Borrowing its feel from a trail running shoe, the Salomon Genesis Mid GORE-TEX Men's Hiking Shoe is a lightweight, waterproof mid-height hiker. It combines a plush, cushioned midsole, a stability-focused chassis, and a grippy all-terrain outsole with one-pull lacing. On the trail, that means a light, springy step that still feels planted on rough ground, with dry feet when the path turns to mud.

Why we like it:

The one-pull lacing is the detail we'd miss most. A single tug snugs the fit evenly, and there are no bows to stop and retie halfway up the climb.

Features and Functions:

Cushioning is the headline on the Genesis Mid: Salomon's optiFOAM midsole is a lightweight EVA foam rated ultra plush, stacked at 39mm under the heel and 31mm under the forefoot for an 8mm drop. Underneath, an activeCHASSIS adds guidance and stability without making the shoe feel stiff, and an All-Terrain contaGRIP outsole handles mixed surfaces. A GORE-TEX membrane keeps water out, while the synthetic and textile upper, gusseted tongue, and protective toecap keep grit and rocks from getting in. A molded OrthoLite sockliner adds comfort underfoot, quickLACE handles tightening, and the men's version weighs about 385 grams per shoe.

Bottom Line:

The Genesis Mid is built for hikers who want trail-runner comfort with a bit more ankle coverage and full waterproofing. It's at its best on long day hikes and fast-paced outings over mixed, wet terrain.