Salomon Genesis
Buy Salomon Genesis at today's best price (men's/women's)
6 minute read
Overview
The Salomon Genesis is a trail running shoe designed to offer versatility and comfort across various terrains. This shoe is known for its durable and breathable MATRYX upper, which combines synthetic yarns and Kevlar fibers for enhanced performance.
Key Features:
- MATRYX Upper: Provides durability and breathability with a blend of synthetic yarns and Kevlar fibers.
- Energy Foam Midsole: Offers a mix of EVA (a type of foam material) and Olefin for improved energy return and cold-weather performance.
- Contagrip Outsole: Ensures excellent grip on diverse surfaces with multidirectional lugs.
The Salomon Genesis is an ideal choice for trail runners who prioritize durability and comfort for medium to long distances. Its breathable upper offers ventilation, making it suitable for summer adventures.
Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 40% of running shoes today.
Verdict
The consensus on the Salomon Genesis
The Salomon Genesis performs well as a versatile trail running shoe, excelling in comfort and stability. Its MATRYX upper is a standout feature, providing excellent breathability and durability, making it suitable for summer adventures. The Energy Foam midsole offers a comfortable ride, though it may not match the energy return of top-tier foams. The Contagrip outsole provides reliable grip on various terrains, although it may wear quickly. The shoe's 8 mm drop is beneficial for heel strikers (runners who land on their heels first) and long-distance runners, offering relief for Achilles and calf issues. However, the Genesis may not be ideal for forefoot strikers (runners who land on the front part of their foot) or those seeking a plush, maximalist feel. Overall, the Salomon Genesis is a solid choice for trail runners seeking a reliable, all-around shoe for diverse terrains. Its combination of comfort, stability, and durability makes it a valuable option for medium to long-distance trail running.
Comparable Shoes
The ASICS Trabuco Max 3 is a good alternative for runners seeking more cushioning and a plush feel. While the Salomon Genesis offers a versatile and stable ride, the Trabuco Max 3 provides a softer experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a more cushioned shoe. The Trabuco Max 3 also features a more aggressive outsole, which may be beneficial for runners tackling extreme terrains.
The Hoka Mafate Speed 4 offers a maximalist cushioning experience, contrasting with the moderate cushioning of the Salomon Genesis. Runners who prioritize plush comfort and a softer ride may prefer the Mafate Speed 4. However, the Genesis provides a more balanced feel, making it suitable for those who value stability and versatility on varied terrains.
The Nike Ultrafly is a better choice for runners seeking high energy return and a propulsive feel. While the Salomon Genesis excels in comfort and stability, the Ultrafly's carbon plate offers a stiffer, more responsive ride. Runners looking for a shoe with a more dynamic performance might find the Ultrafly more appealing.
The Hoka Tecton X 2 is designed for runners who want a shoe with a carbon plate for enhanced energy return. Compared to the Salomon Genesis, the Tecton X 2 offers a more propulsive ride, making it suitable for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness. However, the Genesis provides a more comfortable and stable option for longer distances.
The Brooks Cascadia 17 is another versatile trail shoe, similar to the Salomon Genesis. Both models offer stability and comfort for varied terrains, but the Cascadia 17 may provide a slightly more cushioned ride. Runners who prefer a shoe with a more traditional feel might lean towards the Cascadia 17, while those seeking a modern, breathable upper might prefer the Genesis.
9 Salomon Genesis Pros & Cons
5 Pros
4 Cons
In Depth
Upper
The Salomon Genesis features a MATRYX upper, which is a blend of synthetic yarns and Kevlar fibers. This design provides excellent durability and breathability, making it ideal for well-ventilated runs. The upper's construction allows for air to flow through, keeping feet cool during long runs. Additionally, the MATRYX material offers a snug fit, enhancing the shoe's overall stability and comfort.
Midsole
The midsole of the Salomon Genesis is crafted from Energy Foam, a combination of EVA and Olefin Block Co-Polymers. This blend enhances energy return and performs well in cold weather, maintaining flexibility. While it may not rival the energy return of top-tier foams, it offers a comfortable ride for daily training and medium distances. The midsole's design provides a stable platform, supporting runners on varied terrains.
Outsole
The Contagrip outsole of the Salomon Genesis is designed for trail running, offering excellent grip on diverse surfaces. The multidirectional lugs, measuring up to 5 mm, provide traction on both compact and muddy terrains. While the outsole delivers reliable performance, it may wear quickly with extensive use. This design is suitable for runners seeking a shoe that can handle a variety of trail conditions.
Size/fit
The Salomon Genesis offers a more accommodating fit compared to other Salomon models, with a medium toe box that allows for natural toe splay. This design caters to a wide range of foot sizes, providing comfort during long runs. The full gusseted tongue ensures a secure lockdown, minimizing debris entry. The shoe's fit is ideal for runners who prefer a slightly roomier feel without sacrificing stability.
Comfort
Comfort is a key feature of the Salomon Genesis, thanks to its Energy Foam midsole and MATRYX upper. The shoe provides a smooth and flexible ride, suitable for long distances. The breathable upper keeps feet cool, while the midsole offers cushioning without being overly plush. This balance makes the Genesis a comfortable choice for trail runners who value a supportive and stable shoe for varied terrains.
Who should buy the Salomon Genesis?
The Salomon Genesis is well-suited for trail runners who value a combination of durability and comfort. It's an excellent choice for those who enjoy off-road adventures and need a shoe that can handle diverse terrains. Runners who prefer a neutral pronation shoe with a medium toe box will appreciate the fit and stability of the Genesis. Additionally, those who participate in medium to long-distance runs will find the shoe's cushioning and support beneficial.
Who should not buy the Salomon Genesis?
The Salomon Genesis may not be the best option for runners who prefer a plush, maximalist feel, as its cushioning is more moderate. Forefoot strikers might find the shoe's design less accommodating, and those seeking high energy return may be disappointed. Runners who prioritize reflective elements for nighttime running should consider other options, as the Genesis lacks these features. For those who need a shoe with a more aggressive outsole for extreme terrains, alternatives like the ASICS Trabuco Max 3 or the Hoka Mafate Speed 4 might be more suitable.
Salomon Genesis: What's it good for?
The Salomon Genesis is ideal for trail running on varied terrains, from compact paths to muddy terrain. Its design supports medium to long-distance runs, providing comfort and stability. The shoe is suitable for daily training and offers a reliable option for runners who enjoy exploring different trails. Its breathable upper and durable outsole make it a great choice for summer adventures and diverse trail conditions.
5 Salomon Genesis FAQs
What makes the Salomon Genesis suitable for trail running?
The Salomon Genesis is designed for trail running with its durable MATRYX upper, Energy Foam midsole, and Contagrip outsole. These features provide stability, comfort, and excellent grip on varied terrains.
Is the Salomon Genesis good for long-distance running?
Yes, the Salomon Genesis is suitable for medium to long-distance running, offering comfort and stability. However, it may not be ideal for ultra-distance runs exceeding 50 km.
How does the Salomon Genesis perform in wet conditions?
The Contagrip outsole of the Salomon Genesis provides reliable traction on wet surfaces, making it suitable for muddy and slippery terrains.
Can the Salomon Genesis accommodate custom insoles?
Yes, the Salomon Genesis is orthotic friendly with a removable OrthoLite insole, allowing for easy customization with custom insoles.
What type of runner is the Salomon Genesis best suited for?
The Salomon Genesis is best suited for trail runners who value durability, comfort, and stability. It's ideal for those who enjoy medium to long-distance runs on varied terrains.
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| bestDeal | Show prices | |||||
| priceBand | Price band | |||||
| released | ReleasedDec 2023 | Aug 2022 | Mar 2018 | |||
| expertReviewScore | Expert Review Score | |||||
| productAthletes | Pro athlete users | +5   | ||||
| Weight | WeightM: 275 g W: 249 g | 11 g | M: 204 g W: 170 g | |||
| Forefoot | Forefoot25 mm | 23 mm | M: 18 mm W: 16 mm | |||
| Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe drop8 mm | 8 mm | 3 mm | |||
| Heel | Heel33 mm | 31 mm | M: 21 mm W: 19 mm | |||
| Terrain | TerrainMudTrail | MudSnow/iceTrail | MudTrail | MudSnow/iceTrail | MudTrail | MudSnow/iceTrail |
| Brand | BrandSalomon | Salomon | Hoka | Salomon | Salomon | Scarpa |
| Support Type | Support TypeNeutral | Neutral | Neutral | Stability | ||
| Pronation Type | Pronation TypeNeutral pronation | Neutral pronation | Neutral pronation | |||
| Strike Type | Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike | Fore/Midfoot strike | |||
| Arch Type | Arch TypeHigh arch | High arch | High arch | |||
| Shoe Type | Shoe TypeComfortable | Maximalist | LightweightLow drop | |||
| Breathable | Breathable | |||||
| Orthotic friendly | Orthotic friendly | |||||
| Removable insole | Removable insole | |||||
| Techs | TechsOrthoLite | Gore-Tex | Gore-Tex | |||
| Waterproofings | WaterproofingsWater repellent | Waterproof | Waterproof | |||
| Environmental Characteristics | Environmental Characteristics | Vegan Ⓥ |
