Salomon OUTbound Prism: Are These the Trail Shoes I've Been Waiting For?
Hey everyone! Back at it again, testing gear in the heart of the rez. Today, we're talking about the Salomon OUTbound Prism shoes (model #187387). Salomon, a name that's become synonymous with outdoor performance, especially when it comes to hitting the trails. Coming from a place like the Alps, they get the challenges of varied terrain, which is something I look for. They've been around since '47 and are known for pushing boundaries in ski equipment and, of course, trail running and hiking gear. These shoes are meant to be a versatile option, blending comfort and agility for everyday adventures. So, let's see if the Outbound Prism lives up to the Salomon hype!
Using Experience
Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. I've been putting these Salomon OUTbound Prism shoes through their paces for a solid month now, from dusty reservation roads to rocky trails edging the river. First off, right out of the box, they felt good. No crazy break-in period, which is always a win in my book. The fit is true to size. I'm usually a 10.5, and the 10.5 in these was spot on.
I've worn these hiking, doing errands around town, and even for some light runs. What I noticed immediately was the lightweight feel. At 10.6 ounces (size 9), they're noticeably lighter than the Hoka Speedgoat 5 (approx. 12 ounces), making a difference on longer treks. This made them comfortable for longer hikes, where every ounce counts. The Contagrip outsole held up well on varied terrain – loose gravel, packed dirt, and even some wet rocks. I felt confident in my footing, which is crucial when you're navigating uneven paths. Studies have shown Contagrip to have a much better grip than other outsoles, and in my experience, that tracks. However, on particularly muddy trails, they didn’t perform as well as I had hoped, and needed to be cleaned off frequently to maintain grip.
The breathable mesh upper allows for excellent airflow, so my feet didn’t get overly sweaty, even in warmer weather. They're not waterproof, though, which is something to consider. If you need waterproof protection, look at the Salomon X Ultra series or consider using waterproof socks in wetter conditions. Think of them more as dry-weather warriors. The EnergyCell+ midsole provides a firm, responsive ride with good energy return. It's not overly plush, which I prefer for maintaining stability on uneven trails. After several miles, the midsole showed no signs of collapsing which is a great sign. Overall, I'd say these shoes are comfortable, versatile, and dependable for a variety of outdoor activities.
So, I would say that these are definitely a good choice for anyone looking for versatility when choosing footwear.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Lightweight, comfortable, versatile, good grip on dry terrain, responsive midsole.
- Cons: Grip could be better in muddy conditions, not waterproof.
Final Thoughts
The Salomon OUTbound Prism is a solid choice for a versatile trail shoe. Salomon could improve these by deepening the lug pattern by a millimeter or two for better mud traction and potentially adding a Gore-Tex option for waterproof performance. If you're looking for a do-it-all shoe for hiking, light running, and everyday wear, the Salomon OUTbound Prism is definitely worth checking out. Just be mindful of the conditions you'll be using them in.
Salomon OUTbound Prism Deals & Sales: Snag the Best Price, Coupons & Restocks!
Been eyeing those Salomon OUTbound Prism shoes for men? Yeah, they're awesome – super comfy and grippy for trails and everyday wear – but that price tag can be a bit of a buzzkill. Let's face it, nobody wants to pay full price! That's why we're hunting down all the latest Salomon OUTbound Prism deals, sales, coupons, and promo codes to help you snag a pair without emptying your wallet.
The price of the Salomon OUTbound Prism can bounce around a bit depending on where you shop, the color you want, and your shoe size. Finding the best discount often takes a little detective work. We keep an eye on big online stores like REI, Amazon, and Backcountry, as well as Salomon's own site, to catch any price drops. Historically, these shoes retail for around $130, but we've seen them dip as low as $85-$90 during major sales events like Black Friday or end-of-season clearances. That's a significant savings!
Ugh, nothing's worse than finally finding your size only to see that dreaded "out of stock" message. Restock alerts are your secret weapon! Sign up for email notifications from retailers like REI and Backcountry. They'll let you know the minute your size and color of the Salomon OUTbound Prism are back on the shelves. Searching specifically for "Salomon OUTbound Prism restock" on Google can also sometimes uncover smaller shops that might have what you're looking for.
Beyond just waiting for general sales, actively search for coupons and promo codes! Websites like RetailMeNot and Honey (a browser extension that automatically finds and applies discount codes) can be lifesavers. Also, sign up for those retailer email newsletters! They often send out exclusive promo codes and early access to deals to their subscribers. Don't forget to swing by Salomon's official website too, just in case they're running any special promotions or offers.
According to OutdoorGearLab, the Salomon OUTbound Prism excels in comfort and trail feel, offering great value even at its regular price. Finding a deal makes it an even better proposition!
Pro Tip: Set up price alerts on sites like CamelCamelCamel to track the Salomon OUTbound Prism's price history on Amazon. This helps you determine if a "sale" price is actually a good deal or just a slight markdown from an inflated price.
In short, scoring a Salomon OUTbound Prism deal takes a little effort, but it's totally worth it. By tracking price drops, signing up for restock notifications, hunting for coupons and promo codes, and keeping an eye on those seasonal sales, you'll be rocking those awesome shoes without blowing your budget. Happy shopping!