The Salewa Mountain Trainer Mid isn't much of a trainer, neither is it a mid; what it is though is a tough, beautifully made alpine trekking boot with a robust suede leather, gore-tex membrane for full waterproofing and Salewa's own Flex Collar for unrivalled comfort during long days. It's ideal for alpine trekking, scrambling and just about all types of prolonged moutainous use.
Beginning with the outer materials, Salewa use a tough 1.6mm thick suede leather around the upper of the boot to provide comfort, durability and breathability in warmer conditions, while a rubber rand wraps around the lower half to deal with sharp rocks and general mountainous abuse. Underneath it's tough shell is a Gore-Tex membrane to keep your feet dry and warm.
Increasing comfort over past versions of the Mountain Trainer is Salewa's dual-density Bilight Technology. This technology has been applied to the midsole of the boot to cushion hard impacts (especially during descents) and to provide superior support thanks to the ergonomically shaped design which almost cradles your foot throughout the day.
Although the Mountain Trainer may be stiff for support, this doesn't compromise on overall comfort whatsoever. Traditional 'stiff' boots of past days would be heavy, clunky and not only stiff underfoot, but also around your ankle. The Mountain Trainer uses Salewa's flex collar to ensure the stiffness of the midsole doesn't mean your leg feels like it's clamped in a bear trap. Essentially when leaning forward or backwards (when ascending or descending), the collar of the boot is flexible and free moving, however laterally you still have full support for uneven terrain.
Last but not least, Salewa have encorporated their '3F' system into the Mountain Trainer to provide the most secure and comfortable fit possible. This ensures a blister free and accurate experience by attaching a thin wire to two of the lacing hooks which wraps around the heel of the boot (see picture for example).
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3F system provides a superior fit
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Gore-Tex membrane keeps your feet dry
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Flex Collar allows foward and backward movement but not lateral
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Durable suede leather
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Full 360° rubber rand
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Deep lugged vibram sole
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Aggressive heel for controlled descents