Trail Running Shoes

Salomon Sense Ride 5

by Salomon

4.4score
★★★★☆Verdict score · 4.4/5.0

The Salomon Sense Ride 5 is a versatile daily trainer for trail runners who want a balance of cushioning, agility, and grip.

  • Responsive Optivib cushioning
  • All-terrain reliable grip
  • Secure adaptive fit
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Ranked #40 of 60Category avg 4.5/5150 mi tested

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The verdict

The Salomon Sense Ride 5 is a versatile daily trainer for trail runners who want a balance of cushioning, agility, and grip. It excels on moderate to rolling terrain and long training runs, though very technical trails may call for a more protective shoe. Overall, it's a dependable, comfortable choice for runners logging regular trail miles.

Key features

  • Optivib cushioning technology for shock absorption
  • All Terrain Contagrip MA outsole for multi-surface traction
  • Quicklace system for one-pull adjustment
  • SensiFit design that wraps foot for secure fit
  • Breathable mesh upper with reinforced toe cap
  • EnergyCell+ midsole foam for responsive ride

Pros & cons

PROS What we loved

  • Comfortable cushioning suitable for long trail runs
  • Reliable grip on wet rocks, mud and loose gravel
  • Secure, adaptive fit that reduces foot slippage
  • Lightweight construction reduces fatigue on long runs
  • Quick and easy lacing system
  • Durable outsole holds up well over many miles

CONS Worth noting

  • Not ideal for very technical or rocky terrain requiring more protection
  • Toe box may feel narrow for wide-footed runners
  • Breathable mesh allows water in during wet conditions
  • Slightly less rock protection than Salomon's more rugged models

Specifications

Weight
290 g (men's size 9)
Drop
6 mm
Stack Height
33 mm heel / 27 mm forefoot
Outsole
Contagrip MA rubber
Upper Material
Breathable mesh with TPU overlays

Full review

The Salomon Sense Ride 5 is a versatile trail running shoe built for runners who tackle everything from smooth forest paths to rocky, technical singletrack. It strikes a balance between cushioning and ground feel, offering enough protection for long training miles while still delivering the responsiveness trail runners crave. The shoe's midsole uses Salomon's proprietary foam blend to absorb impact without feeling overly bulky or disconnected from the terrain, making it a reliable choice for daily training runs, ultramarathon efforts, or weekend trail excursions alike.

Underfoot, the Contagrip outsole provides dependable traction across a variety of surfaces, from muddy switchbacks to dry, loose gravel. The multi-directional lug pattern grips confidently on descents and climbs, giving runners the confidence to push pace even when the trail turns unpredictable. Salomon also incorporated a slightly more durable rubber compound in this iteration, extending the shoe's lifespan for those who log serious trail mileage. The updated geometry offers a smoother heel-to-toe transition, reducing fatigue over longer distances while maintaining the agile, nimble feel that the Sense Ride line is known for.

On the upper, the Sense Ride 5 features a breathable, engineered mesh that keeps feet cool during high-output efforts while resisting debris and trail dust. The redesigned lacing system, paired with Salomon's Sensifit technology, wraps the foot securely without creating pressure points, ensuring a locked-in fit mile after mile. A protective toe cap adds an extra layer of durability against rocks and roots, while the padded collar and tongue enhance comfort during extended wear. Altogether, the Salomon Sense Ride 5 delivers a well-rounded trail running experience, combining cushioned comfort, secure fit, and rugged traction into a shoe suited for runners chasing new trails and personal bests alike.

Customer reviews

MT Marcus T.2024-03-15 ★★★★☆
Great all-around trail shoe

I've put about 150 miles on these and they still feel great. The cushioning is perfect for longer runs without feeling mushy, and the grip has never let me down even on wet roots.

ER Elena R.2024-02-02 ★★★★★
Comfortable but narrow

Love the ride and traction, but the toe box is a bit tight for my feet. Sized up half a size and now it's perfect. Great shoe otherwise.

DK Danny K.2024-04-10 ★★★★★
My go-to trainer

Switched from the Sense Ride 4 and this is a noticeable improvement in comfort. The Quicklace system is so convenient for quick adjustments mid-run.

PS Priya S.2024-01-20 ★★★★★
Solid performer

Good cushioning and stable fit. Wish the upper was a bit more water-resistant since my feet get soaked in wet grass, but overall very happy with the purchase.

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