Salewa Men’s Wildfire S GTX Technical Approach Shoe is a lightweight waterproof and highly breathable technical tool for rock scrambling and hiking.
Key features
- Waterproof & breathable GORE-TEX technology.
- Lacing system with 7 eyelets.
- Designed for light and fast technical approaches and light day-hiking tours.
- Multi Fit Footbed Plus (MFF+) with interchangeable layers.
- Great colors to choose from.
Who is it for
These shoes are described as technical approach shoes, but they are nicely built shoes suitable for a lot more, like all-day hiking and scrambling.
They are great for people with small volume feet. The reason is that the lacing system which you have here is very long, so that you can cinch the shoe in areas which are critical for you. This will secure a snug fit and it might save you from developing blisters.
What is in the name & general overview
These are lightweight shoes, not built for heavy load, so do not plan to combine them with big backpacks because you do not have an ankle support needed for heavy loads.
The upper part is Salewa’s ballistic Exa Shell micro fiber cage mesh (see the picture) which wraps the foot for maximum stability while not inhibiting breathability.
The letters GTX are to tell you that you have the GORE-TEX membrane for full water protection and for breathability. In combination with the mentioned Exa Shell, this system will keep your feet dry and comfortable.
One remarkable feature is the lacing system with 7 pairs of eyelets which is quite unusual to see in such low-cut shoes. Observe also that the first two pairs of eyelets are asymmetric, so this all is designed for a perfect fit and in the style which you would normally expect in climbing shoes.
The heels are quite prominent here and they are reinforced with the characteristic Y-shaped straps which you can see in the pictures, on both sides of the shoe. This in combination with the lacing system very effectively locks the foot in place.
The midsole
Here you have a two-piece system in place with an EVA midsole, i.e., the replaceable Multi Fit Footbed Plus (MFF+). This system includes interchangeable layers so you can adapt it to the unique shape of your foot. So if you need more volume, just remove one of the two layers.
The outsole
The outsole is sticky Vibram rubber (the Vibram Tech Approach EVO) which they use for rock scrambles and alpine approaches. You will notice very different lugs design in different zones, circular in some areas and rectangular in other areas, see the picture below. This is supposed to give an optimum grip for a variety of terrain and weather conditions. The rubber is also on the front for extra protection of toes from rocks and roots.
Specifications & summary of features
- Average weight (pair): 1 lb 14.4 oz (862 g).
- Eyelets: 7.
- Upper: microfiber and ballistic mesh.
- Outsole: Vibram Tech Approach EVO rubber.
- GORE-TEX membrane.
- Multi Fit Footbed Plus (MFF+).
- Warranty: two years limited.
- Colors: 7.
- Sizes: available in full and half sizes.
Summary & rating
So to conclude this Salewa Men’s Wildfire S GTX Technical Approach Shoe review, as the name suggests this is a technical tool, so not something for entry-level outdoor enthusiasts, hence the price. But even if you are a beginner and can afford them, do not hesitate, you will have a reliable tool. I trust the brand behind these shoes and I can fully recommend them.
These shoes have received a very high average rating by Amazon customers. See how I rate them:
Salewa Men's Wildfire GTX
Pros
- Advanced design and technology.
- Great colors.
- Good and effective lacing system.
- Fully waterproof.
- Very breathable.
Cons
- Expensive.
If you feel that these shoes are not for you, please visit my page with boots and shoes, there are many great models from various brands presented there.
Thank you for reading. In the case of comments and questions, please use the comment box below. Have a nice day.
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