The Salomon S/Lab Ultra 2
The Salomon S/Lab Ultra 2 will be available soon, in April 2019. This third-generation model remains purpose-built for long trail races and training runs, and the iterative changes seem entirely likable.
Like most Salomon models, the Ultra is a neutral shoe that is designed for narrow and low-volume feet. But it has more forefoot volume and underfoot protection than the Salomon Sense line, making it a better choice for ultra-length outings. I used the second-generation S/Lab Ultra (my preview) last year for Run Rabbit Run 100, and the first-generation S/Lab Sense Ultra (my review) for UTMB and Bighorn 100.
The Ultra 2 is essentially an updated Ultra 1. It shares the same:
- Foot last and interior volume
- Heel cup shape and construction
- Midsole composition, including resilient PU insert
- Hydrophobic PU exoskeleton
- Elasticized tongue
- 4mm outsole lug pattern
- Stack height (26 mm/18 mm) and drop (8 mm)
- Colorway
It’s been tweaked in four ways:
- The “lower” pair of wings were eliminated.
- The “upper” pair of wings were redesigned. They’re made of lighter material, and they pivot higher on the shoe.
- Stickier rubber compound, supposedly with no loss of durability.
- The upper mesh is lighter and thinner. It’s hard to see in photos, but more obvious in person.
These changes dropped the weight of the shoe slightly. The Ultra 2 specs at 9.9 (280 g) oz for men’s size 9, versus 10.6 oz (300 g) for the Ultra 1.
I’m told that I’m on the list for media samples, and hopefully I can follow up with a review by April.
The Salomon S/Lab Ultra 2
For comparison, the S-Lab Ultra 1. Notice its two pairs of wings, and how the “upper” pair pivots from the upper/midsole junction.
The Ultra 2 will retain the same outsole lug pattern and height, but the compound will be slightly sticker, supposedly without any loss of durability.
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Picking up some of these myself to replace my Ultra 1s, will be interested to read your thoughts on these when you’ve worn them a bit. Can get them 20% off at backcountry right now.
Hey Andrew,
Have you got any time in the Ultra 2’s yet? Got a pair to try out but have just been wearing them around the house. Been running in the XA elevate for the last 2 ish years with no issues, but have been wondering about something with a bit more cush for longer distances as I train for my first 50k in October.
any thoughts?
No, I have not.