I recently picked up a pair of the new Genesis Forces Mid GTX which were released earlier this year.
They are touted as built for comfort and they deliver. The first thing I noticed after putting them on was how I felt like I was walking on a cushion of air. It makes sense as they are based on Salomon’s ultra-distance trail running shoe of the same name.
The cushioning is provided by Salomon’s mid-sole system, optiFOAM with additional support from their activeCHASSIS. The upper is ripstop fabric reinforced with over molding for durability. They’ve also incorporated puncture resistance in the sole and a medial protective pad for fast roping.
Width is a US E so there’s plenty of room in the toe box and I always appreciate the simple quickLACE system with lace pocket on the tongue for rapid donning and doffing.
Salomon footwear always performs above its weight class and the Genesis promises to be no different despite only weighing 14 ounces. Since I know longer carry a rucksack along the clay roads of Fort Bragg, I don’t beat my shoes and boots up like I used to, but I’ve been wearing these in rotation for the past few months and they remain in great shape and still as comfortable as the first time I put them on.
There are versions with or without GORE-TEX. Offered in Black and Coyote in sizes 4-15 US.
You can check out the Genesis as well as other Salomon Forces models today and tomorrow at SOF Select in Tampa, Florida. The shoe is also in display in the GORE-TEX Professional booth, #1713 on the main floor of SOF Week.
www.salomon.com/en-us/product/genesis-forces-gtx-li8786/L49132600
