I’ve had these Salomon Quest 4 GTX boots for about 3 years. They’ve been through backpacking and two long field seasons with daily use in the backcountry. What I like about these: they’re extremely comfortable, I never even had to break them in. My feet never get tired even after 12 miles and I’ve never had any blisters. As a fashion-conscious outdoor worker, I love their look. They also provide good ankle support. What I don’t like: they are only waterproof to a certain extent. I don’t see too much rain living and working in the southwest (US) but several times getting caught in a severe monsoon has left my feet soaked. They are good in muddy conditions though. I feel like I’m losing grip, which might be due to the boots or my own coordination, not sure. They’re already starting to fall apart which I’m not sure is due to low quality or just heavy usage. Overall, I’m wondering if I’ve still got some life to these or if I should start looking to buy a new pair. This is the first serious pair of hiking boots I’ve ever worn. If I should buy a new pair, I’d like something that has a high ankle, is extremely comfortable and lightweight, decently waterproof for monsoon season, and has good grip for backcountry desert and montane hiking. Also, I would love a boot that looks great and comes in muted colors.
These boots still have at least another year of life in them. A bit of shoe glue to hold the toe cap back down would enhance their appearance, but otherwise, they look good.
Bao said:
These boots still have at least another year of life in them. A bit of shoe glue to hold the toe cap back down would enhance their appearance, but otherwise, they look good.
Don’t use Shoe Goo; it’s not very effective. Instead, use AquaSeal SR (Shoe Repair), or Barge’s contact cement in the yellow tub. Clean the area with rubbing alcohol, apply a dab of AquaSeal or Barge’s, wait 10 minutes, press together, and clean up any excess. Use rubber bands or blue painters tape to hold the piece in place for about 24 hours until it dries. This will now be the strongest part of your shoe!
@Zane
Absolutely, follow this advice!
Ignore suggestions for trail runners if you prefer boots. A little shoe glue and reapplying a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) could make them feel like new, while keeping the broken-in look that you like.
@Nico
I definitely need to give them some TLC. I do prefer boots for my needs.
Check out Hanwag boots. They are as comfortable out of the box as Salomons but tend to last much longer on average.
Consider having them professionally repaired if you’re not ready to let them go. They still have many miles left.
I had similar issues with Salomon boots, and when the rubber began to peel, Salomon sent me a new pair. I’m sticking with Salomon for now.
I switched to Crispi boots, specifically the Briksdal Pro GTX, after using Salomon GTX boots. Crispis are exceptionally good, very comfortable even after extensive use, and highly durable. I highly recommend them.
It might be wise to start looking for a new pair. You can get by with some shoe glue for the short term, but relying on a temporary fix is risky, especially if a blowout happens on the trail.
After experiencing multiple failures with Quest 4 boots, I switched to the Asolo Fugitive GTX, which offers a similar fit but much better durability. If the waterproofing is failing, it might be time to switch.
@Nash
It’s good to hear a direct comparison. I might do some research on the Asolo Fugitive GTX. It gives me some time to save up for a new pair.
Zion said:
@Nash
It’s good to hear a direct comparison. I might do some research on the Asolo Fugitive GTX. It gives me some time to save up for a new pair.
The Gore-Tex failed in all three pairs I had, and the stitching broke in several places on two of them.
Be cautious with newer models as the fit has changed. The newer versions have more room above the foot, making them feel less snug. If you prefer the old fit, it’s something to consider.
Mal said:
Be cautious with newer models as the fit has changed. The newer versions have more room above the foot, making them feel less snug. If you prefer the old fit, it’s something to consider.
That’s useful to know. The fit is very important to me, especially since I don’t have narrow feet.
@Zion
Exactly, there’s a noticeable difference in how they fit around the top of your foot now, which might not work for everyone.
Salomon X Ultras are another great option if you’re looking for something a bit different but still from a brand you trust.
Mai said:
Salomon X Ultras are another great option if you’re looking for something a bit different but still from a brand you trust.
I considered those before but wasn’t sure how they’d hold up with the rugged terrain I often traverse.
Get them repaired by a professional if you’re not ready to buy new ones. A good cobbler can work wonders.