The Salomon Quest Prime GTX W may be a lightweight contender but it's one heck of a wide and bulky boot so if you've got narrow low volume feet then you may aswell look away right now. If, however, you're sporting a wider, high volume kind of trotter then the Quest Prime GTX W could well be the perfect off-road companion.
At around 490g in a size 5.5, the Quest Prime GTX W is one of the more feathery boots in Salomon's hiking line-up but it's certainly no lightweight when it comes to on-trail performance. The GORE-TEX membrane ensures waterproof protection, the toe and heel caps protect the boot from off-road wear and tear, and the abrasion resistant liner, high-cut ankle profile, and mud guard around the base of the shoe are all testament to what this rugged and athletic boot is ultimately designed to do and that's to keep your feet protected from the elements so that you can go further in the mountains.
Robust it may be but thankfully Salomon have also prioritized comfort with the Quest Prime GTX W and the Ortholite sockliner with EVA heel cup adds excellent cushioning to the boot. Salomon's Sensifit technology further aids the comfort cause, wrapping the foot with a precise and secure fit that reduces that annoying sliding forward sensation on long, steep descents.
The Quest Prime GTX W bossed the stability test with ease and the structure of the boot stood up well even when carrying a reasonably heavy pack. This is in no small part down to Salomon's advanced chassis between the mid and outsole of the boot that helps you to maintain control underfoot and push through your stride in tricky terrain. When it comes to grip, the Contagrip outsole performs admirably on dry and rocky terrain but is arguably a little less bomber when it comes to wet and muddy conditions and slippery tree roots.
Price-wise the Quest Prime GTX W sits in the middle of the pack and £130 feels about right for a technical yet sporty hiking boot from a company with real mountain heritage. But before you part with your cash, it is worth making sure you've got your sizing right as Salomon's range of boots and shoes can be a little unpredictable at times. We normally take a UK 6.5 in their trail and mountain running shoes for example but often have to size down for a Salomon boot, as was the case with the Quest Prime GTX. Be sure you try before you buy.
