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Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3: Complete Review & Comparison Guide
In-depth review of the Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3. See how it compares to similar premium ultra trail racing shoes, specs, pros, cons, and where to buy.
Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3: Complete Review & Comparison Guide
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Check your local running store or online retailers for availability.
Overview
The Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 is Salomon's elite ultra-distance racing shoe—the culmination of their mountain racing expertise. With premium S/Lab materials, lightweight construction, and race-proven performance, the S/Lab Ultra 3 is built for podium finishes at mountain ultras.
This is Salomon's pinnacle trail racer: S/Lab precision for elite performance.
Key Specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Category | Trail, Racing |
| Cushion Level | Moderate |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 6mm |
| Weight (Men's/Women's) | 9.0oz / 7.8oz |
| Stack Height | 30mm heel / 24mm forefoot |
| Pronation Support | Neutral |
| Width Options | Standard |
| MSRP | MSRP: $200 |
| Surface | Trail |
What It's Known For
The S/Lab Ultra 3's combination of light weight and race-ready construction has made it a favorite among elite mountain ultra runners. Worn by Salomon's legendary sponsored athletes, it delivers performance when every gram and every second matters.
Elite trail racers appreciate the S/Lab Ultra 3's precision fit and responsive ride over extreme distances.
Why Runners Love It
Pros
-
Light: At 9.0oz, remarkably light for an ultra shoe.
-
Fast: Responsive platform rewards efficient running.
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Great Grip: Contagrip provides reliable mountain traction.
What Some Runners Don't Like
Cons
-
Expensive: Premium S/Lab pricing at MSRP: $200.
-
Less Cushion for Ultras: Some want more protection for 100+ miles.
Who Should Consider This Shoe
The Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 is ideal for:
- Elite trail racers (30-100 miles per week) competing at high levels
- Marathon to ultra mountain racing
- Efficient runners who don't need maximum cushioning
- Those who trust S/Lab for premium race gear
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere
Consider other options if you:
- Need maximum cushioning for ultras
- Want more underfoot protection
- Are budget-conscious
- Prefer plush, forgiving shoes
How It Compares: Cross-Brand Comparison
| Shoe | Cushion | Drop | Weight (M) | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 | Moderate | 6mm | 9.0oz | MSRP: $200 | Elite ultra racing |
| HOKA Tecton X 2 | High | 5mm | 9.9oz | MSRP: $225 | Plated ultra |
| Nike Ultrafly | High | 8mm | 9.5oz | MSRP: $180 | Cushioned ultra |
| Altra Mont Blanc | High | 0mm | 9.5oz | MSRP: $180 | Zero-drop ultra |
| The North Face Summit VECTIV Pro | Moderate | 4mm | 9.2oz | MSRP: $225 | Carbon ultra |
Salomon Lineup: Same-Brand Comparison
| Shoe | Cushion | Drop | Weight (M) | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 | Moderate | 6mm | 9.0oz | MSRP: $200 | Ultra racing |
| Salomon S/Lab Phantasm 2 | Moderate | 6mm | 6.9oz | MSRP: $250 | Road racing |
| Salomon Ultra Glide 2 | High | 6mm | 10.2oz | MSRP: $150 | Training ultras |
| Salomon Pulsar Trail 2 | Moderate | 6mm | 9.2oz | MSRP: $140 | Fast trail |
| Salomon Speedcross 6 | Low | 10mm | 10.6oz | MSRP: $145 | Technical trail |
Final Verdict
The Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 delivers elite-level performance for mountain ultra racing. It's for serious competitors who trust S/Lab precision on race day.
For elite ultra trail racing, the S/Lab Ultra 3 is an excellent choice.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Check your local running store or online retailers for availability.