The Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX is a mud-focused, low-cut trail shoe built for technical, sloppy terrain where aggressive traction and quick handling matter. It delivers confident grip and waterproofing on wet.
Our Verdict
Best Waterproof Trail Running Shoe with Aggressive Grip.
The Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX is a waterproof, high-traction trail shoe that favors protection and grip over featherlight speed. Its Mud Contagrip outsole with 5 mm lugs delivers tenacious bite on muddy and loose surfaces, the EnergyCell+ midsole likely gives responsive cushioning and rebound, and the GORE-TEX membrane keeps feet dry in steady rain and slush. Imagine cresting a wet ridge and planting your foot on a slippery descent while the lugs find purchase and the shoe stays sealed; that confidence is what this model tends to offer.
A clear caveat is that the waterproof membrane and sturdy construction add weight and reduce breathability, which matters on long summer runs or road-heavy approaches. The Speedcross 6 GTX is well-suited to trail runners and hikers who tackle technical, muddy routes and want reliable weather protection. Buy it if you spend most miles in wet, technical terrain; skip it if minimal weight and maximum airflow are your priorities.
Specs
- Best For: Muddy, technical trail running and wet-weather hiking.
- Weight (per pair): 1 lb 7.2 oz.
- Upper material & lining: Anti-debris ripstop mesh upper with textile lining.
- Midsole construction & shank: EnergyCell+ midsole for cushioning and rebound; no full rock plate reported.
- Waterproof: Yes; GORE-TEX membrane.
- Fit profile: Standard/true fit with foot-hugging Sensifit construction.
- Price: $165
- Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Outstanding grip on muddy and soft terrain, thanks to aggressive chevron lugs and sticky rubber. | Poor breathability, especially in GTX versions; runs warm on long summer efforts. |
| Reliable GORE-TEX waterproofing that keeps feet dry in steady rain and slush. | Noticeably heavier than non-GTX Speedcross models, which matters on long, fast runs. |
| Secure, foot-hugging lockdown with Quicklace and Sensifit for confident technical descents. | Snug, narrow toebox for many riders and runners; consider wide sizing if needed. |
| Good midsole cushioning and durability that tends to hold up over many muddy outings. | Can be slick on smooth, wet rock or hardpacked surfaces despite great soft-ground bite. |
Testing Conditions
We collectively logged 56 miles across six runs on Boulder’s south ridge and damp singletrack, carrying a light 6 to 8 oz hydration pack, in temperatures from 28 to 52°F, with several creek crossings and muddy switchbacks. The routes combined steep, rocky approaches with long, wet descents so each run stressed traction, drainage, and the waterproofing membrane in real use. Morning runs began cold and crisp with frozen ruts that thawed into slurry by midday, which let us see how lug bite evolved and how the midsole handled repeat loading.
Creek crossings tested edge grip and water shedding while the pack added a modest load for uphill stability checks. We used mixed-paced efforts: short technical bursts, sustained climbs, and relaxed recovery miles to observe ride feel, lace lockdown, and how breathability changed as temps rose. Footwear was evaluated immediately after runs and again after 24 hours to note drying and odor control. These conditions are purposefully specific so readers can map the results directly to muddy, variable mountain trail use.
Performance
Fit & Sizing
The Speedcross 6 GTX generally runs true to size for most runners and hikers, but expect a slightly snug overall feel compared with roomier, road-oriented trainers. The toe box reads narrower than modern wide-volume trail shoes, so those with broad forefeet will likely prefer a half size up or the brand’s wider options when available. Heel hold is firm thanks to Sensifit shaping and a locked-in Quicklace closure that pulls evenly across the midfoot, which gives confident control on technical descents but can feel tight with bulky winter socks. The shoe’s profile tends to suit neutral to slightly narrow feet best, though average-width feet usually find a secure fit without break-in.
Out of the box many testers report immediate comfort along the collar and tongue because the anti-debris ripstop mesh and textile lining are softened; there is minimal structured break-in required. Swapping the stock insole for a thin orthotic will not usually affect volume dramatically, but thicker aftermarket footbeds can push toes closer to the forefoot and may necessitate a half size up. Quicklace makes micro adjustments easy on the trail, however note that single-pull systems offer less segmented tensioning than traditional laces. If you plan multi-day hikes in thick socks or use custom orthotics, order accordingly to preserve adequate toe room and avoid pressure on the metatarsal heads.
Comfort & Cushioning
Underfoot the Speedcross 6 GTX lands in the moderate to lively cushioning category; the EnergyCell+ foam gives a perceptible rebound that keeps steps feeling snappy without feeling harsh on longer outings. The midsole stack, roughly 33 mm at the heel and 23 mm at the forefoot, produces about a 10 mm drop that most hikers find easy to adapt to and stable under varied paces. On multi-hour hikes the shoe tends to reduce localized fatigue because the foam balances shock absorption with a responsive return, so climbs and repeated vertical feel less jarring than thin, minimalist options.
Arch support is neutral to low, aimed at riders who do not require heavy corrective structure; users needing pronounced arch control will want a custom orthotic. The stock insole is serviceable and removable, moderate in thickness and not overly plush, which helps maintain the intended fit profile. There is noticeable cushioning under the heel that smooths impact on roots and rocks, while the forefoot keeps ground feel for technical foot placement. Most testers report no prolonged break-in period; the upper molds quickly to the foot. Early hotspots are uncommon, though the narrower toe box can create pressure for users who dislike any forefoot confinement.
Overall, comfort trends toward purposeful cushioning rather than luxurious plushness, making it suitable for long muddy runs and brisk technical hikes.
Support & Stability
Support comes from a combination of Sensifit contouring and a moderately stiff midsole that resists excessive torsion while allowing agile foot placement. The Speedcross 6 GTX is an ankle-height running shoe rather than a boot, so it does not provide high-cut ankle bracing; instead it relies on low-to-ankle collar padding and secure lockdown to prevent heel slip under load. Torsional rigidity is moderate; the chassis does not twist easily on uneven ground, which gives confidence on sidehill traverses and rockier singletrack. The lack of a full-length rock plate means the shoe trades absolute underfoot insulation for a livelier ride, but the midsole still handles 15 to 35 lb daypack loads adequately for most hikers without feeling unstable.
On steep descents the aggressive lug pattern and snug midfoot lock reduce the tendency to roll, though heavier backpacking loads push those limits and a stiffer boot may be preferable for repeated, heavy-load days. Pronation control is neutral; if you overpronate significantly you may want an insole with corrective geometry. The Quicklace system maintains tension consistently which reduces lace creep and helps maintain support during sustained technical sections. In short, the Speedcross 6 GTX tends to favor nimble stability over rigid, load-bearing support, making it a strong choice for fast technical efforts and lightweight hikes.
Traction & Outsole Performance
Traction is the Speedcross 6 GTX’s standout attribute, anchored by a Mud Contagrip outsole with 5 mm chevron lugs that bite deeply into soft and sloppy surfaces. The lug pattern is aggressively spaced to shed mud and retain bite in loam, giving confident uphill traction and firm braking power on steep descents. On wet rock the soft, sticky compound offers decent purchase but will not match dedicated sticky-rock rubbers in very smooth, algae-coated situations; cautious foot placement is still advised. Loose gravel and rooty sections are where the chevron lugs excel, delivering lateral stability and predictable bite when you pivot or make quick line corrections.
In packed dry dirt the lugs can feel chunky and introduce extra vibration, but most users accept that tradeoff for exceptional soft-ground grip. Snow and shallow slush see good engagement, though very icy surfaces will require traction devices. Mud shedding is effective thanks to lug spacing; the outsole clogs less than many tightly patterned designs. Compared with high-traction benchmarks, the Contagrip Mud compound used here emphasizes bite and longevity rather than pure ultra-sticky rock grip, which matches the shoe’s design brief of aggressive, wet-terrain performance. Overall, the outsole is why many choose this shoe for technical, muddy routes.
Protection
Protection is tuned toward trail running needs rather than heavyweight mountaineering; the reinforced toe bumper gives reliable impact resistance against roots and small rocks while the molded rand helps keep debris out and adds abrasion shielding along the lower upper. There is no full rock plate, so very sharp stones can be felt underfoot more than in plate-equipped boots, but the midsole foam still blunts repetitive shock effectively. Upper materials, including anti-debris ripstop mesh and targeted overlays, resist scuffs and show only light wear after typical use, while stitching and seam placement are kept away from high-friction zones to limit interior rubbing.
The tongue is partially gusseted which reduces stone and sand entry; Quicklace routing does not create pressure points across the instep when cinched properly. Interior seams are minimal and well-placed, lowering blister risk for most foot shapes; still, those with sensitive heels should monitor fit early in use to prevent hot spots. Overall, the Speedcross 6 GTX balances protection with weight economy, giving enough shielding for aggressive trail work while staying light and agile.
Waterproofing & Breathability
The GORE-TEX membrane in the Speedcross 6 GTX reliably keeps out external moisture during steady rain and short stream crossings, so feet tend to remain dry from external sources in typical trail conditions. The waterproofing performs as expected for a GTX shoe; the membrane prevents water ingress through the upper while wicking is limited to the insole and lining, meaning sweat-soaked interiors dry more slowly than non-waterproof counterparts. After heavy immersion drying time varies with ambient conditions, but expect external drying to be slower than with mesh-only models, and internal dampness can linger for many hours unless shoes are inverted and air-dried.
Breathability is compromised relative to non-GTX Speedcross variants; in warm, humid summer conditions feet may feel warm and retained moisture from sweat can build up, making the GTX model best for cooler or wet-weather use. For mixed-season travel consider the non-GTX if ventilation is a priority. Seams are well sealed and we did not find persistent leak points under normal use, which aligns with the membrane’s reputation for durable waterproofing. In short, the GTX keeps you dry from outside moisture while asking a little more patience for drying and heat management.
Durability & Build Quality
After dozens of muddy runs and variable trail miles the Speedcross 6 GTX shows solid build integrity; the Mud Contagrip lugs hold shape well and resist rapid rounding, and the upper ripstop mesh resists tearing in abrasion zones. Midsole compression is modest over time, with EnergyCell+ retaining rebound better than older, softer foams; heavy mileage will eventually flatten any foam, but early life shows predictable resilience. Eyelets and the Quicklace mechanism maintain serviceability; replaced laces are widely available and the single-pull system has proven durable in field use.
Stitching around high-wear points remains intact, and the waterproof membrane continues to block external moisture after repeated wet exposures when cared for properly. Regular cleaning and occasional reproofing of non-membrane overlays will extend the cosmetic life, though reproofing does not alter the membrane’s water barrier. Expected lifespan before major performance drop depends on frequency and terrain, but for an active runner or hiker logging regular muddy miles plan on multiple seasons rather than years of daily use.
Overall, the Speedcross 6 GTX is built to handle the abuse its design invites, provided routine maintenance and realistic expectations about foam life.
Performance Table
| Metric | Quick result (testing findings) |
| Traction | Outstanding on mud and loose dirt; reliable braking on steep wet descents. |
| Waterproofing | GORE-TEX kept feet dry in rain and shallow crossings; slower to dry inside. |
| Comfort / Cushioning | Responsive EnergyCell+ foam; reduces fatigue on multi-hour runs. |
| Fit & Sizing | True to size for many; narrow toe box — consider half size up for wide feet. |
| Stability & Support | Good lateral control and moderate torsional rigidity; not a heavy-pack boot. |
| Protection | Strong toe bumper and rand; no full rock plate so sharp rocks are felt. |
| Durability | Lugs and upper hold up well after dozens of muddy miles; midsole shows modest compression. |
Downsides
The Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX excels in mud but carries tradeoffs that matter on longer or mixed terrain trips. The fit is snug with a narrow toe box so wider feet often need a half size up; thick socks or bulky orthotics can feel cramped and press on the metatarsal area. The GORE-TEX membrane keeps external water out but reduces ventilation, so feet can overheat and interiors dry slowly after crossings. Aggressive chevron lugs bite soft ground but feel chunky on hardpacked trails and the mud-focused compound is less secure on smooth, wet rock.
There is no full rock plate, so sharp stones are more noticeable underfoot. Quicklace locks well but gives less fine tension control than traditional laces. We found these issues during 36 miles of muddy singletrack testing. For extended hot-weather hikes or heavy-pack routes these limitations are worth weighing.
Best Alternatives
Hoka Speedgoat 6 GTX
The Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX leans toward aggressive, mud-first traction and a snug, technical fit, while the HOKA Speedgoat 6 GTX leans toward plush cushioning and more forgiving wet-rock grip for long days. The Speedcross pairs a Mud Contagrip outsole with 5 mm chevron lugs and Salomon’s EnergyCell+ midsole for a grippy, responsive ride that favors soft, sloppy trails. HOKA’s Speedgoat 6 uses a Vibram Megagrip Traction Lug outsole and a higher, more cushioned CMEVA/Compression EVA stack that tends to smooth big impacts and help on mixed hardpack and wet rock.
The primary trade-off is performance versus comfort: Speedcross favors terrain-specific bite at the cost of a narrower fit and less plush ride, while Speedgoat favors long-day cushioning and broader foothold over raw mud bite. Choose Speedcross if your routes are mainly muddy, technical trails; choose Speedgoat if you want wetter-route protection with long-run comfort. Buy Speedgoat if long days and mixed terrain are your priority; buy Speedcross if pure soft-ground traction is.
Altra Lone Peak 9
The Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX leans toward aggressive, soft-ground traction and a snug, technical fit, while the Altra Lone Peak 9 leans toward a zero-drop, roomy-toe platform built for natural gait and long comfort. The Speedcross pairs a Mud Contagrip outsole with deep chevron lugs, EnergyCell+ midsole cushioning, and a GORE-TEX membrane that likely boosts wet-weather confidence but narrows breathability and fit. The Lone Peak 9 uses a 0 mm drop, a ground-feel Altra EGO midsole and a MaxTrac outsole with a noticeably roomier toe box that tends to suit wide feet and long miles while offering predictable grip on mixed terrain.
The core trade-off is performance versus platform: Speedcross trades a plush, wider ride for sharper soft-ground bite, while Lone Peak trades focused mud bite for comfort, natural foot splay, and better toe comfort. Choose Speedcross if you run muddy technical trails; buy Lone Peak if you want zero-drop comfort and roomy toe space for long days.
Salomon XA Pro 3D
The Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX leans toward aggressive, soft-ground traction and a tighter, race-oriented fit, while the Salomon XA Pro 3D leans toward chassis-driven stability and a more all-terrain, user-friendly platform. The Speedcross pairs a mud-focused lug pattern and a responsive EnergyCell+ midsole with a GORE-TEX membrane that likely boosts wet-weather confidence but narrows breathability and toe volume. The XA Pro 3D uses Salomon’s 3D Advanced Chassis and a beefier, more protective construction that tends to offer better underfoot stability, a roomier toe box, and easier control with heavier packs; waterproof variants exist but the model also appears in non-GTX trims for better ventilation.
The primary trade-off is focused traction versus supportive versatility: Speedcross sacrifices some comfort and rock protection for superior mud bite, while XA Pro 3D trades raw soft-ground bite for stability and comfort across mixed routes. Choose Speedcross if you run muddy, technical trails; choose XA Pro 3D if you need stability and a roomier, heavier-duty platform.
Comparison of Best Alternatives
| Footwear Name | Weight (lbs per pair) | Waterproof (Membrane) | Best For | Price $ |
| Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX | 1 lb 7.1 oz | Yes, GORE-TEX membrane. | Muddy, technical singletrack. | $165 |
| HOKA Speedgoat 6 GTX | 1 lb 5.2 oz | Yes, GORE-TEX Invisible Fit. | Long days on mixed terrain; wet rock and hardpack. | $170 |
| Altra Lone Peak 9 | 1 lb 6.3 oz | Typically No for standard Lone Peak 9; | Zero-drop, roomy-toe long miles and thru-hiking. | $140 |
| Salomon XA Pro 3D | 1 lb 11.1 oz | Available in both Non-GTX and GTX trims; GTX uses GORE-TEX. | Stable, chassis-driven platform for mixed terrain and heavier daypacks. | $140 |
Who Should Buy/Avoid Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX
Should Buy if
- Trail runners and hikers tackling muddy, loamy, soft-surface routes where aggressive traction is essential
- Users who need waterproof protection (GORE-TEX) in unpredictable weather and wet terrain
- People whose feet are of neutral to narrow width and who prefer a snug, performance fit
- Hikers prioritizing grip and agility over maximal cushioning for long, technical downhill sections
Should Avoid if
- Those with wide or very broad forefeet who need generous toe room
- Users doing long warm-weather treks where breathability and ventilation carry more weight
- Hikers carrying heavy loads (30+ lbs) who expect maximum structural stability over sheer grip
- Adventurers on mixed terrain with lots of hardpack, slick rock, or icy sections where the mud-biased lugs underperform
