Salomon XA Forces 8" GTX EN

This lightweight, all-conditions tactical boot is based on Salomon's iconic trail running shoe XA PRO 3D. This is the tall version of the series. Favored by special-forces, this very durable boot comes with a Gore-Tex membrane and puncture-resistant outsole, and it gives you comfort and stability on those long treks through the badlands. In addition to military use, it is also very well suited for hiking, hunting, and other demanding outdoor use.

Features

Because we live in the 2000s, the features & materials have all sorts of flashy names ending with ® and ™ but we’ll try to introduce them in an understandable way.

• The boot has a rubber outsole. The tread pattern is Salomon’s versatile All Terrain Contagrip^® that delivers stability on wet, dry, hard, and loose surfaces.
• The outsole has a layer of puncture-resistant material (ISO 20344:2011) to prevent nails and such from coming through. The boots also come with a protective toecap.
• Combining foams with two different densities, the midsole provides cushioning, stability, motion control, and shock attenuation.
• The OrthoLite^® insole is molded to match the contours of your foot, providing great cushioning and breathability.
• The upper is made from a combination of durable leather and lightweight textile. There is a single layer of mesh close to the foot to prevent debris from being trapped between your foot and the footbed.
• Every component is reinforced from the stitching to the mesh to the laces to the outsole.
• The boots come with traditional lacing with eyelets. The lace pocket provides easy storage for the lacing system.
• The 3D Advanced Chassis™ was originally designed for trail running. This low-profile chassis provides protection and stability during long treks in rough terrain.
• Developed through experience in trail running, SensiFit™ wraps around the foot, ensuring a secure and snug fit.
• The gusseted tongue is connected to the upper on both sides, preventing debris from entering the shoe and keeping the tongue centered.
• A mudguard protects the lateral and medial sides of the foot. There is also a durable, cushioned pad across the medial side of the instep for protection and increased wear.
• GORE-TEX membrane keeps your feet dry. A special treatment is applied to provide extra protection, ensuring that the fabric does not absorb water during light rain and showers.
• Although very durable, this shoe is still one of the lightest in its category. Weight on the average is 675 grams (23.8 oz) plus minus something based on the size you choose.

Size info

Sizes are listed in the UK size, then you have the comparable EU size. Foot length in millimeters is also found in the chart below. The last width on these is described as "Normal" which works for most feet.

Below you’ll find the measuring guide for Salomon footwear.

• Use a shoe box or a wall with a 90° angle.
• Find a sheet of paper or a sheet of cardboard, a ruler and a pen.
• Wear the same socks that you would normally wear with this type of boot.
• Stand on the sheet of paper and place the outside of your foot against the wall. Or place your foot in the shoe box with your heel wedged firmly against the back.
• Use your pen and ruler to draw a line just in front of your big toe.
• Measure the distance between the wall or the side of the shoe box and the line that you have just drawn.
• Find this measurement in millimeters in the drop-down box. If you fall between sizes, pick the larger one.

Care of Gore-Tex Boots

We recommend that you read our shoe and bootcare article. You should not use the regular shoe polish for gore-tex boots and shoes, instead use the stuff specifically designed for them. Regular grease/polish can block the holes in the membrane after which they won't breathe anymore.