6 hiking shoe alternatives to the Salomon XT-6

No disrespect to Salomon, but allow me to put you on to other great alternatives.

Salomon. What started as a technical brand making high-performance ski and hiking gear in the French Alps has become something much bigger.

Over the past decade, the brand has seamlessly expanded into mainstream fashion, lead by the The XT-6. Now, it’s become a staple in wardrobes far removed from the trails—in fact, you’re more likely to see it at your local natural wine shop than in nature.

And for good reason: Salomon’s blend of innovative tech, utilitarian design, and understated colorways made them a perfect crossover between performance and lifestyle. But as with anything that reaches mass adoption, it loses some of its edge.

The XT-6 isn’t a bad shoe—it’s just everywhere.

That’s why I wanted to put together a list of alternatives. Not just for the sake of being different, but because there are plenty of other brands that balance functionality with style.

Whether you want something technical for the trails, a versatile city-to-nature hybrid, or a shoe that feels a little less expected, here are some solid picks that still bring performance and personality to the table.

Here we go.

---

Merrell Wrapt

Brand overview:
Merrell has been a staple in the hiking community since 1981, known for producing high-quality performance footwear. The brand emphasizes comfort, durability, and versatility, catering to both casual hikers and seasoned adventurers.

Price: ~$110

Why I like it:
The Merrell Wrapt is a certified sleeper. The zero-drop construction that mimicks the natural shape of the foot, the pig suede leather upper that provides durability, and the aggressive rubber sole… it’s a great option for any setting.

Where to buy: Merrell Wrapt