When an offer came in to review boots from Salomon, we were all over it. However, since no particular version was mentioned, it was a week of guessing and wondering until the magic moment came where our UPS driver arrived bearing early Christmas presents. In this case, the boots delivered were the Salomon Wing Sky GTX. This quick blurb is getting ready for the long term review, and in 6 months we'll report back on how these boots did in a variety of conditions. Wet, dry, sand, snow as well as daily all around use will be covered.
I'm a big believer in all things circling back to a practical nature, and for me, that means we'll do a lot of shooting and moving in these boots. Practical has different applications and meanings, so for those people who perhaps don't buy clothing and equipment based around the idea of a gunfight, I'll make sure I hike and backpack wearing them as well. I'm here for you, and I'm good like that.
While I've only spent a few hours in the Salomon Wing Sky GTX, there are a few immediate things that come to mind. First and foremost, the boots are very comfortable right out of the box. The heel fit is snug without being overly tight, and the toe box is wide enough that hot, wet, swelling feet won't be cramped. The lacing system seems very secure, and with no pinch points. I laced and unlaced these multiple times, and it looks like the crew at Salomon did their homework on the lace up. Lastly, the soles are more flexible than I had expected. I had first expected a hard sole that would gradually roll under pressure, but these lean towards more of a trail running shoe feel. Note I said "lean" towards that feel, because I certainly don't want to give the impression that they are lace up high top sneakers. The sole seems to be more athletic in nature than the usual hiking boot if that makes sense.
This will pop up again in six months, and we'll let you know how it does. So far, I like it.
http://www.salomon.com/us/product/wings-sky-gtx.html#bas
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