Salomon XR Mission: a shoe for mixed-surface running
Salomon’s spring 2012 XR Mission paired cushioning with road-to-trail versatility and a distinct women’s design.
The XR Mission was one of Salomon’s major spring 2012 releases: a fully cushioned shoe for medium-distance runs over mixed terrain. Its “Door to Trail” concept covered the pavement on the way to a run as well as tracks and forest paths. It followed the award-winning Crossmax and came in men’s and women’s versions, with specific changes in the women’s design.
A ventilated mesh upper and Quicklace system were intended to provide easy adjustment and even pressure across the foot. The OS Tendon construction aimed to transfer energy through the stride, while Sensiflex gave the forefoot room without sacrificing support.
Listed weight: 325 g. Launch price: SEK 1,200.
Women’s model
OS Tendon, short for Oversized Tendon, was an elastic element between the inner and outer soles. It acted along the length of the shoe to guide the foot through the stride and assist push-off.
The women’s model also had a different heel shape and four deeper flex grooves in the sole, compared with three on the men’s model, for a more flexible stride. Salomon’s original explanation stated that women’s feet changed shape 20% more during running than men’s, a product-development claim reported at the time.
Sensiflex
Sensiflex provided support across the upper at the big- and little-toe joints while allowing space for the foot. The original product information claimed this could help prevent corns and other running-related foot problems; it was a manufacturer claim rather than a finding from an I Love Outdoor test.
