Salomon DRX Bliss running shoes

The Salomon DRX Bliss running shoe is Salomon’s first attempt at a stable street running shoe. Salomon is one of the most successful brands in the cross-country running shoe world, and they have been at the forefront of street running shoes for a few years now, but their stable running shoe has not been one of the many types of street running shoes. The DRX Bliss is a very good first attempt. From the first glance, you can tell that this is a stable running shoe from the reinforcement on the outsole and insole.

The upper of the Salamon DRX Bliss running shoe is a thin but densely woven mesh material with many layers of stiffening. The breathability of the upper is excellent, so it won’t keep the runner’s feet warm on summer runs. As with most Salomon running shoes, the SensiFit technology is used, which is based on the forces that are applied to the upper during running to provide support and cushioning. The tongue is not too thick and is also well ventilated. Unlike most stable running shoes, the heel of the DRX Bliss is not too stiff, but rather flexible, but it holds the foot very well. The upper is rather narrow, but this is for stability and secure footing.

The midsole of the Salamon DRX Bliss running shoe is made entirely of Salamon EnergyFoam foam, a denser EVA foam. The EnergyFoam has very good cushioning, the shoe is well cushioned, but not as flexible, it doesn’t return as much energy. Stability is provided by the TPU Active Chassis, which is visible from the outside. This is the stiffening layer, a not too hard but stiffer than the midsole material, EnergyFoam, which is found on both sides of the shoe. Because this layer follows the slope of the sole (dorp) it helps to roll over quickly and does not hinder or slow down the roll. Less stiffening is felt during running. The geometry of the midsole is also not common, unlike most stable running shoes, it has a symmetrical design. Usually in stable running shoes, the inside arch is more supported, so the sole design is asymmetrical, but the DRX Bliss doesn’t use this solution, it is reinforced on both sides, so the midsole is wider than usual. This wide, angled midsole also slows the shoe down and provides less stability than an asymmetrical heel design. Runners who come in on the front of the foot can use the DRX Bliss for faster paces, but runners who come in on the heel will have a harder time accelerating in the shoe. Overall, the midfoot tends to be stiffer and more rigid, but it’s still comfortable to run in, with high cushioning.

The outsole of the Salamon DRX Bliss running shoe is made of Contagrip rubber compound and covers a relatively large surface area of the midsole. It is not heavily ribbed, but so the grip of the shoe is not outstanding, but it gives you what you need. There is no outsole running along the heel section, which may not be the best solution as the midsole will also wear on heel landings.

Overall, the Salamon DRX Bliss running shoe is a versatile, lightweight stable running shoe that provides support on both sides of the shoe. It’s highly cushioned, but tends to be stiffer and more rigid. The upper provides great foot support, security and good breathability. Great first stable running shoe attempt from Salomon!