Salomon Aero Glide 3 Review
- FORDY RUNS
- Jun 18
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 19
The Salomon Aero Glide 3 (AOG 3) is a Max-cushioned daily trainer that has quickly made a name for itself as a strong contender in the running shoe market. While it’s still relatively new to the scene, it offers a unique combination of comfort, performance, and a lightweight feel, which sets it apart from some of the more established brands like Brooks, Saucony, and Nike.
Stats and Features
The Salomon Aero Glide 3 features the newly introduced Energy Evo foam, an ETPU-based material that gives the shoe a great balance of cushioning and energy return. With a stack height of 40mm in the heel and a 32mm drop at the forefoot, it provides substantial cushioning for long runs and recovery days. Despite this high stack, the shoe weighs in at only 263g (9.25 oz), which is remarkably light for a shoe with this much cushioning.
One of the standout features of the AOG 3 is its upper construction. There’s no stitching, giving the shoe a sleek, seamless look. This design enhances comfort and durability, reducing the chances of irritation during long runs. The shoe's laces, while a bit long, are effective in providing a secure lockdown, and the shoe fits true to size. The heel area provides ample foam for comfort, while the wider toe box ensures a stable and comfortable ride. Overall, the fit is solid with no issues of rubbing or discomfort.
Performance and Comfort
The Salomon Aero Glide 3 excels as a daily trainer. It’s perfect for easy-paced runs, long mileage, and recovery days. Whether you’re running at a 9-minute or 8.5-minute mile pace, the shoe delivers a plush yet responsive feel. It’s designed for comfort, making it an ideal option for those looking for a cushioned shoe that doesn’t compromise on performance. Despite its 40mm stack, the Energy Evo foam provides more responsiveness than expected, and the shoe can handle steady paces without feeling overly sluggish.
In terms of durability, the AOG 3 features solid rubber coverage on the outsole, offering reliable traction, even during wet conditions. The shoe performs well in different environments, with a balanced level of grip and stability.
Comparisons and Competitors
In terms of competitors, the Salomon Aero Glide 3 is a direct competitor to shoes like the Saucony Triumph 22, Nike Vomero 18, and Brooks Glycerin 22. However, where it stands out is its price point and lighter weight. If you're looking for a more affordable, highly cushioned alternative to these options, the Aero Glide 3 is worth considering. It offers many of the same benefits, like a plush ride and good stability, but at a more competitive price.
Things to Like
Lightweight Construction: At 263g, the AOG 3 feels incredibly light despite its high stack height, making it ideal for longer runs or recovery days.
Energy Evo Foam: The new foam delivers a responsive yet cushioned ride, ensuring that your feet feel supported over long miles.
Comfortable Upper: The seamless design reduces the chances of irritation, providing a secure and comfortable fit.
Affordability: With a price that’s lower than many of its competitors, the AOG 3 offers great value for the level of performance it provides.
Things to Dislike
Design: While the shoe performs well, the aesthetic is fairly basic and could benefit from a more dynamic, eye-catching design.
Laces: The laces are a bit too long, which can create an annoying excess that needs to be tucked away.
Spoiler on the Heel: There’s a small design feature on the heel (referred to as a "spoiler"), but it feels unnecessary and doesn’t add much to the overall performance or look.
