Frag Out! Magazine
Issue link: https://fragout.uberflip.com/i/693549
DESIGN At first glance, Salomon FORCES XA Pro 3D Mid is rugged running sneaker, but with a lightweight design. However, it is actually a sol- id workhorse, designed for extreme mountain running, where shock absorption, bal- ance, and low weight are the factors that make the boot use- ful. The features of the boot are quickly verified in such difficult terrain. In the mountains, there is just no room for mediocre al- ternative solutions. The upper has an aggressive design, giving an attractive look (but not only, more info below). It is medium height and covers the ankle. It is fully made of combination of anti-debris mesh textile and smooth synthetic leather for the upper. This combo provides high durability and resistance dam- ages and, at the same time, proper ventilation and quick drying, when boots get soaked. In the variant with a GORE-TEX , the mesh has been replaced with a waterproof nylon fabric. The boot cuff in the top part of the upper has been solidly padded with soft foam, thanks to which it perfectly fits to the shape of the leg. The inner part has been padded with a mesh. The wide, wedge-shaped tongue has been designed in a similar way; it fits to the body. The top part of the back upper has a webbing loop, which helps in donning of the shoe, while the heel is enforced, which results in better balance. Toes are covered with a rubber toe cap that increases protec- tion of that part. FOOTWEAR