If you’ve been curious about Salomon’s latest attempt at a smooth, lightly supportive daily trainer, the Salomon DRX Bliss 2 is the one to watch. It arrives with a tweaked woven mesh upper that locks down better than the original—no more feeling like your foot is negotiating with the sides of the shoe on faster paces. Underneath, the energyFOAM midsole stays on the firmer side, riding a bit like Saucony’s PWRRUN and noticeably firmer than New Balance’s Fresh Foam X. It isn’t as bouncy as the optiFOAM+ you’ll find in Salomon’s S/Lab line, but that’s the trade-off for a more grounded, predictable feel.
Where this shoe really wins is in its full-length activeCHASSIS, running along both the medial and lateral sides. It quietly guides your stride, keeps the foot centered, and reins in overpronation—without the bulk, stiffness, or “posted” feel of traditional stability shoes. For runners who want a touch of support without committing to a full-blown stability model, this setup matters.
In this review, we’ll break down how the DRX Bliss 2 performs on daily runs, what’s improved, what still needs work, and who will enjoy this lightly guided ride. Stick around—there’s a lot to unpack.
Table of Contents
- Quick Specs
- Design & Build Quality
- Cushioning & Ride
- Stability & Control
- Traction & Durability
- Fit & Comfort
- Pros & Cons
- Who Should Buy the Salomon DRX Bliss 2
- Final Verdict
- Salomon DRX Bliss 2 FAQs
Quick Specs
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 8 oz (women), 9 oz (men) |
| Stack Height | 34 mm heel / 26 mm forefoot |
| Drop | 8 mm |
| Midsole | energyFOAM |
| Stability System | activeCHASSIS |
| Outsole | Contagrip |
| Category | Light Stability / Daily Trainer |
| Price | $160 |
Design & Build Quality of the Salomon DRX Bliss 2
The Salomon DRX Bliss 2 gets an immediate upgrade where it counts most: the upper. Salomon swapped in a sleeker, super breathable woven mesh that feels premium, thin, and unmistakably performance-oriented. Even in hot weather, this material stays airy enough that you won’t think twice about ventilation. It’s a noticeable step up in quality for a daily trainer—one of those uppers that disappears on the foot in the best way possible.
Step-in comfort is excellent. No hotspots, no pressure points, just a smooth, secure wrap as soon as you lace up. The activeCHASSIS stays right where it was in the first version, running along both sides of the shoe to keep your foot centered. It works quietly in the background, offering guidance without the intrusive, brick-like feel.
Interestingly, Salomon keeps the heel counter flexible yet well-cushioned, which gives you structure without locking your heel down like it’s trapped in a ski boot. Up front, the shoe maintains a stiff forefoot that doesn’t bend much—great news for runners with sensitive forefoot areas who prefer a stable, protected platform over a floppy toe-off.
Overall, the build feels intentional: breathable where you want it, supportive where you need it, and premium throughout.
Cushioning & Ride of the Salomon DRX Bliss 2
The energyFOAM midsole in the Salomon DRX Bliss 2 delivers a comfortable, well-cushioned landing without drifting into that soft, sink-in territory. It’s a firmer ride overall, nothing like the energetic pop you’d get from modern superfoams, but if you’re used to slightly denser midsoles, this one feels steady, predictable, and run-all-day friendly. Once you settle into the rhythm, you can comfortably log hours on this foam.
What it lacks in bounce, it makes up for in efficiency. Firmer foams often translate to easier speed, and that’s true here: push the pace a little, and the shoe responds cleanly without wasting energy. Add in the mild rocker, and transitions stay smooth from heel to toe, giving you a more natural roll and better ground feel than softer, mushier trainers.
Overall, the DRX Bliss 2 offers a ride that’s cushioned, stable, and surprisingly quick when you want it to be, ideal for runners who prefer a firmer platform that lets them stay in control.
Stability & Control of the Salomon DRX Bliss 2
The activeCHASSIS is the star of the show here, delivering mild-to-moderate stability without the rigidity you normally associate with support shoes. It also gives the Salomon DRX Bliss 2 its unique side profile—those sculpted lines aren’t just for looks; they’re doing real work underfoot. On uneven surfaces or during late-run fatigue, the system keeps your stride centered and controlled without ever feeling bossy.
You’ll feel some arch support, but it stays gentle and non-intrusive. It’s enough to keep things aligned without poking or pressing into the foot. For mild overpronators, the subtle medial support provides just the right amount of correction to stay stable while still letting your stride move naturally.
Overall, this is stability done the modern way—quiet, smooth, and supportive without the hard plastic or bulky posting. It’s the kind of control that disappears until you actually need it.
Traction & Durability of the Salomon DRX Bliss 2
Salomon doesn’t cut corners when it comes to outsoles, and the Contagrip rubber on the DRX Bliss 2 is proof. Every ground-contact area is covered with thick, confidence-boosting rubber that feels secure even when the pavement is slick. Wet roads, light gravel, random debris—this outsole handles it all without hesitation.
Durability is another strong point. The rubber is seriously tough, the kind that shrugs off daily mileage and still looks ready for more. If you’re the type who grinds through shoes quickly, this one earns extra points—it’s built to last and then some.
In short, the DRX Bliss 2 delivers the kind of grip and longevity you expect from Salomon, making it a reliable partner for heavy training weeks and year-round running.
Fit & Comfort of the Salomon DRX Bliss 2
The Salomon DRX Bliss 2 delivers a comfortable, confident fit from the moment you slip it on, but sizing can be tricky if you’re not already familiar with Salomon’s fit profile. It runs a bit wider and longer than expected, so many runners may need to go down half a size for the best lockdown. The breathable woven mesh upper keeps airflow strong on hot days, and the padded tongue and collar add a touch of plushness around the ankle. It’s a great match for runners logging 2–3 runs per week who want a comfortable, breathable daily trainer.
Heel hold is secure without feeling restrictive, and the midfoot lockdown stays balanced whether you’re cruising on easy miles or picking up the pace a little. Nothing shifts, nothing rubs, and the upper works with your foot instead of against it.
Beyond running, the DRX Bliss 2 is comfortable enough for walking or standing for long stretches, making it a solid grab-and-go shoe for days when you’re on your feet more than usual. It’s a simple, steady, no-drama fit—just the way a daily trainer should feel.
Pros & Cons
Before you decide if the Salomon DRX Bliss 2 deserves a spot in your rotation, it helps to see where it shines and where it might not fit your preferences. Based on its updated upper, firmer energyFOAM cushioning, and light-stability design, here’s a quick breakdown of the key advantages and potential drawbacks to keep in mind.
Pros
- Sleeker, super breathable woven mesh upper that stays cool even in hot weather
- Premium, thin, performance-oriented upper materials with excellent step-in comfort
- True-to-size fit with moderate width and great lockdown from heel to midfoot
- activeCHASSIS provides mild-to-moderate stability without stiffness
- Subtle arch and medial support that keeps the foot centered, especially during fatigue
- Firmer energyFOAM midsole keeps the ride efficient and stable
- Mild rocker helps deliver smooth heel-to-toe transitions
- Contagrip outsole offers strong grip on wet pavement and excellent durability
- Comfortable enough for long runs, walking, or standing for extended periods
Cons
- Firmer midsole may feel too stiff for runners who prefer soft, bouncy cushioning
- Less energetic than superfoams or Salomon’s own optiFOAM+ found in S/Lab models
- Stiff forefoot may not suit runners who want a flexible toe-off
- Flexible heel counter may feel less structured for those who prefer a more rigid rearfoot support
Who Should Buy the Salomon DRX Bliss 2
If you’re wondering whether the Salomon DRX Bliss 2 matches your running style, this section will help you decide quickly. With its firmer cushioning, breathable woven upper, and subtle guidance from the activeCHASSIS, this shoe targets a specific type of runner—one who wants stability without the heavy, bulky feel of traditional support shoes. Here’s who will get the most out of it, and who may want to look elsewhere.
Who Should Buy the Salomon DRX Bliss 2
- Runners who prefer a firmer, more efficient ride over soft and squishy cushioning
- Mild overpronators who want subtle stability without posting or stiffness
- Runners logging 2–3 runs per week, including easy to moderate-paced efforts
- Those who appreciate excellent ventilation from a premium woven mesh upper
- Anyone who values a secure heel and midfoot lockdown for consistent support
- Runners or walkers who need a shoe that stays comfortable during long periods of standing
- Athletes who enjoy a mild rocker and smoother transitions on road surfaces
Who Shouldn’t Buy the Salomon DRX Bliss 2
- Runners who prefer soft, plush cushioning or energetic superfoams
- Forefoot strikers who want a flexible toe-off (the forefoot here is quite stiff)
- Anyone who needs maximum stability beyond mild-to-moderate guidance
- Runners looking for a highly bouncy or spring-loaded ride (the energyFOAM is more grounded and controlled)
Final Verdict of the Salomon DRX Bliss 2
The Salomon DRX Bliss 2 is a well-executed upgrade that delivers stability, firm cushioning, and premium comfort without drifting into bulky support-shoe territory. The new woven mesh upper feels sleeker and more breathable, the activeCHASSIS keeps your stride centered without stiffness, and the Contagrip outsole brings the kind of durability you can trust for high-mileage road use.
Its firmer energyFOAM midsole won’t satisfy runners who crave soft, bouncy cushioning, but if you prefer a stable, efficient platform that makes steady miles feel smooth and controlled, this shoe hits the mark. The mild rocker helps transitions flow naturally, and the stiff forefoot adds protection for those who need a more structured toe-off.
Overall, the DRX Bliss 2 is a strong choice for runners who want a breathable, premium-feeling daily trainer with subtle guidance and a grounded, consistent ride. It’s reliable, durable, and comfortable enough to handle everything from weekly runs to long days on your feet.
Salomon DRX Bliss 2 FAQs
Before wrapping up, here are some quick answers to common questions runners may have about the Salomon DRX Bliss 2. These will help clarify fit, comfort, stability, and overall performance so you can decide if it deserves a spot in your rotation.
Is the Salomon DRX Bliss 2 good for mild overpronation?
Yes. The activeCHASSIS provides subtle medial and lateral guidance that helps keep the foot centered without feeling stiff or intrusive.
How firm is the energyFOAM midsole?
It’s on the firmer side—more like Saucony’s PWRRUN and firmer than Fresh Foam X. It’s cushioned but less energetic than modern superfoams.
Is the DRX Bliss 2 comfortable for longer runs?
If you prefer firmer cushioning, yes. The ride is stable, predictable, and efficient, making it suitable for steady-paced long runs.
Does it run true to size?
No, unless you’re already used to Salomon’s fit. It runs slightly wider and longer, so many runners will likely get a better lockdown and overall fit by going half a size down.
How breathable is the upper?
Very breathable. The upgraded woven mesh stays cool even in hot weather and feels premium and lightweight.
Can I use it for walking or standing all day?
Absolutely. The comfortable upper, balanced cushioning, and stable platform make it a good option for long periods on your feet.
How durable is the outsole?
The full-length Contagrip rubber is thick, grippy, and built to last, ideal for high-mileage road runners.
Is the forefoot flexible?
No. The forefoot is stiff, which is great for runners who prefer a stable, protective platform but may not suit those who want a more flexible toe-off.
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