Salomon S/LAB Genesis 2 Review: My Technical Trail Favorite, Refined

I raced Speedgoat by UTMB in the original S/LAB Genesis last year, and I was so happy with that choice. The S/LAB Genesis 2 keeps the precise, low-stack, controllable ride that made the original so good on technical terrain, then fixes the one thing runners were screaming for: the midsole. New dual-density OptiFOAM² brings more energy return and better longevity, and the re-engineered Active Chassis makes the whole platform more stable and guided. At $200 and available August 1st, this is still the benchmark for fast technical trail racing. Shop the S/LAB Genesis 2 (affiliate link): https://link.alastairrunning.com/SLab... (available August 1) CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 01:24 Key specs 03:18 Sizing and fit 05:03 Performance review 12:55 Final verdict KEY SPECS Price: $200 Weight: 9.3 oz / 264g (US men's 9) Drop: 6mm (down from 8mm on v1) Stack height: 31mm heel / 25mm forefoot Midsole: Dual-density OptiFOAM² with re-engineered Active Chassis for guided stability Upper: Matryx micro-woven material with individually coated Kevlar fibers, integrated gaiter collar, Quicklace system with lace garage Outsole: All Terrain Contagrip with 4.5mm lugs, revised lug geometry for improved wet surface traction WHO IT'S BEST FOR Technical trail racers and ultra runners who want maximum control, precision, and feel over plush cushioning Runners who owned the original S/LAB Genesis and want better foam longevity and more energy return from the same connected feel Light-footed runners with a high cadence who are comfortable in a low-stack, minimal ride Anyone running skyrunning, technical ultras, or rocky mountain terrain where a high-stack shoe would compromise control Not for runners who want plush protection underfoot — this is a firm, connected racing shoe by design Medium width only — if you have wide feet, this race-snug fit will not work for you RELATED Best all-mountain trail running shoes roundup: https://www.alastairrunning.com/best-... Salomon Genesis 2 review (the $150 do-it-all version): Salomon S/LAB Genesis original review:    • Salomon S/Lab Genesis Review   Run in the S/LAB Genesis 2? Drop your experience in the comments; terrain, distance, how it compares to the original. I reply to every comment, and it helps everyone else figure out if this is the right trail racer for them. Like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you don't miss the next review. #runner #runningshoes #runningcommunity #running #trailrunning