Salomon Quest 4D Boots After 18 Months: Why I Replaced Them (and What I Learned)

June 12, 2025


If you're searching for a real-world Salomon Quest 4D GTX review from a soldier's perspective, you're in the right place. After 18 months of field work, rucking, and running in the non-Gore-Tex version, I’ve made the switch to the Salomon Quest 4D GTX. Here's my honest breakdown of durability, comfort, breathability, and why I still chose to stick with this model. This review is tailored for military personnel, outdoor workers, and serious hikers who depend on their boots every single day.

Boots are more than just gear — they’re your foundation. Whether it's military service, long hikes, or field training, your feet carry the mission. After 18 months with the Salomon Quest 4D 2 non-GTX, I finally made the switch to the Gore-Tex version. Here’s why — and what I’ve learned.

Why I Bought the Salomon Quest 4D 2 (Non-GTX)

I picked my first pair based on recommendations from other soldiers who were happy with them. I chose the non-GTX version because I tend to get hot when moving, especially under load, and I wanted something that could breathe better than a waterproof boot.

Early on, I had an issue where the rubber around the front started peeling. I contacted the company, and they sent me a new pair. That second pair held up longer, but around the 8–12 month mark, wear and tear became more obvious:

  • Rubber edges detaching again
  • Leather breaking down
  • Sole wearing out to the point of feeling stones through the bottom
  • Water leakage after walking through puddles

I kept them going for a while, but eventually, it was clear: it was time for a new pair.

Why I Don’t Use Standard-Issue Boots

In the Swedish Armed Forces, we do get issued boots, so why do I buy my own?

The answer: fit and comfort.

The standard boots are flat and stiff, designed to handle heavy loads and offer protection. But they’re not built for running or long-distance comfort. For me, they caused discomfort in the tibialis anterior (the front of the shin), especially during long marches or runs.

I still train the tibialis muscle, but I needed something that worked better with my feet. Instead of changing insoles again, I decided to invest in better boots.

The New Pair: Salomon Quest 4D GTX

I stayed with the same model, just upgraded to the Gore-Tex version. So far, I’ve used them during field work and running, and here’s what I’ve noticed:

  • Comfortable for long days
  • Easy to take on and off
  • Provides strong ankle support on uneven terrain
  • Dries quickly when water gets inside

But here’s the trade-off: they’re hot. I sweat more in these than in the non-GTX version. It’s not a dealbreaker, but I do have to change socks more often or use thinner socks to avoid blisters. Others in my platoon don’t report the same issue, so it might just be how my body runs.




Planned Summer Field Testing

This summer, I’ll do longer ruck marches and hikes to stress test the GTX model further. I’ll pay close attention to how the breathability holds up in hotter conditions and how fast they dry when fully soaked.

Lessons Learned

  • Don’t wait too long to replace boots — worn-down soles can compromise safety.
  • Durability doesn’t mean invincible — even solid boots like these wear out over time.
  • Match your gear to your body — breathability vs. waterproofing is a personal balance.




Conclusion

Your boots should support your mission, not make it harder. The Salomon Quest 4D has served me well, even as the first pair slowly broke down. The GTX upgrade has its pros and cons, but it’s an experiment worth running.

Got questions about boots, rucking, or military gear? Leave a comment below or send me a message — I’ll be posting more updates as the new pair gets tested under pressure.


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