When it comes to high-quality trail running shoes, Salomon has a reputation that speaks volumes. The brand offers a variety of shoes tailored for different running experiences. In this post, I’ll be breaking down two of their popular models: the Salomon Sense Ride vs Ultra Glide. We’ll explore their features, differences, pros & cons, and determine which shoe might be the best fit for different types of runners.
Key Differences
- Weight: Sense Ride is slightly heavier than Ultra Glide.
- Stack Height and Drop: Sense Ride has an 8mm drop with a lower stack height, whereas Ultra Glide features a 6mm drop with a higher stack.
- Cushioning: Ultra Glide is described as having firmer cushioning compared to the Sense Ride.
- Lug Depth: Ultra Glide has deeper lugs (3.5mm) than the Sense Ride, offering better grip in muddy conditions.
Salomon Sense Ride vs Ultra Glide: Comparison Table
Feature | Salomon Sense Ride | Salomon Ultra Glide |
---|---|---|
Price | $140 | $139.95 |
Weight (Men’s size 9) | 10 oz (286 g) | 9.2 oz (260 g) |
Stack Height (Heel) | 29mm | 32mm |
Stack Height (Forefoot) | 21mm | 26mm |
Drop | 8mm | 6mm |
Lug Depth | Less than 3.5mm | 3.5mm |
Classification | Trail Running Shoe | Trail Running Shoe |
Salomon Sense Ride
The Salomon Sense Ride is engineered to be a highly versatile trail running shoe that can tackle a broad spectrum of terrains and distances. This shoe is a quintessential all-rounder in the trail category, designed to perform equally well during easy jogs and competitive racing. Its construction combines a durable upper with a responsive midsole and effective traction, making it suitable for both short sprints and lengthy runs across varying landscapes. Its balanced design makes it a reliable choice for trail runners seeking a shoe that can adapt to different challenges without compromising on performance.
Fit
The Sense Ride is designed with a focus on providing an anatomical fit that adapts to the foot’s natural shape, enhancing comfort and stability. The heel area is slightly narrow, offering a snug fit that prevents slippage, while the midfoot has a standard width to accommodate a range of foot shapes without feeling overly tight. The forefoot gradually widens, offering more room and reducing pressure, which is ideal for longer runs where feet may expand. The shoe’s SensiFit lacing system pulls the shoe tight around the foot for a secure feel, similar to a speed-lacing system with the added benefit of not needing frequent adjustments. The upper is made from engineered mesh that balances breathability and durability, while the padded heel collar enhances comfort during long trail runs.
- Heel: Normal to slightly narrow
- Midfoot: Normal width
- Forefoot: Slightly wide with a gradual taper
- Overall: True to size with a slightly snug volume
Performance
On the trails, the Sense Ride performs with a notable balance of firmness and responsive cushioning. This shoe does not have an overly aggressive rockered profile, which contributes to its more natural feel during transitions. The cushioning is firm enough to provide feedback from the trail, yet sufficient to protect against rough terrain. The shallow lug pattern on the outsole ensures good traction across a variety of surfaces without picking up debris. This shoe excels in providing a stable ride, thanks to the integration of subtle sidewalls and a well-designed heel counter that enhance the foot’s natural motion without imposing restrictive control, making it suitable for runners who prefer a free yet secure trail experience.
Specs in Bullet Points
- Weight: 10 oz (men’s size 9)
- Stack Height: 29mm/21mm (heel/forefoot)
- Drop: 8mm
- Lugs: Shallow but effective for grip
- Official Salomon Sense Ride Link
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Versatile for various trail conditions
- Good fit with secure lacing
- Balanced cushioning
Cons:
- Some may find the cushioning too firm
- Limited toe box space for wider feet
Salomon Ultra Glide
The Salomon Ultra Glide is crafted for trail runners who demand a blend of comfort and performance over long distances. This shoe stands out for its ample cushioning, which provides a plush yet responsive feel underfoot, making it ideal for extended runs on everything from light trails to more challenging terrains. The design features a moderate rocker that helps smooth out transitions and reduce the impact on joints. Making it suitable for diverse trail conditions. It is built to handle long distances comfortably, thanks to its balanced cushioning and adaptive fit. While still providing enough rigidity to feel secure on uneven surfaces.
Fit
The Ultra Glide offers a fit that combines security with room for natural foot movement. The overall width is moderate, accommodating most foot types without feeling restrictive. The heel is notably padded, creating a snug enclosure that increases comfort and stability, particularly on uneven trails. The gusseted tongue helps keep debris out and cushions the instep against the pressure from the laces, which are part of Salomon’s Quicklace system that allows for easy adjustments on the go. The fit may feel slightly long, which can be an advantage for runners who experience foot swelling during longer runs. The upper is primarily a traditional mesh, which enhances breathability while providing basic protection from trail debris and moisture.
- Overall: Moderate width, fits a bit long
- Heel: Very padded and secure
- Upper: Traditional mesh with some water protection
Performance
In action, the Ultra Glide impresses with its ability to handle a variety of trail conditions. The cushioning is on the firmer side, which provides excellent ground feedback and stability. Ideal for trails that require precise foot placement. The full-length rocker aids in smooth heel-to-toe transitions, making the shoe feel agile and responsive, even at higher speeds or on more technical sections. The outsole features 3.5mm lugs that offer reliable traction on dirt, grass, and light mud, though they may fall short in very slick or muddy conditions. The shoe’s performance is characterized by its ability to maintain comfort and support over long distances, making it a strong candidate for ultra-distance runners and those who prefer cushioned yet responsive trail shoes.
Specs in Bullet Points
- Weight: 9.2 oz (men’s size 9)
- Stack Height: 32mm/26mm (heel/forefoot)
- Drop: 6mm
- Lugs: 3.5mm, suitable for mild to moderate trails
- Official Salomon Ultra Glide Link
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Good cushioning for longer runs
- Effective rocker for smooth transitions
- Well-fitting and comfortable upper
Cons:
- Upper can absorb water in wet conditions
- Not ideal for very muddy or wet terrains
Conclusion: Salomon Sense Ride vs Ultra Glide
When considering the Salomon Sense Ride vs the Salomon Ultra Glide, it’s clear that each shoe serves different runner preferences and trail conditions. Showcasing Salomon’s dedication to providing specialized solutions for trail runners. The Sense Ride stands out as a versatile, “jack-of-all-trades” shoe, offering a balanced blend of responsiveness, comfort, and traction that is suitable for a wide range of terrains and distances. It is ideal for runners who seek a reliable, all-around performer that can transition seamlessly from easy trails to more demanding technical paths.
On the other hand, the Ultra Glide is tailored for those who prioritize comfort and extended cushioning. Especially over long distances. Its design focuses on providing a plush ride, with enhanced features to smooth out transitions and reduce impact during prolonged runs on varied surfaces. This makes the Ultra Glide particularly appealing to ultra-distance runners and those who frequent moderate to mildly technical trails.
- For Daily Training and Variety: Choose the Salomon Sense Ride if you want a shoe that can handle a broad range of trail conditions and prefer a firmer ride with balanced features.
- For Long Distances and Comfort: Opt for the Salomon Ultra Glide if you prioritize cushioning and comfort for longer runs on mild to moderately technical trails.
With their distinct features and design philosophies, both models cater to different needs, ensuring that whether a runner prefers a firm, versatile experience or a cushioned, long-distance journey, there is a Salomon shoe that fits the bill.