Article by Sam Winebaum
Salomon DRX Defy ($140)
Introduction
Sam: The DRX Defy is Salomon’s lightweight neutral daily trainer with the sibling DRX GRVL having a more aggressive outsole and the Spectur 2 (RTR Review soon) the fiberglass plated speed trainer.
The Defy features a soft and bouncy Energy Foam midsole with rear Active Chassis wings for support and light guidance, and a comfortable, soft and broad fitting and relatively unstructured upper.
At about 8.55 oz / 242g US9 it is commendably light for its moderately high stack height of 34mm heel / 26mm forefoot and quite broad platform.
It’s a shoe in the” fun to run” trainer category: light, very energetic and friendly underfoot and not overly aggressively or locked down in fit. I see it as a solid option for those quick out the door moderate distance daily runs. Let’s get into the details.
Pros:
Fun to run: energetic, bouncy, softer ride
Upper will favor higher volume wider feet
Cons:
- Overly relaxed rear fit/heel hold required unusual lace lock for Sam’s narrow to medium fit, needs a gusset tongue: Sam
Not ideal for runners seeking pronation control
Below average grip on any road grit