Originally submitted at Rock Creek Outfitters

Salomon's XT Wings 2 trail running shoe is the top of the line running shoe combining outstanding cushioning and stability with agility.

Salomon's XT Wings 2 trail running shoe is the top of the line running shoe combining outstanding cushioning and stability with agility.
A Shoe That Makes a Difference
By Fitcoach7 from Richmond, VA on 5/18/2010
Pros: Look great, Pronation Control, Stabilizes Foot, Good Arch Support, Ease of use, Comfortable, Lightweight, Ankle Support out of 5Cons: Poor Cushioning
Best Uses: All Weather Conditions, Everyday, At The Gym, Paved Trails, On gravel trails, Mixed Terrain
Describe Yourself: Recreational Walker/Hiker
Just bought these shoes about 3 to 4 weeks ago, so I can't comment about durability. I do a lot of urban hiking, but I reserve these shoes specifically for the 2 to 3 hour power hikes that I do weekly at the state park trails in Virginia. I've read a number of mixed reviews about these shoes (lacing system durability, forefoot cushioning, and outsole wearability), but I will provide my personal impressions here with minimal bias.
when I slipped these shoes on in the store, it was instant love. My feet breathed a literal sigh of relief. I was so comfortable that I grabbed a store employee and asked if he had tried these. Well, a customer overheard me and began telling me about his experience with them over the previous 9 months. Needless to say, I HAD to buy them on the spot.
I have taken them on three 2 to 3 hour trail excursions thus far. I've had a bit of discomfort in the outer toe area and some arch discomfort, but I attribute that to new shoes being used for a sustained period. No blisters, but 2.5 hours of constant power hiking so far seems to be the limit. I agree with the reviews I've read about minimal forefoot cushioning - you can really feel some stones - especially if you are running. A set of replacement SofSoles (which I normally put in a new pair anyway) improved this issue by 100%.
The Sensifit speed lacing system is very quick and easy to use. I rarely have to adjust it often on the trail - unlike a pair of Oboz Sawtooth I owned. The fit is tight and comfortable.
This shoe has a pronation control system and even though I supinate and wear on the outer edges of my shoes, it appears to be helping my foot placement. Time will tell regarding the outsole wear pattern. (NOTE: I have owned Salomons before and was not particularly impressed with outsole wear. This is one reason why I'm reserving these for trail use only and not for power walking on city pavement.)
I do love the look and feel of the shoe though. I sometimes use them when I am teaching and on my feet all day - makes a big difference!
when I slipped these shoes on in the store, it was instant love. My feet breathed a literal sigh of relief. I was so comfortable that I grabbed a store employee and asked if he had tried these. Well, a customer overheard me and began telling me about his experience with them over the previous 9 months. Needless to say, I HAD to buy them on the spot.
I have taken them on three 2 to 3 hour trail excursions thus far. I've had a bit of discomfort in the outer toe area and some arch discomfort, but I attribute that to new shoes being used for a sustained period. No blisters, but 2.5 hours of constant power hiking so far seems to be the limit. I agree with the reviews I've read about minimal forefoot cushioning - you can really feel some stones - especially if you are running. A set of replacement SofSoles (which I normally put in a new pair anyway) improved this issue by 100%.
The Sensifit speed lacing system is very quick and easy to use. I rarely have to adjust it often on the trail - unlike a pair of Oboz Sawtooth I owned. The fit is tight and comfortable.
This shoe has a pronation control system and even though I supinate and wear on the outer edges of my shoes, it appears to be helping my foot placement. Time will tell regarding the outsole wear pattern. (NOTE: I have owned Salomons before and was not particularly impressed with outsole wear. This is one reason why I'm reserving these for trail use only and not for power walking on city pavement.)
I do love the look and feel of the shoe though. I sometimes use them when I am teaching and on my feet all day - makes a big difference!
(legalese)
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