Review: SALOMON SENSE RIDE 2 - All-rounders that teach a wide range of runners the fun of trail running are even easier to use

It's spring. There are a ton of competitions and events happening all over the country. Outdoor manufacturers are releasing new spring and summer models one after another. For runners who have been staying away from the trails for a while, it's about time to get back on track

Salomon, a world-leading manufacturer of trail running gear, has released the Sense Ride, an all-around model whose popularity has skyrocketed since its release due to its versatility and high level of perfection, making it suitable for everyone from professionals to beginners, for short distances to long distances, and on roads to muddy surfaces.This the Sense Ride has been upgraded to version 2 .

This time, we'll be reviewing the Sense Ride 2 in detail, covering the changes from the previous model released in the fall of 2017, as well as our impressions of wearing them on the trail. This is definitely a must-read for anyone thinking about taking up trail running or wondering what new shoes to get for the start of the season!

Sense Ride 2's main features

The Sense Ride 2 the most versatile and comfortable all-around trail running shoe in the Sense series, which is the core of Salomon's trail running shoes. Compared to other models in the lineup, such as the speed-focused Pro, the cushioned Max, and the Escape, which are designed as running shoes that can also be used on trails, the Sense Ride 2 offers a balanced range of features needed to , including a lightweight body, a breathable and comfortable upper, and a midsole with the unique Vibe system that maintains a high level of cushioning, rebound, and fatigue reduction, making it a shoe that is suitable for a wide range of users, from beginners to athletes who are concerned about damage.

Recommended points

• Upper provides excellent fit and high breathability
• A midsole that reduces fatigue and provides a comfortable running experience
• An outsole that responds sensitively to any road surface

Points that interest me

• Outsole wear rate (durability)

Main Specifications and ratings

Detailed review

Changes from the previous Sense Ride (what has changed and what hasn't)

First, let's take a look at what has changed from the previous model, Sense Ride

upper

The upper has been redesigned and made of new materials. This is perhaps the biggest change in this upgrade. The new material, 3D mesh, has been used to make the shoe lighter and more breathable. The toe area uses a more open-weave fabric for better breathability, while the sides are thinner and lighter

Outsole

The outsole remains unchanged in terms of material, pattern, and slits (decoupling outsole). Salomon's proprietary Contagrip MA (formerly Premium Wet Traction Contagrip) material continues to be used

Midsole

The midsole continues to use the "Vibe System," which effectively reduces fatigue and injury-causing damage even during long runs. The shoe also combines Salomon's unique shoe technologies, such as EnergyCell for rebound, OPAL for cushioning, and PROFEEL FILM to protect the soles of your feet from impacts from the road surface, for a perfectly balanced experience that allows you to run in comfort and enjoyment

weight

The manufacturer claims the weight is 270g, a 10g reduction from the previous model the Sense Ride . While it's only 10 grams lighter, the actual weight was 261g, so it's still noticeable. The weight reduction is said to be primarily due to a change in the upper material.

Shoe lace

The shoelaces have also been updated, with the latest version of Quicklace being used. This is used in most Salomon shoes, so if you've ever worn Salomon shoes, you'll understand its appeal. The latest version can be operated with less force and steps, and I personally find it less likely to come loose, making it even more stress-free

Actual riding impressions Comparison with Sense Ride

I will share my impressions of actually running in the new model, including a comparison with the previous model. When comparing the two, I even tried them on by swapping the left and right shoes

When you think of Salomon trail running shoes, you think of the fit. This fit provided by SENSIFIT™ and ENDOFIT™ is hard to miss for runners who want to feel the ground as they run

I was worried that this exquisite feeling would change with the change in upper material, but it has been retained in the new model. The fact that it continues to be used in Salomon's top-of-the-line S/LAB series also shows how well-made it is. Thanks to this, you can quickly detect any wobble in your foot and regain your balance, which is likely to reduce injuries such as sprains

When I started running, I noticed that the boots still propelled me forward, especially on flat trails. The moderate rebound and the gently curved " rocker geometry " design from heel to toe really increased the tension.

In terms of cushioning, the previous model felt a little softer, but that's probably because I'd already worn the previous model quite a bit. In reality, there's almost no difference. The Vibe system still has a good balance of cushioning and rebound, so you can run comfortably on mixed road surfaces.

As for grip, the sole still grips the ground well, so there's no need to worry even when going downhill at high speed. I didn't slip even when landing or kicking off on wet rocks, let alone in good weather. However, the sole is softer, so it seems like it will wear out quickly

Other than that, the upper is made of a lightweight and thin material, and is made by pressing without sewing, so it cannot be denied that there are some concerns about durability. The sides in particular are quite thin, so you need to be careful not to snag them

Also, when running in the rain or after running in a river or puddle, I noticed a noise every time I landed, like stepping on wet fabric. The water drainage is not as bad as the previous model, but it may be that water tends to remain in some places

Personally, I like this color scheme. It's rare to see white shoes, so I think it's interesting. It makes dirt more noticeable, but it gives the impression that you've been running a lot, which makes it look cool!

In addition to being lightweight, the Vibe system provides cushioning, fatigue reduction, and rebound, making them a natural fit for racing. They don't clog mud much, and you can run steadily even on rocky surfaces, making them a versatile shoe that can be used in any situation. Personally, I think they're well suited to medium-distance races of around 40-60km 100km , they're probably best used as everyday training shoes rather than for racing. Once you have a pair, they'll quickly become your main shoes.

Summary: Recommended for people like this

When starting out on trail running, it's inevitable that shoes with high cushioning will grab your attention, and these are the shoes I'd recommend for those people. Shoes that are overly protective make it difficult to get a feel for the sensations you get when running with your feet. Beginners especially should prioritize this sensation, and wear them until they're worn out to get a feel for the feeling, and they'll be able to truly experience the joy of running on the trail. Even if you're not a beginner, wearing these shoes will help you rediscover the joy of trails. By cherishing this sensation and expanding your options to suit your level and trail running goals, such as the speed-focused Sense Pro, the enhanced cushioning Sense Max, or the more racy S/LAB series, the world of trail running will expand even further

   

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