Salomon Thundercross Review: Short Hike of Mt. Manalmon and Mt. Gola

Posted On October 5, 2023

A Monday morning beckoned with the promise of adventure when Salomon invited us to test out their latest trail offering: the Salomon Thundercross. 

In the company of fellow outdoor enthusiasts from the Primer Group and guided by Salomon brand ambassadors Majo Liao, Coach Ige Lopez, and Sr. Brand Executive Aiza Dagdagan, we embarked on a hike to San Miguel, Bulacan’s iconic Mt. Manalmon and Mt. Gola.

The perfect weather made our journey even more picturesque—neither too cold nor hot. The sky was a tapestry of gliding gray clouds, which gave way to clearer blue vistas by midday. It was the ideal setting to put the Thundercross to the test.

Conquering Mt. Manalmon

Our first conquest was Mt. Manalmon, with its gentle ascents and stunning vistas. We first journeyed through the enigmatic corridors of Madlum Cave. The trek entailed river crossings and walking through forested areas. The river water could compromise the shoe’s performance. Still, the Thundercross showcased its resilience, retaining its grip and composure even after getting wet just a few meters from the jump-off point.

Upon reaching Mt. Manalmon’s summit, we were greeted with a breathtaking 360-degree view of neighboring mountains. Gazing into the distance, the silhouette of Mt. Arayat and some Pampanga towns came into view—a truly magnificent sight.

The descent from Mt. Manalmon led us to another river, where the group paused to relax and dip in its refreshing cold waters. This section was somewhat muddy, and the riverbanks were sandy with many small pebbles that could easily infiltrate a shoe. However, the Thundercross outsole, designed to traverse various land features, quickly shrugged off mud and debris.

Tackling Mt. Gola

The ascent to Mt. Gola was more challenging, with steeper sections necessitating a rappelling rope. The trail also exposed us to overgrown roots and moss-covered rocks. Amid these varied terrains, the Thundercross’s 6 mm Y-shaped lugs truly shined, offering impeccable lateral traction. Whether scaling slopes or navigating ridges, the shoes remained steadfast.

The summit of Mt. Gola rewarded us with scenic views of nearby rivers and a lush expanse below the cliff. Moments of reflection atop these natural wonders have rendered the trek unforgettable.

Thundercross: A Trail Enthusiast’s Dream

After spending considerable time with the Thundercross, here’s my assessment:

• Comfort: Thanks to its Energy Foam, the shoe boasts dynamic cushioning, feeling springy and soft underfoot.
• Traction: Its 6 mm Y-shaped lugs ensure confidence on challenging terrains, providing grip where it’s most crucial.
• Fit: The quick lace system guarantees a secure fit, while the Sensifit midfoot construction holds the foot in place. Add to that ample padding on the collar and heel, and you have a shoe that resists heel slippage.
• Versatility: It offers an agile and stable experience, making it an excellent choice for roads and trails.
• Price: Starting at 8990 pesos for the non-Gortex model, the Thundercross presents a harmonious blend of premium features at a sensible price point.

Final Thoughts

I thoroughly enjoyed running with the Salomon Thundercross, thanks to its versatility on the trails. It ranks among the most intriguing trail running shoes I’ve tried, making it an excellent choice for regular training or rotation. If you’re considering them for a race, they’d be ideal for distances of 21 kilometers or less. After all, it’s hard to go wrong with a shoe that checks every box a trail runner could wish for.