Craft
CTM Ultra 3
Product Judgment
Solid
7.9
Category: Light/Moderate Trail
Release year: 2023
Price Judgment
Unjustified
Common retail price: ~$170
Availability: Phasing Out
Description
The Craft CTM Ultra 3 is a high-mileage, road-to-trail hybrid designed for runners seeking a firm, fast ride on smooth surfaces. Positioned as a Strong-tier light trail shoe, it stands out for its energetic midsole and minimalist design, but is held back by upper fit issues.
Running in the Ultra 3 feels dynamic and efficient, with a steep rocker and firm midsole that encourage quick turnover and propulsion. However, the loose, high-volume upper undermines lockdown and comfort, especially for those with narrow feet or on uneven terrain.
This shoe excels at tempo runs, long distances, and mixed-surface outings where speed and durability matter most. While its upper limits performance on technical trails and for runners needing a secure fit, it remains a compelling choice for fast, high-mileage training on roads and light trails.
Performance Scores
Comfort
5The upper is loose and lacks lockdown, causing fit issues and discomfort for many runners.
Energy Return
8Firm Ud Foam midsole and Pebax insole provide a responsive, energetic ride at faster paces.
Stability
6Wide platform aids stability, but the unstructured upper leads to foot movement and instability.
Durability
8Dense midsole and robust outsole rubber offer strong durability for high-mileage use.
Grip
73 mm lugs offer reliable traction on roads and light trails, but not for technical terrain.
Run Fitness
Daily
6Firm ride and fit issues limit comfort for daily easy runs.
Long
8Energetic midsole and durable outsole support long distances on smooth mixed terrain.
Light Trail
8Outsole and geometry excel on gravel, dirt, and park paths.
Technical Trail
4Loose upper and narrow heel reduce security and control on technical terrain.
Door to Trail
9Smooth transitions and versatile grip make it ideal for mixed road-to-trail runs.
Pros & Cons
- Energetic, firm ride
- Excellent mixed-terrain traction
- Durable midsole and outsole
- Very breathable upper
- Poor lockdown for narrow feet
- Uncomfortable upper fit
- Not for technical trails
The firm, responsive midsole and Pebax insole deliver a lively, efficient ride at faster paces.
Three-piece outsole provides reliable grip on roads, gravel, and smooth trails.
Dense Ud Foam midsole and robust outsole rubber ensure long-lasting durability for high-mileage use.
Single-layer mesh upper offers outstanding breathability for warm conditions.
The unstructured, high-volume upper makes it difficult to achieve a secure fit, especially for narrow feet.
Loose fit and heel collar can cause friction, blisters, and discomfort on longer runs.
Outsole and upper lack the protection and grip needed for technical or rocky trails.
Specifications
Best for paces
4:15–5:45 min/km
Drop
10 mm
Stack height
40 mm heel
Weight
265 g
Drop
10 mm
Stack height
40 mm heel
Weight
265 g
Pronation
N/A
Width
wide
Terrain
Light Trail
Technologies
Ud Foam midsole, Pebax high-rebound insole, Three-piece lugged outsole
Plate
no
Best for paces
4:15–5:45 min/km
Comparable Models
Salomon Aero Glide 4 GRVL is softer and more gravel-focused, while CTM Ultra 3 feels firmer and quicker on smoother mixed surfaces.
View details
Hoka Challenger 8 is softer and more trail-cushioned, while CTM Ultra 3 feels firmer and more speed-oriented.
View details
Nike Pegasus Trail 5 is softer and more flexible, while CTM Ultra 3 is firmer and more stable at faster paces.
View details
Altra Outroad 3 is roomier and zero-drop, while CTM Ultra 3 has a firmer, more conventional road-to-trail setup.
View details
ASICS Fuji Lite 6 is lighter and more trail-focused, while CTM Ultra 3 is smoother and firmer on road-to-gravel runs.
View details
Brooks Ghost Trail is more traditional and protective, while CTM Ultra 3 feels firmer and quicker.
View details
Adidas Terrex Agravic 3 is more trail-focused and secure, while CTM Ultra 3 feels smoother on road and gravel.
View details
Saucony Ride 19 is smoother and more road-focused, while CTM Ultra 3 has more outsole versatility for light trails.
View details
Salomon Ultra Glide 4 is more cushioned for long trail mileage, while CTM Ultra 3 is firmer and better suited to faster mixed-surface running.
View details