Salomon Phantasm 2

The upper of the Salomon Phantasm 2 is crafted from engineered mesh, providing excellent breathability and comfort. This design is inspired by Salomon's trail heritage, offering a balance of flexibility and structure. The mesh allows for good airflow, making it suitable for warm weather runs. However, the durability of the upper is a concern, as it may not withstand heavy wear and tear over time. The spacious toebox accommodates wide feet, enhancing comfort for those with broader foot shapes.

The midsole of the Salomon Phantasm 2 features Salomon's Energy Foam, a training-focused EVA compound that offers moderate cushioning and responsiveness. This foam is designed to provide a balanced ride, suitable for medium to high-paced runs. The inclusion of the Energy Blade, a fiberglass plate, adds a layer of propulsion and stability, making the shoe feel dynamic without being overly stiff. However, the midsole may not offer the same level of energy return as some competitors, which could be a drawback for those seeking maximum performance.

The outsole of the Salomon Phantasm 2 is equipped with Contagrip rubber, known for its reliable traction and grip. This design ensures stability on various road surfaces, from dry to wet conditions. However, the outsole's thin construction raises concerns about its durability, as it may wear down faster than thicker alternatives. Despite this, the outsole's grip performance is commendable, providing confidence during runs.

The Salomon Phantasm 2 is designed with a fit that caters to runners with wide feet. The toebox is notably spacious, offering ample room for comfort. However, this may not be ideal for those with narrow feet, as the fit could feel too loose. The shoe's overall fit is slightly small, so potential buyers might consider sizing up for a better fit. The heel lockdown is excellent, providing stability and preventing slippage during runs.

Comfort is a key feature of the Salomon Phantasm 2, with its well-cushioned heel and padded tongue. The shoe is designed to provide a cozy fit, particularly for heel strikers who require additional support. The engineered mesh upper adds to the comfort by allowing breathability and reducing heat buildup. However, the shoe's weight might be a concern for those who prefer lighter options for tempo training.

The cushioning in the Salomon Phantasm 2 is focused on providing support for heel strikers. The heel features a generous stack height, offering ample padding for a comfortable ride. The forefoot, while thinner, provides a good ground feel, appealing to those who prefer a more connected experience with the road. The overall cushioning is moderate, suitable for medium to long-distance runs, but may not satisfy those seeking a plush, maximalist feel.

Breathability is a strong point for the Salomon Phantasm 2, thanks to its engineered mesh upper. This material allows for excellent airflow, keeping feet cool during runs, especially in warmer conditions. The design ensures that the shoe remains comfortable and well-ventilated, making it a suitable choice for performance-oriented runners who value breathability.

The Salomon Phantasm 2 offers solid stability, despite being a neutral running shoe. The combination of the Energy Blade plate and subtle midsole sidewalls contributes to a stable ride. The shoe's design keeps the foot close to the ground, enhancing stability without compromising on speed. However, it may not provide enough support for runners who require significant stability features.

Durability is a concern for the Salomon Phantasm 2, particularly in the upper and outsole. The engineered mesh upper, while breathable, may not withstand heavy use, as it showed signs of wear during testing. The outsole's thin construction also raises questions about its longevity, as it may wear down faster than expected. Runners seeking a long-lasting shoe might need to consider these factors before purchasing.

The grip of the Salomon Phantasm 2 is commendable, thanks to the Contagrip rubber outsole. This material provides reliable traction on various road surfaces, ensuring stability and confidence during runs. The outsole's design is inspired by Salomon's trail expertise, offering a level of grip that is suitable for both dry and wet conditions. However, the thin outsole may affect the shoe's overall durability.

Flexibility in the Salomon Phantasm 2 is moderate, with the Energy Blade plate adding some stiffness to the forefoot. This design provides a balance between flexibility and stability, making the shoe feel dynamic without being overly rigid. The fiberglass plate offers a level of propulsion that enhances the shoe's performance, particularly for those who prefer a more responsive ride.

Yes, the Salomon Phantasm 2 is designed with heel strikers in mind, offering a well-cushioned heel and a 9 mm drop that supports a comfortable landing.

The engineered mesh upper of the Salomon Phantasm 2 provides excellent breathability, ensuring proper ventilation during runs, especially in warm weather.

The Salomon Phantasm 2 weighs approximately 255 g for men and 218 g for women, making it a moderately weighted shoe for road running.

While the Salomon Phantasm 2 offers good performance, its durability is a concern, particularly in the upper and outsole, which may wear down faster than expected.

Yes, the Salomon Phantasm 2 features a removable insole, allowing runners to customize their fit with orthotic inserts if needed.