Article by Jeff Valliere, Mike Postaski, Kurt Biesemans
Salomon DRX Defy GRVL ($140)
Introduction:
Jeff V: With the popularity of gravel biking going through the roof and crossing over to the trail/ultra running crowd, the DRX DEFY GRVL taps into they demand for gear that can easily transition and crossover from road to trail. They feature a lively Energy Foam midsole, lightweight/breathable upper, Active Chassis support (as in the trail Genesis) and a Contagrip outsole with a 3mm lug pattern reminiscent of a gravel bike tire.
Pros:
Jeff V: Lightweight, lively and energetic, comfort, cushion, versatility, breathable secure upper still with reasonable room
Mike P: Lightweight, no frills approach
Kurt B: definitely lightweight (269gr - size 44EUR/US10) compared to Salomon Ultra glide (324gr), good energy return on soft soil, jack of all spades (road - offroad), breathable upper, nice drop for forefoot runners, great stabilization (ActiveChassis) on uneven surfaces, fast for this type of shoe. Suitsblr for short and long distances
Cons:
Jeff V: Heel is loose and required employing the extra lace eyelet, would be nice to have a gusseted tongue
Mike P: 100% agree - heel is very voluminous and loose. High drop feels too noticeable for my taste. A touch more forefoot cushion would be welcomed.
Kurt B: I don’t have issues with a loose heel but I always also use the extra lace loop, tongue could be slightly wider, for road use a bit more cushioning in the forefoot would be nice (longer distances). Very little grip on muddy terrain
Most comparable shoes
Nike Pegasus Trail
Hoka Challenger 7
Craft Xplor Hybrid
Salomon Ultra Glide
Stats
Approx. Weight: men's 8.75 oz / 248g
Sample Weight: men’s 9.25oz / 260g US 10 , oz / g US
Stack Height: men’s 34mm heel / 26mm forefoot ( 8mm drop spec)
Platform Width: 95mm heel / 72mm midfoot / 115mm forefoot
First Impressions, Fit and Upper
Jeff V: The DRX feels very light and has a road shoe vibe with a crossover shallow lugged outsole. I am impressed right away with fit, comfort and the overall feel of the shoe, as they feel more relaxed than many Salomon shoes.
The upper is somewhat thin, soft, pliable, breathable with the toe bumper being minimal and discontinuous. Despite the minimal design, I do not feel at all like my toe is all that vulnerable when running on moderate or even mildly technical trails.
Kurt B: I agree with Jeff. The GRVL immediately felt very comfy. No chafing or irritation of the foot. Flexible upper with reinforcements just above the midsole.
Jeff V: The upper, while minimal and flexible, has adequate overlays to provide surprisingly good foothold even in moderately technical terrain.
The lacing has 4 loops/eyelets with an extra lace loop for added heel hold if needed (which I did employ). Lacing is snug and secure with no lace pressure.
Kurt B: I love the flat lace style and broad lace holders that are used. It avoids having the laces curl when tied.
Jeff V: The tongue is well padded, but is not gusseted, which isn’t really an issue, but I think a gusseted tongue would be an advantage and more secure. The heel collar is very well padded and comfortable.
The heel counter is semi flexible, well structured and protects well, but I do notice some heel lift as mentioned above and had to employ the extra lace hole.
This helped, but did not entirely solve the issue. While I do not get any rubbing, nor any real negative effects, I would love to see this improved on the next version.
Kurt B: I don’t have issues with a loose heel but I always also use the extra lace loop,
Fit is true to size in my usual size 10. While not as narrow or with a race-like fit such as what might be more typical from Salomon, they fall into a nice middle ground.
They feel secure, yet have enough room for swelling, splay or just not feeling confined. While not necessarily designed for technical trails, I find them to hold surprisingly well when on steep, technical, off camber descents with minimal foot movement and what little there is, is reasonable and controllable.
Mike P: Agree with Jeff V’s initial sentiment - the Defy GRVL does indeed feel quite light and has more of a road shoe feel - mainly in its profile and upper construction. I actually was able to try out the DRX Defy (road shoe) model and the shoes are quite similar in construction. I did pass those off to one of our road testers though since I’ve been swamped with trail shoes to test recently.
Between the two shoes, fit is pretty much identical, with a feeling of a bit more substance underfoot with the GRVL version - especially up front. I’m not sure if it’s a difference in midsole volume, or just the beefed up “GRVL” outsole of this model.
Fit-wise, true-to-size works for me at US 9.5 with a slightly snug fit up front. There’s a slight taper, but the upper is mostly unstructured so it doesn’t feel restrictive. Jeff and I sometimes wear the same size and sometimes I’m a half size down, so I think his fit up front in US 10 is probably more comfortable.
One thing we agree on is the heel area. There’s definitely a lot of volume there, and quite a difference from the snug fit up front to the loose, voluminous fit around my heel. I don’t go so far as needing runner’s loop lacing, but I try to use thick-heeled socks if possible. Due to the high-volume heel, the ankle collars also feel a bit high for me - especially towards the top eyelets. I notice some pressure at the bottom of my ankle bones, but the materials aren’t too stiff to cause a problem. I guess if you know that you have large heel bones, these are a good option.
Midsole & Platform
Jeff V: The Energy Foam midsole is made of a blend of EVA and Olefin copolymer block and has a very light and responsive feel to it. The Energy Foam is very well cushioned, soft and bouncy, making it a blast to run in, as it feels quite energetic and I dare say that I think it would make a fine race shoe even on less technical trails. With a 34mm heel /26mm forefoot stack height, there is plenty of cushioning for long days and offers good protection underfoot and the shoe is notably light for this much stack. There is no rock plate and I don't really feel the need for one.
However, due to the way the outsole tread is arranged in relation to the deep, wide groove under the heel, I do find that I get the occasional zinger when running on rocky terrain.
The Active Chassis wings (very reminiscent of the Genesis) help provide support and is especially helpful given the softness of the midsole, helping to keep a good balance of structure and control, without feeling too stiff or overbearing.
Mike P: I didn’t find the midsole to be as energetic as Jeff V did. Dampening - certainly, comfortable - clearly, but I just didn’t get that “energetic” feel from them. To me they actually don’t feel as high as the 34/26mm spec suggests. The 8mm drop does feel apparent though, which is something I don’t typically prefer in the trail shoe. It just feels like this shoe keeps your weight centered forward of the midfoot. I typically like a more balanced feel.
One difference I did notice between this shoe and the regular DRX Defy version is that this GRVL version is more laterally balanced. The road DRX Defy really seems to tilt inwards - I think Sam mentioned that in his DRX Defy Review. It seems to naturally pronate. I felt like that shoe (the road version) was collapsing very far forward towards the big toe, which was a little strange.
This GRVL version is more laterally balanced - it doesn’t feel like it’s collapsing inward. But I do wish for a bit more cushion up front. Perhaps it’s just the feel of the 8mm drop though that makes the forefoot feel relatively thin for me. A more trail-like 6mm drop I think would work better for me. But the 8mm may be more versatile and work better for heel strikers.
Kurt B: I have a ‘fast’ feeling running the shoes. Maybe it is because of their low weight of 269gr /9.4 oz (EUR 44 - US 10) in my sample? For me the 8mm drop is ideal since I’m a forefoot runner so I keep more pressure on the forefoot. I like the ActiveChassis. I have the feeling that it keeps the ankle ‘stable’ on uneven terrain when going fast.
Outsole
Jeff V: The outsole, as mentioned earlier, is very reminiscent of tires on a gravel bike.
Made of Salomon’s Contagrip compound, the DRX GRVL outsole has 3mm lower profile lugs and sticky rubber, that rolls along very smoothly on the road, hardpack, etc…, but still provides a surprising amount of traction on dirt surfaces. In fact, I feel confident enough in the traction here that I have taken them on several of my off trail routes, where I encounter some pretty steep terrain and loose footing and they actually hold much better than I would have predicted.
Outside of testing, the DRX GRVL would certainly not be my first choice for steep, rough terrain, but if you happen to find yourself there for a bit, you will still have enough to get by without much issue.
Mike P: Jeff V shows the nice side-by-side picture above with the outsole next to the bike tire. Did they really design the outsole to kind of look like a bike tire??? Honestly the whole “gravel” angle seems a bit gimmicky to me - trying to capitalize in some way on the increasing popularity of gravel biking? But that doesn’t mean that the outsole doesn’t work.
You’ve clearly got a solid patch of ContaGrip rubber underfoot which serves you well - just as well as any other good trail outsole does.
I pretty much stuck to gravel and dirt in them, and yes, the dense strips of chevron lugs along the edges do grip the loose stuff well. It also seems like the orientation of those lengthwise strips helps a bit with stability - and keeps your foot centered without much lateral sway. Along with the Active Chassis, it almost feels like a light stability shoe.
Kurt B: During one on my runs the terrain was a bit more muddy. In those conditions the outsole with its small 2.5mm lugs and door to trail pattern did not give me enough grip to be confident. I was running on flatter terrain so it was still doable but this would be another story going downhill. I would not recommend this shoe for muddy terrain.
Ride, Conclusions and Recommendations
Jeff V: The DRX Defy GRVL is a pleasant surprise. There are other brands that also advertise models as filling this door to trail or gravel niche, but many lean too much towards road use with just some marginal competency on the smoothest gravel paths.
The Salomon however really does a surprisingly good job at doing both well and have above average competency in technical terrain for a crossover shoe. They are very smooth, quick, energetic and light feeling underfoot, performing very well at a range of speeds and on terrain from road to moderate trails.
Cushioning and comfort overall is very good and they are well suited for long days on the trail, road or a mix.
While the shoe is a blast to run in, I would love to see a gusseted tongue on the next version, as well as improvements to heel lockdown. I would recommend the DRX Defy GRVL for door to trail, training on roads or trail up to moderately technical and perhaps even racing no matter the distance.
Jeff V’s Score: 9.2/10
Ride: 9.5, Fit: 9, Value: 9.5, Style: 9, Traction: 9, Rock Protection: 9
😊😊😊😊😊
Mike P: I also was a bit surprised by the Defy GRVL. I’ll admit that out of the box they felt a bit flimsy, but out on the intended “GRVL” terrain, they just worked. I always love a lightweight shoe, especially for easy, not-too-long days. I just have a few quibbles with the fit - namely, the loose heel and the high-ish ankle collars. Also the 8mm drop is noticeable and is not my fav. For many runners those minor quibbles will not be an issue at all. If you just need to cruise some dirt and gravel, and don’t want an overbuilt trail shoe - the DRX Defy GRVL may be the shoe for you.
Mike P’s Score: 8.53 / 10
Ride: 8.5 - Smooth, dampened ride, with a hint of stability
Fit: 8 - Comfort upper with a voluminous heel area
Value: 9 - Could be a value dirt/gravel cruiser
Style: 9 - Like the midsole color with the black upper
Traction: 9.5 - Works well in the target surfaces
Rock Protection: 8 - Exposed foam under the middle leaves the foot exposed, but GRVL is not intended for rugged terrain
Smiles 😊😊😊
Kurt B: When trying the shoe for the first time, I thought it was too big due to the longer front toe box. When comparing the insoles with other Salomon models, the insole turned out to be exactly the same size. So for me it is a true-to-size fit and a very comfortable one. The lacing system allows one to perfectly lock down the foot in the shoe. However, I recommend one to uses the extra lace loop to lock the heel.
Compared to other Salomon models, the DRX Defy GRVL has a more flexible upper which still properly wraps the foot. The additional reinforcements just above the midsole make the upper more durable. The ActiveChassis technology gives good lateral stabilization.
It is a nice lightweight shoe that meets the requirements for a long easy run as well as for faster (shorter) trail races on easier non technical terrain
Kurt B’s Score: 9.2/10
Ride: 9.5 - Pleasant, cushioned and stable running
Fit: 9.5 - Feels like a
Value: 9.5 - Almost perfect for gravel surfaces
Style: 9.6 - I like the dark color upper and they are easy to clean 🙂
Traction: 9.5 - Perfect for the surfaces it is designed for
Rock Protection: 8 - Not ideal for rugged terrain due to the absence of a rock plate
6 Comparisons
Salomon Ultra Glide (RTR Review)
Kurt B: I also use the Ultra Glide for running in the same kind of terrain as the DRX Defy GRVL is designed for. The Ultra Glide has a softer midsole with less responsiveness. It also has a wider toe box. It is a good shoe for slower trail running but it requires more effort when you want to run at faster paces ace. It uses the Salomons Quick Lace system which makes it less obvious for me to secure my foot in the shoe.
Nike Pegasus Trail 4 (RTR Review)
Jeff V: I consider the Peg Trail 4 to be the most comfortable shoe I have worn. It has a slightly better upper and for certain better heel hold. The Salomon however is an ounce lighter in my size 10, has more stack height and is overall a more lively shoe that is better suited for higher speeds. Despite lower profile lugs, the Salomon has better overall traction.
Mike P (9.5): I only tested the GTX version. I found the Nike to be wider at the forefoot, but otherwise with a similarly comfortable, not super locked down fit. Agree - much better and normal heel hold in the Nike. I found the Nike’s drop (don’t remember if it’s 8 or 10mm) to feel even steeper than the GRVL’s. I did find the Nike foam more fun and energetic though. So between those competing factors, it’s a tossup for me.
Saucony Ride TR 2 (RTR Review)
Mike P (9.5): This seems like the main competition for the GRVL. The Saucony seems more trail-built, but that comes at a big weight cost - the TR 2 is a full 2 ounces heavier than the GRVL in my size. The TR 2 has denser, more protective PWRRUN+ foam underfoot, but at that weight, I’d rather deal with a few zingers and take the much lighter GRVL. The TR 2 has better heel hold, but is more tapered and tight up front - sizing is similar, the GRVL it runs just a touch bigger in my US 9.5. The weight makes the TR 2 feel clunky for me, I definitely prefer the Defy GRVL.
Scarpa Golden Gate ATR 2 (RTR Review)
Mike P (9.5): Taking it a step further off road than the Ride TR 2 - the GG ATR 2 is even more trail worthy, even though it’s billed as a road-to-trail shoe. It even comes close to the GRVL’s weight at 9.3 oz in my US 9.5. The GG ATR 2 upper is just great - it's so secure and wraps the foot so well. The GRVL upper materials feel a bit cheap in comparison. The GG ATR 2 also has some extra space in the heel, but not nearly as much as the GRVL, and its ankle collars are lower, so they are more comfortable. I really think the ATR 2 is one of the most versatile shoes. Perhaps if you were mixing in a lot of road, the GRVL might get a slight edge. But for non-road surfaces, the versatility of the Scarpa can’t be beat.
Hoka Challenger 7 (RTR Review)
Jeff V: Very close in weight and price, the Salomon has a few mm more stack, has a softer feel and overall is more stable. The Challenger is a little more secure with better heel hold. While the Challenger has a little deeper lugs, I found traction to be poor, whereas the Salomon has very good traction overall.
Craft Xplor Hybrid (RTR Review)
Jeff V: The Craft has a lively midsole and a grippy outsole, 4.5 more mm of stack, but weighs over 1.5 oz more with its upper not as secure. Because of the not so secure upper of the Craft, it is very limited in its use and is mainly suitable for road and smooth dirt roads/paths,and not steep trails or off camber. The Salomon is much more versatile over a wider range of terrain and running speeds.
Tester Profiles
Jeff Valliere loves to run and explore the mountains of Colorado, the steeper and more technical the better. He has summited all of the 14ers in the state, many 13ers and other peaks in Colorado and beyond, plus, he has summited his local Green Mountain over 2,100 times in the past 20 years. He can be found on mountain trails daily, no matter the weather, season, conditions or whether there is daylight or not. On the side he loves to ski (all forms) bike and hike, often with his family, as he introduces his twin daughters to the outdoors. Jeff was born and raised in New Hampshire, but has called Colorado home for over 25 years. He is 5’9” and 145 lbs.
Mike Postaski currently focuses on long mountainous ultras - anywhere from 50K up to his favorite - 100M. 5'10", 138 lbs, midfoot/forefoot striker - he typically averages 70 mpw (mostly on trails), ramping up to 100+ mpw during race buildups. A recent 2:39 road marathoner, his easy running pace ranges from 7:30 - 9:00/mi. From 2022-23 Mike has won the Standhope 100M, IMTUF 100M, and Scout Mountain 100M trail ultras, winning the Scout 50M in 2024. He also set a CR of 123.74M at the Pulse Endurance Runs 24H and completed the Boise Trails Challenge on foot in 3 days 13 hours, besting the previous record by 7 hours. Mike's shoe preferences lean towards firmer, dense cushioning, and shoes with narrower profiles. He prefers extra forefoot space, especially for long ultras, and he strongly dislikes pointy toe boxes.
Kurt Biesemans has a background in long distance triathlon. In recent years his focus is back on running. He has recently run various city marathons such as Valencia, Milan and Antwerp. Kurt runs on Belgian soils meaning mostly flat surfaces. He likes to hit the nearby trails which are mostly gravel and wooded surfaces. From autumn to spring his favorite trails are transformed into muddy terrain.
Kurt regularly joins a run or trail race to keep the engine going. But he also like ‘bigger challenges: he ran the Tour du Mont Blanc in 4 days in 2024, ran his first ultra trail (60K), hiked TMB in 9 days with his family and is on the starting list of Tenerife Blue Trail in 2025. He is 1m 86cm and 77kg.
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3 comments:
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How does this compare to say Saucony Ride TR & NB Venym which are basically similar shoes?
Anon - I added a comparison to the Ride TR 2
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