Salomon S/Lab Phantasm 3

Who Are Salomon S/Lab Phantasm 3 For?

This is a dedicated racing shoe for experienced, fast runners chasing personal bests from 10K up to the marathon. It rewards a committed forefoot-to-midfoot stride and a runner who wants a locked-in, aggressive tool for race day — not a daily trainer, and not a recovery or beginner shoe.

Feelings and Experience

The supercritical PEBA foam feels lively and springy underfoot, with the full-length carbon plate snapping you through toe-off once you're rolling at speed. Transitions are quick and propulsive, but the tall, narrow racing platform demands attention: at easy jogging paces it can feel tippy and slightly unsettled, coming into its own only when you commit to fast, purposeful running.

Performance Specs

• Drop: 6mm heel-to-toe offset — a moderate-low drop that keeps you forward without forcing a pure forefoot strike

• Cushioning: High, supercritical PEBA "optiFOAM+" — plenty of protection for long efforts without going full plush

• Responsiveness: Very high — driven by a full-length, spoon-shaped "energyBLADE" carbon plate paired with the resilient PEBA foam

• Stability: Low — a neutral shoe on a tall, narrow racing geometry with no added pronation support

• Pace: Optimal for 3:00–3:30 min/km (4:49–5:38 min/mile) — its primary race-pace zone

Best Distances and Maximum Speed

It genuinely excels at 10K, half marathon, and marathon, with the half-to-marathon range as its sweet spot. The technology works best when you're running roughly 2:55–3:20 min/km (4:41–5:22 min/mile) — sustained race pace rather than all-out sprinting.

Technologies and Materials

The midsole is a full-length supercritical PEBA foam ("optiFOAM+") over a full-length carbon "energyBLADE" plate. The airy upper uses a seamless built-in gaiter for second-skin lockdown, though that snug fit runs narrow and won't suit every foot. Measured weight is around 184 g (men's US 9), with a stack near 42 mm heel / 36 mm forefoot.

Comparisons with Other Shoes

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Asics Metaspeed Edge Paris vs Salomon S/Lab Phantasm 3

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Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 vs Salomon S/Lab Phantasm 3

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