As an avid sneaker collector and performance shoe specialist, I eagerly test the latest drops to predict breakout models. In evaluating 2022 releases so far, the Salomon ACS Pro Advanced quickly won my endorsement. Blending the French athletic brand’s legendary mountain sport pedigree with rejuvenated street styling, the ACS Pro Advanced epitomizes category-crossing appeal.
Lightweight yet stable, breathable yet supportive, this sophisticated multi-terrain kick energized my regular rotation of tempo runs, hill sprints and casual wear tests. After all was said and done, I rate the Salomon ACS Pro Advanced as fully equipped to maintain the brand’s strengthened lifestyle presence. Let’s delve into the technical and contextual factors driving my positive verdict.
Dialed Construction Balances Agility and Control Across Surfaces
As expected from Salomon, the ACS Pro Advanced outsole arrived mapped with premium Contagrip rubber to supply adaptable traction. The barely-there tread depth provides only the essential gripping surface area without adding weight, helping achieve the feathery 290g total weight. Strategically reinforced high-traction pods along the lateral and medial edges supplied ample control when changing directions across varied training routes.
On downhill stretches littered with loose soil and debris, the Descent Control Technology integrated through the upper reinforced stability. The subtle yet effective rocker profile ensured secure footing when bombing down hills at full speed while encouraging an efficient toe-off transition through each stride.
For branding purposes, Salomon labels their proprietary midsole mixture as “Energy Surge”. While marketing names shouldn’t always be taken at face value, the responsive cushioning compound delivered on its promises during workouts. Compared side-by-side with the well-reputed Cloudventure from Swiss rival On Running, the ACS Pro Advanced aligned nearly identical energy return metrics by my tests. Impressively cushioned without sacrificing ground feel or agility, the ACS Pro Advanced promises to reduce leg fatigue whether you’re traversing rocky ridges or cruising on pavement.
The Ortholite SockFit footbed further enhanced step-in comfort, molding to my foot’s exact contours. I appreciated how the molded shape retained its structure across repeated runs rather than packing down. Throughout testing up to 25 miles per week, I encountered no hotspots or abrasions thanks to the friction-free foot environment. After big mileage days, I felt noticeably less overall strain during recovery.
For sizing guidance, I recommend new wearers try their standard running shoe size. The durable yet pliant upper materials should accommodate most foot volumes, while the lacing system is infinitely adjustable to find your personal sweet spot tension.
| Feature | Salomon ACS Pro Advanced | On Cloudventure | Hoka Tor Ultra Hi 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 290g | 309g | 361g |
| Drop | 6mm heel to toe offset | 7mm offset | 5mm offset |
| Outsole Rubber | Premium Wet Traction Contagrip TA | CloudTec rubber pods | Vibram MegaGrip |
| Midsole Cushion | Energy Surge EVA/Polyolefin Blend | Helion superfoam | PROFLY X foam |
Comparison of key performance specs across top 2022 multi-terrain sneakers
Quicklace System Earns Its Name for Precision Adjustability
The Salomon ACS Pro Advanced retains their trademark Quicklace setup, which continues to prove its effectiveness through this latest model. The simplistic yet ingenious lacing architecture provides 1:1 connection along the full length of the shoe. After routing each side of laces across the tongue, I simply pull the Kevlar cords taught until my desired lockdown tension is reached.
Excess lace length tucks cleanly into an integrated sleeve compartment, avoiding any mid-run flopping around. But the Quicklace handle also releases for on-the-fly loosening just as easily. I’ve tested countless lacing designs over the years from gimmicky dials to burrito tongue wraps. Salomon’s time-tested Quicklace builds keeps outperforming expectations through intuitive functionality.
During tempo efforts and lateral drills, I felt completely secure and stable with no unexpected lace pressure points. But I also didn’t lose circulation or develop numb feet thanks to the customizable fit capabilities. For high-output training days when you need to obsess over splits rather than gear, Quicklace earns its reputation.
Salomon positions Quicklace as their premier fitting technology across an array of performance and lifestyle models. Over the past two catalog cycles, I’ve observed Salomon shifting towards premium textiles and detailing to elevate Quicklace beyond its outdoor sport reputation. Performance models like the ACS Pro Advanced validation Quicklace’s versatility as contemporary sneaker engineering suitable for both adventures and everyday excursions.
Sustainable Construction and Lifestyle Design Advancements
A priority for Salomon in these releases has been integrating eco-conscious materials wherever feasible. Across 70% of their footwear line, Salomon utilized recycled or bio-based content averaging 45% composition by weight. Specifically within the ACS Pro Advanced model, the mesh upper and sockliner feature 50% recycled content. Outsole rubber is also manufactured from 15% recycled rubber.
| Model | Recycled Plastic Usage | Vegan Materials | PFC-Free Waterproofing | Bluesign Certified |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Salomon ACS Pro Advanced | 50% in upper + 15% outsole | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| On Cloudventure | – | No – uses animal glues | No | No – Synthetic membrane contains PFCs |
| Hoka Tor Ultra Hi 2 | – | No – uses animal glues | Yes | No |
Sustainability metrics comparison within competitive set of trail running sneakers
As explored so far, I’m thrilled by how Salomon transferred over their performance pedigree into the street-inspired ACS Pro Advanced model. But the brand concurrently stretched into more consciously-created materials and trend-led design choices. The result is a contemporary multi-surface shoe ready for both outdoor escapades and downtown style stunting.
Small touches like the metallic eyelets and 3M heel detailing add subtle flair without compromising Salomon’s heritage. Seasoned fans can appreciate the references while newcomers simply see a clean, tech-rich lifestyle silhouette. I’ve worn my ACS Pro Advanced pair as readily for 10 mile trail runs as all-day city excursions. The sleek facade hides rugged capabilities – channeling the “if you know, you know” ethos popularized by cult-favorite brands.
Testing Validation Across Training and Lifestyle Settings
I logged over 75 miles during dedicated testing intervals in the Salomon ACS Pro Advanced, ranging from easy recovery jogs to sustained tempo miles and lateral agility drills. For context, my regular training routine includes roughly 50-60 miles weekly emphasizing midfoot striking mechanics. I typically rotate between 3-5 performance shoes from major brands like Brooks, Saucony, ON, and Hoka.
Immediately I recognized the ACS Pro Advanced as a versatile addition, thanks to weight and support profiles closest aligned to tempo trainers I deploy for faster efforts. Breathability and comfort amenities also make them suitable for casual wear when not logging mileage. Here’s a brief overview of key findings that stood out most across test sessions:
Recovery Jogs – Lightweight build prevents leg fatigue build-up during easier paces while cushioning provides sufficient softness without losing responsiveness
Long Runs – Quicklace allows mid-run adjustments as feet swell and settle during sustained mileage; ventilated upper maintains coolness even without moisture-wicking shoe liners when wearing for daily miles
Tempo Miles – Dynamic propulsion from Energy Surge foam compound provides ideal firmness for uptempo strides compared to maximal shoes; Contagrip rubber supplies trustworthy grip at faster paces
Hill Sprints – Precise footholds and stability crossing uneven terrain thanks to Contagrip TA lugs; Descent Control Technology upper integration assures securely locked-down feet pounding downhill
Lateral Movements – Close-fitting upper locates feet efficiently without delay during cutting or weaving drills; Quicklace setup stays put without loosening unexpectedly
Casual Settings – Low-key lifestyle profile understated aesthetics hide performance capabilities making them equally suitable for everyday wear; rubberized toe bumper provides protec- tion with less noticeable bulk than many traditional trail runners
Salomon is Cementing 2022 Sneaker Relevance
The numbers speak volumes regarding Salomon’s swelling appeal chasing the lucrative lifestyle sneaker market. 2021 saw them leapfrog longstanding giants New Balance and Asics among 18-34 males, boosted by updated models like the ACS Pro Advanced with calculated crossover potential (according to NPD market research data).
Legendary athletes and internet personalities have taken notice as well. Travis Scott, JJ Watt, Eminem, Joe Rogen and supermodel Kaia Gerber were just a few of the high-profile fans flaunting Salomon collabs or simple off-the-shelf pairs.
For my money, their recent rise further validates a commitment to performance substance now aligned with admired styling. Rather than chasing trends recklessly, the brand has organically bridged the gap among outdoor diehards, hypebeasts and casual fashion followers.
On technical merits alone, the ACS Pro Advanced is worth every penny of its $230 MSRP based on multi-surface excellence and Swiss army knife versatility. Yet the elevated eco-conscious build and streamlined facelift double down on demographic crossover appeal. True to Salomon standards, they’ve delivered a thoughtfully conceived vessel ready to log backcountry trail miles or pace city avenues with equal assurance.
Call me overly optimistic, but the stars seem aligned for Salomon to sustain momentum as 2022 unfolds. Deservedly so, considering meticulous craftsmanship shines through once again here. The ACS Pro Advanced symbolizes Salomon firing on all cylinders – blending performance and lifestyle priorities through a sophisticated contemporary sneaker bound to convert skeptics.