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The max-cushion trail runner returns with a re-engineered upper and the same plush, responsive ride trail runners trust.
Salomon has just unveiled the Ultra Glide 4, the latest evolution of its popular max-cushioned trail shoe, and I’ll have a pair in soon for testing, so stay tuned for my full hands-on review.
While the midsole remains the same, and for good reason (it’s been a favorite among long-distance runners for years), the big story this time is the upper: it’s lighter, more breathable, and feels more dialed-in than ever.
Technical specs
- Price: $160 at salomon.com
- Weight: 9.9 oz (M9) / 8.9 oz (W7)
- Drop: 6mm
- Stack Height: 41mm heel / 35mm forefoot
- Lugs: 4.5 mm All-Terrain contaGRIP®
- Upper: Engineered mesh with integrated reinforcements
- Midsole: energyFOAM™
- Geometry: relieveSPHERE under heel
What’s new in the Ultra Glide 4?
The core update for v4 is the completely reworked upper, which now skips TPU overlays in favor of a more refined engineered mesh that integrates reinforcements directly into the structure of the shoe.
This small change yields big benefits:
- Less weight: Just 9.9 oz (M9) and 8.9 oz (W7), making it the lightest Ultra Glide yet.
- Better airflow and moisture management: Your feet stay drier and cooler on hot or wet runs.
- Increased abrasion resistance: Lab testing shows a 10% improvement over the Ultra Glide 3, so you can expect more longevity on rocky terrain.
energyFOAM™ midsole returns for long-haul comfort
Salomon didn’t mess with the formula underfoot. The energyFOAM™ midsole, with its high stack height (41mm heel / 35mm forefoot), remains one of the most forgiving yet responsive platforms out there for trail runners tackling long distances.
Whether you’re out on a casual trail run or pushing through the final miles of a 50K, the ride remains smooth, energetic, and protective.
All-Terrain grip and smoother geometry
The outsole uses All-Terrain contaGRIP® rubber with 4.5 mm lugs, which strikes a solid balance between grip and versatility, making it perfect for mixed terrain where traction consistency matters.
Beneath the heel, the relieveSPHERE geometry helps disperse impact and reduce the strain that builds up over hours of running.
It’s subtle, but if you’ve ever struggled with foot fatigue or soreness in the final third of a race, this kind of shaping can make a difference.
A refined comfort-to-weight ratio
At under 10 oz, the Ultra Glide 4 competes with much lighter trail shoes while delivering more cushion and underfoot protection than many of its peers.
It slots in beautifully for runners who want a high-cushion daily trainer or ultra-distance option, but still care about agility, breathability, and long-term durability.
Final thoughts
I’ll be testing the Ultra Glide 4 soon and will report back with a full review, especially how the new upper performs over longer efforts, as well as how it compares to the S/Lab Ultra Glide.
But I have no doubt this is a smart evolution of a trail favorite, especially if you’re logging big miles or looking for a more comfortable shoe for varied terrain.
