Salomon Sense Mantra: A lightweight shoe for dedicated runners
The spring 2013 Sense Mantra adapted Salomon’s S-Lab Sense design for everyday running, adding cushioning, protection and a slightly broader fit.
One of Salomon’s major spring 2013 introductions was the Sense Mantra, a lightweight trail-running shoe intended to encourage a natural stride with enough cushioning for long distances on asphalt and rough terrain.
The design grew out of the ultralight S-Lab Sense, worn by Kilian Jornet in his victory at Western States 100, one of the world’s toughest ultramarathons. Low weight was the central aim of that original design. For everyday training, the Sense Mantra added a slightly broader fit, more cushioning and protection, and a longer OS Tendon intended to return more energy through the stride.
A natural running stride
Salomon positioned the Sense Mantra within its Natural Motion concept, emphasizing protection, comfort and fit. Profeel Film protected the underside of the foot from stones and other trail hazards. Sense EndoFit created a close, sock-like fit that hugged the foot; the launch material suggested it could even be worn without socks.
The shoe also had a modified Quicklace system and a new soft, flexible outer material. Its mesh upper was designed to breathe well and dry quickly.
The Sense Mantra was aimed at runners who preferred a midfoot-to-forefoot strike. Salomon described this technique, using shorter, more frequent steps without landing on the heel, as a way to conserve energy and improve balance and endurance. Those were the intended benefits presented with the shoe.
Approximate launch price: SEK 1,300.
