Salomon brings the XT-Whisper back into focus for Spring Summer 2025. Originally developed as a women’s trail racing shoe, the XT-Whisper now returns in a unisex format, featuring updated materials, modern detailing, and new Energy colorways that push the model beyond its original category. The relaunch builds on the shoe’s performance roots while shifting its visual language into more expressive territory.
SNEAKERS
Salomon first introduced the XT-Whisper to address the lack of women-specific designs in trail footwear. It evolved from the XT Hawk, a trail racing silhouette known for its aggressive build and technical focus. While the XT Hawk carried a masculine design language, the XT-Whisper moved in a different direction. With smoother lines and a more approachable form, it quickly stood apart in both function and visual character.
The original XT-Whisper aimed to meet the demands of women runners who wanted performance without compromise. Now, Salomon returns to that base, adjusting the design to meet current expectations across all genders. The latest version uses the same trail racing foundation but opens up the aesthetic with softer construction and layered material play.
The upper features rich textures, wavy forms, and signature elements that draw directly from the Salomon archive. Salomon avoided sharp angles and heavy blocking in favor of curved surfaces and a more fluid design structure. Despite the shift, the shoe retains all the features expected from a performance-driven model.
Salomon continues to prioritize performance, keeping core technical details from earlier XT models. The Quicklace system returns to anchor the shoe, giving wearers a one-pull adjustment and a secure fit that stays consistent across a full day of movement. Sensifit overlays now follow a wavy pattern across the upper, adding a new aesthetic rhythm while still delivering midfoot support and overall lockdown.
The XT-Whisper doesn’t just replicate its former version, it reworks it. Salomon introduces updated finishes and contrasts across each panel, delivering a sharper expression without compromising durability or comfort. These adjustments help the shoe hold its place in both urban and trail environments.
For Spring Summer 2025, the XT-Whisper launches in five new Energy colorways, each offering a distinct presence. While Salomon hasn’t detailed every shade, the term “Energy” hints at bold palettes designed to stand out. These aren’t muted trail tones or neutral color fills, they aim to reflect individuality and movement through color.
The upper’s layered materials provide a canvas for contrast, and the wavy Sensifit design allows for a more dynamic use of blocking and accent lines. The mix of color and form doesn’t overpower the design but helps amplify its identity as both a technical and expressive shoe.
By pulling from trail racing roots and adapting to modern expectations, Salomon positions the XT-Whisper for new users, those who value function but also want a shoe that reflects more than speed or terrain. The XT-Whisper offers both, without leaning too far into nostalgia or trend.
The updated XT-Whisper Energy editions arrive on April 1, available exclusively through salomon.com. With a renewed focus on texture, comfort, and individuality, the shoe enters 2025 ready for trail runners and streetwear audiences alike.
