With the new Driftform Collection, Salomon and Mental Athletic fuse technical expertise with a bold aesthetic statement.

At its core is the ULTRA GLIDE 3, a trail running shoe engineered with Contagrip traction, a breathable mesh upper, and lightweight construction built for long distances. It delivers grip, comfort, and endurance — distilling Salomon’s DNA into a distinctly contemporary form.

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The shoe is complemented by the ADV Skin 12 vest, designed with smart storage solutions and an ultralight feel for long-distance runs. The Mental Athletic shorts feature a Natural Movement Cut — lightweight yet durable, adapting seamlessly to every stride.

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The TANK U Mental Athletic stands out as a particularly exciting piece, rooted in a long tradition of ultra running.

For decades, athletes have cut holes into their tanks during grueling heat battles like the Western States to improve airflow — from Scott Jurek to Ryan Sandes, this pragmatic hack has since evolved into an iconic style code.

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Working with Sandes, Salomon developed a prototype at the Annecy Design Center — a design now reimagined within the Driftform capsule. Crafted from ultralight fabric with precision ventilation cuts and a Freedom Fit, the TANK U merges technical function with cultural significance.

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The accessories further emphasize the collection’s holistic approach: crew socks designed for maximum breathability, arm sleeves with compression and reflective details, the Speed Bob offering protection in extreme heat, and gloves that deliver both warmth and touchscreen functionality.

Each piece unites technical innovation with a clean, minimalist aesthetic.

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The project as a whole goes beyond pure functionality. The collection frames trail running as a cultural practice — a movement between nature and city, between sport and style.

Shot in Cameroon around the Race of Hope on Mount Cameroon, the campaign underscores that trail running is about far more than records: it is a narrative of perseverance, community, and self-expression.

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The SALOMON x MENTAL ATHLETIC ULTRA GLIDE 3, the TANK U, and the other pieces from the Driftform Collection will launch on September 23 and will be available at select retailers. Keep an eye on our Sneaker Releases.

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Photos via Salomon