It may be described as a 'mid', but we suggest you look at the Salewa MTN Trainer Mid GTX as a lightweight summer trekking boot. The flexible collar may offer a degree of freedom of movement in the ankle area but to all intents and purposes it offers way more support than a traditional mid so we have reviewed it on this basis.
The intention of the MTN Trainer Mid GTX is immediately apparent out of the box. A good looking, technical, lightweight boot, the MTN Trainer Mid GTX is likely to appeal to fans of fast and light mountain adventures and the associated style.
At 570g, the MTN Trainer Mid GTX may be light but they're definitely fit for purpose. Designed as a trekking/alpine approach boot, they come with a host of features designed to facilitate fast and efficient movement in the mountains.
The GORE-TEX Performance Comfort lining delivers protection from the elements while the Ortholite footbed allows your feet to breathe on the warmest of alpine summer days. The dual density TPU midsole is stiff enough to respond in technical terrain but still provides a solid level of cushioning when needed.
It's worth nothing that the MTN Trainer Mid GTX comes with Salewa's distinctive 3F System over the heel of the boot that keeps things steady and supported at the rear and promises a blister-free fit out of the box. Having worn several shoes and boots from Salewa over the years we can confirm that the 3F System really does work and is well worth considering if you're looking for a boot with a minimal breaking in period.
With the heel supported and kept in place, the focus turns to the front of the boot. The fit here is precision oriented which makes these boots a great option for those with lower volume feet or anyone anticipating travelling in rocky terrain where the occasional scramble might be required.
In keeping with the rest of the boot's alpine styling, the Vibram WTC sole of the MTN Trainer Mid GTX is a lightweight compact affair. Whilst there is a degree of flexibility here, the overwhelming feel is rigid which will please some and not others.
If you're looking at back to back long days on the hill then you might want to look for a more cushioned boot but for the majority of day hikes and fast multi-day alpine adventures, the MTN Trainer Mid GTX should do the trick.
