Salomon Sense Ride 5 Review

The Salomon Sense Ride 5 features an engineered mesh upper designed to provide breathability and support while keeping debris out. The upper is reinforced with Salomon’s SENSIFIT system, which wraps the foot securely without feeling restrictive. The mesh material is stiffer than what you typically find in road shoes, which is ideal for trail running, as it prevents excess foot movement on uneven surfaces. Additionally, the quick-lace system allows for easy adjustments and ensures a snug fit. The gusseted tongue, combined with well-placed padding, eliminates pressure points and provides a comfortable lockdown.

I was curious of how the quick-lace system would feel on my feet, but I haven't had any issues especially with higher arches. Sometimes weird/unusual lacing systems just don't fit and feel good. It can be annoying to figure out how to use it, but once you do the Salomon Sense Ride 5  feels fine.

Unlike some of Salomon’s narrower models, the Sense Ride 5 offers a wider fit, accommodating higher-volume feet. It is definitely not a "wide" but it fits and feels fine. The heel cup is well-padded, providing a secure feel without being overly rigid, while the toe box offers enough space for natural toe splay during longer runs. The best running shoe uppers disappear off your feet and I've found the Salomon Sense Ride 5 to do that (which is great for longer trail runs or even hikes). 

I typically wear a size 10-11 wide in running shoes and the Salomon Sense Ride 5 fits true to size. I haven't had any issues.

One of the big improvements in the Sense Ride 5 is its updated midsole, which features Salomon’s energyFOAM for enhanced cushioning and responsiveness. This means, yes, the Salomon Sense Ride 5 has gotten a significant update. The single-density foam strikes a balance between softness and energy return, delivering a ride that’s cushioned enough for longer distances without sacrificing ground feel. The 8 mm drop provides a comfortable transition from heel to toe.

Unlike its predecessor, the Sense Ride 5 has a more forgiving midsole that reduces foot fatigue, even during longer runs and efforts. The shoe remains versatile enough for road-to-trail transitions while maintaining stability on uneven terrain. I've used it on roads to get to the trail head and haven't had any issues. 

Where does the Salomon Sense Ride 5 fit into my rotation? For me, it's an easy run trail shoe. When I'm looking for a shoe that can handle most types of trails and runs, it's a great option. If I'm racing, I may look for something faster. I've even used it for hiking occasionally and really like it there too. 

The Sense Ride 5’s outsole is equipped with 3.5 mm lugs that offer reliable grip across varied surfaces. The lug pattern is designed for all-around traction, with forward-facing lugs at the heel for braking and rearward-facing lugs in the midfoot to assist with climbing. This configuration works well in most conditions, from packed dirt to loose gravel. I've found on super slick surfaces like wet rocks, it doesn't always handle that well. Is it the worst? No, but there are better options for super slick conditions.

In sandy and loose rock, the outsole performs well and I haven't fallen down a sand dune yet. In all, I'm a fan of the lugs and I think it's great for the high desert trails. if you frequently run on highly technical or slippery surfaces like on east coast trails, you might need a shoe with more aggressive lugs.

As far as durability, I think the Salomon Sense Ride 5  will last about 400 miles. I've put close to 200 miles on mine with no fear or slowing down. After using the shoe in various environments—including rocky trails, desert sands, and wet conditions, there is not too much sign of wear. It doesn't look like the shoe is falling apart anytime soon.

The Salomon Sense Ride 5 is an excellent all-around trail shoe that caters to a wide range of runners, from beginners to veterans. There is enough traction to handle a variety of conditions although if you are primarily running on wet trails, you might prefer something else. The shoe’s improved fit, versatile midsole, and durable outsole make it a reliable choice for runners seeking a single pair that can transition from road to trail seamlessly.

Who Should Consider the Salomon Sense Ride 5?This shoe is great for runners who need a durable option for a wide range of terrain, especially if you prefer a medium amount of cushioning.

Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?If you prioritize maximum cushioning or require more traction for wet and inclement weather, you might find other models better suited to those needs.