Energy Foam Explained
In brief: Energy Foam is Salomon's newest cushioning compound, combining EVA with olefin block copolymers, or OBC. The dual-material formulation delivers lower weight, higher energy return, better vibration damping and a softer feel than traditional EVA. Positioned above EnergyCell+ in Salomon's foam hierarchy, it features in long-distance trail and hybrid running shoes such as the Genesis, Aero Glide and Ultra Glide.
What is Energy Foam?
Energy Foam is Salomon's newest cushioning compound, designed to push the brand's midsole performance forward. It combines EVA, the established workhorse foam of the running industry, with olefin block copolymers, often shortened to OBC. This dual-material formulation is engineered to outperform traditional EVA on several fronts at once: it is lower in weight, returns more energy, damps vibration better and feels softer underfoot. The result is a midsole that aims to be both comfortable and lively, soaking up the harshness of long miles while still giving energy back to the runner. As Salomon's most advanced foam, it represents the brand's current thinking on how to cushion a shoe without making it heavy or dull.
How does it work?
The performance of Energy Foam comes from blending two materials with complementary strengths. EVA provides a proven, reliable cushioning base, while the olefin block copolymers add resilience, responsiveness and a lighter, softer character. Together they create a foam that compresses to absorb impact and then springs back to return energy, rather than simply flattening out. The OBC content also helps the foam stay consistent across temperature ranges, an important quality for trail use where conditions can swing from cold mornings to warm afternoons. Better vibration damping smooths out the buzz of rough ground, reducing fatigue over long distances. It is a formulation built to keep performing deep into a run, not just for the first few miles.
What are the benefits?
Energy Foam's combination of qualities makes it well suited to demanding running. Lower weight helps the shoe feel nimble despite generous cushioning, while higher energy return adds a responsive, propulsive quality that can keep legs fresher over distance. The improved vibration damping is a quiet but valuable benefit, taking the edge off rocky or hard ground so the ride feels smoother. A softer feel than traditional EVA adds comfort without sacrificing durability, since the foam is also designed to be responsive and hard-wearing over time. For runners tackling long trails or hybrid road-to-trail routes, that blend of softness, spring and consistency is exactly what helps a shoe stay comfortable mile after mile.
Where does it sit in Salomon's range?
Energy Foam sits at the top of Salomon's midsole hierarchy, positioned above EnergyCell+ as the brand's newest and most advanced foam. EnergyCell+ is itself a high-rebound performance compound, so placing Energy Foam above it signals a step up in cushioning technology. This tiered approach lets Salomon match the right foam to the right shoe: EnergyCell+ for responsive trail performance, and Energy Foam where the priority is light, soft, energetic cushioning for longer efforts. Understanding the hierarchy helps when comparing models, since the foam used is a strong clue to a shoe's intended character and the kind of running it is built for.
Which shoes feature it?
At OD's, Energy Foam features in Salomon long-distance trail and hybrid running shoes including the Genesis, the Aero Glide and the Ultra Glide. These are models built for covering ground comfortably, whether on technical trails or mixed road-and-trail routes, and the foam's blend of softness, energy return and damping suits that purpose well. The Aero Glide and Ultra Glide names point to their gliding, cushioned ride, while the Genesis brings the technology into Salomon's agile trail line-up. If you want a Salomon shoe with the brand's latest cushioning for longer runs, these are the models to look for.
Energy Foam at OD's Designer Clothing
At OD's Designer Clothing we stock Salomon long-distance trail and hybrid running shoes featuring Energy Foam, alongside running footwear from On, Saucony and Salomon for every distance. Energy Foam's mix of low weight, energy return and damping makes it a strong choice for longer efforts, so it is worth trying if comfort over distance is your priority. We offer next-day delivery and free click and collect, and our team at the St Helens store can explain how Salomon's foams differ so you choose the right ride. Whether you run long trails or mixed routes, we can help you find a cushioned, responsive pair.