Salomon Phantasm 2 running shoes

The Salomon Phantasm 2 running shoe is a dynamic, neutral running shoe for fast training that is not only fast, but also comfortable. With the Phantasm running shoe line, Salomon has created a versatile running shoe line where you don’t have to choose between comfort and dynamism because the shoe can do both at the same time. Despite its highly cushioned upper and midfoot of average height, the Phantasm 2 manages to stay light everyday running shoes. The softer two-layer midsole also contain a composite plate called Energy Blade, which makes the shoe more stable, stiffer and slightly more dynamic. Much changed from the previous version, the Phantasm 2 is more comfortable, softer and less rigid. If you’re looking for a running shoe that supports fast workouts but is comfortable, the Salomon Phantasm 2 could be a good choice. Importantly, there are also S/lab Phantasm 2 running shoes, which are very different from the Salomon Phantasm 2 running shoes.

Salomon Phantasm 2 upper

The upper of the Salomon Phantasm 2 running shoe is made from a mesh material that has better than average breathability. The width of the upper is standard, but the height is slightly smaller than average, so it may be uncomfortable for those with wide feet. The toe box, elongated, pointed and not rounded, favours those with thinner feet.  The tongue is moderately cushioned and comfortable. The flexible heel collar is doubly cushioned as it has separate small cushion strips inside. This solution provides comfort and secure foot hold.

Salomon Phantasm 2 midfoot

The Salomon Phantasm 2 running shoe midsole is made up of two different softness Energy Foam foams, sandwiched between a 3-pronged fork-shaped composite plate. The upper foam is slightly harder, while the lower foam is softer. Salomon’s Energy Blade plate, which is sandwiched between the two layers, does not stiffen the shoe too much, allowing the midsole to remain flexible. The midsole has a rocker geometry that results in smooth and fast transitions. Overall, the Phantasm 2 midsole is versatile because it supports faster runs and interval training, but is flexible and soft enough to remain comfortable at slower paces. It also has good energy return, making it suitable for longer runs. The midsole has an asymmetrical design at the heel, which improves the stability of the shoe. The midsole also has a minimal sidewall to help maintain correct foot positioning.

Salomon Phantasm 2 outsole

The Salomon Phantasm 2 running shoe outsole is made from Salomon’s proprietary Contagrip rubber compound, which has performed well in many Salomon running shoes. The outsole is articulated, without unnecessary stiffening of the midsole. The outsole uses similar articulation to race shoes. The heel section only has an asymmetrical horseshoe-shaped outsole rubber that does not extend to the edge of the sole, where the midsole can wear. The front of the shoe is covered by a large area of midsole, which gives the shoe good traction.

Conclusion

Overall, the Salomon Phantasm 2 running shoe has changed a lot from the previous version. It has become more comfortable, softer, but still a running shoe for fast workouts and interval training. It has a comfortable, but smaller volume upper, a soft but dynamic midsole with a composite plate, and better outsole wear resistance. If you’re looking for more dynamics, you might want to check out the S/lab Phantasm 2 running shoe, which is more expensive than the Salomon Phantasm 2 running shoe, but it’s more capable, lighter and faster.