The Salewa Pedroc 2 Max Shoe Men in Willow/Pond runs a 6 mm drop against the standard Pedroc 2's 10 mm, and that is the difference you feel first. The name is misleading in a useful way: Max means protection and structure, not maximum cushioning, and at 325 g per shoe it is the lighter of the two rather than the heavier.

• 6 mm drop: four millimetres lower than the standard Pedroc 2, which keeps the foot closer to the ground for a fast hiking stride.
• 325 g per shoe: Salewa's published figure, with no reference size stated. The standard Pedroc 2 is 350 g.
• Pomoca Speed Hiker 2 outsole: a fast hiking tread that grips trail and rock without the drag of a deep lug.
• Shock absorbing EVA midsole with stability plate: Salewa's own description of the Max midsole package.
• 3F System with TPU and PA: the version built from TPU and polyamide rather than steel or Kevlar cable, linking lacing to sole and heel for ankle hold.
• Protective mesh upper: high tenacity mesh with microfibre and a TPU film where scree does the damage.
• Wide fit: Salewa list this last as wide, which suits a broader foot and gives the toes room on long descents.
• Dual density recycled footbed: removable, so a custom orthotic can go in its place.
• No membrane: EU 39 to 48.5, made in Vietnam, with reflective details. The membrane version is the separate Pedroc 2 Powertex.
• EVA Midsole
• Cushioned Midsole
• Midsole Stability Plate
• Protective mesh upper with TPU film
• Reflective details