Salomon is a brand primarily associated with trail running, and trail running is indeed the core of its running lineup. However, its portfolio includes much more than just mountain trail shoes. It features models for technical terrain and long ultramarathons, as well as lightweight shoes for fast running, and constructions intended for road and gravel surfaces. Take a look at Salomon’s top models and see how the different constructions vary and what types of running they’re best suited for.
While trail running is definitely the main focus for Salomon, the French brand’s lineup also includes models designed for other uses. The entire collection can therefore be divided into three main groups:
- trail running shoes – the most important and extensive part of the lineup, ranging from lightweight shoes for fast running to technical constructions for ultra-distance races,
- road and gravel shoes—models combining the features of trail shoes and road shoes, designed for hard surfaces, gravel, and easier trails,
- racing shoes—lightweight and dynamic constructions intended primarily for fast running and competitions.
TRAIL: Trail shoes for Rugged Terrain
Trail running in Salomon can be divided into several categories. One of these is the classification of shoes according to their purpose and type of running. The producer distinguishes the following segments:
- COMFORT – shoes focused on comfort, suitable for everything from everyday training in the field to ultra runs, offering the best cushioning and isolation from difficult terrain.
- SUPPORT – safe and stable shoes for difficult, rough terrain, making you feel confident on any surface
- PACE – dynamic trail shoes designed for fast starts on both rocky (Pulsar family) and muddy (Cross family) trails
However, this is not the only classification, as the producer also classifies running shoes according to their level of advancement. In this way, we distinguish between:
- S/LAB – Salomon Laboratory is the most advanced line, designed for those who seek uncompromising solutions and functionality. It is the premium line in the Salomon lineup.
- PERFORMANCE AND RACING – professional products suitable for runners of all levels. They work well both during speed training and racing.
- OCCASIONAL TRAINING – models designed for occasional runners who do not run on very difficult terrain.
- RECREATIONAL TRAINING – ideal for those who run the least and demand the least from their shoes.
The table below shows which models belong to each group:
| COMFORT | SUPPORT | PACE | |
|---|---|---|---|
| S/LAB PRO RACING CONCEPT |  S/Lab Ultra Glide 2  S/Lab Ultra 2 |  S/Lab Genesis 2 |  S/Lab Pulsar 4 |
| PERFORMANCE AND RACING |  Ultra Glide 4  Vision  Ultra Flow |  Genesis 2  XA Pro 3D v9 |  Speedcross 6 |
| OCCASIONAL |  Supercross 4 | ||
| RECREATIONAL |  Alphacross 5 |
COMFORT
Salomon S/Lab Ultra Glide 2
The Salomon S/Lab Ultra Glide 2 is one of the most comfortable trail running shoes in the brand’s lineup, designed primarily for long-distance runs and ultramarathons. Its high level of cushioning comes from a sole construction that uses two types of foam—the more advanced and responsive EnergyFOAM+ layered over the more stable EnergyFOAM. Another interesting feature is the undulating geometry of the outsole, which is designed to help distribute pressure evenly across the ground. The shoe is rounded out by a lightweight upper with QuickLACE lacing and a 4-millimeter outsole, which makes versatile traction possible on both dry and wet trails.
- Stack height: 37/35mm
- Drop: 6mm
- Weight: 290g
- Lug depth: 4mm
- Regular price: 250 EUR
Salomon S/Lab Ultra 2
S/Lab Ultra, although the name sounds very familiar, is a completely new model in the Salomon lineup. This version is the result of collaboration with renowned ultra-marathon runner François d’Haene. It is designed to maintain its properties after 10-15 hours of racing. It has a high stack. There is almost 4 centimeters of foam under the heel. It is fast, with a plate that combines dynamic properties and isolation from the ground. In addition, it has a Matrix upper with above-average durability. You could say that this is a shoe without compromise.
- Stack height: 37/29mm
- Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 280g
- Lug depth: 3.8mm
- Regular price: 240 EUR
Salomon Ultra Glide 4
The Ultra Glide 4 is a very well-cushioned trail running shoe. It is also a “civilian” and slightly less advanced version of the S/Lab Ultra Glide model, which is built only on energyFOAM foam. The midsole, just like in the S/Lab model, is wavy and consists of 4-millimeter studs, which ensure good grip on various terrains. Both dry, such as rocky trails and gravel roads, as well as slightly muddy ones. Exceptionally comfortable for long distances, it is perfect as an everyday, comfortable trail shoe and for mountain runs covering distances of several dozen kilometers.
- Stack height: 41/35mm
- Drop: 6mm
- Weight: 285g men’s, 255g women’s
- Lug depth: 4mm
- Regular price: 150 EUR
Salomon Vision
Vision is an innovative trail shoe designed for runners who prefer performance and sustainability. They are the first shoes of their kind to be 90% recyclable. Thanks to the use of infiniFOAM in the midsole, they offer good cushioning while reducing carbon emissions by 90% compared to traditional foams. The AllTerrain contaGRIP outsole with 4.5 mm lugs makes it grippy on different surfaces, while the Matryx upper is lightweight and durable. At the end of its life, the shoe can be easily recycled by scanning a QR code.
- Stack height: 33/25mm
- Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 300g
- Lug depth: 4.5mm
- Regular price: 160 EUR
Salomon Ultra Flow
The Ultra Flow is a very well-cushioned trail running shoe. In terms of cushioning, it is comparable to the Ultra Glide 2 but designed for less technical, easier trails. It is a great shoe for runners taking their first steps on the trail and those just starting their adventure with trail running. It makes for a good level of cushioning, upper ventilation, and a secure feel.
- Stack height: 32/26mm
- Drop: 6mm
- Weight: 244g men’s, 222g women’s
- Lug depth: 3.5mm
- Regular price: 130 EUR
SUPPORT
Salomon S/Lab Genesis 2
The Salomon S/Lab Genesis 2 is a high-performance trail running shoe designed for running on rugged and technical terrain. It was designed primarily for long mountain runs and ultramarathons, where low weight, protection, and secure foot support are essential. It features the Active Chassis stabilization system, which helps maintain control on uneven trails, while the durable, lightweight, and breathable Matryx Micro upper provides excellent foot protection. Compared to the Genesis 2, it’s lighter and geared toward covering demanding trails faster. It’s one of Salomon’s most advanced trail running models, combining stability, protection, and performance in the construction designed for long-distance mountain running.
- Stack height: 31/25mm
- Drop: 6mm
- Weight: 272g
- Lug depth: 4.5mm
- Regular price: 200 EUR
Salomon Genesis 2
The Salomon Genesis 2 is a more versatile and training-oriented alternative to the S/Lab Genesis 2, designed primarily for stability and control on technical trails. Compared to its more performance-oriented counterpart, it features simpler construction and a slightly less aggressive profile, but still makes excellent foot support and confidence possible on uneven terrain. Its hallmarks remain the lightweight and durable Matryx upper and the versatile Contagrip outsole. It’s an interesting option for runners looking for a shoe for forest trails, rocky trails, and more technical routes, especially for shorter and medium distances.
- Stack height: 33,5/25,5mm
- Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 281g men’s, 241g women’s
- Lug depth: 4mm
- Regular price: 150 EUR
Salomon XA Pro 3D v9
The XA series is a line of shoes that combine the features of running shoes and hiking boots, with the Pro 3D model being its most famous representative. These shoes are very versatile, with a 3.5 mm outsole, offering a unique combination of durability, stability, and protection on the most demanding trails in the world. Moderately cushioned and not the lightest, they are designed more for fast traversing of difficult terrain, including mountains, than for running.
- Stack height: 28.7/17.3mm
- Drop: 11mm
- Weight: 323g men’s, 300g women’s
- Lug depth: 3.5mm
- Regular price: 150 EUR
PACE
Salomon S/Lab Pulsar 4
The most advanced and fastest Pulsar designed for hard, rocky trails. Very light, precisely holding the foot, not to say narrow. Also sufficiently dynamic thanks to its profile. Thanks to the Matryx mesh, it fits almost like a sock. The relatively low 3.5 mm outsole is suitable for mixed terrain and occasional use on asphalt roads.
- Stack height: 34/28mm
- Drop: 6mm
- Weight: 250g
- Lug depth: 3.5mm
- Regular price: 220 EUR
Salomon Speedcross 6
The Speedcross 6 is a classic and the most iconic model from Salomon. It needs no introduction. It is a fast and moderately cushioned shoe for running on soft terrain. Ideal for mud, where its 5 mm studs come into their own. The latest version is lighter, makes contact with the ground even stronger and more secure, and removes mud faster. It also has a refreshed upper that is both functional and provides the classic Speedcross comfort.
- Stack height: 33/23mm
- Drop: 10mm
- Weight: 298g men’s, 262g women’s
- Lug depth: 5mm
- Regular price: 150 EUR
Salomon Supercross 4
Supercross is Speedcross’s younger cousin. Similarly moderately cushioned and designed for running on trails where excellent grip is key. This grip is provided by a 5mm deep outsole with high lugs. It is also one of Salomon’s widest trail shoes, designed for people with wider feet. The extra width may result in a slightly poorer fit, and the shoe is better suited to runners who run less intensively but expect a lot of grip from their shoes.
- Stack height: 32/21mm
- Drop: 11mm
- Weight: 303g men’s, 259g women’s
- Lug depth: 5mm
- Regular price: 130 EUR
Salomon Alphacross 5
The most “lightweight” model in the cross series. A younger version of the Supercross. Designed for the most occasional runners. Wide inside and one of the few Salomon trail shoes equipped with traditional laces. However, its biggest advantage is the outsole, which, like the other models in this series, has 5 mm lugs.
- Stack height: 32/21mm
- Drop: 11mm
- Weight: 294g men’s, 265g women’s
- Lug depth: 5mm
- Regular price: 110 EUR
EVERYDAY: Running Shoes for Daily Training
Although trail running is the core of Salomon’s running lineup, the brand also offers several models designed for running on non-challenging terrain. These include both road running shoes and constructions designed for gravel surfaces and easier off-road trails. The table below lists the models that are best suited for daily training on hard and mixed surfaces.
| ROAD | GRAVEL | |
|---|---|---|
| maximum cushioning |  Aero Glide 4 |  Aero Glide 4 GRVL |
| very high cushioning |  Aero Blaze 4 |  Aero Blaze 4 GRVL |
Salomon Aero Glide 4
Salomon’s flagship road running shoe is the most cushioned model in its lineup, designed for running on hard surfaces. With soft EnergyFOAM Evo foam and an improved upper, it offers exceptional comfort. With the thickest midsole among Salomon’s road running models, it is an excellent choice for those seeking maximum comfort during long-distance, steady-paced runs.
- Stack height: 42/34mm
- Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 250g men’s, 215g women’s
- Regular price: 160 EUR
Salomon Aero Glide 4 GRLV
The Salomon Aero Glide 4 GRVL is similar to the Aero Glide 4 but is designed for long runs on mixed terrain, from hard surfaces to gravel. Its midsole features optiFOAM² foam, which provides the high level of cushioning typically found in road running shoes. The upper is constructed using new Inside-Out technology to ensure a secure fit. The outsole has a hybrid Gravel Contagrip™ tread with 2.5-millimeter lugs that combine hard-surface durability with trail traction. It’s the perfect shoe for runners who love hard surfaces but aren’t afraid to veer onto gravel paths.
- Stack height: 41/33mm
- Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 270g men’s, 230g women’s
- Regular price: 160 EUR
Salomon Aero Blaze 4
This is the second of Salomon’s versatile training shoes designed for everyday urban running. It provides good cushioning for runners weighing up to 80kilograms. This is thanks to the optiFOAM foam in the midsole. It has a classic two-layer mesh upper. It is very comfortable footwear for people who run less regularly.
- Stack height: 32/24mm
- Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 230g men’s, 196g women’s
- Regular price: 140 EUR
Salomon Aero Blaze 4 GRLV
The Salomon Aero Blaze 4 GRVL is Salomon’s second gravel shoe. It is slightly less cushioned than the Aero Glide GRVL and combines the softness of a road training shoe with extra confidence on gravel. This is thanks to the durable outsole, which provides grip on hard surfaces and loose terrain. This model is ideal for runners seeking a faster, lighter shoe ready for hard surfaces and gravel shortcuts.
- Stack height: 32/24mm
- Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 248g men’s, 204g women’s
- Regular price: 140 EUR
SPEED: Shoes for Fast Training and Racing
The Salomon collection is rounded out by lightweight and dynamic models designed for fast running. This is a small but highly athletic segment of the lineup, featuring constructions suited for both intense training and competitive races.
| RACE | SPEED TRAINING | |
|---|---|---|
| maximum performance |  S/Lab Phantasm 3 | |
| very high performance |  S/Lab Spectur | |
| high performance |  Spectur 3 |
Salomon S/Lab Phantasm 3
The S/Lab Phantasm 3 is Salomon’s fastest street running shoe. Designed for the fastest runners to break their personal records, it is ultra-lightweight and extremely fast. It uses a combination of soft, flexible optiFOAM+ foam, made from a PEBA and EVA mixture, and a full-length EnergyBlade plate made of carbon fiber. This creates a fast, soft shoe that is also one of Salomon’s tallest. It is also one of the lightest and best-fitting shoes. However, the extra-thin collar makes it difficult to put on. There isn’t much space inside, but when running fast, a shoe that fits the foot better is usually more important than extra space.
- Stack height: 39/31mm
- Drop: 6mm
- Weight: 199g
- Regular price: 250 EUR
Salomon S/Lab Spectur
The second of Salomon’s fast start shoes. Designed for slightly slower runners, those who are not elite marathoners but are still ambitious and fast amateurs. You could say that it is a slower shoe compared to the S/Lab Phantasm 2. It also uses the EnergyBlade plate made of carbon fiber in its construction, but it is slightly smaller and located mainly in the front part of the shoe. This makes it a shoe not only for slower runners, but also for those who land on the rear part of the foot, under which there is only foam. This foam, like in the fastest model, is responsive and lightweight EnergyFoam+.
- Stack height: 38.5/30.5mm
- Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 235g
- Regular price: 220 EUR
Salomon Spectur 3
The Salomon Spectur 3 is a well-cushioned shoe designed for running on hard surfaces, such as roads, sidewalks, or gravel roads. It combines the strength of a full-length fiberglass plate with high stability, making it possible to have confidence during slightly faster runs. This construction is for runners who are looking for a combination of comfort over longer distances and a more dynamic running experience.
- Stack height: 38.5/30.5mm
- Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 265g men’s, 214g women’s
- Regular price: 180 EUR
