REVIEW: Salomon Predict 2

Salomon have a proven track record on the trail running scene and are using their technical knowledge to transition into road running footwear.

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They have already seen brilliant results, with the new Salomon Predict 2 Road Running Shoes making the shortlist of the Runner’s World Best New Running Shoes and Gear 2020. Designed to unlock your potential by adapting to you and the road, its updated features include Anatomic Decoupling to shadow your running style, which reduces stress on joints and delivers a smoother ride.

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Image courtesy of Salomon

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Alfie Manthorpe has been busy putting the Salomon Predict 2 road running shoes to the test. Here he provides a detailed review of Salomon’s latest road running release;

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*Comparing this to super shoes rather than similar shoes for the purpose, 4 out of 5 just based on mileage shoes.

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Salomon’s aim in the road running category is to focus on runner’s health. They do this by producing shoes that adapt to each individual runner, which is something I noticed as I racked up the miles in the Predict 2.

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WHO IS IT DESIGNED FOR?

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People who enjoy running on the road, who are looking to stretch the distances and be comfortable whilst doing it. Although, I noticed the shoes versatility to handle some faster paces. It’s well suited to the standard “mileage pace”, which usually covers 75% of an average runner\'s training.

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THE TECHNOLOGY

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Obviously the most important part of a running shoe is the midsole. A midsole is needed to ensure good support and cushion, whilst still providing a great feel, that’s not too heavy.

The Predict 2’s midsole includes a durable TPU-based Infiniride™ to reduce impact, along with anatomic decoupling allowing the shoe to flex with your foot. EnergyCell™+ technology provides soft cushioning to deliver ultimate comfort and reduce stress on your knee joints. There’s extra soft heel padding which cradles your foot, which is extremely comfortable.

The 3D molded collar 360-degree instant fit, hugs your foot for a sock-like feeling, allowing you to go the distance while staying comfy. Also, with the second model, there is a new upper which is more breathable, where the knit holds your foot in place.

Independent platforms in the outsole adapt to your stride and the terrain you’re on, meaning you have the most natural foot placement possible. Which combats recent worries as of late. That highstack and plated shoes affect the way you run. Which is unsustainable in the long term.

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Image courtesy of Salomon

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MY THOUGHTS

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During my time with the shoe, I have taken on a variety of paces, distances, and terrain. Although this is designed for the roads, I have also noticed the same natural feeling transfers onto grass and light trails. Although I wouldn’t recommend this shoe specifically for these purposes, as its true potential is still on the roads.

One of the biggest things I did notice was the shoes' adaptability. When you see a shoe marketed as being able to adapt to your stride, you are naturally sceptical. As was I. However, even after my first run, I started to notice a difference. It’s hard to explain, but as someone who is used to high stack, with lots of foam, it was refreshing to feel like I was the one in control of my foot placement, rather than getting pushed along by a slab of foam.

The foam is extremely comfortable, especially in the heel. Meaning, especially on the downhill, the impact is greatly reduced.

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DURABILITY

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One shoe that is £10 more expensive than this is the Nike Invincible. Although that shoe also fits in my rotation, I believe the Salomon Predict 2 has at least double the durability over the Invincible. The bottom of the shoe has extended grip, which is harder than the rest of the midsole, which is great in protecting the rest of the foam. The upper’s durability will also withstand the test of time because the knit is closely packed and is reinforced in some of the most susceptible areas.

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THE PRICE POINT

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At £149, this shoe comes in at the higher end of the non-super shoe road running category. However, considering its durability and adaptability, I believe the price is completely justifiable because you’ll be saving money by not having to buy a replacement earlier than normal.

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HOW WILL THIS SHOE FIT INTO MY ROTATION?

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I’ll continue wearing this shoe on a weekly basis for my easy runs. As someone who runs upwards of 80-100 miles a week, I will be combining this shoe with the highly rated Asics Nova blast, which shares some similar qualities to the Predict 2.

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POSITIVES

- Adaptability

- Durability

- Breathability

- Comfort

- Trusted brand

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DRAWBACKS

- I honestly don’t know, the shoe “does exactly what it says on the tin”. You get exactly what you expect.

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SHOP THE SALOMON PREDICT 2 ROAD RUNNING SHOES HERE

Alfie Manthorpe is the CEO of Trackstaa, a company aiming to inspire athletes all over the world with their exclusive content and dedicated running channels.

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Sportsshoes athlete Jenny Nesbitt has also been putting the Salomon Predict 2 Road shoes to the test. Here’s what she has to say;

I have always presumed Salomon excelled with a trail shoe… hence never venturing near a pair! But when I found out about the Predict 2, I was intrigued to see how they stood up against my more regular road shoes.

In terms of overall look and design, the Salomon Predict 2 was not what I was expecting, in a good way! I had visions of a bulky, chunky and slightly obnoxious shoe, but in my hand I had a slick design, and in a glorious colour! Slipping my feet into them, I could immediately tell that the upper was going to be secure and my foot wasn’t going to slip around – nothing more than what I would expect from a trail running specialist!

Designed with maximum cushioning, although note, this is not a bulky shoe – the TPU-based Infiniride foam provides a smooth ride and this was one of the first things I noticed when I put them on. Designed to be a trainer you can wear multiple times a week, comfort and cushion are therefore key factors in my decision-making process!

I was pleasantly surprised with how this shoe performed on the roads … imagine gazelle speeding down the high street vibes, with an efficient and elegant stride – although probably not how I looked, it was certainly how I felt! 8-miles later, I took them off, with no sign of muscle fatigue, and I can confirm no post 24-hour DOMS.

One thing I noticed about the Salomon Predict 2 compared to my usual shoe of choice was that although a very flexible shoe (bonus!), it felt firm upon contact with the ground. I’m not saying this is a bad thing, but for me just different to what I am used to, and where my personal preference lies, in particular for those longer runs.

Overall, I wouldn’t replace any of my daily mileage shoes with the Salomon Predict 2, but I would add it to my collection for those runs where I want a firm grounding and a fast return of the ground, for distances ranging from 3 to 8 miles.

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Jenny Nesbitt is an elite track and road runner, specialising in 10K distance.

SHOP THE SALOMON PREDICT 2 ROAD RUNNING SHOES HERE

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