Trail running is fun but it can also be quite challenging as it typically involves running on Nature trails such as in MacRitchie Reservoir, Bukit Timah or Tampines Mountain Bike Park instead of normal roads or pavement. These trails are usually unpaved and the terrain is very uneven with holes, puddles tree roots or rocks covering the path. Those who are new to trail running will likely learn quickly that twisted ankles and knees are very common while trail running if a proper footwear is not use.
Salomon Speedcross 2
Salomon had recently release the new Salomon Speedcross 2. Weighting only 290g the Speedcross 2 is a race ready, ultra-light, durable and built for speed trail running shoe. It is made to fit snugly like a climbing shoe giving it more support to the forefoot and heel when running on uneven surfaces. Build for snow, The Salomon Speed Cross 2 is equipped with the Winter Contagrip® rubber outsoles that is overkill for the muddy, rocky terrain we have here in Singapore. The Shock-absorbing rubber outsole lugs is soft and flexible providing a strong grip and creating traction when running in these unforgiving terrain.
Winter Contagrip®
Some features of the Salomon Speed Cross 2 include:
- Quicklace™ lacing system – A one-pull tightening lace system that quickly provide good stability, support and ensures a secure and customized fit. The lace pockets on it’s tongue store laces safely out of the way.
- Salomon Cushioning System – Equipped with a Dual-density EVA padding, it gives superb cushioning, support & stability through the entire running gait motion. Thus, reducing heel impact and ensuring a dynamic and efficient push-off.
- Sensifit™ technology – Actively cradles the foot to ensure a secure and precise fit that minimizes foot slippage and it adds extra stability inside the shoe
- Winter Contagrip® – Sticky rubber outsoles with aggressive lugged pattern on each side is build to supply superior traction on varying terrains and conditions.
Speedcross 2 - Built for All-terrain
Over the past month I had worn the Salomon Speedcross2 in a variety of activity such as Trail Running, Cycling , Jungle Trekking, Rock climbing, Abseiling and even to Parkour. I personally feel that this is the ultimate outdoor shoe as it provides superior cushioning, stability and traction regardless of the terrain, condition or the activity.
Running across uneven muddy, rocky terrains and crossing puddle of water had never feel so exhilarating as the Speedcross 2 is not only water resistant to keep the foot dry but it’s tongue also helps to keep sand and pebbles out of the shoe. Running uphill and downhill on uneven trail is made easy and safe thanks to its unique outsole design and the Salomon Cushioning system which give that extra cushioning, support and pronation control when running across these mix terrain. Running in them reminds me of the time when i use to run in spikes shoes on the stadium tracks.
Because The SpeedCross 2 is lightweight, flexible and is made to fit like a climbing shoes which add on to it’s stability and cushioning, I had been wearing it regularly for my Rock Climbing Session, Parkour and soccer. The Winter Contagrip® rubber outsole provides just the right amount of traction to aid me get past and up the obstacles.
Aftermath
However, the SpeedCross 2 was not made with waterproof Gore-Tex material unlike the some of the Salomon Trail shoes range. Thus, it will soak up water very quickly during a heavy downpour.
To conclude, if you are looking for a lightweight trail running shoe that delivers the perfect blend of stable cushioning, durability and flexibility for that long distance run in uneven mix terrain, then the Salomon SpeedCross 2 is just the shoe for you.
By far the best running shoe I ever worn – 9.5/10
Cheers! (:
Read more about Salomon : http://www.salomonrunning.com/
My Running Addiction 
These are some sweet ass shoes. I have 4 pairs but not in this color. That will be what I am going to get next.
SpeedCross 2 is awesome. I just gotten my hands on the SpeedCross 2 GTX (Gore-tex) version in bright red. will review it soon. Cheers! (:
Well where can you buy this in Singapore? Any advise would be appreciated 🙂
Hi!
You can actually purchase Speedcross 2 at all World Of Sport store (:
Any idea how much for the non gtx version? Heard that their shoes tend to run half size smaller? I like low profile trail shoes which allows me to dig fast into the pebbles and loose gravels in Singapore. I have used Adidas and Innov8 so far but like the former better. Now, I am choosing between the Northface Single Track, Brooks Cascadia, or Salomon Speedcross 2. Any recommendation?
Speedcross II is awesome. Compare to NF, Salomon Quicklace system is more efficient, the sole of the Speedcross II is great if your running on trail or in any conditions as it lugs provide better tractions as it digs into the soils and pebbles cracks. Yes, it’s made to fit 1/2 size smaller as to provide a glove-like, snug fit. I had gotten about 320km mileage on the Speedcross II ever since I got it in April and the sole is almost wearing off, not to mention I use it for my outdoor sports activity as well but it is still my pick. My personal opinion is to get the Goretex version as it will come in handy when running in the rain. The non-gtx is going at $199 at World of Sports but if you have their affiliation card, you’re entitled up to 30% discount. Cheers! (:
Just one question, is it necessary to have a shoe like this to run at MacRitchie and Lower/Upper Peirce? I’ve never done trail running before. Sounds like both challenging and scary at the same time 😀
Hmm.. Necessary would be very subjective but I rather be prepare before I go on a battle. Normal shoe that does not provide enough tractions and support can be bad when when running, prevent from accidentally twisting an ankle when running and planting your foot on an uneven terrain/ surface.
Trail shoes are definitely a must for regular trail runners. I have done 2 TNF100 50km Duo and have seen many runner ill equiped with road shoes. Road shoes does not provide sufficient sole protection which your feet will not appreciate. Further, trail shoes have toe protection which is so important for downhill and better fit to prevent feet from twisting. Some parts of MacRitchie are notoriously rocky because of man-made gravel roads. I only use trail shoes for running and nothing else. Ever since I started trail running, road running is just walk in the park. Go try one day and you will be hooked.
In 2010 the GoreTEX version had made it to the market, same performance good waterproofnes. In a 42 km marathon and previous training they performed well and hold up well. The marathon was staged in a hilgh leve of difficulty mountain area that gives a medium level hiker a run for his money. Piatra Craiului Mountains, Romania.
Hi, is it overkill to get salomon shoes for road running? I mainly do road but will like to do trail every now and then.
Hi, Depending on what salomon shoes you are using. The speedcross is flexible and provide great comfort when sprinting on the forefoot and it provide very soft cushion to reduce the impact when you land on road surface. Currently, I’m trying out another pair of Salomon shoes which unlike the SpeedCross II, it is less flexible thus running on road seems very hard, thus it is strictly for trail running and beach running.. Look out for my review on it very soon. Cheers! (:
Hi based on your advise I finally got my Speedcross (non-GTX version) and tried to walk in it for 1 day. It was very comfortable indeed. Can’t wait to start running at the reservoir with it this weekend. Thanks for the good advice!
Congrats on your new purchase! Hope to hear your review soon. 🙂
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Speed cross 2 GTX.
These shoes are ideal for trail running! my experience is Ultra 50k races.
I happen to use this particular shoe running on a asphalt multi-purpose trail (Green Jewel 50K) Cleveland Ohio.
As per the conditions of race day, 5 Mar 2011. mid 30 to 40 degree temps, with a constant downpour of rain, and up to 30 mph winds, water, mud, wood brigdes and water crossing’s.
The shoes held up well! just to put these to the test, I ran both asphalt and dirt trails, snow, ice, and some rocky area’s (for training) the shoes had roughly 400 miles on them prior to race day.
Tread cleats held up well and now at 600 miles (my shoe change out) the cleats in the area’s where my feet mosty impact are worn to the sole. Still these are the best shoes I have ever worn, comfortable, lightweight, and tons of traction! the Land Rover of trail running shoes.
I intend using only this shoe for my remainder of the 2011 trail running season. a Few Races in the xterra ohio race series, and the Buckeye 50K.
Hi!
I am with a doubt! I don’t know how speedcross II GTX works in asphalt! I’m in doubt between them and the new salomon shoes, the xr crossmax! I also want them to trail running, and I don’t know what choose will be the best one! I also know that xr crossmax are made to both, but i’ve alreay encomended the speedcross II GTX… I don’t know what to do!!
What do you think??
Hi, Im doing Annapurna 100k in Nepal in Jan. Do you think Speedcross 2 is a good fit for that kind of terrain?
Appreciate it.
Cheers
Shaf
Hi, the speedcross would be good for that sort of terrain. Since the review Salomon have release the S-lab FellCross or the speedcross 3 both are suitable and is an updated version of the speedcross2
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I love these shoes. Hiking, around town or a baseball field they are amazing. PERFECT trail running shoes!