Hi, I’m James, a foot and ankle specialist from Trail Shoes Reviewed. Today, we’re reviewing the Salomon Genesis with the Matryx upper. We’ll explore its key features, including the cushioning, midsole, fit, and performance, and see how these influence your experience on long and short trail runs.
By the end of this review, you’ll know if the Salomon Genesis is the right trail shoe for you!
Key Features of the Salomon Genesis
1. Midsole and Cushioning
The Salomon Genesis offers a balanced level of cushioning with an 8mm drop:
- Rearfoot Stack: 33mm
- Forefoot Stack: 25mm
The midsole features a soft, balanced compound with a comfortable and controlled heel strike. The cushioning is ideal for longer distances, as it allows for a smooth transition from heel to toe.
A mid-to-forefoot rocker and slight toe spring help with forward propulsion. This design supports a smoother gait cycle but may not be ideal if you suffer from conditions like Morton’s neuroma or bunion pain.
Related: Looking for a zero-drop shoe? Check out our review of the Altra Outroad 3.
2. Stability and Sidewalls
The Genesis includes large sidewalls made of plastic, which wrap around the heel and midfoot. These features:
- Enhance stability by reducing side-to-side foot movement.
- Offer support during direction changes and downhill runs.
This stability feature is beneficial if you experience ankle instability or need extra support on uneven trails.
3. Outsole and Traction
The outsole features 4.5mm lugs with Salomon’s Contagrip® rubber. This provides:
- Excellent grip on wet rocks, gravel, and moderate trails.
- Reliable traction for longer trail runs or hikes.
However, the shallow lugs aren’t ideal for deep mud or highly technical terrain. If you need deeper lugs for muddy trails, check out the Hoka Speedgoat 6.
4. Matryx® Upper and Fit
The Matryx® upper is a blend of engineered mesh and Kevlar, offering:
- Durability and resistance to wear and tear.
- Breathability and easy cleaning after muddy runs.
The toe box has a mild taper, so if you have wide feet or conditions like Morton’s neuroma, you might find it a bit snug. For a wider toe box, consider the Altra Lone Peak 8.
5. Quicklace System and Heel Counter
The Genesis features Salomon’s signature Quicklace® system:
- Easy to tighten and secure with a lace pocket on the tongue to prevent snagging.
- Moderate padding around the heel counter, which remains flexible to reduce pressure on the Achilles tendon – ideal if you have conditions like Haglund’s deformity.
Performance: Where the Salomon Genesis Shines
The Salomon Genesis is a versatile shoe best suited for:
- Long-distance trail running
- Cruisy runs where comfort is key
- Hiking on moderate terrain
It’s not designed for uptempo sessions or short, fast runs. If you need a shoe with more snap and propulsion for technical terrain, the La Sportiva Mutant might be a better option.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent comfort for long distances
- Stable and supportive sidewalls
- Durable Matryx® upper
- Great grip on wet and rocky surfaces
Cons:
- Not ideal for deep mud or technical terrain
- Tapered toe box may not suit wide feet
- Lugs wear quickly on road surfaces
Final Thoughts
The Salomon Genesis is an excellent choice for trail runners and hikers who need comfort, durability, and grip for longer distances. Its balanced cushioning, stability features, and durable Matryx® upper make it a reliable companion for moderate trails.
If you have any questions about the Salomon Genesis, leave a comment below! And if you enjoyed this review, check out our YouTube channel for more trail shoe breakdowns.