Salomon Genesis

From the first moment I put on the Salomon Genesis, I was impressed by its light weight and attractive yet unobtrusive design. These shoes represent a significant evolution over their predecessor, the Salomon S/Lab Genesis, with several key changes that improve both fit and performance in a variety of terrain conditions.

The Salomon Genesis are versatile shoes designed for trail running, built on the S/Lab Genesis base with adjustments that make them more accessible and comfortable. They retain the slightly updated Matryx upper and ChassisChasis ActivActive for stability, along with the same Energy Foam EVA midsole that provides excellent cushioning.

Target runner profile of the Salomon Genesis

These shoes are aimed at runners looking for stability, cushioning and protection on technical and varied terrain. With an 8 mmdrop and heel heights of 34 mm and 26 mm in the forefoot, the Genesis are suitable for medium to long distances, offering a balance of comfort and responsiveness for runners who enjoy both fast outings and more technical and demanding trails.

During my testing with the Salomon Genesis, I was impressed with its performance on a variety of terrain. From rocky trails to muddy paths, the shoes offer exceptional traction and confidence-inspiring stability. The new Contagrip rubber compound performs admirably, providing grip in wet and slippery conditions, as well as on dry and loose surfaces.

Energy Foam EVA midsole cushioning is another highlight. It not only absorbs shock effectively, but also provides energy return that helps me maintain a steady pace over long distances. The stability of the Active Chassis is evident on technical descents and tight turns, where the shoe responds predictably and securely.

What I liked most about the Salomon Genesis

One of the aspects I liked most about the Salomon Genesis is its Energy Foam EVA midsole, which provides soft, forgiving cushioning without compromising stability. This combination of cushioning and responsiveness is ideal for technical terrain where extra protection is crucial. In addition, the new Active Chassis design offers improved stability without sacrificing flexibility, adapting well to rapid changes in direction and uneven terrain.

The Matryx upper also deserves mention for its security and durability. Although it is slightly thicker than that of the Salomon S/Lab Genesis version, it provides a secure fit that conforms comfortably to the foot, even in demanding conditions. The Quicklace system is effective for a quick and secure fit, complemented by a pocket to store the laces and prevent them from moving during the run.

Technical details and comparison with the Salomon S/Lab Genesis

The Salomon Genesis features several improvements over the S/Lab Genesis. These include a more comfortable and cushioned fit in the heel collar and tongue, a reinforced toe cap and a slightly wider platform. They also feature a new Contagrip rubber outsole with 4.5 mm self-cleaning lugs, designed to improve traction on varying terrain.

Although the Genesis gain some weight compared to the S/Lab, they offer more overall protection. The fit in the design makes them a versatile shoe ideal for almost any type of terrain and weather conditions.

Possible improvements to the Salomon Genesis

The ventilation of the Matryx upper, while durable and secure, could be improved in terms of breathability during the warmer months. Compared to the S/LAB Genesis, it would have been ideal for the Genesis to feature the integrated "sock" as it provides a more supportive feel to the foot and could increase overall comfort.

Possible Salomon Genesis rivals

Why should you buy the Salomon Genesis trail running shoes?

The Salomon Genesis represents a welcome evolution of the S/Lab Genesis line, offering significant improvements in fit, protection and overall performance. They are a versatile, rugged shoes well suited to the demands of modern trail running, providing a balanced combination of cushioning, stability and traction. While they are best suited for runners looking for a reliable model for long distances and technical terrain, they are also nimble enough to handle quick workouts and short runs in any conditions.

I recommend the Salomon Genesis to any serious runner who values durability and performance in varied conditions. They are an excellent choice for those looking for a shoe that can handle any trail challenge without sacrificing comfort or foot security. With their improved design and more accessible price point, the Genesis prove to be a step forward in Salomons trail running shoe innovation.