Modular, versatile, rugged, warm, adaptable
There’s something about the cold—the kind that sneaks into your bones, turns trails into battlegrounds of ice and mud, where every step feels like a gamble. Out there, survival is about adaptation. It’s about the moments when the weather shifts in an instant, and you have to be ready to shift with it. That’s what Salomon’s Snowclog Advanced is all about: transformation on demand.
This isn’t just another piece of trendy gear slapped together for the urban masses, despite what its streetwear allure might suggest. No, this shoe still remembers its roots. It’s built for those who respect the unforgiving nature of the wilderness, for those who find peace in the harshness of the trail. The Snowclog Advanced doesn’t just meet the challenges—it anticipates them, delivering a rare kind of versatility you don’t see every day.
At its core, you’ve got a lightweight hiker, stripped back from Salomon’s archives, but with a modern edge. It’s a nod to the past, yes, but with enough upgrades to stand up to the unpredictable present. A Contragrip outsole hugs whatever terrain you throw at it—rocky trails, slick city streets, doesn’t matter. It bites into the earth with authority, holding up where other soles might break down. Moving up, that knitted upper isn’t just for show. It molds itself to your foot like a second skin, keeping the elements at bay with water-resistant precision.
But here’s where things get interesting: the removable gaiter. That’s the ace up the sleeve. One minute, you’re walking a slick urban trail; the next, a winter storm rolls in, and you need more than a low-top hiker. You pull the gaiter on, zip it tight, and suddenly you’ve got the protection of a full-on winter boot without the bulk or commitment. It’s the kind of modularity that doesn’t ask if you’re ready for the change—it makes sure you are.
Inside, it’s all about warmth and comfort. There’s a woolly sockliner that cradles your foot in a mix of natural fibers and recycled materials, a subtle nod to sustainability in a world that’s getting colder in more ways than one. And while it doesn’t claim to be fully waterproof, the water-repellent finish means light rain and shallow snowdrifts won’t slow you down.
For $230, it’s not cheap. But you’re not paying for just a shoe. You’re buying into the idea that sometimes, life doesn’t wait for you to adapt. Sometimes, you have to stay one step ahead, and that’s exactly what the Snowclog Advanced offers—a seamless evolution, tailored for those who know that comfort in the cold is more than just a luxury. It’s survival.
Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of the Salomon Snowclog Advanced:
Pros:
- Versatile design: The shoe’s ability to transform from a lightweight hiker into a winter boot with a removable gaiter offers excellent modularity, making it adaptable to various conditions.
- Strong traction: The Contragrip All Terrain outsole provides durable and reliable grip on multiple surfaces, from rocks to slick city streets.
- Comfortable fit: The knitted upper conforms to your foot, offering a comfortable, snug fit while maintaining breathability and flexibility.
- Weather resistance: Water-repellent materials and the optional gaiter offer decent protection against moisture and harsh conditions, keeping feet dry in light rain and snow.
- Warmth: The woolly sockliner ensures insulation, keeping your feet warm in colder environments.
- Lightweight: At 372g, the shoe is relatively light, making it easier to wear for long periods without feeling cumbersome.
- Sustainability: Incorporation of recycled materials (like the infiniFOAM midsole and wool sockliner) reflects a commitment to sustainability, a plus for eco-conscious consumers.
Cons:
- Price: At $230, the shoe is on the higher end, which may be a barrier for those on a budget.
- Limited waterproofing: While water-repellent, the Snowclog is not fully waterproof, which may limit its effectiveness in heavy rain or deep snow.
- Style limitations: The design, especially with the gaiter, might not appeal to everyone’s aesthetic preferences, particularly those who prefer a more traditional winter boot look.
- Durability in extreme conditions: While upgraded for better performance, there could be questions around how the knitted upper and gaiter attachments hold up over long-term use in rugged or harsh environments.
- Niche product: The versatility is great, but for those who don’t frequently encounter such varying weather conditions, the modularity might feel unnecessary.
$230
