Salomon Ultra Glide 4
- Mar 25
- 3 min read
Max Cushion Trail Running Shoe for Long Distance Comfort
The Salomon Ultra Glide 4 is a trail running shoe designed for long distance comfort on mixed terrain. Built with maximal cushioning and high foot protection, it is intended for runners who spend long hours on trails and require consistent cushioning, grip, and durability.
There was a big change from the Ultra Glide 2 to the Ultra Glide 3 with a very different more versatile lug pattern and the addition of the very recognisable Relieve Spheres designed to take pressure off in the areas of hot spots during a race. This latest version focuses on improving breathability, reducing weight, and enhancing long distance comfort with upgraded foam optiFOAM.
Technical Specifications
Weight
280g (per unit)
Stack Height
41 mm heel / 35 mm forefoot
Drop (mm)
6 mm
Midsole Foam / Cushioning Technology
Salomon optiFOAM with relieveSPHERE technology
Outsole / Grip
Contagrip® outsole
Upper Material
Lighter, more breathable upper construction
Lacing System
quickLACE™ system
Ideal Terrain
Mixed terrain
Intended Use
Distance Trail Running
Lug Depth
4 mm
Key Features to the Ultra Glide 4
Maximal Dynamic Cushioning
The Ultra Glide 4 uses Salomon optiFOAM, designed to deliver deep cushioning for long distance comfort. The shoe also incorporates relieveSPHERE technology, which helps disperse pressure underfoot. This design aims to reduce repetitive impact stress during long runs on uneven terrain.
Reliable Trail Grip
The shoe features Salomon’s Contagrip® outsole, engineered to provide traction across a variety of trail surfaces. Combined with 4 mm lugs, the outsole is designed to maintain grip on mixed terrain including dirt trails, rocky paths, and variable surfaces.
Long Distance Comfort
The Ultra Glide 4 is designed with maximal cushioning and high foot protection, making it suitable for extended trail runs. The construction prioritises comfort over long distances and frequent training sessions.
Improved Breathability
The upper has been redesigned to be lighter and more breathable, allowing for improved airflow. The design also supports better water evacuation to help keep feet drier when running in wet conditions.
Key Updates From the Previous Version
The Ultra Glide 4 introduces several improvements compared to the previous version:
Lighter Construction
Lighter construction to improve overall running efficiency
Improved Airflow
More breathable upper for improved airflow in hot or humid conditions
Durability
Improved durability designed to supper higher mileage
Performance and Ride
The Ultra Glide 4 is engineered to deliver a highly cushioned trail running experience suitable for long distances. The deep cushioning provided by optiFOAM helps absorb repeated impacts, while relieveSPHERE technology works to distribute pressure across the foot during long runs.
The high rising foam up the side of the shoe makes for a very stable whilst cushioned trail shoe, that can be used in confidence over highly technical terrain.
The moderate 6 mm drop, the shoe is designed to balance cushioning and efficiency during extended trail runs.
Ideal Runner
The Ultra Glide 4 is best suited for:
Trail runners training for long distance or ultra distance events
Runners seeking maximal cushioning for extended trail sessions whilst retaining stability
Athletes running frequently (4 or more times per week)
Runners who encounter mixed terrain trails and require reliable traction and comfort
Conclusion
The Salomon Ultra Glide 4 is designed as a highly cushioned trail running shoe focused on comfort, durability, and grip over long distances. With optiFOAM cushioning, relieveSPHERE pressure distribution, and a Contagrip outsole, it provides a stable and comfortable ride for runners spending extended time on mixed terrain trails. The lighter and more breathable upper further improves its suitability for more extreme conditions with faster drying materials for the wet conditions and keeping you cooler in the warmer weather.
Comments