Review: Even hard and rough roads become fun. SALOMON SENSE RIDE GORE-TEX® INVISIBLE FIT

Will the latest GORE-TEX technology result in "runnable hiking boots" or "tough running shoes"?

On Japanese trails, where it rains a lot and there are many instances of muddy roads and crossing streams, it's common for shoes to get wet. I like to climb streams above the water line, but with trail running shoes, this would definitely be a "danger." But this fall, a revolutionary shoe has been released that makes running on rough terrain actually more fun

SALOMON SENSE RIDE GORE-TEX® INVISIBLE FIT is released last fall and has been a hit for long-distance trail runs and day hikes thanks to its comfortable, fatigue-free fit and injury- resistant

And it's not just waterproof. It uses GORE-TEX's latest shoe technology, GORE® Invisible Fit , and is said to combine the high level of protection of hiking boots with the mobility of running shoes. This is something we can't help but be excited about.

So this time, we tested out these new waterproof trail running shoes, which are resistant to rain and rough terrain, on a wet route along the streams of Nishitanzawa, wearing them alongside the standard non-waterproof SENSE RIDE shoes to see how they felt when running and riding.

During the test run, we tried wearing both the standard SENSE RIDE and the new one at the same time to see if there was any difference

table of contents

• SENSE RIDE GORE-TEX® INVISIBLE FIT FEATURES
  • GORE® Invisible Fit technology provides a natural feel that makes you forget you're wearing waterproof gear
  • Improved quick laces
  • A midsole that reduces damage over long distances while also providing a delicate running feel
  • Excellent grip even on wet terrain
• summary
• Evaluation summary & specs table

SENSE RIDE GORE-TEX® INVISIBLE FIT FEATURES

The limitations of conventional GORE-TEX running shoes

Heavy, stiff, poor breathability... I think that's the image that traditional GORE-TEX running shoes have when compared to non-GORE-TEX models. This was true when compared to regular running shoes, so for runners who want to focus on running, there were too many sacrifices that had to be made in order to achieve waterproofing

The problem was that conventional GORE-TEX shoes had a structural problem in which the bootie-like membrane was separated from the upper fabric. This structure reduced the fit, especially around the toe where the fabric was gathered, and moisture tended to remain between the membrane and the upper material, increasing weight and hindering breathability. This was a major hurdle that had to be overcome in order to pursue the performance of running shoes

The membrane found in traditional GORE-TEX shoes is usually floating inside the lining

GORE® Invisible Fit technology provides a natural, waterproof feel that makes you forget you're wearing it

the evolved GORE® Invisible Fit technology, the GORE-TEX membrane is bonded to the upper material, making it a completely integrated unit, and the construction is no different from that of a regular non-waterproof shoe.

GORE® Invisible Fit technology with a bonded membrane upper

At first glance, there's no visible difference from the outside, but on the inside, the improvements are immense

First of all, when you put your foot in, there's absolutely no tightness around the forefoot, like wearing a sock . There's plenty of room around the toes, allowing your toes to move freely. The subtle but pleasant sensation of your toes naturally matching the movement of the upper is common in non-waterproof shoes, but something that was unheard of in previous GORE-TEX shoes. This is the most obvious evolution, resulting from the single-piece construction achieved by lamination, eliminating internal wrinkles, folds, and overlapping fabric

Although it's a single-layer construction, the addition of the membrane layer makes it feel a little thicker than the SENSE RIDE , the creaking and stiffness that occurs when bending your toes is roughly the same as with regular running shoes . This the SENSE RIDE itself is a very flexible shoe with an excellent fit.

On the left is the standard SENSE RIDE, and on the right is the SENSE RIDE GORE-TEX® Invisible Fit. Aside from the GORE-TEX tabs on the sides, they are completely indistinguishable

The upper is made the SENSE RIDE , and is bonded with TPU for lightness, flexibility, and durability. Additionally, the SENSIFIT™ technology provides a comfortable, stress-free fit that envelops the entire foot, and this is still present in the waterproof version.

However, there's a small difference: this version does not feature "ENDOFIT™," which previously provided a better fit and stability for the tongue and arch area. Apparently, it was considered during development and was decided that it would be better to remove it from the design, but I personally liked this feature, so it's a shame to see it gone. For this reason, if you want the same tight support and fit as before, you might want to consider an original insole

The latest GORE-TEX version (right) does away with Endo Fit™, which provided a better sense of unity with the foot inside the shoe

I also tried running in the rain and near water. Naturally, even when the entire shoe was submerged, water did not seep in at all below the ankles. Unlike regular GORE-TEX shoes, there is no water remaining between the upper fabric and the membrane, so you don't feel the weight of wetness. This also improves quick-drying properties

As expected from GORE-TEX, it doesn't get wet at all even in streams

Improved quick laces

SALOMON's classic "quick shoelace" has quietly and dramatically evolved with this fall's model. Everything is now more intuitive, making it faster and easier to tighten and loosen than ever before . This ease of operation is impressive, unlike any cord lock to date, so if you haven't tried it yet, it's definitely worth giving it a try in the store.

The conventional quick shoe (left) required force in the opposite direction to loosen, but the new model (right) can be loosened by simply pulling it in the desired direction

A midsole with excellent stability that allows you to ride happily without worrying about damage

Above all else the SENSE RIDE is undoubtedly its premium sole construction, which makes long rides comfortable for all runners. The fact that this has been retained in its entirety in the waterproof version expands the value and possibilities of this shoe to the fullest.

First, "Vibe Technology" combines the midsole "Energycell+," which combines high cushioning and high resilience, with "OPAL," which has a micro-vibration absorbing function. This technology not only absorbs the impact of landing, but also absorbs and reduces vibrations that can cause fatigue and injury , allowing you to run comfortably to the end, even on long-distance, long-time runs.

The midsole "Energycell+" (left) combines high cushioning and high resilience, while the midsole "OPAL" (right) has a micro-vibration absorbing function

The 27mm heel provides reliable cushioning for beginners allows for a delicate touch, while the internal "Profeel Film" softens impacts from the ground , making up for the thinness.

"Profeel Film" prevents the ground from pushing up and increases resilience

The boat-shaped rocker shape which gently curves from heel to toe, allows for a natural and smooth stride.

When viewed from the side, you can see the gentle upward curve towards the toe. The sole structure is exactly the same for both the standard and GORE-TEX versions

Excellent grip even on wet terrain

The outer sole is strong even on wet roads. The lug pattern is effectively positioned to provide firm support in all directions

The outer sole is made of the same Contagrip® Premium Wet Traction material the SENSE RIDE . It features an all-around lug pattern that accommodates a variety of movements, including braking and side kicks. As expected, the shoe demonstrated excellent grip on wet boulders and loose muddy downhill slopes

Summary: Recommended for people like this

SALOMON SENSE RIDE GORE-TEX® INVISIBLE FIT offers the ultimate in water protection while delivering the same running performance as high-end running shoes, making it a perfect choice for trail running in bad weather and on rough terrain. With a running comfort comparable to regular trail running shoes, they're great for trail running in any weather, making them a great choice for running on uncharted terrain. They're also a great option for trail running beginners who've primarily focused on road running to get used to the mountains.

On the other hand, with such solid waterproofing, I can highly recommend these shoes even if you're not a runner. I think they're perfect for people with good legs to wear for fastpacking, long trails, and day hikes. I've been wearing lightweight hiking shoes for day hikes up until now, but I'm thinking about switching to these

For product details and inquiries, please also check the SALOMON official website

SENSE RIDE

SALOMON

20,520 yen

302g (27cm)

Main Specifications and ratings

   

Related reading

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

Review: The fully updated SALOMON SENSE RIDE 3 and SENSE 4 /PRO are new standard trail shoes that combine cushioning and propulsion.

Review: If you want to level up while feeling the joy of driving in nature, it's a good idea to wear SALOMON SENSE RIDE.

Review: SALOMON SONIC RA 2 NOCTURNE For training in the cold winter! Light mid-cut running shoes with excellent stability and no injuries