Salomon has been a huge force in the outdoor sports industry for decades, becoming a top brand for skiers, hikers and mountaineers. Over the past 15 years, their shoes also began to gain a foothold within military and law enforcement special operations units throughout the world. Picking up the trend, Salomon established its Forces sub brand, and began producing footwear specifically for the professional gunfighter. To give you a lay of the land, we’ll review the entire Salomon Forces line so that you can find whatever you need to tackle any terrain; and be sure to check out our catalog if you get a hankering to purchase.
BACKCOUNTRY BASELINE
The major anchors of the Salomon Forces line are the Quest 4D and XA Pro 3D boots. As its name implies, the Quest uses Salomon’s 4D chassis-style that’s built for mountain environments. Likewise, the XA Pro series uses the 3D chassis designed for more assault-focused movements. Both boots feature a low-visibility design with non-reflective materials; well suited for duty use, but without looking too “tactical” in more casual settings. It’s always nice to get equipment that has a style you can wear outside of the work environment, and Salmon’s designs split the difference between form and function perfectly. US Elite Gear also has an exclusive variant of the XA Pro 3D Mid we’ve dubbed the “Sua Sponte”, paying homage to the motto of the 75th Ranger Regiment. The striking Wolf Grey color scheme looks great in any environment, and it’s only available through US Elite.
The big difference between the Quest and XA Pro can be seen in their specific roles. The XA Pro comes in low and mid height,and fits the tole of a general purpose hiking/assault boot. The Quest rides higher providing more support and sturdier construction ideal for parachute and rappelling operations. Both the Quest and the XA Pro series have the extremely handy Quicklace system that makes getting into your boots a breeze. Gore-Tex variants are available for those environments where waterproofing is mandatory for avoiding misery.
COMFORT IN THE COLD
With Salomon’s pedigree in alpine products, you’d expect them to have excellent options on offers for cold weather boots. You’d be absolutely right. Salomon offers options for every stage of the mountain climb. The ALP MTN is your serious shoe for seriously tough terrain. Featuring full leather upper construction and Salomon’s High Traction Contragrip outsole, this boot gives you security in foot support and traction, so you can negotiate the mountain safely. Need more speed? The ALP MID LTR features a mid height fit and more flexible chassis, so you can speed up your movement. And for those facing some bone-chilling temperatures, the Toundra Pro is Salomon’s extreme cold weather boot. Built with Aerotherm insulation and Climashield waterproof lining, the Toundra can keep your feet warm in temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit.
STEP ANYWHERE
No boot is perfect for every environment, so Salomon has got several options for more specific roles. There’s the Speed Assault, a low-profile shoe ideal for warm and wet climates, or as a lightweight training option. The Speedcross 3 is all about a lightweight, aggressive fit, perfect for everyday urban movement. And the Jungle Ultra provides the support for long distance marches, but also the breathability and drainable vital for working in the wetlands.
Whatever your footwear needs, you’ll likely find it in the Salomon Forces line. Check out our full offering of Salomon Forces products here, and be sure to keep an eye on US Elite Gear, as we add exciting new products from Salomon throughout the year!