Precise control for technical trail racing
Image: official product image from salomon.com
Is the Salomon S/Lab Genesis 2 good for ultrarunning?
Mostly. The Salomon S/Lab Genesis 2 suits experienced ultrarunners who value precise control, traction and an agile feel on technical trails. Its 4.5 mm lugs and secure upper help on demanding ground, but the firm cushioning and narrow-to-medium fit may limit comfort on longer outings or for runners with wide feet.
Key facts
| Category | Trail shoes |
|---|---|
| Release | Launched 1 August 2026 in Europe; US from 5 August 2026 |
| Price | £171.95 to £180 in the UK; $200 in the US |
| Key specs |
|
| Best for | Experienced runners with narrow-to-medium feet seeking a secure, agile shoe for technical trail races and shorter ultras. |
| Consensus score | 9.0 out of 10 |
What is new on the Genesis 2?
The Salomon S/Lab Genesis 2 is a lightweight, low-drop trail racing shoe, weighing approximately 264 to 272 g depending on source and size. It combines a 31 mm heel and 25 mm forefoot stack with a 6 mm drop, dual-density optiFOAM² and 4.5 mm lugs. The Matryx Micro upper has an integrated gaiter, while Quicklace and an endoFit sleeve help secure the foot. Reviewers describe the lug design as revised and the platform as stable, with Profeel Film providing rock protection.
How does it perform on long runs?
On rocky, loose and demanding trails, the shoe’s secure fit, stable platform and traction support confident, precise footing. Trail Runner reviewers praised its control on technical ground, while Road Trail Run’s multi-tester review highlighted responsiveness and useful ground feel. Testers also noted improved grip on wet rock. The ride is firm rather than deeply cushioned, though, and several reviewers felt that could limit comfort over longer outings. One review puts its best use at roughly four to five hours, making it a stronger match for shorter ultras than all-day comfort.
Who should buy the Genesis 2?
Choose the Salomon S/Lab Genesis 2 if you are an experienced trail runner with narrow-to-medium feet and want a precise, agile shoe for technical races or shorter ultras. Its protective-feeling upper, lockdown and grip suit runners who prioritise control over plush cushioning. It is less suitable if you have wide feet, prefer a soft ride or expect to spend long hours at slower paces. Reviewers differ on its versatility, but some found it less enjoyable on roads and at easy speeds. The UK price is £171.95 to £180.
What reviewers agree on
Strengths
- Secure, precise fit and stable platform on technical terrain
- Responsive foam with good ground feel
- Strong traction on loose ground and improved grip on wet rock
- Protective, durable-feeling upper with useful debris coverage
Weaknesses
- Narrow-to-medium fit may not suit wide feet
- Firm ride offers limited cushioning for long outings
- Not as enjoyable at slow paces or on roads
- Premium price
Frequently asked questions
How does the Salomon S/Lab Genesis 2 fit?
Reviewers describe the fit as narrow-to-medium, with a secure upper and lockdown that benefit precise running on technical trails. It may not suit wider feet. The available review data gives no size-specific recommendation, so try the shoe on if you are unsure about the fit.
Is the Salomon S/Lab Genesis 2 durable enough for ultras?
Reviewers describe the Matryx Micro upper as protective and durable-feeling, and the shoe includes Profeel Film rock protection. The available sources do not establish long-term lifespan or mileage, so they cannot confirm how it will hold up over repeated ultra-distance use.
How does the Genesis 2 compare with the original Genesis?
The review data does not provide a direct comparison with the original Genesis. For the Genesis 2, it lists revised 4.5 mm lugs, dual-density optiFOAM² and a 6 mm drop, alongside reviewer praise for technical-trail control and a firm ride.
Sources behind this review
How this review works: the consensus score of 9.0 out of 10 condenses the verdicts of the independent reviews and lab tests listed above, compiled by endurance coach Paul Forrest. Prices and specifications are those quoted by reviewers at the time of testing and may have changed.
Training for an ultra? See endurance coaching with Paul Forrest.
