If you’re looking for a shoe that combines moderate cushioning while staying lightweight and snappy, the Salomon Aero Blaze 3 deserves some consideration. Here’s our review.
I’ve put the new Aero Blaze 3 through some of my summer training runs on roads, greenways, and, because of the heat, a lot of treadmills. This shoe has impressed me with its lightweight bounce through the many hot and sticky runs.
The Aero Blaze 3 improved on the Aero Blaze 2 in multiple areas: more rebound thanks to the new optiFOAM2 midsole, a new rocker for smooth, dynamic transitions, and an overall lighter shoe.
This is designed to be a versatile shoe for every runner, which is exactly why I put it to the test in a variety of activities. It’s exciting to see this price point produce a shoe that can meet a lot of needs.
Who Is It Good For?
- Wide Feet: Average overall width, but we’re not sure it would accommodate a wide foot.
- Heavier Runners: Great stability and control through some higher side walls, but foam stack may not be enough to prevent bottoming out.
- Long Runs: Even with a lower stack, plenty of foam to carry you and feel supported on long miles.
- Front of the Pack: Responsive enough for moderate pace work and tempo efforts, but lacks the propulsive technology of racing shoes
This is one of the lighter weight daily trainers we’ve tested and it shows that i than can transition from easy miles to picking up the pace. Will be a great race day shoe for many every day runners.
Salomon Aero Blaze 3 Overview
The Salomon brand stands out for their mountain sports heritage and innovative approach to creating new gear. I always associated Salomon with more technical mountain sport and trail running gear, but they have been making some noise in the road and road-to-trail space for awhile.
This shoe is going to be another one that should get wayyyyy more attention than it will by default. So let’s talk about why we’re so impressed.
The first time I stepped into the Aero Blaze 3, I noticed that the molded OrthoLite® sockliner felt supportive underfoot, especially my arch. I sometimes struggle with a lack of support in shoes, but have found these more supportive and cushioned the longer I wear them.
Despite that initial cushioned feel, I think that the optiFOAM² midsole technology hits that really great middle ground of being cushioned, but still ready to pick it up. That could also be attributed to the weight and the rocker.
I would describe it as a supportive yet bouncy ride – you get moderate cushioning which feels really nice, but with enough responsiveness to maintain your pace.
The Road Contagrip® outsole technology is great for providing traction, even when navigating rainy, wet pavement. Normally, I associate traction with heaviness, but these are one of the most lightweight shoes I’ve run in.
The new rocker geometry (Reverse Camber) was designed to create smooth, fluid transitions that feel effortless. It is not the most pronounced rocker I have run in, it is noticeable, but remains stable underfoot.
After wearing this for multiple weekly run clubs, speed workouts, a few weight training classes, and getting caught in a few NC summer rainstorms, I can confidently say these aren’t just lightweight – they are also super durable!
Salomon Aero Blaze 3 Specifications
- Weight: 6.8oz women’s, 7.9 oz men’s
- Stack Height: 35mm
- Heel Drop: 8mm
- Available in 4 colors
- Not available in wide
- Available on www.salomon.com for $140
Quick Take
- Lower stack height, very light weight
- Comfortable arch support
- Smooth, effortless rocker
- Not available in wide
- Tongue not gusseted
The engineered mesh upper with reflective details is minimal and doesn’t deviate from your running shoe expectations. The overall design feels modern and clean, making these shoes I’m happy to wear both for training and casual activities.
Salomon Aero Blaze 3 Fit and Feel
The Impact fits true to size – I wore my standard size 7.5 and found the fit perfect. The bio-based nylon upper has a comfortable, secure feel without being restrictive. The flat laces (my preference) delivered excellent lockdown potential.
The tongue is not gusseted and attaches to the upper at the base of the tongue. The tongue is the same material as the mesh upper. The upper material maintains the lightweight feel of the entire shoe by being very breathable.
I never experienced any heel slipping or movement during runs. The toe box offers enough room, but to me (who prefers more narrow shoes) it almost borders on feeling oversized.
Similar Shoes to the Salomon Aero Blaze 3
We’ve tested a few that feel similar, but different based on the brand fit:
- Saucony Kinvara 16 – Our top pick for lightweight running shoes, no rocker
- New Balance Rebel V5 – Similar cushion level and low stack, ability to change speeds daily trainer
- Asics Novablast 5 – While the Superblast 2 is lighter it’s also pricier, this daily trainer may be more durable, especially for heavier runners.
Our Verdict
If you want a reliable every day running shoe that has an ideal mix of cushioning, dynamic comfort, and smooth transitions, the Aero Blaze 3 proves you don’t have to choose between versatility and performance. It successfully balances being lightweight yet cushioned, making it an excellent choice for runners who want versatility.
Who Tried it?
Hi there, I’m Anna! As someone who works in tech, is pursuing a graduate degree, and is a passionate runner, I’m always looking for opportunities to get my steps in! Lately, my favorite distances have been the half marathon and 10k. When I’m not working or studying, you can find me exploring new routes and chatting on my runs as a founder of a women-focused run club in Raleigh, NC – Raleigh Girls Run (@RaleighGirlsRunning on IG!)
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