Cregg Weinmann has reviewed footwear and apparel for California Track & Running News since the mid 1990s, and for the RunningNetwork since 1998. If you would like to see this review on Running Product Reviews, please go to: Salomon Sonic RA Pro, $130. At RunBlogRun, our goal is help you find the perfect shoe for you. Our suggestions: always visit your local running stores at end of day, take a clean pair of running socks, and try on five to six different brands, and jog around in them. Real running stores allow you to check the right show for you. For more reviews, please go to www.runningproductreviews.com.
The Sonic RA Pro is the lightest version of the new Run Avenue shoes from Solomon, part of a three shoe series. As the lightest of the three, it is aimed toward up-tempo running, featuring Salomon’s Opal, a unique polymer insert tuned to higher vibrations.
Salomon Sonic RA Pro, $130
The upper features a open mesh fabric with welded overlays providing support, slightly beefier layers are at the toe and heel. While a bit spare on material they are well finished, and testers didn’t notice hot spots or discomfort. The thin tongue conforms well to the foot and sculpted foam in the ankle collar provides a secure fit with a little less material. The midsole is compression molded EVA which provides a framework for the polyolefin inserts which in turn, provide additional responsive cushioning in the heel and forefoot. The outersole is blown rubber in the midfoot and forefoot, with durable carbon rubber in the heel. The end product is a high-quality running shoe which stands up to high mileage and offers a tuned, performance ride.
Testers: “Really transfers power to the run. Splits the difference between a beefy training shoe and a racer.”
New Shoe
Sizes: Men 7-13,14; Women 5-11,12
Weight: 10.5 oz. (men’s 11); 8.5 oz. (women’s 8)
Shape: semi-curved
Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, polyurethane Strobel board
Geometry: Full Contact
