I love the outdoors. Seems like a fairly obvious statement, but I also love everything that goes along with the outdoors. When I head out on a casual walk or a trail hike, I want to make sure I'm prepared, and that means having all of the gear to get me through it.
I'll hold my hands up and say yes, I follow the trends. It's only natural that I'm influenced by what I see online and want to try out the best hiking boots or the best hiking apparel. And recently, there's been one brand taking up the prime position on my phone screen: Salomon.
This outdoor brand has the gorpcore aesthetic down to a fine art. Salomon is best known for shoes, with celebrities like Rihanna, Hailey Bieber and Lily Collins making the Salomon XT-6s a staple in streetwear. They're the it-shoes of the moment, but are they actually worth the hype?
Fashion with function
The Salomon XT-6 sneakers are more than just a pretty face. They have the tech credentials to support whatever you throw at them.
They're lightweight, so I've found them great for being on my feet all day long. The quick lace-up system is also easy to secure and doesn't budge once you lock it down.
The insoles are soft but feel very breathable. My feet were never sweaty, which felt like an instant win. And the outsoles have deep lugs, which are perfect for digging into the ground and lending some extra support.
They're kind of like the Suzuki Jimny of the shoe world; totally reliable in the city but really come into their own when you head off-piste.
Yes, they really are that comfortable
I was skeptical before I first wore the XT-6 sneakers. I mean, surely they couldn't be as comfortable as everyone was saying, but they are.
I didn't have to break in these shoes at all, and I was getting the arch support of my dreams with every step. The soles of these shoes are stiff, but that's exactly what I need to get everyday stability. They can support me rushing around the city, hitting 15,000 steps per day, or going on a trail walk on a Sunday afternoon.
They are incredibly diverse and coped with me running for a train, stomping through puddles, and walking on uneven ground. The lugs of the sole gave me the perfect amount of traction.
But I have to say these shoes are very narrow. I have narrow feet, so they give me ideal support without being too tight, but anyone who usually wears wide shoes may find them to be a little snug at the sides.
Simple styling
When I'm traveling and can only take one pair of shoes with me, it seems a shame that my bulky trainers have to ruin my outfit. But since using the Salomon XT-6s, that hasn't been a concern.
I've worn them with baggy jeans, skirts and shorts, and every time they still look put together and add a sprinkle of gorpcore fashion to the look.
Sure, they make everything look a little more casual, but they still look sleek, and there are so many colors to choose from, so you can pick whatever suits your personal style best.
After a week of wear, I'd recommend these shoes for anyone who wants a reliable pair of comfortable shoes. But I'll be doing a full review on the Salomon XT-6 sneakers soon, so keep your eyes peeled.
