Salomon S-Lab Speed Review
The Salomon S-Lab series of shoes can be a confusing array of similar sounding names. Two of the more popular models are the Sense, which was developed with Kilian Jornet, and the Ultra, which was developed with Francois d’Haene. The Speed model is somewhere between the two with the same drop as the Sense and closer in weight but slightly lighter than the Ultra. It is designed for racing in slippery, muddy conditions, so it functions as a racing version of the popular Salomon Speedcross model.
The Speed weighs in at 9.3 ounces (265 grams) in a size 9. This compares to 7.2 ounces (205 grams) for the Sense, 10.0 ounces (285 grams) for the Ultra, and 11.3 ounces (320 grams) for the Speedcross. The 4mm drop matches the Sense and is significantly less than the Ultra or Speedcross. All models have the same Quicklace system.
Like many Salomon shoes, the Speed has a narrow fit. I have a narrow foot, and the Speed just barely fits me. It is narrower than the Speedcross and similar sizing to the Sense. As a racing designed shoe, it is less cushioned but does have noticeably more support than the Sense. I have comfortably run several 50K races in the Speed. It is enough shoe for me in a 50 mile race as well, though my feet will be a bit more beat up afterwards, particularly through the heel. I likely wouldn’t run 100 miles in the Speed, but I would certainly consider starting in it for the first 50-60 miles and then switching shoes.
The outsole has heavy duty lugs that perform really well in difficult conditions. The Speed is even more grippy than the Speedcross or Sense Softground, and it can handle whatever you throw at it. While lightweight, I’ve also found the Speed is highly durable and has held up well so far with several hundred miles run in them.
Overall I really like the Salomon Speed, and it is a go-to trail race shoe for me. I like racing in a lighter shoe, and while the Sense wasn’t enough shoe for me, the Speed gets the job done. Most of my running is on technical terrain, and the grippy lugs perform really well. It is also nice to have a lightweight racing shoe that is durable. If you are looking for a racing trail shoe and can handle a narrow fit, I highly recommend the Speed 2.