XA Pro 3D is the old workhorse of Salomon's line, and the V9 keeps the formula: a firm platform, a stability chassis between midsole and outsole, and enough upper to survive ground that eats shoes. You reach for it when the terrain is rough and the pace is not the point.
At 323 g it is heavy, and the 11 mm drop is unusually tall for a trail shoe. Both make more sense the longer and rougher the day gets.
It is not a modern soft trail shoe. There is little foam and no rocker, so quick running feels flat underfoot. If you want cushioning on the same ground, the Ultra Glide 4 puts a 41 mm heel where this one has 29 mm.