Traditionally known for trail and mountain running shoes, Salomon announced a significant entry into the road running category with the introduction of three new models: the Sonic, Sonic Pro 2 and S-Lab Sonic 2.
To help simplify the shoe buying and fit process, Salomon has created a “Running Avenue” which guides the buyer to the perfect shoe. Each runner’s biomechanics, ability, form, goals, experience and weight will determine which Salomon road shoe is most suited for that particular user.
Of the three models, the Sonic is the go-to for everyday training and strikes a balance between cushioning and guidance. The Sonic carries stack heights of 26mm/16mm (10mm drop) with a weight of 9.8 ounces for men and 8.4 ounces for women. The 3D Flex no-sew upper offers a traditional lacing structure with Salomon’s Sensifit to help cradle the foot and create a secure, snug fit.
For those seeking a lighter, more flexible shoe, the Sonic Pro 2 is perfect for faster running. The Sonic Pro 2 carries stack heights of 23mm/15mm (8mm drop) with a weight of 8.5 ounces for men and 6.7 ounces for women. The Sonic Pro 2 offers all the same upper technology as the Sonic with the addition of a breathable open mesh.
Salomon introduces two key technical road design elements into the construction of the outsole and midsole of the Sonic and Sonic Pro2. After exhaustive research in its biomechanics lab at the Annecy Design Center, Salomon’s Footwear and Research Team introduced “Geometric Decoupling” and “Vibe Technology” for their road running lineup.
Geometric decoupling design in the outsole allows the shoe to work more closely with the foot during the gait by flexing not only with the ankle joint but also in a 3-demensional movement of the subtalar joint. This flexibility allows for a smoother more efficient heel-to-toe transition. The outsole offers “Wet Traction Contagrip” to increase durability and excel on hard urban surfaces, wet or dry.
The midsole offers Salomon’s Vibe Technology, which is designed to work with the body’s natural impact vibrations to reduce fatigue. Salomon’s design team focused on working with small constant vibrations carried throughout the body with each footstrike. Through design and construction of the midsole Salomon is able to interrupt and lower impact vibrations as they pass through the shoe while helping fight fatigue caused by these vibrations. EnergyCell+ and Opal, the two key compound materials in the midsole, provide a soft and comfortable underfoot ride with exceptional energy return.
Salomon will initially launch the Sonic and Sonic Pro 2 in select specialty running stores January 15, 2017, with the S-Lab Sonic 2 hitting the market Spring 2018.
Hoping to offering the best road running shoes on the market, this innovation in the road running world marks a new opportunity for Salomon. Travis Hildebrand, Salomon Running Footwear’s US Product Merchandising Manager told Gear Institute, “There is a serious focus and attention to road running from within Salomon all the way from our parent company Amer sports.”