Salomon’s transformation from technical outdoor shoe brand to streetwear staple is the stuff of legend. And among its most emblematic silhouettes is the XT-4. Debuting in 2012, the trail runner has evolved considerably over the years, but these days, fans seem to gravitate towards the OG line, where the French brand reissued the model in its original specs (and colorways).
Now, Salomon looked to vintage alpine gear of historic recon missions for inspiration for its latest XT-4 OG variant. These are about as stealthy as they come.
Cold Blue Meets Tactical Black
The XT-4 OG Recon arrives dressed almost entirely in black, punctuated by reflective icy-blue accents that reference the harsh glacial environments where recon missions took place. It’s a darker, more subdued take compared to the vibrant colorways that helped propel the XT-4 into streetwear territory back in 2019 when The Broken Arm showcased it in Paris. Where those earlier iterations leaned into bold gradients enabled by the shoe’s heat-welded TPU construction, the Recon variant is a bit more restrained.
The mesh upper features ripstop patterning — a direct nod to the durable alpine clothing worn by explorers navigating uncharted terrain. But aesthetics aside, the ripstop gives durability to these sneakers, whether you’re going hiking or traversing the urban jungle.
Built the Same Way
For all its new-look appeal, the XT-4 OG Recon doesn’t mess with the formula that made this shoe a favorite among both ultrarunners and fashion-forward sneakerheads. The Agile Chassis System (ACS) still provides stability through its midfoot exoskeleton, working alongside the dual-density EnergyCell midsole for shock absorption. Below, the Mud Contagrip outsole maintains those deep, sharp lugs designed for grip on dirt.
Other carryovers include the superb Quicklace system (one of our favorites on the market) with its handy lace pocket, a molded OrthoLite sockliner, and anti-debris mesh. At 13oz, it’s designed with weight distribution across that TPU-reinforced upper and supportive chassis.
Spec Sheet
Model: XT-4 OG Recon
Upper: Synthetic/Textile with ripstop patterning, anti-debris mesh
Midsole: Dual-density EnergyCell with Agile Chassis Skeleton
Outsole: Mud Contagrip rubber
Lacing: Quicklace system with lace pocket
Insole: Molded OrthoLite sockliner
Drop: 10mm
Weight: 13 oz per shoe
Price: $200
Pricing & Availability
The XT-4 OG Recon is available now on Salomon’s official website for $200 as part of the broader Recon capsule, which also includes the XT-Quest Recon and X-Alp Recon for those looking to complete the alpine-inspired collection.
Recap
Salomon XT-4 OG Recon
Salomon just dropped the XT-4 OG Recon, a blacked-out version of their cult-favorite trail runner with icy blue accents inspired by vintage alpine recon gear. It keeps all the tech that made the original great — Agile Chassis System, Contagrip outsole, Quicklace — but wraps it in a stealthier, more tactical aesthetic for $200.
