Salomon Sense Pro 4

The Salomon Sense Pro 4 features a hydrophobic mesh upper that repels water, keeping feet dry during runs through wet conditions. The upper's construction from a single-layer mesh close to the foot provides a snug fit, while the EndoFit system ensures a quality internal fit. The synthetic, hydrophobic rubber knit is incredibly thin yet robust, capable of withstanding harsh trail elements.

The midsole of the Salomon Sense Pro 4 is equipped with OptiVibe technology, which combines two types of foam for cushioning and propulsion. This system is designed to reduce vibrations and muscle fatigue, offering a comfortable and responsive ride. The lack of a traditional rock plate is mitigated by the Profeel Film, which protects against sharp surfaces.

Salomon's Contagrip MA outsole system is a standout feature of the Sense Pro 4, providing excellent grip on all types of terrain. The outsole's deep lugs ensure traction on slippery surfaces, and the rubber construction enhances durability. This makes the shoe suitable for technical trails and challenging conditions.

The Salomon Sense Pro 4 runs narrow, which may not be ideal for runners with wider feet. The shoe fits true to length, but the snug fit and lack of stretch in the upper material mean that there is little room for expansion. Runners with narrow feet will likely find the fit to be secure and comfortable.

While the Salomon Sense Pro 4 is designed with a focus on responsiveness and protection, it also offers a comfortable fit once broken in. The initial stiffness gives way to a more comfortable ride, and the shoe's snug fit provides stability. However, runners may need to experiment with socks to avoid hot spots.

The Sense Pro 4's cushioning is focused on providing a responsive feel rather than plush padding. The OPTIVIBE foam midsole does a fair job of dampening vibrations on harder surfaces, but the shoe may not offer enough cushioning for heavier runners or those who prefer a more cushioned ride.

The thin, single-layer mesh upper of the Salomon Sense Pro 4 is well-ventilated, allowing for good breathability. This helps to keep feet cool during runs, although the upper's hydrophobic nature means it may not insulate well against cold conditions.

The Salomon Sense Pro 4 does not offer much in the way of stability support or arch correction. It is designed for neutral runners (those who do not overpronate or underpronate) and may not be the best choice for overpronators (those who experience excessive inward rolling of the foot) who require more stability features in their trail running shoes.

Durability is a strong suit of the Salomon Sense Pro 4, with the shoe showing minimal wear and tear after extensive use on tough mountain terrain. The robust construction of the upper and the hard rubber outsole contribute to the shoe's longevity, making it suitable for long-distance races on technical trails.

The grip of the Salomon Sense Pro 4 is frequently highlighted as a key strength. The Contagrip outsole with deep lugs provides excellent traction on a variety of surfaces, from snowy woodlands to muddy trails. This reliable grip is essential for runners tackling diverse and challenging terrains.

The Salomon Sense Pro 4 is designed with trail-specific features such as a Contagrip outsole for excellent traction, OptiVibe midsole technology for responsive cushioning, and a hydrophobic mesh upper for water repellence. These characteristics make it suitable for tackling various trail conditions.

While the Salomon Sense Pro 4 features a hydrophobic mesh upper that repels water, it is not fully waterproof. It is designed to keep feet dry in wet conditions but may not be suitable for prolonged exposure to water.

The Salomon Sense Pro 4 has a narrow fit and may not be the best option for runners with wider feet. Those needing a wider toe box might consider other models such as the Salomon Sense Ride 4.

The Salomon Sense Pro 4 performs well on technical trails due to its protective features like the Profeel Film and the durable Contagrip outsole with deep lugs for traction. Its responsive cushioning also aids in navigating challenging terrains.