Our verdict

The saucony black trail running sneaker caught our attention in the lab as a versatile trail runner, perfect for those seeking a reliable all-rounder. On our runs, we were impressed by its responsive PWRRUN PB midsole and the robust grip of the PWRTRAC sneakers, which, combined with a breathable upper, makes it a jack-of-all-trails. It's ready for anything, even the occasional hike, thanks to its flexibility. While we think Saucony could lighten the weight and soften the foam for future versions, we see this as a solid step up from its predecessor, signaling a bright path ahead for the Xodus series.

zapatillas de running Saucony voladoras minimalistas talla 37 más de 100 Pros

  • Snug, secure fit
  • Highly breathable
  • Enhanced lacing from v1
  • Responsive midsole
  • Upgraded durability
  • Solid, stable feel
  • Long-run-ready cushioning

zapatillas de running Saucony voladoras minimalistas talla 37 más de 100 Cons

  • zapatillas de running Saucony trail talla 28 baratas menos de 60
  • Slightly heavy for its size
  • Firm cushioning

Audience verdict

88
Great!

Who should buy

We highly recommend the Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test for:

  • saucony azura white orange.
  • Saucony enthusiasts wanting the familiar feel of PWRRUN PB foam off-road.
  • Кроссовки saucony shadow 6000 арт 70404-33s.

In our lab tests, we were impressed by its versatility, confirming it's a solid choice for a wide range of trail adventures.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test

Who should NOT buy

We think the Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test isn't the best pick for every runner out there. Its weight, tipping over 10 ounces, makes it less appealing for those who prioritize lightness. For a lighter alternative, we suggest the Hoka Speedgoat 5, especially if weight is a deal-breaker for you.

Moreover, while the saucony black trail running sneaker has potential for ultra running, we found its foam to be on the firmer side. For runners who prefer a more cushioned, softer experience, we recommend exploring the Hoka Mafate Speed 4 or the Brooks Caldera 6. These models provide the plush ride that ultra runners often seek, making them better choices for those epic distances.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test

Cushioning

zapatillas de running Saucony voladoras minimalistas talla 37 más de 100 | Heel stack

The saucony black trail running sneaker boasts a 34.1-mm heel stack. While it may not qualify as maximalist by today's standards as it would be in the past, it still ranks as a max-cushioned shoe for us. Thus, it's fully ready to handle ultras, even for heel strikers.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test Heel stack
Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 34.1 mm
Average 32.6 mm
Compared to 168 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
19.5 mm
Heel stack
47.3 mm

Forefoot stack

After carefully and repeatedly measuring with our calipers, we found the forefoot stack to be 26.8 mm. It's a tad more cushioned than many shoes, striking a nice balance between responsive cushioning and ground feel.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test Forefoot stack
Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 26.8 mm
Average 25.1 mm
Compared to 168 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
13.4 mm
Forefoot stack
36.7 mm

Drop

The gap between those two measurements gives us a 7.3-mm drop, which is slightly off from the advertised 6 mm.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test Drop
Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 7.3 mm
Average 7.6 mm
Compared to 167 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.1 mm
Drop
17.3 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

The saucony black trail running sneaker boasts a dual-foam setup.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test dual foam
PWRRUN PB (white) - PWRRUN (grey)

The bulk of the midsole—forefoot, midfoot and part of the heel—is made of PWRRUN PB (27.5 HA), a Pebax-based, pellet-shaped compound renowned for its incredible energy return and responsiveness.

It certainly lives up to expectations, though Saucony has adjusted the formula in this shoe, making it firmer than what we're accustomed to. Nevertheless, while it might not be super soft, it's undeniably very responsive.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test Midsole softness
Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 27.5 HA
Average 21.9 HA
zapatillas de running Saucony trail talla 38.5 moradas.
Compared to 144 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
9.1 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
39.0 HA

zapatillas de running Saucony voladoras minimalistas talla 37 más de 100 | Secondary foam softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

The secondary, grey foam is PWRRUN. It's even firmer at 29.5 HA, which is why Saucony used it in the heel—to enhance stability and durability.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test zapatillas de running Saucony asfalto pronador constitución ligera de material reciclado talla 36
Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 29.5 HA
Average 25.5 HA
zapatillas de running Saucony trail talla 38.5 moradas.

Size and fit

Size

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test fits true to size (24 votes).

Small
True to size
Large

sneakers Saucony hombre talla 43?

1 size small½ size smallTrue to size½ size large1 size large

Moi jattend la Saucony x SNKRSFRKRS le 20 avril

When we first tried on the saucony black trail running sneaker, the toebox seemed reasonably spacious, though not remarkably so. We then used calipers to measure the upper and found it to be 99.5 mm at its widest point, essentially confirming our initial impressions.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test Toebox width at the widest part

This test follows an older methodology, which is why you don't see recently tested shoes in the chart. Results from different methodologies can not be compared.

Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 99.5 mm
Average 98.9 mm
Compared to 122 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
92.0 mm
Moi jattend la Saucony x SNKRSFRKRS le 20 avril
104.9 mm

Toebox width

The big toe area has a standard taper, resulting in a 79.1-mm width. This design should suit 90% of runners well, but those with very wide feet might feel a bit cramped, especially on runs longer than 2 hours.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test upper

For a shoe with a super-responsive midsole and a wider upper, we recommend the Nike Ultrafly.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test Toebox width at the big toe

This test follows an older methodology, which is why you don't see recently tested shoes in the chart. Results from different methodologies can not be compared.

Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 79.1 mm
Average 79.3 mm
Compared to 84 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
70.5 mm
Toebox width
90.1 mm

Traction / Grip

Lug depth

The saucony black trail running sneaker comes with 4.6 mm lugs, great for those looking to handle a variety of terrains. While 3 or 3.5 mm lugs might be better for quick runs on easy trails, a do-it-all shoe requires trading a bit of comfort for versatility, which is exactly what Saucony has achieved here.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test lugs

Each lug is chevron-shaped, with the heel lugs facing backwards and the forefoot lugs pointing forwards, enhancing traction during elevation changes.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test Lug depth
Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 4.6 mm
Average 3.5 mm
Compared to 167 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Lug depth
5.4 mm

Precios más baratos de las Saucony Kinvara 12 para hombre

Now, we're excited to examine the longitudinal stiffness—an essential factor, particularly for those keen on using the shoe for more than running.

We discovered that it took just 26.3N of force to bend it to the 90-degree point, our standard bend for every shoe. This highlights the XU2's versatility.

This test follows an older methodology, which is why you don't see recently tested shoes in the chart. Results from different methodologies can not be compared.

Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 26.3N
Average 27.1N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 137 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
5.6N
Flexibility Stiffness
54.5N

Stiffness in cold (%)

As happened when we re-measured the midsole softness, the Pebax-based PWRRUN PB delivered another fantastic performance, only getting 13.4% hombre after spending 20 minutes next to our ice creams.

Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 13%
Average 32%
Compared to 134 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
3%
Stiffness in cold
90%

Weight

Moving on to the weight, it was somewhat disappointing, especially since the shoe appears lighter than it actually is.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test

Weighing in at 10.3 oz, it's totally acceptable for a trail running shoe, yet it seems excessive given the stack height and lightweight upper. Surprisingly, it matches the weight of an ASICS Trabuco Max 2, which boasts significantly more cushioning underfoot and a cozier upper.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test Weight
Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 10.3 oz (293g)
Average 10.2 oz (289g)
Compared to 168 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
7.5 oz (213g)
Weight
12.7 oz (359g)

Breathability

With "Ultra" in its name, a breathable upper is crucial—otherwise, blisters are just around the corner. So, we're curious if the saucony black trail running sneaker lives up to expectations in this area.

In the lab, using our smoke-pumping machine, we discovered Saucony nailed the airflow, earning the XU2 a solid 4 out of 5 from us. This ensures well-ventilated runs for as long as you wish, with a bit of protection against the cold for winter runs. Especially in trail shoes, zapatillas de running Saucony minimalistas ultra trail talla 42.5.

To understand how the shoe scored a 4/5, we simply turned on a light and moved the cut-in-half upper. At times, a straightforward test like this is all it takes to get the full picture.

In this case, the large, circular holes in the inner mesh clearly stand out, offering an excellent route for air to flow through.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test mesh

Upon closer inspection under the microscope, we encountered a very dense engineered mesh. It was crucial for Saucony to incorporate those holes we observed with the light test; without them, the breathability would have been less impressive.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test mesh

Lastly, we examined the engineered mesh upper in detail.

It features a dual-layer construction that isn't glued together—a rarity in today's market.

Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 4
Average 3.2
Compared to 145 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Stability

Lateral stability test

While some might find the firmer PWRRUN PB midsole of the saucony black trail running sneaker a tad disappointing compared to expectations, it brings with it several appreciated advantages. The best among them is the shoe's remarkable stability, particularly noticeable at quicker paces.

This isn't just due to the foam itself, but also the ingeniously designed midfoot sidewalls by the Saucony crew. These offer gentle guidance without being overly intrusive, enhancing the running experience for neutral runners and those with small stability shift.

Torsional rigidity

Another reason the shoe feels so stable is its torsional rigidity, which we rated at 4 out of 5 in our manual assessment.

Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 4
Average 3.6
Compared to 162 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Легкие кроссовки saucony саукони для бега

The heel counter also earns a 4 out of 5 for the saucony black trail running sneaker. In this case, we would have preferred a softer one, especially for +3 hours runs. However, since it's well padded, it shouldn't pose a problem.

Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 4
Average 3
Compared to 160 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Легкие кроссовки saucony саукони для бега
5

Midsole width - forefoot

Remember how we mentioned earlier that the shoe felt lighter than it actually is? Well, now it's time for us in the lab to verify those dimensions.

In the forefoot, we measured 112.5 mm, which isn't particularly wide. It's just average.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 112.5 mm
Average 112.8 mm
Compared to 168 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
102.1 mm
Midsole width - forefoot
126.0 mm

Shoes Saucony x Acribik Azura Tech Noir S70601 1

The same applies to the heel, where we measured 91.1 mm. In the lab, we all agree that the shoe resembles a daily trainer designed for the trails.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test Midsole width in the heel
Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 91.1 mm
Average 89.8 mm
Compared to 168 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
72.0 mm
Shoes Saucony x Acribik Azura Tech Noir S70601 1
106.0 mm

Durability

Toebox durability

Saucony doesn't design the Xodus line as particularly rugged—quite the contrary, in fact. So, it's no surprise the toebox lacks robust protective features, offering just a minimal toe bumper. When we put it to the test with our Dremel, it broke the upper with ease.

Because of this shortfall, we rated the XU2 a 2 out of 5, falling below the average mark. It was a close call between that and an even lower score of 1 out of 5. Thankfully, the double-layered mesh provided just enough redemption to save the Xodus from hitting rock bottom.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test Toebox durability
Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 2
Average 3.1
Compared to 125 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

The heel padding truly outshined the toebox, snagging a stellar 4 out of 5 after our rigorous back-to-back Dremel tests.

This impressive result promises enduring durability in this crucial area, especially beneficial for runners whose socks tend to rub against the fabric.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test Heel padding durability
Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 4
Average 3
Compared to 123 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

sneakers hardness

Now, let's give the Dremel a brief pause—it'll be back shortly for its final test. First, we aimed to check out the softness of the 3-piece PWRTRAC sneakers, which closely resembles the one on the carbon-plated Endorphin Edge.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test sneakers

With a hardness of 80.0 HC, it tends toward the softer side. This might hint at a trade-off in durability, but it also suggests that Saucony is prioritizing grip.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test sneakers hardness
Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 80.0 HC
Average 85.8 HC
zapatillas de running Saucony trail talla 38.5 moradas.
Compared to 143 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
75.5 HC
sneakers hardness
96.1 HC

sneakers durability

Let's fire up the Dremel once more because we're eager to test the durability of the PWRTRAC rubber.

Considering it's a relatively soft rubber, we're quite pleased with the 1.2-mm indentation left by the tool. True, it may not boast the world-class durability of some Vibram sneakerss, but with a result like this, we're not concerned about its longevity.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test sneakers durability
Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 1.2 mm
Average 0.9 mm
Compared to 118 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
sneakers wear
2.0 mm

sneakers thickness

Our shift dwindled even further after measuring the sneakers thickness, which hit a sweet spot at 2.4 mm. This thickness strikes a great balance, offering enough protection, while still ensuring a lively ride. Opting for thicker rubber often dulls the ride, so this approach is spot-on.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test sneakers thickness
Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 2.4 mm
Average 2.2 mm
Compared to 168 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0.9 mm
sneakers thickness
5.2 mm

Misc

Insole thickness

The insole stands out as one of the most fascinating aspects of this shoe, truly setting it apart from the rest. While most shoes feature basic, EVA insoles offering little beyond a touch of comfort, the saucony black trail running sneaker ups the game with a plush, 7.2-mm PWRRUN PB insole.

Indeed, this is the same top-notch foam used in shoes like the Saucony Endorphin Pro 3.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test Insole thickness
Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 7.2 mm
Average 4.7 mm
Compared to 165 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
2.1 mm
Insole thickness
7.9 mm

Removable insole

The insole is removable, allowing you to switch it with your preferred third-party sockliner due to the shoe's standard dimensions.

However, we suggest keeping the original insole, crafted from PWRRUN PB—it's super cushioned, most definitely a highlight of the shoe!

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test Removable insole
Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker Yes

zapatillas de running Saucony asfalto pronador constitución ligera de material reciclado talla 36 (%)

As a Pebax-based foam, PWRRUN PB's performance in cold temperatures should be outstanding, and that's exactly what we observed. After spending 20 minutes in our freezer, we noted only a 19.1% change, marking a commendable performance.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test Secondary foam softness
Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 19%
Average 26%
Compared to 144 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
5%
zapatillas de running Saucony asfalto pronador constitución ligera de material reciclado talla 36
64%

Reflective elements

Sadly, the saucony black trail running sneaker lacks any reflective pieces.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test Reflective elements
Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker No

Tongue padding

The tongue is lightly padded at just 3.7 mm.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test tongue

This could be a concern for runners planning to use the shoe for very long runs, so we advise being cautious when cinching down the laces.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test Tongue padding
Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker 3.7 mm
Average 6.4 mm
Compared to 168 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0.8 mm
Tongue padding
12.3 mm

Tongue: gusset type

At the beginning of this lab review, we noted the Xodus unique dual-piece upper, and the tongue further illustrates this unconventional design.

Instead of a traditional tongue, it has a bootie-like construction that excellently blocks debris from entering the shoe. However, this might feel odd to runners not accustomed to such a setup.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test Tongue: gusset type
Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker Bootie

Heel tab

We found that the heel boasts a finger-loop heel tab that looks great and makes really easy slipping your feet into the Xodus.

Agradecimientos a Saucony España por el envío de esta zapatilla para su test Heel tab
Test results
saucony black trail running sneaker Finger loop