Sense Ride 4
Sense Ride 5
| Specification | Sense Ride 4 | Sense Ride 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 290g (US 9 men's) | 285g (US 9 men's) |
| Stack Height | 27mm heel / 19mm forefoot | 27mm heel / 19mm forefoot |
| Drop | 8mm | 8mm |
| Upper | Previous-gen SensiFit | Updated Matryx + SensiFit |
| Price | $90-110 (closeout) | $140 |
| Best For | Budget versatile trail running | Road-to-trail versatility |
Quick Answer: Sense Ride 5 or 4?
Buy Sense Ride 5 if: You're paying full price and want the latest technology. The updated upper and 5g weight savings are worthwhile improvements.
Buy Sense Ride 4 if: You can find it on sale for $90-110. You're getting 95% of the performance for 70% of the cost.
The real difference? Minor updates that most runners won't notice. If Sense Ride 4 is significantly discounted, it's the smarter buy.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Sense Ride 4 | Sense Ride 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (US 9) | 290g | 285g (-5g) |
| Stack Height | 27mm / 19mm | 27mm / 19mm |
| Drop | 8mm | 8mm |
| Cushioning | Optivibe | Optivibe (refined) |
| Upper | SensiFit mesh | Matryx + SensiFit |
| Price (MSRP) | $140 | $140 |
| Price (Current) | $90-110 (closeout) | $140 |
| Savings | ~30% | - |
What Changed from 4 to 5
1. Upper Construction
Sense Ride 4: Standard SensiFit mesh upper Sense Ride 5: Matryx reinforced upper with updated SensiFit
The Matryx upper is marginally more durable and breathable. Noticeable improvement if you look closely, barely detectable when running.
2. Weight
Sense Ride 4: 290g Sense Ride 5: 285g
5g lighter—imperceptible for most runners but technically an improvement.
3. Cushioning Refinement
Both use Optivibe midsole technology. Version 5 has subtle refinements to foam density and placement. The difference is minimal in practice.
4. Fit Tweaks
Sense Ride 5 has slightly improved heel counter and lacing. Both fit similarly—true to Salomon size with medium width.
What Stayed the Same
- Stack height (27mm/19mm)
- Drop (8mm)
- Contagrip outsole
- Core Optivibe cushioning
- Overall versatility
- Road-to-trail capability
Real-World Difference
Honestly? Most runners wouldn't notice the difference blindfolded.
The updates are evolutionary refinements, not revolutionary changes. If you loved Sense Ride 4, version 5 is marginally better. If you never tried either, they perform nearly identically.
Price Analysis
At full price ($140): Sense Ride 5 is the logical choice for the latest technology and full size/color selection.
At $110 (Sense Ride 4): Still worth considering version 5 for $30 more unless budget is tight.
At $90-100 (Sense Ride 4): Buy Sense Ride 4. The savings outweigh the minimal improvements.
At $70-80 (Sense Ride 4 deep closeout): Absolutely buy Sense Ride 4. Stock up on multiple pairs.
Who Should Upgrade
Upgrade to Sense Ride 5 If:
- Your Sense Ride 4s are worn out and need replacement
- You prefer having the latest version
- Full price difference ($30-50) doesn't matter
Stick with Sense Ride 4 If:
- Your current pair still has life left
- You can find version 4 at significant discount
- You're budget-conscious
Stock Up on Sense Ride 4 If:
- You find them under $90
- You know you love the shoe
- You have storage space for backup pairs
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sense Ride 5 a significant upgrade?
No. The improvements are minor refinements, not game-changers. You won't run faster or more comfortably in version 5 compared to version 4.
Can I still find Sense Ride 4?
Yes, closeout colors are widely available at Running Warehouse, REI Outlet, and Amazon. Selection is limited to remaining sizes and colors.
Are the sizes the same?
Yes, both run true to Salomon sizing. If you wore 10.5 in Sense Ride 4, wear 10.5 in Sense Ride 5.
Which is more durable?
Similar durability. Both last 350-500 miles on mixed terrain. The Matryx upper in version 5 may hold up marginally better.
Should I buy multiple Sense Ride 4s on closeout?
If you love the shoe and find them under $90, yes. Having backup pairs saves money long-term.
The Bottom Line
Sense Ride 5 is a good shoe. Sense Ride 4 is also a good shoe. The differences are minimal.
Best strategy:
- Check Sense Ride 4 prices first
- If under $100, buy version 4
- If near full price, buy version 5
- If deep discount ($80 or less), stock up on version 4
Where to Buy
Sense Ride 5 (Current)
- REI - $140
- Running Warehouse - $140
Sense Ride 4 (Closeout)
- Running Warehouse - Check for deals
- REI Outlet - Previous season colors
Disclosure: We earn commission from qualifying purchases. This helps support our testing at no extra cost to you.
Last Updated: February 3, 2026
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