Salomon continues to pioneer sustainable performance footwear with the Vision, a trail running shoe designed with circularity at its core. Selected for this year’s Greener Gear Guide, the Vision represents a new era of trail shoes, where environmental responsibility meets technical versatility.

Circularity as a Standard

The Vision is part of Salomon’s 2025 pledge to have 100% of new products align with one or more circular design principles. It's built to be fully recyclable and features a simplified construction that allows each component to be disassembled at end-of-life.

The Vision brings together elements from Salomon’s first fully recyclable shoe, the INDEX, and the performance-driven Sense Ride 5, resulting in a sustainable silhouette designed specifically for the trails.

Each pair includes a QR code on the tongue, linking to a dedicated returns page. From there, users can ship their worn shoes back to Salomon free of charge. Once returned, the upper and sole are separated and responsibly recycled through local partners, giving materials a second life.

Built for Longevity

Recyclability begins with durability. The Vision's upper is made from Kevlar-reinforced Matryx, a lightweight but ultra-resistant polyamide designed for prolonged use in rough environments.

This material was tested on UK trails for several weeks and showed strong breathability and drainage, making it suitable for summer runs and even light hiking. Some light fraying appeared around the ankle collar after extended wear, however, the upper remained untouched against sharp terrain and frequent transitions between trail and tarmac.

Designed for Dissassembly...

Salomon engineered the Vision's TPU midsole, plate, and Contragrip rubber outsole for recyclability without compromising on performance. The sole unit features a clean split between components, allowing for easier separation of the shoe during the recycling process. The exposed foam section and 4.5mm lugs offer a balanced grip across mixed terrain, whether it's dry, dusty, or muddy.

And Performance

Tested by trail running legend François D'Haene, the Vision delivers a reliable all-around performance. The pair features moderate cushioning, a stable 8mm drop and a standard fit that adapts well to a range of foot shapes. It also includes an integrated tongue and stretchy liner that creates a sock-like fit to keep debris out, perfect for unpredictable off-road conditions.

While not being the lightest or most aggressive trail runner on the market, the Vision is a dependable and responsible training partner for runners who average 2-3 runs per week.

Forward Thinking Footwear

With the Vision, Salomon doesn't just introduce another trail runner, it redifines what sustainable performance footwear can be. It's a step forward toward a circular future where design, durability, and disassembly go hand in hand.

All Images: Salomon

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