We start our list with one of Salomon’s new road running options and the Sonic RA Max 2 lives up to its name as the most cushioned of the brand’s shoes—designed for the road runner that needs or wants the most supportive assistance. One form of this assistance comes from the brand’s patented midsole cushioning, using an EVA foam they call EnergyCell+ to provide shock absorption and quick energy return and Opal, another type of patented foam to provide soft cushioning. Together, Salomon calls these two foam layers “Vibe Technology” for their ability to cushion the foot and lessen the jarring vibrations that lead to muscle fatigue and injury. A second supportive device is on the outsole, which has the brand’s new Geometric Decoupling design in which the outsole is split with a ridge that ensures equal distribution of weight and impact. In the RA Max, the Decoupling line is shifted to create more stability in the forefoot. While the Sonic RA Max 2 does not feel like slipping into a pair of pillow-like Hokas and doesn’t provide the guidance of a true stability shoe, devotees of the brand will appreciate it as the most cushioned and supportive Salomon option.