Salomon S/LAB ULTRA 3 Shoe Review 2024
If you're eyeing the Salomon S/LAB ULTRA 3 for 2024, get ready for excellent features. Designed for long distances, these shoes boast a Matryx upper for durability. The quick lace system guarantees a secure fit, while the firm midsole remains responsive. Tackle rocky or muddy trails with ease. The Contagrip outsole offers superior traction with 3.5mm deep lugs. As for fit, enjoy a comfortable, stable ride, even though ankle collar comfort may be a concern. With a weight of around 10.9 oz and a price of $180, these shoes strike a balance between performance and value. See how these shoes are crafted for high-performance trail running.
Key Takeaways
- Matryx upper and Quicklace system offer durability and secure fit.
- Energy Save Midsole and Profeel Film provide efficient energy return and underfoot protection.
- Contagrip outsole with deep lugs ensures superior traction on challenging terrains.
- Comfortable fit with stability and cushioning for high-performance trail running.
- Priced at $180, the shoe offers value, durability, and reliable performance for long-distance runs.
Key Features and Specifications
Highlighting the exceptional features and specifications of the Salomon S/LAB ULTRA 3 trail running shoe elevates its performance in the competitive market.
The Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 is designed for long distances, making it an ideal choice for ultramarathons. With its Matryx upper, this trail shoe offers durability and support while keeping the weight low at 10.9 oz (309g).
The Quicklace system guarantees a secure and customized fit, allowing you to adjust on the go without any hassle. When it comes to cushioning, the firm yet responsive midsole of the S/Lab Ultra 3 provides the necessary support for tackling varied terrains during your trail runs.
Whether you're traversing rocky paths or muddy trails, the Salomon S/LAB ULTRA 3 is equipped to handle it all. Priced at $180, this shoe delivers a neutral stability classification and true-to-size fit comparable to other top trail running brands like HOKA, On Running, and Saucony, solidifying its position as a top choice for trail runners seeking performance and comfort.
Upper Material and Design
The Matryx upper material in the Salomon S/LAB ULTRA 3 trail running shoe provides a secure and breathable fit for medium volume feet, enhancing comfort during long-distance runs.
The Matryx mesh material isn't only lightweight but also pliable, enhancing flexibility as you tackle varying terrains.
The Quick Lace system integrated into the design allows for convenient and secure adjustments, guaranteeing a snug fit that can be personalized to your liking.
Additionally, the heel counter in the shoe offers stability and support, especially during descents, while the protective toe bumper guards your toes from unexpected impacts, adding to the overall durability and functionality of the S/Lab Ultra 3.
This thoughtful combination of features ensures both comfort and performance, allowing you to focus on your run while the shoe takes care of shock absorption and foot protection.
Midsole Technology Overview
Utilizing advanced technology, the midsole of the Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 optimizes energy return and endurance for your trail running experience. The Energy Save midsole technology incorporated in this running shoe guarantees efficient energy return, perfect for ultramarathons and technical trails. Additionally, the Profeel Film integrated into the midsole provides necessary underfoot protection on varied terrains, enhancing your overall running experience. The responsive cushioning of the midsole offers comfort during long runs, while the EnergyCell+ cushioning boosts performance, making the shoe ideal for demanding trails and extended races. Despite its lightweight design, the midsole technology of the Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 doesn't compromise on stability and support, giving you the confidence to tackle challenging terrains. Below is a table summarizing the key features of the Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3's midsole technology:
| Feature | Technology | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Save Midsole | Efficient energy return | Enhanced endurance |
| Profeel Film | Underfoot protection | Adaptability to varied terrains |
| Responsive Cushioning | Comfort during long runs | Reduced fatigue |
| EnergyCell+ Cushioning | Enhanced performance | Suitable for ultramarathons and technical trails |
Outsole Performance and Durability
Opt for superior traction and durability on diverse terrains with the Salomon S/LAB ULTRA 3's innovative Contagrip outsole. The outsole is specifically engineered for trail performance, featuring 3.5mm deep diamond lugs that enhance grip and stability, making it ideal for tackling technical trails with ease. The durable construction of the Contagrip outsole guarantees reliable traction over long distances, giving you the confidence to conquer challenging terrains without worry.
Experience enhanced grip and stability with 3.5mm deep diamond lugs.
Conquer technical trails with ease and confidence.
Enjoy long-lasting traction and durability on various terrains.
The Salomon S/LAB ULTRA 3's outsole not only delivers exceptional performance but also provides the durability needed for extensive trail running. With the Contagrip outsole, you can expect reliable traction and stability, allowing you to focus on your run without concerns about slipping or wear and tear.
Fit and Comfort Assessment
Experience a snug and secure fit with the Salomon S/LAB ULTRA 3, offering high performance through its foot-wrapping design.
This shoe, known for being one of the widest in the Salomon range, guarantees a comfortable fit for runners. The slightly longer length of the shoe not only enhances stability but also provides extra foot protection during your trail runs.
While the overall fit is praised, some users have raised concerns about the ankle collar comfort, suggesting potential room for improvement in wearability.
Weighing in at 10.64 ounces per shoe in men's size 10.5, the Salomon S/LAB ULTRA 3 strikes a balance between weight and performance, making it a reliable choice for trail running enthusiasts seeking both agility and durability.
Whether you prioritize a secure fit, stability, or overall foot protection, this shoe delivers on various aspects of comfort and performance to support your running endeavors.
Weight and Responsiveness Analysis
When considering the weight and responsiveness of the Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 shoe, you'll find a balance that enhances your trail running experience.
This responsive trail shoe weighs approximately 10.9 oz (309g) for a size US(M)9, making it light enough to keep you agile on the trails. The Energy Foam and fiberglass plate in the shoe provide a firm ride that propels you forward with each stride, giving you the guarantee you need on varied terrains.
The Matryx upper guarantees a secure fit for medium volume feet, offering both breathability and support. With a focus on cushioning and protection, this shoe is designed to cater to intermediate to experienced runners who seek a reliable and responsive companion on their trail adventures.
Trail Performance Evaluation
With exceptional traction on trails and a responsive cushioning system, the Salomon S/LAB ULTRA 3 showcases impressive trail performance. Whether you're navigating technical terrain or starting on long runs, this ultramarathon shoe offers the energy return you need to keep pushing forward.
The protective toe cap enhances safety during trail running, ensuring you can concentrate on the path ahead. The quicklace system allows for easy adjustments, so you can fine-tune the fit without slowing down.
The Salomon S/LAB ULTRA 3's durability and versatility make it a reliable companion for varied terrains, handling wet conditions with ease. Its lightweight design keeps you agile, while the support and breathability of the shoe keep you comfortable throughout your adventure.
When it comes to conquering the trails with confidence and efficiency, the Salomon S/LAB ULTRA 3 proves to be a top choice for trail runners seeking performance and protection.
Overall Verdict and Recommendation
Exploring the trail performance evaluation of the Salomon S/LAB ULTRA 3, it's evident that the overall verdict and recommendation for this shoe are highly favorable. The Salomon S/LAB ULTRA 3 is tailored for versatile trail running, offering a firm ride that caters to intermediate to experienced runners. Here's why this shoe stands out:
- The Matryx upper provides a secure fit for tackling technical terrain with confidence.
- With Energy Foam cushioning, this shoe guarantees comfort and support for long distances without compromising on responsiveness.
- The Contagrip outsole enhances traction and stability, making it a reliable choice for various terrains and paces.
Priced at $180, the Salomon S/LAB ULTRA 3 offers a well-rounded package of stability, cushioning, and protection, making it a top contender for those seeking a high-performance trail running shoe that can handle the demands of challenging landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Tall Is the Stack on Salomon Slab Ultra 3?
The stack height on the Salomon S/LAB Ultra 3 is 29mm in the heel and 21mm in the forefoot, giving an 8mm drop between them. This setup provides a good balance of cushioning and responsiveness for your runs.
It also contributes to the shoe's stability and comfort across different terrains.
Knowing the stack height helps you pick the right shoe based on your specific running needs and preferences.
What Shoes Do Pro Trail Runners Wear?
When hitting the trails, pro runners opt for high-performance shoes like the Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3. These kicks offer excellent stability, traction, and durability, perfect for long-distance races and ultramarathons.
They provide a snug fit with innovative technologies like SensiFit and EndoFit, ensuring your feet feel secure. The Ultra 3 stands out for its superior grip, stability on rugged terrain, and lightweight design, giving you the edge you need for agile movements.
What Are the Best Shoes for Gravel Running?
For gravel running, you need shoes that offer durability, traction, and support. Look for a pair with a protective toe cap, stable design, and efficient energy return for longer runs.
Consider shoes with a quicklace system for easy adjustments on the go. Versatile shoes that perform well in wet conditions and provide all-day support are ideal for gravel runners.
Choose a shoe like the Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 for a top choice in gravel running footwear.
What's so Good About Salomon Shoes?
Salomon shoes are great for various reasons. They offer excellent traction with the Contagrip outsole, easy lacing adjustments with the Quicklace system, and a breathable, water-repellent upper for dry and cool feet.
The built-in gaiters around the heel area help keep debris out, and the ProFeel Film in the midsole enhances responsiveness. These features make Salomon shoes a top choice for runners looking for quality, performance, and comfort.
