Salomon - DRX DEFY GRVL

I have the other model; think its called the Defy but I actually love that shoe for gravel roads, way more than I thought I would. Pretty easy for me to use as well, no fitment or break in issues at all

Salomon Genesis is basically just a much better Sense Ride, you could try that. I loved the S/Lab version but didn't do too much road on it. If it's just like gravel roads or super buffed trails, you could also try the Salomon DRX Defy Grvl, a road shoe with a bit more tread.

I’ve tried on a few shoes with higher stacks while looking for a softer and foamier ride and it feels really unstable to me. I’ve been rocking the ASICS Fuji Lite Trails and Topo Mtn Racer 3s which have nice cushion but not the aggressive drop and I like that middle ground. I tried on the Salomon “GRVL” shoe recently (idk the model) and I’m feeling like this style is going to get more popular. The stack was massive. It was kinda fun but I only tested it out of the door on the road and can’t imagine it working for me. Even the two-track I regularly run is steeper and rockier than they feel stable on.

I use Solomon trail runners, non-waterproof because my feet overheat easily in the summer. They've seen the presis in the summer without issues, and have decent grip.

I just ordered a pair from my local running store, only commenting to suggest you try them on first. I'm a 12 in Salomons and a 12 to 12.5 in Hokas, and I had to size up to a 13 in the 001s.

The best ones are the ones that fit!! I have wide toes and wore Solomon trail runners for a long time. I switched to Merrell Moab hikers a couple of years ago. Both are 13 Wide (EEE).

The downside of trail runners to me (Solomans) was I would sometimes get foot bruises on sharp rocky ground. I switched to hiking shoes (Merrell's) and I feel it's a better compromise between trail runners and boots. Pretty light and more comfortable.

My Solomans had a rock plate (thank you for pointing out my omission), but I feel a big difference with my Murrell Moab's. To each there own, I know trail runners are the favorite, the Moab works better for me (I have dainty feet, I guess).

I've run the 10mi of this race a few times I've run it in Brooks Cascadias and some kind of Solomans. I run at Goverment canyon all the time with Merrill Antoras. I like having a rockplate because the canyon is full of rocks but I wouldn't consider it a need for McAllister park.

What do you want to do? I love my Solomon trail runners but if I'm sliding down shale I'll take the Keens all day long. Both are good brands in my experience.

Over the years I’ve worn trail runners from Merrill and Salomon, or standard running shoes from Nike and NB. A comfortable fit was the main criteria. Even on wet ground I’d rather have fast drying sneakers than boots.

I like Oboz boots. I also like my Solomon trail runners. I've done massive days in both, totally depends what you are more comfortable in. I do personally find benefit in some ankle protection and waterproofness. Some folks poopoo that... but I bet they have wet feet.