Salomon Women's X Ultra 360 vs Salomon X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex

Both are Salomon X Ultra low-cut hiking shoes with the same Contagrip outsole and Advanced Chassis, so the real split is weatherproofing and weight. The X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex adds a waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX membrane and a tougher Matryx upper with Kevlar, but it weighs about 75 g more per shoe. The X Ultra 360 is the lighter, simpler shoe on a recycled textile upper, and its high rating from a small pool of owners is positive but thin. Buy the 360 for dry, fast day hikes; step up to the X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex if you hike in wet weather or want the more abrasion-resistant upper.

• Choose the X Ultra 360 if you hike mostly in dry conditions and want the lighter, simpler shoe with the same grip and chassis.
• Choose the Salomon X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex if you hike in rain, mud or wet trails and want a waterproof shoe with a tougher upper.