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Salomon XR Mission 2 Trail Running Shoes Review

Last updated on February 27, 2019 By The Running Guy Leave a Comment

Running on trails always put out more challenges than running on roads so choosing suitable shoes for this terrain also often has some difficulties. However, you don’t have to worry too much because I have available good shoes in my mind to recommend to you, they are Salomon XR Mission 2 trail running shoes. And here is some information as well as personal reviews on this great product.

Table of Contents

  • Salomon XR Mission 2 description
    • Updated features
  • Salomon XR Mission review
    • Comfort
    • Fit and sizing
    • Cushioning
    • Support
    • Breathability
    • Flexibility
    • Stability
    • Durability
    • Traction and terrains
    • Look
    • Weight
    • Use
    • Salomon XR Mission – Pros and Cons
  • Similar running shoes to Salomon XR Mission
    • Salomon X-Mission 3
    • Under Armour Assert Grit
    • Asics Gel FujiAttack
    • Asics Gel Venture
    • Conclusion

Salomon XR Mission 2 description

  • Upper
  • Midsole
  • Outsole

The upper is built with ripstop nylon which is thought to be possibly one of the most durable uppers. This helps protect the shoes from rocks and debris on the roads. A tough TPU cap and small rubber bumper deliver excellent protection that sometimes keep my toes from injuries. One-pull lacing system on the upper is very easy and quick in providing a customized fit. The combination of the simple overlays and quick lace system provide a unique secure midfoot. Besides, the heel built with foam at the rear keeps it locked in well and prevents any slippage.

The midsole of the Salomon XR Mission 2 is one piece molded EVA created by the blending of two light weight composites. It takes responsibility for both responsive cushioning and durability of midsole. Besides, Salomon uses the exclusive LT Muscle foam to enhance shock-absorption and durability. Although this unit is very rugged but still provides ample cushioning as well as excellent rock protection on all runs.

The outsole of XR Mission 2 uses two top notch technologies that not only provides nice impact resistance, great traction but gives excellent durability in this area as well. The wide platform of the outsole with a wide splash seems to help displace and reduce water that get on the upper when you run over puddles. On the other hand, the fairly aggressive treads allow runners to transition from road to trail easier without making too much effort. Another highlight feature of this unit is the OS Tendon which acts to allow a natural foot movement.

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Updated features

  • The performance of the 2nd version of XR Mission is upgraded as hybrid shoes that can work well on both road and trail.
  • The use of additional and thinner overlays is also one subtle change in the shoes.
  • A more breathable tongue also helps improve breathability.
  • On the outsole, there are more rubber pods to provide a little improvement in cushioning and traction.
  • The bigger forefoot grooves add a great amount of flexibility and enhanced transitions.

Salomon XR Mission review

Salomon XR Mission Shoes

Comfort

They broke in a lot easier than I expected. The soft and supple materials used to build up the shoes offer smooth feel over the foot. A roomy toe box always makes runners comfortable to splay their toes. Overall, these are very comfortable in all environment and terrain. I just have a small complain about the fit at the mid-foot of these shoes that sometimes cause discomfort.

Fit and sizing

As I mentioned above, the unusual “hourglass” shape of Salomon XR Mission 2 sometimes causes a difficult fit by their too narrow mid-foot and too wide and sloppy toe box. However, for other runners, they love plenty of room in the toe-box for wide feet as well as secure heel cup to provide them with fine fit. I think ordering 1/2 size larger will give a better fit.

Cushioning

From the appearance of the shoes, you can recognize that they have a lot of cushioning. More rubber pods add more cushioning to the shoes. The cushioning is soft and ample, especially in the mid-foot and fore-foot area, (not the heel area) while still flexible and light. But despite plenty of cushioning, these still give me very good underfoot feeling.

Support

The heel offers good support but feel a little stiff, especially when running on road. When it comes to arch support, I can say that it is good. I have high arches and they work great for me. Moreover, I tend to walk with my ankles turned in (over pronation). These seemed to support me better than other shoes I have worn. Besides, some runners gave good feedbacks about good support provided by these shoes for their knee pain, plantar fasciitis and other foot problems.

Breathability

Although the breathability of this version is improved, unfortunately water gets in these shoes and the drainage is not so good and often causes discomfort to your feet. The non-mesh, rubbery inserts are the main cause of this issue.

Flexibility

I am quite satisfied with the flexibility of these. The flexibility of this 2nd version of Salomon XR Mission is enhanced by the bigger forefoot grooves. Additionally, the shoes flex quite naturally that deliver a fluid running transitioning.

Stability

I felt very stable when running in these shoes. In fact, they feature more stability than my old running shoes. The midsole with a 10mm drop ensures stability for runners. The extra-wide outsole of Salomon XR Mission shoes creates a huge landing surface which delivers an impressive stability even on loose rocks and uneven terrains. Plus, the quite secure and cozy heel cup offers solid lateral stability on any terrain.

Durability

These shoes have a reputation for good quality. Designed for trail running, these shoes certainly have great durability to deal with damages or hard terrains. That is true! This 2nd version of Salomon XR Mission shoes has greatly enhanced durability. From the upper to outsole, they are designed with many advanced features and technologies to protect them from bad impact from the outside. Even the hardest surfaces can’t cause any trouble.

Traction and terrains

They are very agile and quick shoes with sensitive trail feel. The wide Contagrip Outsole seems to increase the traction of the shoes. The traction provided is great enough to deal with most surfaces even wet rocks, roots or light snow without worrying about slipping or falling. Ideal terrains to use these shoes are trails and even more technical routes.

Look

I always sacrifice aesthetics for functionality when purchasing running shoes. Although I didn’t pay too much attention to the look when purchasing these, I don’t have any complain about this aspect. The color combination is very nice too.

Weight

These Salomon XR Mission shoes are quite below the average weight of other running shoes despite plenty of cushioning as well as more stability and support features. They are light enough for me to do long distance running without making my feet tired because of the heaviness of the shoes.

Use

Salomon XR Mission 2 trail running shoes are best for neutral runners who often take a heel or mid-foot strike. They are advertised as short to middle distance training shoes. Besides, the shoes are also ideal for running on adventurous trails and the transitions from smooth trails to other more technical surfaces. But because of their good performance, I would use them as everyday trainers and any distance.

Salomon XR Mission - Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Lightweight but still supportive and protective.
  • A lot of room in the toe-box.
  • Quick and easy lacing system.
  • Transition from heel to toe is smooth and springy.
  • Stability is great on all terrains.
  • Provide excellent traction even on wet and muddy surfaces.

Cons

  • The fit is rather difficult.
  • Drainage and breathability are not well.
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Similar running shoes to Salomon XR Mission

Salomon X-Mission 3

The first similar model of Salomon XR Mission 2 is the Salomon X-Mission 3. These shoes allow runners to travel over many types of surfaces with ease even on unpredictable ones. It features durable and protective components to keep runners from any immediate danger. You can use the shoes to run on roads or for trail-to-asphalt transitions.

Read more about Salomon shoes review

Under Armour Assert Grit

Like Salomon XR Mission 2, the Under Armour Assert Grit are ideal neutral training shoes for trail running. This also features advanced technologies to provide super cushioning, grip and stability without adding more weight. In terms of durability, the shoes have durable leather overlays with extremely durable outsole that help you run more confidently without worrying too much about broken shoes in the middle of a run.

Asics Gel FujiAttack

The next model you can buy to replace your Salomon XR Mission 2 is the Asics Gel FujiAttack 5. It brings luxurious comfort when running on trails. According to many users, The Gel FujiAttack 5 is really durable. Although the protective components of them are limited, they still work well in keeping foot from debris and other hazards. I make sure that you will love the great cushioning, support as well as stability provided by this model.

Asics Gel Venture

Another good replacement for Salomon XR Mission 2 is Asics Gel Venture 5. The 5th version of the Asics Gel Venture provides a better grip, added support, enhanced cushioning and durability at affordable price. This model is also a great option for light trail running or daily running and training.

Conclusion

I have to say that they are definitely far better trail shoes than road shoes. If you are looking for good middle distance trail shoes or want to buy shoes for transitioning to run on trails, you won’t be disappointed with Salomon XR Mission 2.

My rating:
  • 9/10
    Salomon XR Mission 2 - 9.0/10
9/10
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