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Saucony has become a leading brand in trail footwear, combining innovative design with reliable performance. Our detailed guide examines the company's top trail shoes, ranging from ultralight options for quick hikes to sturdy boots for extended trips. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, we help you find the perfect Saucony shoe for your outdoor adventures.

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Reviews

Saucony Peregrine 13

These trail runners pack impressive cushioning for their lightweight frame while griping like a champion on slippery terrain. The closed mesh and speed laces zip off-road debris while keeping your foot locked in place, thanks to that signature Saucony flexibility. Whether you're chasing PRs on dry singletrack or romping through knee-deep mud, these shoes have got you covered.

Saucony Peregrine 13 Trail Running Shoe

The Saucony Peregrine 13 hits the trail with responsive PWRRUN foam and an updated upper construction that keeps it light without sacrificing durability. At 12 ounces per pair, it feels almost weightless while providing just the right amount of cushioning for all-day comfort.

Saucony Men's Peregrine 13 Shoe

These Saucony trail runners combine PWRRUN foam cushioning with an ultralight design for impressive speed on technical terrain. The mesh upper keeps your feet cool and breathable during long hikes, while the PWRTRAC rubber outsole provides reliable grip on both loose dirt and solid rock. The enhanced cushioning and secure fit make them a solid choice for runners who prefer a more minimal approach to trail shoes.

Saucony Men's Peregrine 13

The Saucony Peregrine 13 hits the sweet spot between lightweight speed and reliable cushioning, making it a standout choice for both competitive runners and enthusiasts who push theirlimits on challenging terrain. The PWRRUN foam midsole and optimized heel height deliver responsive energy return without sacrificing comfort during long outings. While some minor issues with outsole durability have been noted, particularly in wet conditions, the shoe's overall performance and build quality make it a worthy addition to any serious trail runner's wardrobe.

Saucony Men's Peregrine 13 Trail Shoe

The Saucony Peregrine 13 brings a refined trail-running experience, with PWRRUN foam midsole offering responsive cushioning that's 4mm lower to the ground than its predecessor. The mesh upper provides a locked-down fit, while the PWRTRAC rubber outsole features a robust 5mm lug pattern that excels on technical terrain. Built for explorers, this 11.5 UK version combines reliable protection with the energy return needed for faster, farther trail runs.

Saucony Peregrine 13 GTX 10 Trail Shoe

The Saucony Peregrine 13 GTX combines responsive PWRRUN foam cushioning with a sturdy GORE-TEX upper for reliable protection on varied terrain. While some users praise its balanced performance and technical features, others note durability issues with the outsole that warrant careful consideration. The lightweight, flexible design makes it particularly effective on muddy trails and rocky sections, though grip can be inconsistent on slippery surfaces.

Saucony Xodus Ultra Men's Trail Shoe

These Saucony trail runners blend exceptional comfort with reliable durability for serious distance quests. The responsive PWRRUN PB midsole and supportive PWRRUN Frame work together to deliver a smooth, springy ride that handles everything from technical singletrack to punishing mileage. The roomy 6mm last and breathable recycled polyester upper keep your feet happy during epic excursions, while the grippy PWRTRAC outsole helps you nail every tricky move on the trail.

Saucony Triumph 20 Men's Running Shoe

The Saucony Triumph 20 brings a new level of comfort to the iconic series with its softer, more responsive PWRRUN+ foam midsole. The shoe's updated geometry creates a natural rocker feel that makes each stride effortless, while the completely redesigned upper provides a customized fit that feels like the shoe was made just for you.

Saucony Peregrine 13 St Trail Shoe

These trail-running shoes blend lightweight construction with robust protection, featuring PWRRUN foam midsole and PWRTRAC outsole with deep lug patterns for traction on muddy and rocky terrain. The closed mesh upper and ankle pull tab deliver a secure fit while keeping feet cool during long runs. The upper mesh and integrated tongue construction resist wear and tear, as tested in real-world conditions by experienced trail runners.

Saucony Excursion TR16 Men's Trail Running Shoe

These trail-running shoes from Saucony blend durable rubber construction with a breathable mesh upper for all-day comfort. The aggressive carbon-rubber lugs deliver exceptional traction on rocky, root-filled trails, while the VERSARUN cushioning system keeps your feet moving smoothly over rough terrain. Whether you're charging up steep inclines or navigating technical singletrack, these shoes provide the protection and performance you need for your next adventure.

Men's Saucony Excursion TR14 Trail Running Shoe

Made in the USA or imported with a synthetic construction, these trail runners combine grippy carbon rubber lugs with VERSARUN cushioning for lasting comfort. The breathable mesh upper features strategic overlays for support without added bulk. While some reviewers find the basic insoles lack cushioning, the durable sole and good traction make them a solid choice for both casual hiking and extended walks.

Saucony Men's Ride 15

The Saucony Ride 14 strikes a superb balance between lightweight cushioning and responsive energy return, making it an excellent choice for both casual runners and those tackling longer distances. The updated FORMFIT upper provides a locked-in, secure feel while maintaining breathability thanks to its engineered mesh construction. While some users have noted minor pressure points and initial discomfort, many find these issues resolvable with proper breaking in, especially praising the shoe's plush tongue and soft cushioning.

Buyer's Guide

Saucony trail shoes blend durability, traction, and moisture management to keep your feet comfortable while exploring off-road paths. These shoes are designed to handle everything from technical singletrack to loose gravel and mud, with features that enhance safety and performance.

Technical Fit and Construction

Saucony employs a mix of synthetic and mesh materials in their trail shoes, providing ventilation while protecting feet from debris. The tongue and toe box offer generous room to accommodate various foot shapes, though the fit tends to be slightly generous. Options range from minimalistic approaches with fewer overlays to reinforced designs with extra protection around the heel and midfoot.

Midsole Technology

The midsoles incorporate EVA foam for lightweight cushioning combined with materials like TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) for durability. Some models feature additional support elements like dual-density construction in the heel or integrated heel cups. The level of cushioning varies from minimalistic trail runners to maximalist options with extra foam for comfort during long hikes.

Outsole Design

Outsoles prioritize grip and stability over pure mileage, with patterns that maximize contact with uneven surfaces. Look for models with specific traction patterns optimized for different terrains - sharp lugs for muddy conditions, more aggressive patterns for loose gravel, or specialized designs for technical rock climbing. The outsole thickness helps determine the shoe's versatility, with thinner soles offering better sensitivity for technical terrain while thicker ones provide extra protection for chunky terrain.

Waterproofing and Gaiter Compatibility

Select models include Gore-Tex or similar waterproof membranes to prevent water infiltration during wet conditions. These shoes typically feature higher cut designs with gaiter-compatible cuffs, allowing you to add extra protection against mud and water intrusion. The waterproofing affects breathability, with fully waterproof models offering excellent protection but potentially less ventilation compared to water-resistant options.

FAQ

What makes Saucony trail shoes different from their road shoes?

Saucony trail shoes feature several key differences from their road counterparts, primarily in their construction and outsole patterns. These shoes incorporate durable materials and aggressive traction patterns designed for rocky, uneven terrain. The upper structures are often more robust to protect feet from trail debris, while the outsoles utilize heavier-duty rubber compounds to resist wear from sharp rocks and roots.

The cushioning systems in trail shoes typically focus on providing support for the natural running gait on varied surfaces, with less emphasis on the responsive energy return found in some road-specific models. This balance allows runners to maintain their natural running form while navigating challenging trail conditions.

How should I choose the right size for my Saucony trail shoe?

Proper sizing is crucial for both comfort and performance in trail running shoes. Start by measuring your foot at its widest point and comparing it to Saucony's sizing charts. Always opt for a half-size larger than your regular running shoe size, as trail shoes need more room for debris and natural foot movement. Consider trying them on later in the day when your feet are slightly swollen to get the most accurate fit.

If possible, visit a specialty running store to have your feet professionally measured and fitted. This personalized approach ensures optimal comfort and maintains your natural arch support, which is vital for effective trail running mechanics.

What is the best way to care for my Saucony trail shoes?

Proper maintenance extends the life of your trail shoes and keeps them performing at their best. After each use, wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. For more thorough cleaning, use mild soap and water, ensuring all parts are completely dry before storing. The upper materials should be air-dried in a shaded area to prevent discoloration.

Regularly inspect the outsoles for wear and tear. If you notice excessive wear patterns, uneven wear, or the rubber starting to come off, it's time to replace your shoes. Most trail running shoes last between 300-500 miles, but this can vary based on your running frequency and terrain difficulty.

Do Saucony trail shoes come in different widths?

Saucony offers various width options in their trail shoe lineup to accommodate different foot shapes and sizes. Most models come in standard, wide, and extra-wide styles, allowing you to choose the best fit for your feet. It's important to select a width that provides enough room for your toes while maintaining stability during your run.

If you have particularly wide feet or need a very specific width, consider visiting a specialty running store where staff can measure your feet and recommend the most appropriate style. Proper width selection ensures both comfort and performance during your runs.

Can Saucony trail shoes be washed in a washing machine?

Machine washing is generally not recommended for Saucony trail shoes due to the risk of damaging the upper materials and potentially loosening the stitching. Instead, we recommend hand-washing or using a damp cloth to clean the exterior. The laces should be removed before cleaning and washed separately using a mild detergent.

If you choose to hand-wash your shoes, avoid soaking them for extended periods as this can affect the longevity of the materials. After washing, air-dry your shoes completely in a shaded area before wearing them again. This gentle care routine helps maintain the performance and integrity of your trail shoes.

What technical features should I look for in a Saucony trail shoe?

When selecting technical features for your Saucony trail shoe, consider the following aspects: waterproofing (for muddy conditions), gait-specific cushioning, aggressive traction patterns, water-resistance for the uppers, and breathable mesh panels for ventilation. The outsole composition should include durable rubber compounds in high-wear areas, while the upper materials need excellent moisture management to prevent sock slippage.

The shoe's flexibility and weight are also important factors, as they affect both performance and fatigue during long runs. Look for models that combine robust construction with responsive cushioning to maintain optimal foot strike mechanics on challenging terrain.