Salomon Pulsar Trail Review: A Long-Run Trail Shoe With a plate-Like Energy Blade

Introduction

The Salomon Pulsar Trail is a cushioned trail running shoe built around a two-density Energy Surge midsole and a TPU energy blade, and in testing it landed as a solid, dependable option for long trail runs. The tested version measured 32mm in the heel and 26mm in the forefoot, a 6mm drop, and weighed 9.2 to 9.3 ounces in men’s size 9. The overall score came in at 7.6 out of 10, with a $130 price point that feels fair for a plated trail shoe these days.

Who This Shoe Is For

This is a long-run trail shoe first and foremost. It suits runners who want comfortable cushioning and decent energy return for bigger miles on the trails rather than a full-on race day weapon. If you want maximum pop underfoot for racing, other options in the Salomon line and from other brands feel livelier.

Upper, Lockdown and Fit

The upper is a breathable synthetic made with recycled materials, paired with a fully gusseted tongue and Salomon’s traditional lacing system. The tongue padding is especially well done: you do not feel the laces pressing on the top of your foot. Lockdown scored 8 out of 10, and the shoe felt solid and secure throughout testing.

Fit is true to size with no issues. Some Salomon trail shoes, like the Speedcross lineup, can run a little narrow, but the Pulsar Trail felt good through the toe box with comfortable room without feeling sloppy.

Midsole and Energy Return

The Energy Surge midsole combines EVA and olefin in a lightweight, responsive blend designed to deliver long-lasting cushioning and bouncy energy return. It uses two densities: a softer foam underfoot and a firmer layer just above the outsole. A TPU energy blade sits in the midsole to maximize foot strike.

It was genuinely fun to run in, and the cushioning and energy return were pleasing overall. The honest caveat is that the plate feels a little less rigid than expected. Flexing the shoe by hand shows a lot of give and not quite as much spring back as hoped, and the pop underfoot did not match that of a Speedgoat or a Saucony Endorphin Edge.

Outsole and Durability

The outsole is Contagrip MA rubber, Salomon’s standard outsole compound on its trail shoes, and it earned the positive spot in testing. Torsional stiffness is moderate: it twists under real force but not dramatically.

Durability is projected at 500 miles or more.

Things to Consider Before Buying

The main concern is the upper material. It seems likely to rip if it catches on sharp rocks or roots, so runners who frequently snag their feet on rugged, technical terrain may want to think twice. There is also some scrunching of the upper material at the bottom of the eyestay, which does not inspire long-term confidence. Finally, the heel counter flexes more than expected.

Buying Advice

At $130 with an energy blade built in, the Pulsar Trail is a good solid choice for long trail runs. Would it be a race shoe? Probably not for most people, though a 50K is at least a consideration. If you want more pop for racing, look at alternatives such as the Vectiv Enduris, the Exodus Ultra, the Speedgoat 5, or the More Trail 2. If your goal is comfortable, well-cushioned long miles on the trail, this one makes a lot of sense.

Conclusion

The Salomon Pulsar Trail delivers a comfortable ride, a well-padded gusseted tongue, trustworthy Salomon fit and a fair $130 price, held back mainly by upper durability concerns and a plate that could use a touch more snap. At 7.6 out of 10, it is a standard, dependable pick for long trail days.