If you're looking for a super-plush, durable and cushioned shoe designed to protect you from the trails, then look away now.
The S/Lab Sense 7 SG is a mega light, race-oriented technical trail shoe built for runners competing at the top of their game.
We absolutely loved the original S/Lab Sense SG and were keen to see how things had evolved with the latest version of this iconic shoe.
With a 4mm drop and weighing in at 200g, the S/Lab Sense 7 SG is all about lightness, precision and on-trail feel. Fit is reassuring and snug thanks to the integrated sockliner that really does hug the foot. We've put in the miles in these bad boys and never once felt the beginnings of a hot spot let alone a blister!
If you liked the minimalist feel of previous versions of this legendary shoe, then you'll love the super-stripped down ride the new S/Lab Sense 7 SG provides. We're still looking at a 4mm drop so if that works for you then that's great but go canny with shoe drop if you're just getting into running as you need to break yourself in gently.
New features include stealth toe-protection hidden under a new open mesh hydrophobic upper, Salomon's super cool Quick Lace system as used in the S/Lab Ultra, and a new lightweight tongue.
We really like the narrowed heel cup which has been designed to provide a more precise ride as it will encourage runners to rely less on heel strike and adopt a mid or forefoot strike pattern which can help reduce injury.
Of all the fab new features packed into this high performance shoe, our favourite is the stitched-in minimalist insole. Having a permanent insole may be a departure from the norm but it makes a lot of sense especially when you consider that it's so low-profile that you can still use your own footbeds. It not only makes the shoe lighter, it reduces the risk of the insole absorbing water or getting wrinkled up on long distance adventures in the alpine.
Out on the trail, the new S/Lab Sense 7 SG offers great grip in muddy and soft terrain thanks to the Premium Wet Traction Contagrip and underfoot protection from the Profeel film rockplate that runs from the mid to the front of the shoe.
There's just enough protection to keep rocks and roots at bay but again, remember the race day DNA of this shoe - it's designed primarily to facilitate speed rather than constructed to endure mile after mile, year on year. If you're looking for durability bang for your buck then this may not be the shoe for you but if you've got podiums on your mind and performance is key, then grab yourself a pair and get on the start line.
