# Road Racing Shoes The Salomon S/lab Phantasm 3 is a Lightweight Carbon-Plated Racing Model By Amy Duong | Published 2026-01-10 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/slab-phantasm-3 References: [salomon](http://salomon.com/)  The [Salomon](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lart-de-lautomobile-x-salomon) [S/Lab Phantasm 3](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lart-de-lautomobile-x-salomon-1) is a road-racing shoe designed for speed and efficiency, developed with a focus on aerodynamics and reduced weight. The model weighs roughly seven ounces, making it lighter than the previous Phantasm iteration, and features a streamlined upper with smooth surfaces and an integrated gaiter that covers the lacing system. Salomon worked with [Formula](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/belvedere-organic-vodka) 1 aerodynamics specialists to refine airflow across the shoe during forward motion. The midsole uses optiFOAM+ PEBA foam with increased stack height and incorporates a full-length energyBLADE carbon plate shaped to support forward propulsion. The shoe is built on a neutral platform and uses an aggressive rocker geometry to encourage fast transitions during road races. Its outsole and structure are tuned specifically for race-day performance rather than daily training use. Image Credit: Salomon ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.2/10 - Popularity: 78% | Activity: 16% | Freshness: 61% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Aerodynamics-optimized Footwear:** Collaborations with aerodynamic specialists reveal opportunities in enhancing energy efficiency and speed in athletic footwear. - **Carbon-plated Innovation:** Integrating full-length carbon plates in shoe design presents a dynamic opportunity to significantly enhance propulsion and athlete performance. - **Ultra-lightweight Racing Gear:** The demand for ultra-lightweight materials in racing shoes paves the way for innovations that reduce weight without sacrificing structural integrity. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Sports Footwear Manufacturing:** Leading-edge lightweight designs and advanced material technology transform the sports footwear industry landscape. - **High-performance Athletic Gear:** Developments in high-performance components for racing shoes create potential for a revolution in athletic gear targeting competitive runners. - **Material Science and Technology:** Advancements in innovative materials like PEBA foam offer transformative possibilities for creating more efficient and functional athletic wear. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Technical Footwear Projects](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hyper-taping.md) - [Refined Collaborative Dress Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bryant-park-double-monk.md) - [Square Toe Minimal Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cubism-sq.md) - [Futuristic Running Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/new-balance-1906f.md) - [Rose-Hued Dad Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/new-balance-1906r-rose-sugar.md) - [Woven Leather Loafers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/loafer-wk.md) - [Paisley Patterned Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/air-force-1-low-paisley.md) - [Cow Print Textural Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/superstar-dress.md) - [Patterned Running Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/qi-flow.md)