The Salomon Thundercross Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Salomon Thundercross is a versatile trail running shoe designed for handling various terrains and paces, priced at $140. This shoe is ideal for runners seeking reliable traction on challenging surfaces, supported by a durable upper and a midsole that offers a bouncy ride.

Lab tests indicate the shoe features a 3.0 mm heel-to-toe drop, which may not be suitable for all runners. While breathability was noted as a limitation, the overall performance metrics suggest the Salomon Thundercross effectively fills a gap in Salomon's lineup, making it a solid choice for those in need of a functional shoe for trail runs or hikes.


Pros

  • Exceptional stability
  • Highly durable
  • Versatile across various paces
  • Impressively lightweight
  • Quiet on roads
  • Reasonably priced at $140
  • Great for midfoot and forefoot strikers

Cons

  • Not for summer
  • Low energy return
  • The very low drop may not suit everyone
  • Grip needs improvement

Key Features

  • Waterproof Protection: Equipped with GORE-TEX fabric to keep your feet dry in wet conditions.
  • Aggressive Traction: Features 5mm lugs that enhance grip on diverse terrains.
  • Cushioned Comfort: Designed with ample cushioning for a comfortable running experience.
  • Durable Construction: Made from synthetic materials and rubber for longevity and support.
  • Lightweight Design: Facilitates easy movement without weighing you down.

Specifications

  • Fabric Type: Synthetic-and-rubber
  • Sole Material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA)
  • Closure Type: Lace-Up
  • Water Resistance Level: Water Resistant

Salomon Thundercross Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Salomon Thundercross Nike Zegama 2 Hoka Speedgoat 6 Nike Terra Kiger 9
Price $140 $180 $155 $150
Trail terrain Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 9.6 oz / 271g 10.7 oz / 302g 9.8 oz / 278g 10.2 oz / 288g
Drop lab Drop brand 3.0 mm 4.0 mm 4.9 mm 4.4 mm
Strike pattern Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot
Size True to size True to size Slightly small True to size
Midsole softness Soft Soft Balanced Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Normal Small Small Normal
Toebox durability Good Good Good Very good
Heel padding durability Decent Good Good Decent
Outsole durability Good Good Decent -
Breathability Warm Moderate Warm Moderate
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Wide Medium Medium
Stiffness Moderate Moderate Stiff Stiff
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Stiff Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Flexible Moderate Moderate
Lug depth 4.0 mm 4.0 mm 4.0 mm 4.4 mm
Heel stack lab Heel stack brand 27.6 mm 30.3 mm 32.1 mm 30.1 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 24.6 mm 26.3 mm 27.2 mm 25.7 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
For heavy runners
Season Winter All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Orthotic friendly
Ranking Top 27% Top 39% Bottom 11% Top 11%
Popularity Bottom 39% Top 26% Top 13% Bottom 20%