When the time came to replace my trusted Salomon X Ultra 3 hiking shoes back in 2021, my search led me to the Salomon X Crests. While the X Crests served a purpose as light-duty “active office shoes” – suitable for gentle hikes, city biking, and even office wear – their durability left much to be desired. It seemed I wasn’t alone in this experience, as the model has since become scarce.
Fast forward to the spring of 2023, and the need for a new pair of versatile, all-purpose shoes arose again. Working more from my IT base post-COVID, I needed footwear that could handle bike commutes, quick errands, and spontaneous after-work hikes without suffering the wear and tear of my dedicated trail running shoes. That’s when the Salomon X Ultra Pioneer caught my eye. Promising a blend of Salomon Ultra lineage with a hint of classic Merrell Moab robustness, these shoes seemed built to last longer than their Crest predecessors.
After a year of consistent wear, and now onto my second pair with plans for a third, I can confidently say the Salomon Ultra Pioneer has not disappointed in fulfilling its intended role as a reliable, multi-faceted shoe.
Initial Impressions and Key Features of the Salomon Ultra Pioneer
The Salomon Ultra Pioneer presents a robust construction, combining fabric and leather with strategically placed ventilation panels. Weighing in at 390g (14 oz) for a Men’s size 10, it strikes a balance – heavier than dedicated trail runners, yet lighter than comparable shoes like the Merrell Moab 3. Priced competitively around $115, the Salomon Pioneer offers considerable value.
Upon first wear, the volume feels slightly more snug than my recollections of the Ultra 3s, and definitely less roomy than my preferred Topo Terraventure 4s.
Salomon Ultra Pioneer compared to another shoe
The outsole features a tread pattern that appears sufficiently aggressive for most hiking trails. However, the sole itself is not exceptionally stiff, suggesting it might be better suited for established trails rather than extensive off-trail excursions.
Salomon Ultra Pioneer outsole detail
Comfort is immediately apparent, although they may not offer the same level of responsiveness as some dedicated outdoor performance shoes. These observations aren’t criticisms, but rather define the Salomon Ultra Pioneer’s niche: a versatile, all-around shoe capable of handling urban environments and less demanding outdoor pursuits with equal competence.
Performance in Diverse Environments: From Office to Trail and Beyond
My primary objective for the Salomon Ultra Pioneer was to find a “Jack-of-all-trades” outdoor shoe. I needed something less prone to rapid wear and tear compared to my specialized trail shoes, which I typically replace every few months. The Pioneer has seamlessly integrated into my daily routine, including my IT office job. The nature of my work sometimes involves physical tasks, and these shoes are perfectly up to the challenge. Beyond the office, they excel for biking around town, and those spontaneous after-work hikes to the local stewardship sites I manage with my partner Joan in Moab.
Man with bike and trailer wearing Salomon Ultra Pioneer shoes
A recent development that further highlighted the Pioneer’s versatility is my renewed involvement in Search and Rescue (SAR) activities. My supervisor’s flexibility allows me to respond to SAR calls during work hours, knowing my responsibilities will be met. This SAR involvement not only deepens my connection with the local public lands but also provides a sense of team camaraderie that complements my typically solo-oriented day job. While SAR missions often involve less technically demanding terrain than my personal hiking trips, the urgency and nature of the work present their own challenges.
Having a reliable “go-bag” and readily accessible gear is essential for SAR. The Salomon Ultra Pioneer has become a key part of my preparedness. Replacing sandals for daily wear, these shoes are now my constant companion – one less thing to think about when a SAR page comes through. Whether carrying a litter or navigating search areas, the Pioneers provide secure footing and consistent comfort, feeling distinctly more capable than many “active wear” shoes that falter in true outdoor scenarios.
Overall Verdict: The Subaru Outback of Hiking Shoes
While I wouldn’t choose the Salomon Ultra Pioneer as my exclusive, full-time hiking shoe – its sole stiffness isn’t ideal for extensive off-trail adventures – it excels in a remarkable range of activities. For established trails, urban cycling, occasional short off-trail jaunts, everyday wear, and now SAR duties, the Salomon Ultra Pioneer proves to be exceptionally well-rounded.
Salomon Ultra Pioneer worn outdoors
After about a year of moderate use, I anticipate purchasing another pair once my current ones reach the end of their lifespan. In essence, the Salomon Ultra Pioneer is the “Subaru Outback” of shoes. Just as you wouldn’t tackle extreme 4WD trails in an Outback, it capably handles gear hauling for trips, moderate dirt roads, ski resort access, and grocery runs. The Salomon X Ultra Pioneer occupies a similar niche in my footwear collection, and it fills that role exceptionally well.
Disclosure – I purchased these shoes with my own funds.
