The History of Salomon
Salomon is a leading outdoor sports brand that originates from 1947. Founded by François Salomon in picturesque Annecy, located in the beautiful Alps of France, the brand has built a solid world-wide reputation for its excellent range of trail-running shoes and hiking boots, as well as its winter sports equipment.
François started the company producing saw blades in a modest workshop, with only his wife and son Georges as employees. After World War II ended, newly liberated tourists flocked back to the mountains to ski. François saw an opportunity to apply his skills to ski edges, which allow skiers to make sharp turns.
However, it was Georges Salomon who led the company into the global outdoor sports brand it is today. He attended night school for engineering, and his first pioneering idea was to build a machine that automated steel rim production for skis. This allowed him and his father to focus on developing ski equipment.
Salomon Bindings
Georges had an eye for spotting the problems that athletes were running into. For example, skiers still used fixed leather straps as bindings, but this often led to broken bones when legs got stuck in their skis in a fall. He then revolutionised ski bindings by replacing them with cable bindings.
First, he developed an unlockable 'Skade' binding, attached to the toe end of a shoe. The second was a system called 'Le lift', which allowed the bindings to unlock in case of a heavy impact. Originally advertised as 'Your guardian angel', it ended a painful problem. Contemporary ski bindings are still made with the same basic premise.
Just 19 years after their humble beginnings in Annecy, Salomon bindings made their first appearance at the alpine world championships in Chile in 1966. With pioneering innovations in binding technology, including the Atlas safety binding and the first binding with a self-releasing heel piece, Salomon quickly captured the attention of skiers around the world.
In 1972, it even became the world's largest manufacturer of binding systems, producing as many as 1 million units annually. This made Salomon the undisputed number one in bindings, symbolising quality and reliability.
Salomon Ski Boots
In 1979, Salomon took the step to produce their own ski boots. Developed in 1984, the revolutionary SX90 was hailed as the most influential ski boot ever. This innovative boot was the first to introduce the rear step and heel attachment system.
To design this boot, Salomon enlisted the help of Roger Tallon, the designer behind the famous TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse, a high-speed train service in France). The company conquered the art of moulding plastic and multi-injecting technical components. It also used special fabrics and composite materials to produce this groundbreaking ski boot.
The famous orange boot, originally launched in France and worldwide the following year, became a stunning success story.
Salomon Hiking Boots
A decade later, Salomon expanded its product range and began manufacturing snowboards, skis and alpine hiking boots. For instance, a notable addition was the introduction of the S9000 with a unique 'self-supporting beam' structure, which provides improved grip and is made without the use of solvents.
In the 1990s, Salomon also ventured into producing hiking boots for the public. In the spring of 1992, for instance, they launched the popular Adventure series, which quickly became a huge success. A New York Times article even titled it "Hiking in the future with a lighter shoe".
The same year, Salomon reinforced its reputation as a leading manufacturer during the Olympic Games in Albertville, which is just 50km from Annecy. Here, the brand supplied equipment to legends such as Edgar Grospiron.
The company remained focused on delivering products for the active adventurer. The XA Pro, a precursor to trail running, set a technical benchmark for multidisciplinary hiking. After that, notions of lightness and speed became increasingly important.
It wasn't long before Salomon shoes became an integral part of competitive hiking. They were also worn by record-breaking Kilian Jornet during the 2008 UTMB (Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc), coinciding with the arrival of Salomon's Custom Fit Technology. Salomon remained committed to growing its range and providing high-quality footwear to those with a passion for the outdoors.
In 1997, Salomon was acquired by adidas, and in 2005 was sold to Chinese sportswear giant Amer Sports after adidas pulled out of the ski equipment and apparel industry.
Salomon in the streetwear scene
Although it may seem like Salomon became popular in the fashion industry out of nowhere, they actually hit the streetwear scene in 2015. While the vibrant neon colours of their shoes were only designed to ensure visibility during extreme hikes and run, they became popular as a fashion statement, and the worlds of hiking and fashion began to crossover.
In an era where the public were beginning to turn away from big brands like Nike and were willing to try something different, brands like Salomon, HOKA and New Balance saw their popularity grow.
For that reason, The Broken Arm, an influential streetwear shop based in Paris, started selling Solomon. After a customer asked for a pair of Salomon Snowcross boots, which was designed for trail running in the snow rather that on the street, Salomon and The Broken Arm saw an opportunity and quickly collaborated on a new shoe.
The result was the same core design of the Snowcross, but with an updated outsole and striking colour combination in shades of grey, green, and tangerine.
Further Collaborations
This first high-profile collaboration was followed by a series of surprising collaborations.
Designer Boris Bidjan SaberI had the idea to adapt part of the shoe collection and incorporate it into his own fashion line. The result was the remarkable 11 BBS line, which you can still score today!
Very rarely does Salomon approach a partner with a view to reaching a different audience or jumping on a trend. Instead, it looks out for brands that approach them with interesting projects, seeing the opportunity to place Salomon in a different cultural context from where both brands are already located. That way, collaborations with Palace and Comme des Garçons also emerged.
What started as a comfortable and functional running shoe has now become the favourite choice in streetwear, attracting the attention of Bella Hadid, Rihanna, Kanye, and A$AP Rocky, among others. As such, the running shoe is now fully integrated into the street scene.
Salomon: Answering Your Questions
Where are Salomon shoes made?
Salomon sneakers are made in Asia, but the brand has not provided official information about the specific locations of their production.
In addition, Salomon opened a state-of-the-art shoe factory in the French region of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes in 2022. Here, automated production methods are used to speed up the manufacturing process and also reduce ecological impact.
Salomon's U.S. operations are located in Ogden, Utah.
Who is the owner of Salomon?
Salomon's current CEO is Franco Fogliato, and the company is currently a subsidiary of Amer Sports, headquartered in Helsinki, Finland.
adidas owned Salomon from 1997 to 2005 but decided to sell the company when it withdrew from the production of ski apparel and equipment. Salomon was bought from adidas in 2005 for nearly $500 million by Amer Sports, that in turn is owned by China's Anta Sports.
Are Salomon shoes waterproof?
Not all Salomon shoes are water-resistant. The models that are water-resistant often contain the GORE-TEX membrane. GORE-TEX products offer triple weather protection and provide optimal climate comfort: they are waterproof, windproof, and breathable.
Are Salomon shoes comfortable?
Salomon shoes are generally known for their comfort. Many models feature EnergyCell midsoles, which provide soft and responsive cushioning, and the SensiFit™ technology ensures the foot is wrapped snugly in the shoe, preventing discomfort. The Quicklace™ system, also featured on many Salomon models, allows for a customised fit, and the Contagrip® outsoles provide grip and stability.
In addition, Salomon uses breathable mesh and lightweight materials in the construction of their shoes, making them ideal for all-day wear.
Are Salomon sneakers good for hiking?
Salomon's shoes are technically designed for trail running, but they are also particularly suitable for fast and light hikes. Not only do they offer excellent grip, but they also feature abrasion-resistant materials. These include durable foil and sturdy mesh, which can withstand abrasion and environmental influences such as rain, dust, and debris.
Do Salomon sneakers fit true to size?
For the full guide on how different Salomon sneaker models fit, check out our sizing article here!
How do I clean my Salomon sneakers?
A Salomon sneaker should be cleaned by hand. For the best results, remove the laces, then use a toothbrush to remove obvious dirt from the surface. Mix a mild detergent with some water and use a sponge or cloth to gently scrub harder stains. Use a damp cloth to wipe off the residue, then let them air-dry.
For a smelly sneaker, you can sprinkle baking soda inside the shoe, then leave overnight. The powder will absorb moisture and neutralise the smell. Shake out the excess before wearing again. Alternatively, you can use silica gel or activated charcoal bags for the same results.
Laces can be cleaned with a mild detergent and rinsed afterwards, or you can put white laces in a 1:5 bleach and water solution for a few minutes and then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
In addition, we do not recommend putting your shoes in the washing machine. Sneakers made of leather and suede can come out damaged. With shoes made of canvas or cotton, the risk is less, but the chance of damaged sneakers remains. So we recommend always washing your sneakers by hand. If you do put them in the washing machine, then place the shoes in an old pillowcase beforehand.
How do you tie Salomon sneakers?
For guidance on tying your Salomon laces, check out our Ultimate Sneakerjagers Lacing Guide!
How do I style Salomon sneakers?
Salomon shoes have a sporty and versatile look that goes well with different outfits. For inspiration on styling the model, check out our article here!
Where can I buy Salomon sneakers?
Do you have your eye on this brand? With our sneaker search engine, you can browse Salomon shoes at different retailers and at different prices. Our release calendar also keeps you up to date on Salomon restocks and new releases!
Popular Salomon Models
Salomon XT-6
The iconic XT-6 model has a striking and graphically strong design. Originally intended for long-distance trail runs, it made a surprising breakthrough in the urban environment, especially in terms of fashion.
It has excellent cushioning, durability, and control during descents with a unique fast-lacing system.
Salomon XT-4
The XT-4 has a lightweight construction, made from durable mesh and strong TPU liner. The Contagrip® outsole offers unmatched grip on any surface.
With impressive technical features and a progressive design, this shoe is ideal for trail adventures in all types of terrain.
Salomon ACS
This trail-running shoe has also firmly established itself in the streetwear scene. Its original design from the 2000s includes a mesh and synthetic upper, a double strap at the heel, and an Agile Chassis System, which provide extra stability while running.
The Salomon ACS is a versatile and trendy sneaker for the best of both worlds.
Salomon XT-Wings
The XT-Wings has long been loved by trail runners looking for unparalleled performance. But since the original Wings has been revised in a range of colours, it’s been popping up on the streets more and more too.
Whether you’re climbing over rocks or spending a day running around town, the XT-Wings will keep your foot comfortably in place.
Salomon XT-Rush
Salomon took the iconic bottom unit of the XT-6 and added a knitted upper that feels like a sock to create the XT-Rush.
This comfortable sneaker is meant for urban explorers, coming in a mix of materials and colours to offer a fresh look.
Salomon Speedcross
The Speedcross is a symbol of trail heritage, but also a responsible lifestyle choice for the climate-conscious consumer.
The was designed and developed with the ambition to do better – it has an upper made from a mix of recycled materials, with a lightweight feel and plenty of grip and cushioning.
Salomon XT-Pathway
The XT-Pathway includes all of the signature features of the XT family, including an embossed Sensifit and Quicklace foot support combination, and protective safety toe cap.
It blends these familiar elements with modern adaptions, available in several vibrant colour options for a powerful visual appeal.
Salomon XT-Slate
The XT-Slate brings together elements of running, hiking and urban fashion in a striking design. The upper reflects irregular landscapes and rocky terrain, seamlessly integrating synthetic leather accents along the lacing and lining.
The lightweight waffled upper and protective mudguard protect your feet during adventures on trails.
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