Salomon is taking trail running to new heights with the launch of the Ultra Glide 4, a reimagined max-cushioned trail shoe designed for adventure seekers. Building on the success of its predecessors, this updated model promises not only a plush ride but also a significant upgrade in comfort and performance.
For fans of long-distance running, the Ultra Glide 4 features a midsole that remains unchanged, but that's a nod to its excellence. The shoe continues to utilize the energyFOAM™ midsole technology, known for its high stack height of 41mm at the heel and 35mm at the forefoot, ensuring a smooth and responsive ride over countless miles.
Technical Specs
- **Geometry**: relieveSPHERE under heel - **Midsole**: energyFOAM™ - **Upper**: Engineered mesh with integrated reinforcements - **Lugs**: 4.5 mm All-Terrain contaGRIP® - **Stack Height**: 41mm heel / 35mm forefoot - **Drop**: 6mm - **Weight**: 9.9 oz (M9) / 8.9 oz (W7) - **Price**: $160 at salomon.com
The showstopper in this upgrade is undoubtedly the shoe's upper. Salomon has ditched traditional TPU overlays in favor of a lighter, more breathable engineered mesh, providing a snug yet comfortable fit.
With this new design, trail runners can enjoy several benefits. Most notably, the revamped upper offers a 10% increase in abrasion resistance when compared to the Ultra Glide 3. This means you’ll have a durable shoe that can withstand rocky terrains for longer, making those challenging trails less daunting.
Furthermore, the improved airflow and moisture management ensure your feet stay cool and dry, even during intense runs. At a weight of just 9.9 ounces for men and 8.9 ounces for women, the Ultra Glide 4 is Salomon’s lightest version yet, striking an impressive balance between cushioning and agility.
As for grip, the shoe utilizes Salomon's All-Terrain contaGRIP® outsole, which features 4.5 mm lugs designed to tackle varied surfaces. Whether you’re running on muddy trails or rocky paths, the Ultra Glide 4 provides exceptional traction and stability, keeping you secure with every stride.
The relieveSPHERE geometry under the heel is another thoughtful inclusion. This feature helps to disperse impact and minimize fatigue during long runs, addressing that common issue of foot soreness when pushing through the final miles of a race.
What sets the Ultra Glide 4 apart is its refined comfort-to-weight ratio. Runners looking for a high-cushion daily trainer will find this shoe fitting seamlessly into their collection, offering superior protection while remaining lightweight. The Ultra Glide 4 is purposefully designed not only for day-to-day training but also for ultra-distance events.
Final thoughts from Salomon indicate that this version represents a smart evolution of a trail favorite. With new features aimed squarely at enhancing comfort and performance, the Ultra Glide 4 is poised to win the hearts of trail runners everywhere.
Salomon plans to release the Ultra Glide 4 soon, and I’ll be testing this highly anticipated shoe shortly. Keep an eye out for my comprehensive review focused on how the new upper performs in real-world running conditions.
In the meantime, those eager to elevate their trail running experience can find the Ultra Glide 4 for $160 at [salomon.com](https://salomon.com).
So lace up your shoes and prepare for adventure with the Salomon Ultra Glide 4!
Images courtesy of [Trail & Kale](https://trailandkale.com/salomon-ultra-glide-4-launch/).