Salomon Pulsar Trail Pro 2 vs Salomon Thundercross

Our Spanish ambassador, Arnau Fullana, has been busy testing the Salomon Thundercross and Salomon Pulsar Trail Pro 2 trail running shoes. Keep reading to find out how both shoes compare and what he thinks about the Thundercross after having used them to train and compete in the Salomon Ultra Pirineu race at the beginning of October.

ㅤ

ㅤ

The Salomon Thundercross is a trail running shoe designed for dynamic and cushioned rides providing outstanding grip and precise steps. They feature aggressive 5 mm lugs to tackle any terrain, no matter how difficult, technical, or simply unpleasant it might be. Developed in the French Alps, they have been tested on all sort of terrain, from undulating terrain to rocky slopes or sticky trails.

ㅤ

SHOP NOW ALL SALOMON THUNDERCROSS TRAIL RUNNING SHOES

ㅤ

ㅤ

The Salomon Pulsar Trail Pro 2 are fast and nimble and they are equipped with the most responsive technology to propel you forward and keep transitions soft over all distances. The Energy Blade integrated in its springy midsole activates propulsion and momentum, while the Energy Foam gives your run extra sparkle and responsiveness.

ㅤ

SHOP NOW ALL SALOMON PULSAR TRAIL PRO 2 TRAIL RUNNING SHOES

ㅤ

Check Arnau's analysis below:

FIRST LOOK:

Both the Salomon Pulsar and the Thundercross have been carefully designed. When you take both shoes out of the box, you can already see that the French brand has cared for every detail, taking into account which kind of runner each of these shoes is aimed for.

ㅤ

ㅤ

A feature that caught my attention in both shoes was its Quicklace lacing system, which had already been used in many Salomon models. It is a minimalist and strong cord that adjusts with a single pull for an easy on and off.

ㅤ

ㅤ

THE UPPER:

The Pulsar's upper provides us with very good breathability, most appreciated when I train during the summer months. In comparison, the Thundercross has more protection, but less breathability, so in my mind is better as a winter shoe.

ㅤ

THE MIDSOLE:

The Pulsar Trail Pro 2 feature Energy Blade technology, a lightweight and responsive TPU plate that acts like a springboard and propels your step forward. It makes them the ideal shoes to run at a high speed while maintaining good cushioning.

On the other hand, the Thundercross feature an Energy Foam sole that adds the perfect balance of cushioning and responsiveness. This makes them heavier and less responsive than the Pulsar, but they are still make a great combination of cushioning and responsiveness.

The extra cushioning might allow us to cover greater distances with the Thundercross, but in my case I have done long runs using both shoes and I have never had any problems.

ㅤ

THE OUTSOLE:

Both models have high profiles, although the Pulsar's is slightly higher. The same case applies to the drop, which is also higher in the Pulsar.

Both the Pulsar and the Thundercross include an All-Terrain Contagrip outsole, the technology that is applied to all Salomon outsoles, as the brand keeps control over the shoes' design and manufacturing. Its composition offers a kind of grip that adapts to all sorts of surfaces without neglecting their resistance with the aim to provide as much versatility as possible.

One of the key aspects of the Thundercross outsole is that it features 5mm lugs that provide us with great mud wicking properties and outstanding grip on all kinds of surfaces. Furthermore, they are extremely durable and I have already done plenty of miles in these shoes with no visible signs of wear.

ㅤ

ㅤ

On their side, the Pulsar have an optimised lug geometry which offers great grip and stability, keeping us safe from slipping. The lugs depth is 3.5 mm, which is kind of low. Therefore, they would not be ideal on muddy terrain, but rather compact trails.

The fit is good in both shoes, although slightly better in the Pulsar, as the Thundercross have a wider last. Therefore, they are ideal for people with wider feet. The Pulsar contain mesh in their upper, and also include a one-piece tongue and collar structure. They do not have sews, so they adapt to the foot as if they were socks. This model is ideal for people who look for a narrower precision fit.

ㅤ

CONCLUSION:

In conclusion, both models are made for long distances, up to 50 km if they're run with a good technique.

That said, if you are looking for dynamic and lightweight shoes that allow you to run fast on compact terrain, the Salomon Pulsar Pro Trail 2 are your go-to.

ㅤ

ㅤ

If, on the contrary, running over muddy terrain is your thing, or if you simply want a more versatile pair of shoes to train and compete, the Salomon Thundercross are what you are looking for.

ㅤ

SHOP NOW ALL SALOMON THUNDERCROSS TRAIL RUNNING SHOES

SHOP NOW ALL SALOMON PULSAR TRAIL PRO 2 TRAIL RUNNING SHOES

ㅤ

Arnau Fullana is a trail runner. You can follow all of his races here.

ㅤ

ㅤ

Interested in the latest shoes, apparel and technology? Then head over to our Kit & Gear category for more reviews, tips, advice and product releases.