| Quick Answer: The Salomon Ultra Glide 4 is a max-cushion trail shoe for long runs, daily trail training and runners who want more protection than ground feel. Salomon lists a 41 mm heel, 35 mm forefoot, 6 mm drop and 4 mm All-Terrain Contagrip lugs. The rockered optiFOAM platform favors steady mileage over speed. The main caution is fit: Salomon sells a separate Wide version, and independent testers disagree on how roomy the regular model feels, so wide-footed runners should compare both before buying. |
The Ultra Glide 4 sits at the comfort end of Salomon’s trail lineup. It is less aggressive than the Speedcross 6, less technical than the Genesis 2 and better suited to long, steady trail miles than either. Salomon positions it as an ultra-plush trail shoe with a high stack, pronounced rocker and 4 mm lug pattern for mixed terrain.
Salomon Ultra Glide 4 review: the main tradeoff
The reason to buy the Ultra Glide 4 is comfort over distance. The tall platform and rockered shape reduce the amount of trail texture you feel underfoot, which can be useful on long runs, gravel routes and rolling mixed terrain. The tradeoff is precision. Runners who like a low, agile shoe for technical rock or who want a lively racing feel may find it too tall and too relaxed.
Independent testing points in the same direction. RunRepeat found strong forefoot shock absorption and a smooth ride but relatively low energy return. That makes the Ultra Glide 4 easier to recommend for steady training, long efforts and comfort-first trail days than for runners chasing a fast, springy feel.
Salomon Ultra Glide 4 specs
| Spec | Ultra Glide 4 |
|---|---|
| Type | Neutral max-cushion trail running shoe |
| Best use | Long trail runs, daily trail training, mixed terrain |
| Launch price | $160 U.S. |
| Drop | 6 mm |
| Stack height | 41 mm heel, 35 mm forefoot |
| Lug depth | 4 mm |
| Weight | Varies by version; Salomon lists current variants around 255-285 g |
| Midsole | optiFOAM with relieveSPHERE geometry |
| Outsole | All-Terrain Contagrip |
| Upper | Engineered mesh with EndoFit sleeve |
| Lacing | Quicklace |
| Widths | Regular plus a separate Wide version |
What changed in the Ultra Glide 4?
Salomon’s main changes focus on the upper rather than a complete redesign of the platform. The company says the fourth version is lighter, more breathable and more durable. The engineered-mesh upper is simpler than before, while the EndoFit sleeve and Quicklace system continue to secure the midfoot.
The basic formula remains familiar: a high-cushion trail shoe with a 6 mm drop, tall rockered platform and versatile 4 mm lugs. Ultra Glide 3 owners should therefore expect the same overall purpose rather than a radically different shoe. The update makes the most sense for runners who already like the Ultra Glide concept but want a fresher upper and improved breathability.
Who should buy the Ultra Glide 4?
The Ultra Glide 4 makes the most sense for neutral trail runners who value cushioning and protection over ground feel. It is well matched to long runs, easy-to-moderate trails, gravel and mixed terrain where comfort matters more than precise foot placement. The rocker can also suit runners who prefer a shoe that rolls forward rather than flexes deeply at the forefoot.
It is also a useful Salomon option for runners who like the brand’s Quicklace system but find the Speedcross too aggressive or the Genesis 2 more technical than they need. For regular trail training, it is the most broadly comfortable Salomon trail choice in the current lineup.
Who should skip it?
Skip the Ultra Glide 4 if you want a low, flexible shoe with strong trail feel, or if you prioritize rebound and speed. The tall stack isolates the foot from the ground, and third-party testing suggests the cushioning is more protective than energetic.
It is also not Salomon’s best specialist for every trail. The Speedcross 6 is better for deep mud and soft ground, while the Genesis 2 is more focused on rocky, technical terrain. Wide-footed runners should not assume the standard Ultra Glide 4 will fit simply because the shoe looks voluminous; Salomon sells a separate Wide version for a reason.
Fit and sizing
Salomon lists the standard Ultra Glide 4 as regular width and also sells a dedicated Ultra Glide 4 Wide. Independent fit reports are mixed. RunRepeat measured a tapered forefoot and considered the regular shoe better for narrower feet, while other reviewers have reported more volume through the midfoot and toe box than in lower-volume Salomon models.
The safest approach is to start with your normal running-shoe size, then compare the standard and Wide versions if the forefoot feels crowded or if your feet swell on long runs. Do not automatically add length to solve a width problem because that can loosen the heel and reduce trail security. Quicklace tightens evenly across the foot, which is convenient but offers less zone-by-zone adjustment than conventional laces.
How does the Ultra Glide 4 perform?
Cushioning and ride
Salomon uses optiFOAM underfoot and describes the shoe as ultra plush. The 41 mm heel and 35 mm forefoot create substantial protection between the foot and the trail. The rocker helps the shoe roll forward instead of relying on deep forefoot flex, which gives it a smooth feel during steady mileage.
That comfort comes with a performance tradeoff. RunRepeat measured high forefoot shock absorption but relatively low energy return. In practice, that points toward a protective, easygoing ride rather than a springy one. It is a sensible setup for long training runs and ultras, but runners wanting a fast trail shoe should look elsewhere.
Traction and terrain
The 4 mm All-Terrain Contagrip lugs sit in the versatile middle of Salomon’s trail range. They are trail-focused without being as aggressive as the 5 mm Mud Contagrip lugs on the Speedcross 6. That makes the Ultra Glide 4 a better fit for hard-packed dirt, gravel, maintained trails and mixed surfaces.
Deep mud is not its strongest use. The outsole can handle ordinary wet and loose terrain, but runners who regularly deal with sloppy ground should choose a deeper, more open lug pattern. The Ultra Glide 4 works best when the route changes underfoot instead of staying extremely soft or extremely technical.
Stability and support
The Ultra Glide 4 is a neutral shoe, not a stability model. Its rocker, sidewalls and secure upper can make the platform feel controlled for a high-stack trail shoe, but those design features are not the same as dedicated pronation support.
The tall stack also changes the tradeoff on uneven ground. You gain cushioning and isolation from sharp trail features, but you give up some direct ground feel. Runners who frequently move across steep side slopes, sharp rock or highly technical terrain may prefer a lower or more structured option.
Upper and breathability
Salomon says the redesigned engineered-mesh upper improves airflow and water evacuation. The EndoFit sleeve wraps the midfoot, while Quicklace lets you tighten the shoe with one pull and tuck the cord into the tongue pocket.
The design is convenient for trail use, but Quicklace is not as customizable as traditional lacing. If you usually loosen the forefoot while keeping the midfoot tight, you may miss that flexibility. The upper is better suited to runners who prefer a secure, consistent hold.
Is the Salomon Ultra Glide 4 good for walking?
Yes, especially for trail walking and hiking on moderate terrain. The high cushioning, rocker and 4 mm lugs can work well for long walks on gravel paths, wooded trails and uneven dirt. Walkers who want more underfoot protection than a traditional low-profile trail shoe may find the Ultra Glide 4 particularly comfortable.
It is less suitable for everyday pavement walking. The trail outsole adds weight and texture that are unnecessary on sidewalks, and a road walking shoe will usually feel smoother on hard surfaces. For pavement-focused options, see our best walking shoes guide.
Ultra Glide 4 vs. Speedcross 6 vs. Genesis 2
Model | Best for | Why choose it |
|---|---|---|
Ultra Glide 4 | Long trail miles and mixed terrain | Most cushioning, smooth rocker, versatile 4 mm lugs |
Mud and soft ground | Deeper 5 mm lugs and more aggressive outsole | |
Technical trails | More structured platform and technical-terrain focus |
The Ultra Glide 4 is the best choice of the three for runners who put comfort first. The Speedcross 6 is more specialized, while the Genesis 2 trades some plushness for technical control. See our Best Salomon Shoes guide for the broader lineup.
Salomon Ultra Glide 4 alternatives
The Hoka Speedgoat 7 is a strong alternative if you want high cushioning with more technical-trail emphasis. Its Vibram outsole and trail geometry make it a better fit for runners who regularly encounter rougher terrain.
The Brooks Cascadia 20 is a more traditional all-round trail option with a broad, stable platform. Choose it if you prefer a less rockered feel and want a dependable shoe for varied terrain.
The Saucony Peregrine 16 is the better pick if you want a lower, more agile trail shoe. It gives up some of the Ultra Glide’s max-cushion feel in exchange for more direct trail feedback.
Within Salomon, the Genesis 2 is the alternative for technical trails, while the Speedcross 6 is the specialist for mud.
Price and value
The Ultra Glide 4 launched around $160 in the U.S., placing it in the premium daily-trail category. The value is strongest for runners who will actually use its cushioning on long outings. If your runs are short, highly technical or mostly muddy, a more specialized trail shoe may give you more useful performance for the money.
Retail prices change by color, size and season, so use the current marketplace price rather than treating launch price as today’s selling price.
Check latest price and size availability
Buy: Men’s Ultra Glide 4 | Women’s Ultra Glide 4 | Ultra Glide 4 Wide
Final verdict
Best for: long trail runs, regular trail training, gravel and mixed moderate terrain.
Avoid if: you want strong ground feel, a fast and springy ride, deep-mud traction or a highly technical trail shoe.
Fit: regular width plus a separate Wide version. Fit reports on the regular model vary, so wide-footed runners should compare both.
Verdict: The Salomon Ultra Glide 4 is a comfort-first trail shoe that makes the most sense for long, steady mileage. Its high stack, rocker and versatile 4 mm lugs make it easier to recommend as an everyday trail trainer than Salomon’s more specialized mud and technical models.
For broader context, compare this shoe with our best trail running shoes guide and our current Salomon lineup.
Frequently asked questions about the Salomon Ultra Glide 4
Start with your normal running-shoe size, but pay attention to forefoot width. Salomon sells a separate Wide version, and independent testers disagree on how roomy the regular model feels.
It can be, but the dedicated Ultra Glide 4 Wide is the safer choice for runners who regularly need extra forefoot room. Do not rely on sizing up in length to solve a width problem.
Salomon lists a 6 mm heel-to-toe drop, with a 41 mm heel stack and 35 mm forefoot stack.
Yes. Salomon classifies it for ultra-trail use, and its high cushioning and rockered ride are designed around long-distance comfort rather than speed.
Yes, especially on gravel, wooded paths and moderate trails. It is less efficient for regular pavement walking, where a road walking shoe will usually feel smoother.
The standard Ultra Glide 4 uses a breathable engineered-mesh upper and is not a waterproof Gore-Tex shoe. Expect water to enter in sustained wet conditions.
The Ultra Glide 4 is better for long runs and mixed terrain because it has more cushioning and less aggressive 4 mm lugs. The Speedcross 6 is the better specialist for mud and soft ground with deeper 5 mm lugs.
