Salomon Aero Blaze 3 Multi Tester Review: 6 Comparisons

Article by Michael Ellenberger, Jamie Hershfang, and Sam Winebaum

Salomon Aero Blaze 3 ($140)

Execs:

Low slung, delicate, energetic, enjoyable and properly cushioned experience: Sam/Michael/Jamie

Even when delicate using, steady from heel via midfoot with no sinking mush feeling: Michael/Sam/Jamie

Extremely-versatile shoe – a real do all of it! Michael/Jamie

Mild weight for stack top: sub 8 oz / 227g, 35 mm heel /  27 mm forefoot: Sam/Michael

Snug delicate and pleasant higher with simple cross over to each day put on: Sam/Jamie

Cons:

Heavier runners could over compress the delicate midsole, particularly upfront: Sam

Extra midfoot higher help: tongue may use a gusset: Sam/Michael/Jamie

Middle forefoot outsole pod has under common grip on moist (identical with AeroGlide 3): Sam/Michael

Barely slender match, not best for wider toes: Jamie

Stats

Approx. Weight: males’s  7.9 oz / 223g US9 Spec.  girls’s  6.8oz / 193g US7.5

  Pattern Weights: 

     males’s  7.7oz / 217g US8.5

Stack Peak:  35 mm heel /  27 mm forefoot, 8mm drop 

Platform Width: 85 mm heel / 70 mm midfoot  / 105 mm forefoot (US M8.5)

Most comparable footwear 

ASICS Novablast (RTR Evaluation)

New Stability Insurgent v5 (RTR Evaluation)

Puma Velocity Nitro 4 (RTR Evaluation)

Salomon Aero Glide 3 (RTR Evaluation)

First Impressions, Match and Higher

Michael: Expectations had been excessive for the Salomon Aero Blaze 3 (a minimum of for me) – the Aero Glide 3 represented a large step ahead from Salomon, and has grow to be certainly one of my most-recommended footwear of the yr. Thus, it’s my pleasure to report that, from the primary step-in, the Aero Blaze 3 impresses.  With a dialed-in stability between consolation and responsiveness, Salomon has executed a fantastic job to trim down the higher right here – even in comparison with the Aero Glide 3 – choosing a barely thinner, extra breathable engineered mesh that sheds a number of grams with out sacrificing construction. I’ll overuse the time period “race prepared” (and in the end, this isn’t a shoe designed for racing) however Salomon has actually executed job to incorporate the whole lot you want right here (and nothing you don’t).

Much like the Aero Glide, the match is true to measurement with average to barely beneficiant quantity. The toe field affords a contact extra width than older Salomon fashions, aided by a stretchy entrance mesh and no intrusive inner seams. The heel counter is semi-rigid and externalized, permitting a safe rear lockdown with out further weight or strain factors. 

This was very removed from the harshest shoe on my Haugland’s bump, and I might advocate it to Achilles-plagued runners like myself. The tongue is flippantly padded and un-gusseted, however I didn’t have any points – the lockdown total is stable and will work properly for many foot varieties with minor lacing changes.

Jamie: After testing out the Aero Glide 3 and falling in love with it, my expectations had been excessive for the Aero Blaze 3. Within the present working world the place stack top, cushion, and extra shoe is usually higher, the Aero Blaze 3 delivers a smooth design and a shoe that may do all of it. 

Within the scorching summer time days we’ve had, the higher is tremendous mild and breathable, and virtually unnoticeable whereas offering a safe lockdown. Whereas the Aero Blaze 3 ran a couple of half measurement massive and felt prefer it supplied lots of quantity, the Aero Glide matches a lot narrower and true to measurement. As somebody with a wider foot, the match was nonetheless spot on, however one thing to contemplate in case you are between sizes. 

As somebody who doesn’t have a tendency to like overly delicate footwear, the Aero Blaze 3 is ideal. It’s mild, responsive, and a non-plated choice for each day coaching. 

Sam: the Blaze has a smooth, trendy and streamlined look. Whereas the toe seems “pointy” on foot, decrease quantity toes may very well discover it not solely a bit lengthy however highish quantity as a consequence of its delicate unstructured higher and barely stretchy mesh. 

On a number of events I’ve reached for it over dozens of others for informal put on, that snug and simple becoming publish runs.

Maintain is reasonably safe however not what I might name a “efficiency” match as say the just lately examined (RTR Evaluation) Puma Velocity Nitro 4 has. Specifically I be aware the shortage of a gusset for the softly padded tongue. That is one higher and shoe supposed for shifting alongside that requires a gusset or a extra substantial tongue design to wrap the highest of the foot. 

Thankfully the rising midsole aspect partitions “Energetic Chassis” and an virtually inflexible heel counter maintain issues adequately underneath management. 

Midsole & Platform

Michael: The center of the Blaze 3 is the optiFOAM² midsole, a formulation designed to ship each plush landings and high-energy rebound. In comparison with the deeper, barely denser eTPU experience of the Glide 3, the Blaze feels a contact softer and extra versatile underfoot, best for runners on the lookout for a handy guide a rough and forgiving on a regular basis coach. That is squarely and definitively a “do all of it” coach – you may legitimately do your slowest and quickest miles of the week in the identical choice. No, there’s no plate – however I had no points taking these to tempo. They’re a severely enjoyable and versatile choice.

The 36/28 mm stack nonetheless affords loads of safety whereas holding the shoe agile and low sufficient for good floor really feel. The geometry makes use of a refined rocker that encourages ahead momentum with out feeling overly aggressive. Mixed with the sunshine building, it provides the Blaze 3 a “disappear on foot” high quality that makes it a pleasure throughout a large tempo vary. Like I stated, it is a true jack-of-all-trades midsole – sufficient cushion for longer runs, sufficient response for tempo work, and a balanced experience that feels acceptable even throughout warmups or cooldowns. Quick lengthy runs are in all probability probably the most on-target singular run I can counsel however, severely – you’ll be able to actually use these for any miles you may have assigned. They’re extraordinarily versatile because of this soft-but-springy midsole.

Jamie: Merely put, the Aero Blaze 3 offers a cushioned, but springy midsole. For those who’re on the lookout for a each day coach that feels supportive, however not mushy, that is the shoe for you. Nonetheless, I’ll say that on some longer runs, I typically felt like I might go for the Aero Glide 3 over this shoe. Particularly underneath the forefoot, I wished just a bit extra cushion on the pavement working within the concrete jungle that’s Chicago. Nonetheless, this shoe actually felt the most effective switching from gravel to pavement, and seems like an ideal hybrid that may handle all terrain very properly. 

Whereas it affords a typically highish stack top, it seems like a low profile shoe, in comparison with most lately, and really steady. It has unimaginable versatility, and total a enjoyable experience. 

Sam: The supercritical, expanded eTPU beads midsole right here for certain is vigorous, delicate and enjoyable whereas by no means mushy. For those who like a delicate energetic experience that provides again greater than sinks away the optiFoam right here is for you. The identical foam and common geometry is within the Aero Glide 3 (RTR Evaluation) with the important thing distinction the Aero Glide 3 at 40 mm heel / 32mm forefoot so is 5mm larger stack. Whereas “extra cushioned” its experience is much less steady, much less direct, stiffer and fewer enjoyable. The 35/27 stack right here is loads of cushion with the platform extra agile, extra versatile and total is extra dynamic. This can be a platform and midsole that for certain likes to zip alongside!

I do want for a contact extra on the highway entrance response and snap. I believe the difficulty is a part of the entrance outsole rubber sample. 

Outsole

Michael: The outsole options zoned Contagrip rubber in high-wear areas and a lighter foam uncovered middle part to cut back weight. The grip on dry roads is superb, and sturdiness seems sturdy after preliminary testing. Nonetheless, as with the Glide 3, the moist grip could possibly be improved, particularly on smoother pavement. There’s lots of rubber right here, nevertheless it isn’t deep.

Jamie: The outsole reveals some put on after preliminary testing, however doesn’t influence the experience of the shoe. That is the place it excels on gravel and softer surfaces over moist pavement because of the traction changing into a slight concern. I wouldn’t need to do pace work on moist roads after about 100 miles of wear and tear, however working on the paths, and a few off highway sections, this shoe actually involves life.

Sam: The outsole design rings the complete sole with rubber that’s fairly agency. This can be a sensible alternative because the ring helps stabilize the delicate foam midsole and mitigate results of the large middle cutouts which cut back weight and permit ahead move. 

The middle entrance white rubber is a softer rubber. The Glide 3 had the identical design and rubber upfront. Whereas this rubber softens the experience but extra there (perhaps an excessive amount of for my tastes) I believe it additionally takes away some response and toe off snap the firmer blue rubber may ship. And as with the Giide 3 I discovered this space of the outsole had lower than common grip in moist situations. 

Journey, Conclusions and Suggestions

Michael: Step apart, Aero Glide – the Aero Blaze 3 could also be probably the most under-the-radar hits of the latest previous, and is a straightforward contender for my coach of the yr. It’s a each day coach that doesn’t simply do the whole lot – it does the whole lot properly. From restoration miles to strides, brief efforts to double-digit runs, it persistently delivers clean transitions, dynamic cushioning, and all-day consolation. None of that is to knock the Aero Glide – if you’d like somewhat extra underfoot, the Aero Glide does the whole lot principally simply as properly, with the added value of lugging round a pair extra grams. Personally, I actually dig the svelte, virtually old-school really feel of the Blaze (particularly at $140!), however – Salomon, as the youngsters say, is cooking.

For those who’re solely shopping for one shoe this yr – or in case you want a each day “do-it-all” coach to enhance your tremendous shoe racer – the Salomon Aero Blaze 3 deserves a critical look.

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Rating: 9.5 / 10

Jamie: The Aero Blaze 3 is the shoe for you if you’d like a flexible each day coach that isn’t plated, but offers a light-weight, agency, supportive experience. It has nice traction for gravel runs on days the place you don’t need to hit the pavement. Personally, I nonetheless suppose I a lot favor the Aero Glide 3 for my do all of it each day coach. With a wider match, and somewhat extra cushion for pounding the pavement over some longer runs, the Aero Glide 3 takes the sting over the Aero Blaze 3 in total match and efficiency. 

The Blaze is responsive, safe, and offers a rocker that feels actually clean from heel to toe. Nonetheless, it’s barely slender, outsole leaves one thing to be desired, and forefoot may use somewhat extra cushion for these restoration days. Salomon has actually stepped up their sport with their lineup and the Aero Blaze 3 nonetheless delivers a high notch expertise. 

Rating: 8.5 / 10

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Sam: Want a break or change in your rotation of plated and max cushioned trainers? Desire a single coach for quite a lot of decently quick paced each day runs? In search of a smooth trendy shoe that’s enjoyable to run but can simply and stylishly cross over to extra informal use. The Blaze 3 checks all these bins for me.

Whereas it lacks considerably in higher help and likewise entrance response and stability for both lengthy runs or quick intervals for many each day miles it’s an thrilling choice that left me each run with massive smiles.

Commendably mild at 7.9 oz / 223g US9  for its substantial 35/27 stack top and with a vigorous and enjoyable to run all supercritical foam midsole at $140 it’s also a wonderful worth.

Sam’s Rating: 9.25 /10

Deductions for extra midfoot higher maintain and extra forefoot response (outsole)

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6 Comparisons

ASICS Novablast (RTR Evaluation)

Sam: The favored Novablast at $150 is larger stacked at 42/34 and a extra rocker based mostly stiff shoe than the ASICS. Its non supercritical however tremendous FF Blast Plus midsole and the stack top make it 25g heavier than the Salomon however nonetheless a really mild shoe for its stack top. I discovered its mild higher snug and perhaps a contact safer than the Blaze’s however nonetheless needing a bit extra work. I favor the Nova for longer runs and the Salomon for shorter sooner ones though each are extra uptempo in focus than simple run( jogging) choices.

New Stability Insurgent v5 (RTR Evaluation)

Michael: The NB Insurgent v5 retains the Insurgent line on the forefront of what “enjoyable trainers” will be – it’s not laden with loopy building just like the SC Coach, nevertheless it does greater than sufficient to satisfy the brink of vigorous, gratifying, fun-to-run coach.  My foot strike (and maybe foot form) simply works somewhat higher within the Blaze, and so it’s my desire, however I don’t have many destructive issues to say in regards to the new Insurgent. For those who’re a longtime Insurgent fan (particularly v4), I’d give v5 a glance – however in case you’re approaching the choice contemporary, then I’d severely think about Salomon.

Jamie: For those who’re on the lookout for enjoyable versatile trainers, you actually can’t go unsuitable with the Insurgent or the Blaze. Each non plated footwear are responsive, light-weight, and can be a fantastic choice if I wished 1 shoe for the whole lot. I do actually benefit from the cushioning of the Insurgent and the broader platform, whereas I favor the rocker really feel and total stability of the Blaze. With each within the working shoe rotation, they’re each nice choices! They do match very comparable when it comes to sizing, so in case you’re in between sizes, I positively advocate sizing up. 

Nike Pegasus Plus (RTR Evaluation)

Michael: That is the closest comparability, in my guide. Each are extraordinarily enjoyable and eminently usable footwear, I actually suppose each are what trainers must be! Between the 2, it’s shut! The Pegasus Plus is softer and feels somewhat extra propulsive, whereas the Blaze is barely firmer (barely!), with extra of a spring impact from the midsole. Once more – they’re actually shut. Neither lacing system is ideal (the tongue slides round on each footwear, non-problematically). Outsoles… once more, I believe fairly comparable when it comes to use case. I just like the aesthetics of the Nike extra, however I discover the match of the Salomon is a bit more pleasant. Could be a toss-up, however the larger value of the Nike (at $180-$190) in comparison with the Salomon at $140 does make the Blaze stand out forward, if solely by a hair. 

Puma Velocity Nitro 4 (RTR Evaluation)

Sam: The Puma at 36/26 has virtually the identical stats however is 22g heavier however nonetheless mild in its class. It too has a full supercritical foam midsole. In its case a nitrogen infused EVA. it’s higher is significantly safer and efficiency in match. Each true to measurement.  The Puma clearly has a superior outsole and might cruise over to mild trails.  On the identical nice $140 value factors,  Salomon is extra enjoyable and extra vigorous but however the Puma wins on versatility as it’s higher suited to sooner paces in addition to even some mild trails than the Blaze

Salomon Aero Glide 3 (RTR Evaluation)

Jamie: Each the Aero Glide 3 and the Aero Blaze 3 are versatile each day trainers that may deal with something from pace to lengthy runs, highway to path. The Aero Glide 3 matches a couple of half measurement massive and has a good quantity of quantity, whereas the Aero Blaze 3 is way narrower and true to measurement. The Aero Glide 3 excels on the highway with the cushion and responsiveness, whereas the Aero Blaze 3 feels just like the hybrid, highway/path shoe, that feels superb on gravel and softer surfaces. 

Brooks Launch  (RTR Evaluation)

Michael: The Brooks Launch was certainly one of my most stunning footwear; it’s Brooks’s “down market” choice ($120) however actually an gratifying coach that nails the fundamentals (and somewhat further). The Blaze has extra to it – a much bigger stack of froth underfoot and a extra gratifying platform – and might be extra usable for many runs. However the Launch is nice in case you’re on the lookout for one thing much more streamlined and minimal (comparatively talking). Each nice, although I favor the Blaze.

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Tester Profiles

Michael is a patent lawyer and graduate of Northwestern College Legislation Faculty. Previous to legislation college, he competed collegiately at Washington College in St. Louis (10,000m PR of 30:21). Michael’s PRs embrace a 67:43 half-marathon (Chicago Half-Marathon) and a 2:20:41 marathon PR on the 2025 Houston Marathon. Michael continues to race on the roads, and is chasing a sub-2:20 marathon and potential OTQ sooner or later.

Jamie is 32 years previous and has been working competitively since highschool. She has run many marathons, with a PR of two:49 and has competed in a number of extremely distances. She accomplished a solo 100k in 7:36:40 and set the Chicago Lakefront Path FKT. In 2021 she was the quickest US lady on highway for 50 miles with a time of 6:07:11. Outdoors of coaching, she is the shop supervisor at Fleet Ft Lakeview in Chicago.

Samples had been supplied at no cost for assessment functions. No compensation was supplied by manufacturers for writing this text. RoadTrail Run does have affiliate partnerships and should earn fee on merchandise bought by way of procuring hyperlinks on this article. These partnerships don’t affect our editorial content material. The opinions herein are fully the authors’.

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