There is more than ever a greater choice for players when deciding to choose a hockey shoe. What appeals to one person does not to another. Also our foot architecture between one person and another varies which also is a criteria for choosing a hockey shoe type and brand. The greater the choice the greater the potential to meet player needs.
One new brand that has emerged lately in the hockey circle with a growing following is Salamon shoes. Although they are designed for trail running their functional features align themselves to what is required by hockey players. Salamon shoes are known for their fit, quality and performance. They are priced in the upper end of the shoe market but then again you pay for function and performance. The following is a concise review of the Salamon Speedcross 3 which tend to be the most accepted shoe of the Salamon range.
Bottom Line:
These shoes are extremely comfortable right out of the box. They are a fairly lightweight trail runner with a burly cleated tread which is great for synthetic playing surface and grass gripping. They are suitable for all-weather conditions. The upper layer for a trail shoe is good for water based synthetic surfaces as they are water resistant. They are extremely comfortable with a strong hell counter and good arch support.
Photo: Salamon Speedcross 3 womens and mens shoes 2015
Specific observations
The lacing system is excellent. Unlike traditional style laces the Kevlar Quick-Fit system works with one pull and won’t loosen. There is even a handy tongue pocket to tuck away the laces. This keeps things from flapping around. It is a one-time tighten before you play your game. There was no breaking in period required for these shoes. You can take them out of the box and play without any issues with rubbing or blisters.
The fit is very precise. The toe box provides enough room to not cause issues with any rubbing or pressure points, which also helps to delay the onset of black toe nails.
There is an 11mm drop in this shoe, which is simply the difference between the height of the heel and the height of the toe when standing; zero is the equivalent to standing barefoot. So there is a pretty substantial drop in these shoes which is more akin to a traditional running shoe and will support people who are heel strikers.
Independent Salamon Speedcross 3 review as a running shoe
Specifications:
- Upper Material: Textile mesh
- Waterproofing: Water-resistant textile
- Lining: Synthetic
- Closure: Quick Lace
- Sole: Non-marking ContaGrip
- Midsole: Injection-molded EVA
- Footbed: OrthoLite
- Heel / Forefoot Height: 20 / 9 mm
- Drop: 11 mm
- Claimed Weight:(single, size 7) 9.9 oz
Salamon shoes are sold at selected Just Hockey outlets
