Brand: Salomon

    Category: Trail Running Shoes

    Recommended by Spencer Imbach, Trail Runner & Snowboarder — Baltimore, MD

    Highlights: cushioned, long distance, stability, grippy

    The Unisex S/LAB Trail Running shoe is engineered for high-performance athletes seeking exceptional grip, protection, and comfort on rugged terrains. With its advanced materials and innovative design, this shoe is your ultimate companion for epic trail adventures. 1. Maximal cushioning with optiFOAM for lightweight comfort during long-distance runs. 2. 8 MM drop value providing a balanced feel for neutral foot support. 3. High foot protection with a durable protective toecap and medial protective pad. 4. All Terrain contaGRIP® outsole designed for superior traction on wet, dry, hard, or loose surfaces. 5. QuickLACE™ system for easy, one-pull tightening and secure fit. 6. Matryx® upper material combining breathability and abrasion resistance with Kevlar® fibers. 7. Integrated gaiter to keep debris out and enhance protection from the elements. The S/LAB Trail Running shoe is ideal for serious trail runners who engage in distance runs 2-3 times per week. It excels in rocky and mixed terrains, making it perfect for outdoor adventures in various weather conditions. Designed for athletes of all skill levels, this shoe is particularly suited for those looking to set personal bests or create lasting memories on the trails.

    Price: $200

    Who it's for
    Trail and ultra runners who want a single shoe that works across race day and long training runs, from technical mountain terrain to smoother trails. Hosts specifically cite use at 100-mile-plus events, so it skews toward longer-distance racing.
    What people are saying
    Recurring praise centers on versatile grip, reliable fit, cushioning for long efforts, and the quick-lace system as a standout feature. Durability is consistently noted, with one host reporting ~500 miles per pair; no criticism appears across the notes.
    Worth noting
    The quick/no-tie lace system is a specific draw for hosts who dislike traditional laces on technical terrain. One host flags ankle stability as a consistent benefit even on rough ground.

    Spencer Imbach's review

    These have been my go-to for years for the reliable fit, versatility, and cushy support for long days on the trail. Their fast, durable, and a great race day choice for any ultra.

    Recommended by Spencer Imbach, Trail Runner & Snowboarder

    Frequently asked questions

    Who is the Unisex - S/LAB Trail Running for?

    Trail and ultra runners who want a single shoe that works across race day and long training runs, from technical mountain terrain to smoother trails. Hosts specifically cite use at 100-mile-plus events, so it skews toward longer-distance racing.

    What do experts say about the Unisex - S/LAB Trail Running?

    Recurring praise centers on versatile grip, reliable fit, cushioning for long efforts, and the quick-lace system as a standout feature. Durability is consistently noted, with one host reporting ~500 miles per pair; no criticism appears across the notes.

    What should you know before buying the Unisex - S/LAB Trail Running?

    The quick/no-tie lace system is a specific draw for hosts who dislike traditional laces on technical terrain. One host flags ankle stability as a consistent benefit even on rough ground.

    What does Spencer Imbach say about the Unisex - S/LAB Trail Running?

    These have been my go-to for years for the reliable fit, versatility, and cushy support for long days on the trail. Their fast, durable, and a great race day choice for any ultra.

    Why does Spencer Imbach recommend Salomon?

    Spencer Imbach recommends the Salomon Unisex - S/LAB Trail Running for trail running shoes. These have been my go-to for years for the reliable fit, versatility, and cushy support for long days on the trail. Their fast, durable, and a great race day choice for any ultra.

    Is the Unisex - S/LAB Trail Running a good trail running shoe?

    Yes — Spencer Imbach recommends the Unisex - S/LAB Trail Running by Salomon as their trail running shoes pick. These have been my go-to for years for the reliable fit, versatility, and cushy support for long days on the trail. Their fast, durable, and a great race day choice for any ultra.

    Is the Unisex - S/LAB Trail Running good for long distance?

    Spencer Imbach recommends it for long efforts: These have been my go-to for years for the reliable fit, versatility, and cushy support for long days on the trail. Their fast, durable, and a great race day choice for any ultra.

    How cushioned is the Unisex - S/LAB Trail Running?

    In Spencer Imbach's experience: These have been my go-to for years for the reliable fit, versatility, and cushy support for long days on the trail. Their fast, durable, and a great race day choice for any ultra.

    More from Spencer Imbach's Full Quiver

    View Spencer Imbach's expert gear recommendations on Rendezvu

    What other hosts are saying

    7 experts recommend the Salomon Unisex - S/LAB Trail Running.

    Bennett Levine, Backcountry Skier and Trail Runner

    Go to shoe last summer and part of my rotation this year. Wore them for 80 miles during SJ Softie 25. Great versatility support and protection. Bonus they like to go fast.

    Recommended in Go to Gear

    Derek Steele, Runner

    The genesis can handle everything the trail tries to throw at you, whether on race day or a long training run.

    Recommended in Running Essentials

    Marisa Romeo, Mental Performance Consultant

    These are my most trusted trail shoes and the pair I've worn at races like UTMB, Lavaredo 120K, Snowdonia 100K, and Canyons 100 Miler. They're versatile enough to handle everything from technical mountain terrain to gravel roads and smooth trails, while still feeling stable and secure. I rarely roll an ankle in them, even on rough terrain, and I consistently get around 500 miles out of a pair. When I need a shoe I can trust anywhere, this is it.

    Recommended in Footwear

    Brady Jonas, Outdoor Hobbyist

    Durable & Light, with a clever lacing design

    Recommended in Trail Running Kit

    Cody McKesson, Trail / Ultra Runner

    I’m shoe laces biggest hater. For this reason alone, I’ve been using Salomon’s for nearly every single one of my trail races and training runs, especially on technical terrain.

    Recommended in A few of my favorite things!

    Stefan Buetler, Trail Running Guide

    Race day shoe for technical mountain ultra running. Never had every issues and the grip is great.

    Recommended in Trail Running Gear