In what might be one of the first big shocks of the year, Salomon has delivered what we feel is the best distance trail shoe out there right now with the Ultra Glide 2. It may not be as nimble or as technical as other shoes out there, but from a runability and comfort perspective, it is really tough to beat this one. Unless you’ve got super narrow feet, the fit works for almost every foot shape and well, color us impressed.
Quick Details, Specs, and Availability
- Weight – 9.17oz or 260g for a US Men’s 9, 8.47oz or 240g for a US Women’s 7
- Cushion – 32mm of cushion and a 6mm heel/toe drop
- Pricing – $150 USD
- Colors – 4 colors
Performance Review
We were actually big fans of the original Ultra Glide, but we also noted that it felt sloppy. What we meant by this is that the old upper didn’t provide enough control or lateral stability, and the midsole didn’t have a solid enough stance to really trust the platform. The Ultra Glide 2 took everything we loved from the original, especially the feel, but they also fixed all the issues. So what we are left with is an ultra comfortable upper and a well cushioned and performing midsole.
Now, first off the shoe is way lighter than you might expect coming in and just over 9oz. We say that because it looks beefy, but in actuality is really light on the foot. The upper envelops you and the gusseting system holds you in place providing a first level of stability. Their Sensifit technology really cradles your foot and protective overlays provide a level of protection while also adding some support. The upper is finished off with their Quicklacing system and this is probably the best iteration we have seen given there is ample storage room for the lace without resulting in this massive tongue.
The midsole is a blend of EVA and Olefin and the beauty here comes in the curved design, which helps you quickly move through the gait cycle. There is only 32mm of stack on the shoe, but it feels way more cushioned than this, way more plush. The outsole uses their Contragrip system, just like their other models, but the lug pattern here and the overall stance of the shoe lends itself better to firmer less technical to rain, fire roads, or really well packed trails.
This easily finds a spot in our running lineup as our very easy running trail companion that can go for some distance. Sure it doesn’t have a really high level of cushion, but it is so comfortable under foot that you can know you can just run in them for quite a while.
Construction and Materials
Upper
The Salomon Ultra Glide 2 features an internal fit sleeve that is expertly designed to embrace your foot in all the right places, ensuring a precise and comfortable fit that caters to your unique needs. Combined with the SensiFit™ technology that cradles your foot from the midsole to the lacing system, these shoes provide a secure and customized fit that feels snug and supportive from all angles. The Quicklace™ system, with its minimalistic and durable lace, enables easy one-pull tightening, making these shoes a breeze to put on and take off, adding convenience to your running routine.
Midsole
The Salomon Ultra Glide 2 features a lightweight and responsive foam, crafted by combining EVA and Olefin [OBC], offering exceptional cushioning that lasts and a dynamic energy return. Drawing inspiration from Salomon’s esteemed ski heritage, the curved midsole geometry of this shoe creates a unique sensation, making you feel as if you are gracefully floating over the ground during your runs. Additionally, the Profeel Film technology acts as a filter between you and the terrain, providing a smoother and more stable feel to your stride, ensuring confidence and control on various surfaces.
Outsole
The Salomon Ultra Glide 2 is equipped with the versatile All Terrain Contagrip® outsole, specifically designed to excel on a wide range of surfaces, providing exceptional durability and instilling confidence whether running on wet, dry, hard, or loose terrain, thanks to its reliable traction and 3.5mm lugs.
Overall Conclusion
We weren’t holding back with this one, Salomon has really delivered with the Ultra Glide 2. We were fans of the original version, but this takes it to a whole new place. So if you are looking for your next distance trail shoe and don’t need something that has to deal with super technical terrain, then this is a really great choice. We could see running in these up to 100K without a problem because the upper and under foot feel is just so dialed and comfortable. Well done Salomon.
Learn more on the Salomon website
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Check Out Other Reviewers Thoughts
As always, we gather together some of our favorite reviewers so you can get a well-rounded view of the shoe. Here are our favorites.
