Gear Review: Salomon Conquest GTX
A midweight boot with surprising protection and support.
Brand: Salomon
Model: Conquest GTX
Verdict
“Recovering from a deep bone bruise on my left foot, I wore these boots on a three-day trip into Idaho’s White Clouds Mountains, which included nearly 5,000 feet of elevation change and several miles off-trail. With 40 pounds on my back, the Conquest delivered more protection and support than many midweights, thanks to exceptional torsional rigidity, a firm heel cup, a well-cushioned EVA midsole, and an above-ankle cut. My one gripe: While traction was good on packed dirt, mud, and side-hilling off-trail, the outsoles slipped on rocky scrambles.” $180; 2 lbs. 7 oz. (m’s 9); m’s 7-13, w’s 5-10; salomon.com/us
Best for
Moderate loads on- and off-trail
Tester Data
Michael Lanza
When July to Sept.
Where ID; on- and off-trail hiking, mud and boggy areas
“The split-suede uppers and rubber toe caps withstood substantial abuse.”