Responsive cushioning, but fit divides opinion
Image: official product image from my.salomon.com
Is the Salomon S/Lab Ultra Glide 1.5 good for ultrarunning?
Yes, the Salomon S/Lab Ultra Glide 1.5 is a capable ultra shoe for experienced runners who want protective, responsive cushioning, fluid transitions and reliable grip on mixed or rocky trails. Its 6 mm drop and high stack suit long outings, but the narrow forefoot, variable stability and €250 launch price make fit testing important.
Key facts
| Category | Trail shoes |
|---|---|
| Release | On sale by August 2025 |
| Price | €250 launch price |
| Key specs |
|
| Best for | Experienced trail runners seeking cushioning, protection and responsive comfort for ultras and long mountain outings. |
| Consensus score | 7.8 out of 10 |
What is the Ultra Glide 1.5?
The Salomon S/Lab Ultra Glide 1.5 is a maximal-cushioning, neutral trail shoe aimed at long outings and ultras. It weighs around 285 to 290 g per shoe and combines optiFOAM with PEBA-containing optiFOAM+ in a high-stack midsole with a 6 mm drop. The outsole uses All Terrain contaGRIP, Relieve Sphere and 4 mm lugs; QuickLACE handles fastening. At a €250 launch price, it sits at the premium end. The available reviews do not establish what changed from an earlier version.
How does it perform on ultras?
Reviewers generally found the cushioning responsive and protective rather than sluggish, with fluid transitions and dependable grip on mixed, rocky or gritty ground. Engearment’s tester reported a narrow forefoot, shifting QuickLACE tension and a platform that could feel wobbly, particularly without strong feet and ankles. Running Valencia’s reviewer described stable handling and a precise fit, but also a firmer ride than the generous cushioning might suggest. That difference makes fit and stability personal considerations. The shoe is not aimed at deep mud or runners wanting a close-to-ground feel.
Who should buy this Salomon?
The Salomon S/Lab Ultra Glide 1.5 suits experienced trail runners looking for protection and responsive comfort over long distances, including ultras and mountain outings. Its mix of cushioning, fluid transitions and mixed-terrain grip is appealing if you prefer a substantial platform. However, the divided feedback on forefoot width and stability makes trying it on sensible, especially if you have a wider forefoot or want a consistently locked-in fit. At €250, it is a considered purchase. Runners seeking a softer, lower or mud-focused shoe should look elsewhere.
What reviewers agree on
Strengths
- Responsive, bouncy cushioning for long runs
- High protection and a fluid transition
- Dependable grip on varied terrain
- Stable handling for some reviewers
Weaknesses
- Narrow forefoot and toe box
- QuickLACE tension can shift during runs
- Can feel wobbly to some runners
- Firmer ride than its cushioning volume may suggest
- Not designed for deep mud or a close-to-ground feel
Frequently asked questions
How does the Salomon S/Lab Ultra Glide 1.5 fit?
Fit feedback is divided. One reviewer found the forefoot narrow and reported that QuickLACE tension could shift during runs, while another described a precise fit and a friendlier heel. Because the toe-box experience is not consistent across reviewers, trying the shoe on before buying is advisable.
Is the Salomon S/Lab Ultra Glide 1.5 durable?
The available reviews do not provide enough evidence to judge long-term durability or outsole lifespan. They describe dependable grip on mixed, rocky or gritty terrain, with one reviewer also reporting wet-condition versatility. The shoe has 4 mm lugs, but that specification alone does not establish how long they will last.
How does it compare with the previous Ultra Glide?
The available reviewer consensus does not give a direct comparison with the previous Ultra Glide, so specific changes or performance gains cannot be confirmed. For this model, reviewers highlight responsive cushioning and mixed-terrain grip, alongside concerns about narrow forefoot fit, QuickLACE tension and variable stability.
Sources behind this review
- Salomon S/Lab Ultra Glide 1.5 Running Shoe Review
- Salomon S/LAB Ultra Glide 1.5 men’s trail shoes: are they …
How this review works: the consensus score of 7.8 out of 10 condenses the verdicts of the independent reviews and lab tests listed above, compiled by endurance coach Paul Forrest. Prices and specifications are those quoted by reviewers at the time of testing and may have changed.
Training for an ultra? See endurance coaching with Paul Forrest.
