Salomon Outpulse GTX £135

New for 2022, the Outpulse is pitched at ‘fast and light’ hikers who like to move unencumbered in the mountains.

Incorporating features borrowed from Salomon’s trail running footwear, they feature an ‘Energy Blade’ TPU plate in the midsole, which provides springiness and support for flexibility and protection underfoot. A pronounced rocker and ample cushioning from super-soft Fuze Surge foam (made from 30% natural rubber) adds extra responsiveness.

However, despite their low profile and lightweight build, these shoes do not feel minimalist. Luxuriously soft padding around the cuff and tongue makes for exceptional out-of-the-box comfort. There are pronounced cutaways around the ankle bone for full freedom of movement, with a built-up heel section for good Achilles support and protection.

Ellie really liked the trainerlike fit. We’d describe them as a low volume shoe, with a neat toe box – though the knit fabric does crease easily, which made us wonder about long-term durability.

That aside, there was little to fault. The Gore-Tex liner did its job without feeling too hot or sweaty, the eyelet lacing gave a snug and secure fit, and the All Terrain Contagrip sole – a compound normally known for hard-wearing durability rather than outstanding traction – outperformed expectations. It’s also worth noting that these shoes come in an unusually wide range of sizes for both men and women.

IF WE’RE BEING FUSSY Though you get reasonably robust synthetic overlays at the toe and heel, the knitted fabric upper is very lightweight and looks susceptible to wear, especially at the vamp.

■ WEIGHT 602g (women’s 5.5) ■ UPPER Textile knit with synthetic overlays ■ MEMBRANE Gore-Tex ■ OUTSOLE Contagrip ■ MEN’S SIZES 6.5-13.5 ■ WOMEN’S SIZES 3.5-10.5

Verdict

Superlight trail shoes that are ideal for fast-paced hiking and hillwalking, with plush cushioning and soft padding that makes for exceptional comfort.

“Exceptional out-of-the-box comfort”