Salomon Speedcross 3

Last week, I decided to start serious trail running training in an environment similar to the actual race course. With the Khao Pratab Chang Trail Race coming up in mid-June, it’s time to focus on running through forests and tackling uphill and downhill terrain. I did a practice run in the forest behind Huay Tung Tao, and the result was two lost toenails and blisters on my toes. This was a stark reminder of why proper trail running shoes are essential.

During my first trail run, I wore my trusty New Balance 890 V5s, which have served me well on roads. However, they didn’t hold up well on uneven surfaces like dirt and rocks, leading to significant foot pain and injury. This experience convinced me that it was time to invest in a pair of trail running shoes.

I spent a long time searching for the right pair, considering various models and brands, and reading countless reviews. After trying on several options in different stores, I finally settled on the Salomon Speedcross 3.

This is my second pair of running shoes, and they strike a balance between affordability and quality, making them a satisfying choice for me.

External Design

The Speedcross 3 is designed for hiking and trail running, with a rugged, bulky appearance compared to other trail shoes. While it may look a bit bulky, it’s not unattractive. The thick fabric seems like it might get hot, and the tongue, which only moves at the top, might become annoying.

The overall design is quite eye-catching, with bold colors like neon green, red, and orange. I personally like vibrant colors, and the Speedcross 3 delivers on that front.

The shoes feature a quick-lace system for easy on and off, and to prevent the laces from coming undone while running. However, I prefer traditional laces for a more secure fit. The laces are thin, but they’re surprisingly durable and don’t break easily. After tightening, the lace ends can be tucked under the top of the tongue for a neat look.

The shoes weigh around 310 grams. Considering their bulky appearance, I expected them to be heavier, but this weight is actually quite reasonable.

Fit and Comfort

The Speedcross 3 has a narrow fit, which might not be ideal for those with wide feet. The toe box is particularly narrow, and I could feel some pressure on my pinky toe—possibly due to my socks as well.

Outsole

At first glance, the outsole appears stiff, but it’s actually more flexible than it looks. The shoe’s firmness is balanced with enough cushioning to keep your feet comfortable. The aggressive lug pattern on the outsole provides excellent traction, especially when climbing or braking on descents. I tested this feature and found it quite impressive.

Field Test

As with any new gear, I was eager to put my Speedcross 3s to the test. In Chiang Mai, we’re fortunate to have several great trails for both training and racing. I chose the area behind Huay Tung Tao, which offers a mix of dirt roads, sandy paths, and hard-packed dirt trails.

Dirt Roads: I started on a gravel road, and the shoes provided a stable feel. The bulkiness of the cushioning was noticeable at first, but I soon got used to it. The road was mostly flat, so there wasn’t much challenge here.

Sandy Trails: Next, I moved onto sandy terrain, a training ground for ATVs with winding paths and slight inclines. The shoes handled well here, with the lugs providing good grip and reducing the risk of slipping on curves.

Uphill Terrain: As I entered the forest, the trail became steeper and the ground harder. The Speedcross 3 performed well on both uphill and downhill sections. The lugs helped with grip on ascents, though they were less effective on harder surfaces where the shoes felt a bit slippery.

Rocky and Gravel Paths: On rocky terrain, the stiffer sole and elevated heel made it difficult to maintain stability. If you’re not used to the shoe’s height, there’s a risk of ankle rolling. Although the shoes offer some protection, caution is still necessary.

Wet or Muddy Conditions: I haven’t tested the shoes in wet conditions yet, but they are supposed to offer some water resistance.

Summary

• Design: Rugged and bulky, typical of hiking shoes.
• Color: Vibrant and visually appealing—definitely a plus.
• Fit: Snug, especially in the toe box; not ideal for wide feet.
• Lacing: Quick-lace system is convenient but might not be to everyone’s liking.
• Outsole: Provides good traction on sand and dirt but requires caution on rocky surfaces to avoid ankle rolling.
• Breathability: Decent, but the thick fabric might get warm in hot conditions.
• Protection: Adequate protection for toes on downhill runs.
• Water Resistance: Offers some level of water resistance.
• Durability: Built to withstand rough terrain, with a durable design.

Overall, the Salomon Speedcross 3 is a solid choice for trail running, offering the right balance of protection, durability, and performance. It’s not perfect, but it’s a reliable companion for tackling challenging trails.