Our verdict
A lightweight hiking shoe - the Salewa Dropline gets high marks for living up to its promise: comfort and performance. Experienced hikers and backpackers love that walking with these shoes feels like there's a spring underneath. Additionally, the technical grippy outsole and Gore-tex waterproof liner mean more adventures in the great outdoors - rain or shine.
Pros
- Unbelievable comfort
- Midsole works like a spring
- Greatly handle long days
- Who should buy the Salewa Dropline
- Commendable styling design
- Worth the price
Cons
- Narrow fit
Track Spikes and XC
The Salewa Dropline is truly worth the premium price tag and fits the bill for anyone looking for a sturdy pair of approach shoes that can survive use and abuse. It is a solid option if you:
- Prefer a hiking shoe that is a perfect fit for mountain enthusiasts who want to move faster and comfortably on rugged trails.
- Prefer a hiking shoe that offers protection against the element and delivers reliable traction on most types of terrain.
- Prefer a hiking shoe that protects the wearer against sharp hazards and against rain or water.
Size and fit
The Salewa Dropline is a low-cut hiking shoe that uses the 3F System which is a Y-shaped structure that connects the instep with the sole and heel, resulting in a well-fitting, flexible, and very supportive shoe. It also has an anti-rock heel cup that holds the heel firmly in place for stability and comfort.
This speed hiking shoe features a traditional lacing system, giving wearers a secure and customizable fit. There's a pull loop at the back of the collar, that allows easy on and off.
Enhance surface traction
Like other Salewa hiking shoes, the Dropline boasts of the grippy and sticky Pomoca S Path Outsole. It keeps the foot's center of pressure on the terrain, resulting in enhanced traction no matter what the surface.
Promotes natural roll-off and more efficient heel-to-toe transition
The lug shapes stabilitate throughout the entire sole and there is ample space in between the lugs that help with the dispersal of sticky mud and large debris that the shoe might catch along the way. Furthermore, the S Path design promotes natural roll-off and more efficient heel-to-toe transition.
Provides impact absorption and energy return
This lightweight hiker is powered by a performance EVA midsole that not only delivers superior cushioning but also provides impact absorption and energy return. These qualities are very important for speed hiking and backpacking where hikers have to traverse long and challenging trails. Reinforcing the shoe cushioning system is an Ortholite footbed that is equipped with wicking moisture management.
Durable footbed
Ortholite footbeds are also very durable. Compared to traditional insoles, Ortholite insoles don't get compressed easily so they can be used for a long time.
Provides abrasion protection
The shoe upper is made of high-quality performance mesh reinforced by the propriety EXA-SHELL grid that wraps the upper foot and protects against abrasion.
Provides toe protection
Other features of the Salewa Dropline are the anti-rock heel cup that supportively locks the heel in place, giving added stability, and a rubber toe cap that protects against accidental impact, bumps, and trail hazards. Lastly, it comes with a stretch gaiter that keeps out trail debris, such as dirt, rocks, grit, and leaves.
