versatile models handle varied surfaces.
Welsh Mountains (Snowdonia, Brecon Beacons)
Wet, boggy terrain prevalent. Consider: Speedcross GTX for mud performance. Waterproofing valuable most of the year.
Urban / City Use
Pavements, stairs, public transport. Consider: XT-6, XT-4, ACS Pro for urban durability. GTX versions recommended for year-round British weather. Contagrip MA handles wet station tiles and bus stops without slipping.
9 | Salomon-Specific Care Notes
For universal care rules (washing, drying, storage), see our Master Care Guide. Below are material-specific instructions for Salomon's technical footwear.
Golden Rules
NEVER:
- Machine wash or tumble dry
- Apply direct heat (radiators, hairdryers, car heaters)
- Use harsh chemical cleaners or bleach
- Store while damp
- Wear same pair consecutive days
ALWAYS:
- Clean after muddy or salty use
- Remove insoles and air-dry after use
- Store in cool, dry place
- Rotate pairs when possible
GORE-TEX DWR Maintenance
GORE-TEX models have a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating that helps water bead off. This coating wears over time.
Testing: Pour water on upper. If it beads and rolls off, DWR is working. If water soaks in, reapply DWR.
Reapplying:
- Clean shoe thoroughly and dry completely
- Apply GORE-TEX-approved DWR spray (e.g., Nikwax TX.Direct)
- Follow product instructions
- Allow to dry and test
Why this matters: DWR coatings sit on fabric surface. Detergent buildup clogs the coating, causing water to soak in rather than bead off. Proper rinsing and heat reactivation restore performance.
Quicklace System Replacement
- Inspection: Check regularly for fraying
- Cleaning: Wipe with damp cloth; remove mud from toggle
- Replacement: Use official Salomon Quicklace Kit (available at OD's)
Replacement Process:
- Remove old lace
- Thread new lace through eyelets
- Pass through toggle mechanism
- Adjust tension
- Tuck excess into tongue pocket
After Trail Use — Outsole Care
- Rinse mud off promptly — dried mud degrades rubber compounds
- Use brush to clean between Contagrip lugs
- Remove embedded debris (stones in chevron lugs)
- Check for uneven wear or damage
After Urban Use
- Wipe clean regularly
- In winter, rinse after salted surfaces — road salt corrodes materials
- Inspect for uneven wear patterns
10 | Sustainability & Authenticity
Salomon's Sustainability Initiatives — Play Minded Programme
2030 Targets (Science-Based)
- 100% of key products to be eco-designed or recyclable ("Circular Performance")
- 30% absolute carbon reduction vs. 2019 baseline
- At least one option for repair, recycling, second-hand, or rental for 100% of products
- Expansion of Salomon Foundation for inclusive mountain access
- 2023 emissions: 279,734 tCO2e (7% decrease vs 2022) — Scope 3 = 97% of total
Key Initiatives:
Advanced Shoe Factory 4.0
Opened in France in 2019. Automated, robotic production representing a significant emissions reduction lever through EU-localised manufacturing — reducing transport distances compared to Asia-sourced production.
INDEX Recyclable Shoe Platform
INDEX.01 (2021, 44% CO2 reduction), INDEX.02, INDEX.03. Running shoes designed to be fully recyclable, demonstrating Salomon's commitment to circular economy principles. Optimised disassembly and circular design.
VISION Recyclable Trail Shoe
Launched 2024. Combines trail running performance with a recyclable sole — the first time circular design has been applied to technical trail footwear.
Green Wolf & CETIA/Carbios Partnerships
Green Wolf: repair service extending product lifespan. CETIA/Carbios: textile and footwear recycling partnerships including enzymatic recycling technology. "Trash is Gold" reuses ABS production waste.
Certifications: Salomon's Annecy Design Centre maintains ISO 14001 (Environmental Management) and ISO 50001 (Energy Management) certifications. Annual Impact Reports detail supply chain information, emissions data, and progress toward targets.
OD's Perspective
We view sustainability initiatives as most meaningful when they result in measurable changes to materials, manufacturing processes, and product design. Salomon's approach focuses on engineering changes (localised EU production, recyclable design, certified facilities) rather than purely marketing-driven initiatives.
OD's Authenticity Guarantee
- OD's is an authorised UK Salomon retailer
- All Salomon products sold by OD's are genuine and sourced through official distribution channels
- Full manufacturer warranty support
Manufacturer's Warranty
Salomon products carry a two-year quality warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
What's Covered: Defects in materials and workmanship assessed against normal usage patterns. This includes manufacturing flaws not caused by wear or misuse.
What's NOT Covered: Normal wear and tear, damage from improper care, or use beyond the product's intended purpose.
Making a Warranty Claim
- Contact OD's first with proof of purchase and photos
- OD's will assess whether the issue appears warranty-eligible
- OD's handles claims end-to-end — we manage the process with Salomon on your behalf
11 | FAQs — Salomon-Specific Intelligence
For universal sizing, care, and store policy FAQs, see our Master FAQ Guide. Below are brand-specific questions about Salomon.
How does Salomon sizing compare to Nike or Adidas?
Salomon generally fits close to standard UK sizing. Trail models tend to fit snugger than casual trainers due to their performance-oriented design. We recommend trying on with your intended sock thickness. The Downhill Space Test (stand on a stair, lower heel down) prevents most sizing issues.
Do I need to size up for GORE-TEX models?
GORE-TEX models have the same sizing as standard versions, though the additional membrane layer may create a slightly snugger feel. If between sizes, consider the larger size for GTX models.
Are wide-fit options available?
Yes, select models like the XA Pro 3D are available in Wide (2E) fit. Check specific product listings or inquire with our staff about wide-fit availability. Most Salomon models use standard width (D for men, B for women).
Will the shoes stretch over time?
Salomon's engineered mesh and synthetic materials have minimal stretch. Initial fit should be comfortable as significant stretching should not be expected.
What's the difference between XT-6 and XT-4?
XT-4 has a lower-profile aesthetic that predates the XT-6. Slightly sleeker silhouette, same trail DNA. XT-6 became more popular in fashion contexts and is now released in dozens of colourways annually, but XT-4 remains the heritage choice for collectors and purists.
Is the XT-6 actually good for hiking or just fashion?
Originally designed as a long-distance trail shoe by Benjamin Grenet in 2013, the XT-6 is genuinely trail-capable. The agileCHASSIS provides real midfoot stability, Mud Contagrip delivers genuine grip, and the GTX version handles British weather excellently. It works for both hiking and urban wear — that is precisely why it crossed over successfully.
What is Contagrip and how does it work?
Contagrip is Salomon's proprietary rubber compound and lug profile system — the outsole technology that defines every Salomon shoe. Different formulations exist for different terrain: Contagrip MA for all-terrain grip, Contagrip Mud with deep chevron lugs for soft ground, and Contagrip TA for technical alpine rock. Each compound is developed at the Annecy Design Centre for specific conditions.
Which Salomon is best for UK mixed-surface running?
The GRVL range (AERO GLIDE 3 GRVL, AERO BLAZE 3 GRVL, AERO GLIDE 4) is specifically designed for UK mixed-surface conditions — pavement, towpaths, parks, and light trails. The Ultra Glide 4 works for longer distances with trail sections.
Are Salomon collaborations worth the price premium?
Collaborations with brands like Palace, COMME des GARÇONS, Maison Margiela, Kith, and Atmos command higher prices due to limited production and collectibility. If you value the design and cultural significance, yes. For pure performance, standard models deliver identical tech.
How does Salomon compare to Saucony and On Running for trail running?
Each brand has a different strength. Salomon leads on grip technology (Contagrip) and heritage trail credibility. Saucony excels on foam innovation (PWRRUN PB). On Running stands out for road-to-trail versatility (CloudTec + Missiongrip). For detailed comparison, read our On vs Saucony vs Salomon comparison guide.
12 | Why OD's × Salomon — Where Alpine Meets Urban
OD's curates Salomon because it translates Alpine engineering into modern style — performance with cultural currency.
What Sets OD's Apart
- Authorised UK Retailer — 100% genuine Salomon products with full warranty support
- Fashion-Forward Curation — We stock models based on cultural relevance and UK utility
- Expert Guidance — Staff trained on both technical performance and style context
- Comprehensive Support — Sizing guidance, care expertise, Quicklace replacement kits in stock
- Independent Perspective — Honest assessment of what works for specific needs
- Full Range — Footwear, apparel, hydration vests, and accessories from a single authorised source
OD's Philosophy
Salomon is the translator of Alpine engineering into modern style. Our job is to help you find the intersection of function and fashion that works for your life — whether that's Scottish Highlands hiking or Shoreditch coffee runs. We don't sell you everything. We sell you what works.