But just as notable as which features can be found on the S/Lab Ultra Glide is the one that Salomon chose to leave out: a carbon-fiber plate, in effect putting all its eggs into the innovative outsole geometry.
What’s more, the shoe clocks in at a somewhat hefty 10.2 ounces (290 grams) for a US size 9, even with its streamlined mesh upper and QuickLace system.
All in all, the S/Lab Ultra Glide shares little in common with the rest the pack, trading speed and efficiency for comfort and resiliency as its means to an optimal performance at the tail end of an ultra.
So does it actually qualify as a super shoe? Perhaps a better question to ask is whether or not you’ll care 90 miles into Western States.
The Salomon S/Lab Ultra Glide is available now for $250.