With total security, if you think of mountain terrain, Salomon is one of those established brands that come to mind almost automatically. Its long history in the outdoor universe has made it synonymous with reliability, innovation and excellent performance in any roadmap you set for yourself. Now, with the launch of the new Salomon Ultra Glide 3, the French company wants to take the experience of the long distance runner to a new level of cushioning and comfort.
From RUNNEA we tell you everything you need to know about this new trail running shoe of the Salomon Ultra Glide 3 first hand, from its main technologies to the type of runner to whom it best fits, through the design and the experience of use in different terrains. If you're looking for a shoe that combines protection, lightness and responsiveness, you may have found a new trail running colleague.
An evolutionary leap in Salomons Ultra Glide family
Salomon's Ultra Glide 3 are based on the experience accumulated in the previous versions, but have added several adjustments and improvements. Born with the aim of offering maximum cushioning and comfort for long distances, these shoes seek the perfect balance between lightness and protection.
Their philosophy is based on covering a wide spectrum of runners, from those who are preparing for their first ultra to the most experienced runners who need a reliable and comfortable shoe for high mileage races or demanding weekly runs.
What are the main new features?
- Energy Foam cushioning: Substantial improvement in the midsole, with a foam that combines EVA and olefin block copolymer (OBC). The result is a softer ride and excellent energy return.
- Sphere relief on the outsole: A distinctive wave geometry designed to evenly distribute pressure underfoot, reducing fatigue build-up with every stride.
- Fitted upper: Engineered mesh and EndoFit technology for a precise internal fit, complemented by Quicklace quick lacing.
- Recycled mesh: Salomon is also committed to sustainability, incorporating recycled materials that maintain strength and performance without neglecting the environment.
All these innovations are intended to meet the needs of those who run 3 to 5 times a week in the mountains, or even more, looking for a high level of comfort and performance without neglecting protection on varied surfaces.
Photo: Salomon Spain on Instagram
The keys to the renovation of the Salomon Ultra Glide 3, point by point
With the main new features of these Salomon Ultra Glide 3 at a quick glance, it's time to analyze all the keys, point by point:
Midsole and cushioning: Energy Foam in action
The new midsole of the Salomon Ultra Glide 3 is one of the main innovations of this all-terrain trail running model. Here's a detailed breakdown:
The key: combination of EVA and OBC
The midsole of the Ultra Glide 3 is composed of Energy Foam technology, a combination of EVA foam with olefin block copolymer (Olefin Block Copolymer-OBC). This compound provides both cushioning and a remarkably dynamic rebound. In other words, with each step you feel a greater energy return, which helps you maintain a fluid pace and reduce muscle fatigue over long distances.
6 mm Drop and maximalist profile
Its profile is 41 mm in the heel and 35 mm in the forefoot, resulting in a 6 mm drop. This is considered a "moderate" drop, ideal for those looking for a soft heel-to-toe support. With this midsole height, the feel is one of remarkable protection from uneven terrain. The foam absorbs impacts and prevents the sole of the foot from suffering excessively.
Agile and light transitions
Although the cushioning is generous and sumptuous, as indicated by the French brand itself, the model maintains a fairly contained weight: 285 grams in trail running shoes for men and 255 grams for women, approximately. For a trail option with this level of cushioning, these numbers are very competitive. This means that you won't feel like you're wearing "bricks" on your feet; on the contrary, the Energy Foam favors agile and light transitions, which are key to maintaining motivation on long runs.
How do they perform in the race?
On steep descents, the cushioning is especially noticeable in the heel area. It feels softer and more stable on landing, which reduces fatigue as the miles go by. You can also feel that on uneven terrain, the foam distributes pressure better and allows for a very smooth transition from the rearfoot to the forefoot.
Sphere +Contagrip® relief, total innovation to ensure grip on any surface.
One of the most talked-about innovations of the Salomon Ultra Glide 3 is the wavy geometry of the sole, called Sphere Relief. It is a series of undulations designed to distribute pressure evenly and "break" the repeated impact under the foot. With each stride, the sole subtly adapts to irregularities, reducing the sensation of shock and, in theory, delaying the onset of fatigue.
What are the benefits of this Sphere Relief sole?
- Pressure reduction: Spherical indentations relieve the areas of the foot that bear the greatest load, providing a more natural and comfortable feel when running.
- Improved comfort: even after many kilometers, making it ideal for ultra-distance running.
- Shock absorption: The undulating geometry of the sole helps cushion repeated impacts, minimizing stress on the feet and joints.
- Terrain adaptability: The spherical shapes and corrugated design allow the sole to better adapt to mixed terrain, ensuring good grip and stability.
- Mud prevention: A honeycomb pattern is included in the grooves , making it difficult for mud to adhere to the sole, maintaining its functionality in adverse conditions.
All Terrain Contagrip®
In addition, the sole of the Ultra Glide 3 uses All Terrain Contagrip®, a rubber compound designed to offer durability and excellent grip in a variety of conditions: wet, dry, rocky or slippery surfaces. The key lies in combining rubber of different hardness, thus achieving a balance between grip and wear resistance. While the 4 mm lugs provide sufficient traction for most mixed terrains, without being excessive in compact areas or asphalt sections.
Upper and upper design: comfort and breathability
Engineered Mesh and EndoFit
The upper of the Ultra Glide 3 is made from Engineered Mesh, a fabric that varies in density in specific areas to provide extra support or flexibility where needed. This means the foot doesn't feel trapped, but also doesn't move excessively. Along with this mesh, we find EndoFit technology, an internal sleeve that "hugs" the foot, achieving a precise and stable fit. The goal is that, even on descents or technical steps, the foot remains well supported, minimizing the risk of friction or blisters.
Padded collar and tongue
Long runs, typical of ultra runners, can expose pressure points on the ankle and instep. That's why Salomon has designed a contoured collar around the ankle, offering an optimal balance between support and freedom of movement. In addition, the padded tongue includes a small reinforcement to accommodate the laces, preventing their movement during the race. This attention to detail translates into less discomfort and a more comfortable experience.
Quicklace: quick, minimalist lacing
Salomon popularized the Quicklace system on its trail models and Ultra Glide 3 are no exception. Quicklace is a durable, minimalist lace that allows you to adjust the shoe in one pull. It also stores easily in a dedicated pocket located on the tongue, avoiding snagging on branches or obstacles. This feature makes it quicker to put on or take off your shoes, something you'll appreciate during daily workouts and also on mountain runs with fast transitions or when you need to make adjustments on the go.
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Go to the Shoe FinderReinforcements for added protection
The Salomon Ultra Glide 3 also incorporates a printed lining along the base of the foot, thicker at the toe to protect against roots and stones. A fundamental element in trail running, where the slightest hit with a rock can result in a disabling injury. The heel area is also soft and flexible, with the aim of adapting to the anatomy and offering a pleasant cushioning when the foot lands.
A tongue partially integrated into the structure reinforces support, preventing displacement and providing extra protection against the elements on the way.
Runner profile and recommended uses of the Salomon Ultra Glide 3
To the question of: "Who are they for?", quickly, we'll tell you mountain runners looking for cushioning over long distances.
- With their clear maximalist approach, these shoes are geared for ultramarathons and high mileage training runs.
- Those who need a versatile option: the All Terrain Contagrip® compound and 4 mm lugs make them suitable for moderate technical terrain and variable surfaces (dirt trails, loose rock, some asphalt, etc.).
- Comfort lovers without losing agility: They are relatively light for the amount of cushioning they offer, so you don't feel like you're sacrificing too much speed.
Ideal paces and distances
Although they are not focused on being "super" shoes, this third version of the Ultra Glide 3 does allow you to maintain decent paces in ultras, mountain marathons and daily workouts of 15-20 km or more. The 6 mm drop invites a fairly natural stride, while the overall protection of the model reduces stress on joints and muscles, especially in long-distance events.
Who is it for and who is it not for?
- Yes: Runners looking for superior comfort, impact protection and good grip on a variety of terrains. Perfect for those who prioritize durability and comfort on medium to long distance runs.
- Maybe not: Athletes who need maximum reactivity on explosive runs, or who prefer a very low drop (0-4 mm) and a more minimalist feel. In that case, perhaps there are models more focused on pure speed or natural transition.
Beginner runners looking for stability and extra protection may also find this model a very friendly option. For more experienced runners, they can be an ideal tool for long runs or competitions in the mountains that are not extremely technical. Their lightness and dynamism make them versatile, as long as you prioritize comfort over pure speed.
In this way, the Ultra Glide saga has positioned itself as a more accessible alternative to the S/LAB Ultra line, maintaining certain similar design features but with a somewhat less competitive approach. In the Ultra Glide 3, Salomon has optimized the use of Energy Foam (without resorting to the innovative EnergyFoam+), achieving a soft and progressive feel. Also, key areas of the upper have been reinforced for greater durability and some outsole elements have been refined for better grip.
Salomon Ultra Glide 3, a leap forward in comfort and versatility on trail terrain.
At RUNNEA we hope and wish that this detailed product review of the Salomon Ultra Glide 3 will serve as useful information, valor the fact that these Salomon shoes represent a notable evolution within the range of trail shoes from the brand from Annecy.
In this sense, this renewed model of Ultra Glide 3 is configured as a very balanced option for runners and mountain runners who train several times a week and / or compete in medium and long distances. With just 285 grams and a 6 mm drop, you don't give up the agility you need on moderately difficult trails, but you do gain extra protection that you'll notice especially in the last kilometers of each of your outdoor outings.
For everyone else - whether you're just starting out in ultras, want a reliable option for daily trail training, or are looking for a trail companion for your long-distance races - the Ultra Glide 3 are a clear and safe bet. Competitively priced for the technology they incorporate, they represent the balance you need between comfort, durability and performance.
Fit your Quicklace system on these Salomon, get ready for adventure and feel the Ultra Glide 3 propel you towards your next mountaineering goal!
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