S/Lab Ultra 3

Gear review: The S/Lab Ultra 3 – Your new running buddy

It was eagerly awaited, the successor to the top dog Salomon S/Lab Ultra 2. Then, with a little delay due to Corona, it finally arrived – the Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3. It was developed in close cooperation with trail runners like Kilian Jornet, Courtney Dauwalter and other top runners from the Salomon team. Our trail running expert from the Wielenbach branch, Mirko Schohn, tested the successor for us.


First impression: The workmanship looks impeccable and extremely high quality. Especially the single layer mesh caught my attention at first sight. This promises a lot of breathability. In addition, Salomon’s statement that this mesh is not only very well ventilated but also very effectively protects against intruders such as stones or other mountain nasties.

The design of the Ultra 3 surprised me with its noble, simple elegance. It looks simply chic and fast. The lacing is simple but functional, so there is no reason for me to complain. It held so well during a long run that I didn’t have to lace it up once.

During the first fitting I noticed that the S/Lab Ultra 3 is large. For me (normal size 44.5), size 44.0 is sufficient for this shoe, but for those athletes who want to stand more directly in the shoe, a whole size smaller would also be fine.

 

Mirko Schohn Sense 3

 

enough theory and off to the first round


The trail at my home was unfortunately extremely muddy, but that didn’t bother the S/Lab Ultra 3 trail running shoe very much. It does its job. And even more than that! Due to its extremely good fit and the low weight of only 290 g and a blast of 8 mm, I didn’t even notice the shoe. The Contagrip outsole ensures that I kept control on any surface. These racing genes tempt me to run faster and faster because the Ultra 3 is so much fun.

After the first test at home, it was time to put the S/Lab Sense 3 through its paces in the high mountains. During running laps in the Mieminger Mountains and in Limone sul Garda, the shoe showed what it was made for. Uphill light and direct on the forefoot and uphill from well cushioned and with an incredible fit. I have never had a trail running shoe that fitted my foot as precisely as this S/Lab. It is often the case that shoes expand considerably in wet and stressed conditions. This is not the case with the Ultra 3. It retains its shape and stability with virtually no change. The breathable upper material is another very positive feature. The trail shoe is very well ventilated. Should it ever go through snow or a puddle, this is not particularly bad with the S/Lab, because it dries in no time at all and the foot remains dry as far as possible. In downhill the Ultra 3 cuts a good figure mainly because of its cushioning. It is tight and tuned for races, but the S/Lab cushions so well that even less ambitious runners can reach the valley without pain. The carbon plate incorporated in the midsole makes the Ultra 3 even more reactive and ensures that no stones or roots pierce and reduce the trail pleasure.

Especially uphill I enjoyed the shoe very much. Sure-footed, light and stable, it took me to all peaks that seemed to me to be runnable.

 

S/Lab Ultra 3

 

 

resume:

S/Lab Ultra 3 is to follow in the very big footsteps of its predecessor Ultra 2. This shoe will be a worthy successor and is in no way inferior to the 2-series. On the contrary, it fits perfectly and provides excellent air conditioning for the maltreated runner’s feet. In my opinion, the Ultra 3 is suitable for medium to long distances. And especially on hot days.

Runners with sensitive Achilles tendons have to get used to the shoe slowly. Because the tight-fitting upper can cause slight pressure on the Achilles tendon.

Nevertheless, I can recommend this shoe to every runner who wants to let off steam in the mountains, set up FKTs and have fun.


 

Pro:

  • Fitting
  • Breathability
  • Grip

 

Contra:

  • Tricky shoelace bag
  • Possible pressure on the Achilles tendon

 

Have fun running!