When it comes to choosing the right footwear for hiking, the decision can be overwhelming. There are countless brands and models available, each with its unique features. One brand that often comes up in discussions about outdoor footwear is Saucony. Known primarily for its running shoes, Saucony has a strong reputation for producing comfortable, durable, and performance-oriented shoes. But are Saucony shoes suitable for hiking? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes Saucony shoes good (or not) for hiking, and whether they are a good choice for your next outdoor adventure.
1. Saucony’s Reputation in Sports Footwear
Saucony has been a well-respected name in the athletic footwear industry for decades. Founded in 1898, the company made its name producing running shoes, with a focus on comfort, stability, and innovation. Over the years, Saucony has expanded its product line to include shoes for a variety of activities, including trail running, walking, and, of course, hiking.
Saucony’s commitment to high-quality construction, advanced technology, and a strong focus on athlete performance has earned it a loyal following among runners, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
2. What Makes Saucony Shoes Different?
Before deciding if Saucony shoes are good for hiking, it’s important to understand the general features that set them apart. Saucony shoes are known for their:
Comfort: Saucony shoes often feature cushioned insoles, providing comfort during long hours of wear. Their shoes are designed with the foot’s natural shape in mind, offering good arch support and ample room for the toes.
Durability: While Saucony is best known for its running shoes, they also build durable footwear, making them a solid option for hiking in certain conditions. The materials used are designed to withstand regular wear and tear.
Lightweight Design: Many Saucony shoes have a lightweight construction, which is a key feature for runners and hikers who prioritize agility and speed.
Breathability: Saucony shoes are often made with breathable mesh uppers to help keep your feet cool and dry, a feature that’s beneficial for long hikes in warm weather.
These qualities are important for any outdoor activity, but they aren’t always the first things people think about when choosing hiking footwear.
3. Can Saucony Shoes Be Used for Hiking?
To determine whether Saucony shoes are good for hiking, we need to break down their features and how they align with the demands of hiking.
Comfort and Cushioning
Hiking often involves long hours of walking over rough terrain, and comfort is one of the most critical factors when selecting footwear. Saucony shoes are generally known for their excellent cushioning. Their trademark PWRRUN and PWRRUN+ midsoles offer superior shock absorption, which can reduce fatigue during long hikes. Many Saucony shoes also feature a FormFit footbed that adapts to the shape of your foot, providing a custom-like fit.
While these comfort features are great for trail running or walking, hiking can put more stress on the feet, especially when trekking over uneven or rocky terrain. In some cases, more cushioning or a more rigid design may be necessary for optimal support.
Durability for Trail Conditions
Durability is a major concern when it comes to hiking footwear. The shoes need to withstand rough, rocky trails, moisture, and other elements of nature. Saucony’s trail running shoes are often made with durable materials, such as rubber outsoles, which can handle trail conditions reasonably well.
However, compared to hiking boots, Saucony trail running shoes tend to be lighter, and while this is an advantage on well-maintained trails, they may not offer the same level of protection on more challenging hikes. Hiking boots typically offer reinforced uppers and sturdier construction, which can be crucial when trekking over rocky, muddy, or slippery terrain.
Traction and Grip
One of the most important features for hiking footwear is traction. Saucony shoes, particularly those designed for trail running, often have aggressive tread patterns to help with grip on uneven surfaces. The TRI-FLEX outsole design is intended to provide flexibility and traction, which works well for trails that are relatively smooth.
However, for more challenging hikes, such as those on steep or muddy trails, the grip offered by Saucony shoes may not be enough. Hiking boots typically have deeper lugs and a more rugged tread pattern, providing superior traction in more demanding environments.
Water Resistance
Hiking often takes you through wet conditions—whether it’s crossing streams, walking through morning dew, or encountering rain on the trail. Saucony shoes, particularly those meant for trail running, are not usually equipped with the same level of waterproofing found in hiking boots. While some models feature water-resistant uppers, these shoes are not designed to keep your feet dry in sustained wet conditions.
If you’re hiking in wet weather or on trails with a lot of water crossings, you may want to consider hiking boots that offer full waterproof protection through materials like GORE-TEX or similar waterproof liners.
Weight and Flexibility
A major benefit of Saucony shoes is their lightweight design. For shorter or less strenuous hikes, the reduced weight can be an advantage, allowing for quicker, more agile movements on the trail. This makes Saucony shoes particularly good for day hikes or trail runs.
However, when it comes to carrying a heavy pack or navigating difficult terrain, the flexibility and lightweight nature of Saucony shoes might not offer the support you need. Hiking boots, with their sturdier construction, provide more ankle support, which is crucial for preventing injuries during longer treks with heavy loads.
Breathability and Ventilation
Saucony shoes are typically designed with breathable mesh uppers, which help with ventilation and moisture management. This is great for warmer weather hikes, as it can prevent your feet from becoming too hot and sweaty. The moisture-wicking materials used in Saucony shoes help to keep your feet dry, reducing the risk of blisters and discomfort.
For longer hikes, particularly in humid conditions, breathability is an important feature. However, if you’re planning to hike in colder climates or wet environments, you may find that the ventilation in Saucony shoes isn’t sufficient to keep your feet warm and dry. In those cases, you might need shoes with more insulation or waterproof features.
4. Best Saucony Shoes for Hiking
Saucony has a number of models designed for trail running that could also work well for certain types of hikes. Some of the best options include:
Saucony Peregrine 13
The Peregrine series is one of Saucony’s most popular trail running models, and for good reason. The Peregrine 13 features a durable rubber outsole with multi-directional lugs for traction, making it a great option for moderate trails. It also offers great cushioning and stability, which can be helpful for longer hikes. While it isn’t fully waterproof, it performs well on dry to mildly wet trails.
Saucony Exodus 15
The Exodus is designed specifically for trail running, but it has some qualities that make it a solid option for hiking. The shoe has a more aggressive tread than the Peregrine and offers excellent cushioning with its PWRRUN midsole. The upper is reinforced to provide more durability, and it offers a snug fit for better control.
Saucony Canyon TR
The Canyon TR is another trail running shoe that works well for light to moderate hikes. Its lightweight design and grippy outsole make it ideal for well-maintained trails and short hikes. However, it lacks the waterproofing and ankle support of more traditional hiking boots.
5. When to Choose Saucony Shoes for Hiking
Saucony shoes can be a good choice for hiking in certain situations, such as:
Short to Medium Hikes: Saucony shoes are great for shorter hikes, particularly on well-maintained trails that don’t require heavy-duty boots.
Trail Running: If you’re an avid trail runner, Saucony’s trail running shoes offer excellent grip and comfort, making them ideal for faster-paced hikes or running on light trails.
Dry Conditions: For dry weather hikes, Saucony’s breathable mesh uppers and lightweight design can keep your feet comfortable and cool.
6. When to Choose Hiking Boots Instead
If you’re planning a hike that involves rough terrain, water crossings, or cold weather, hiking boots might be the better option. Hiking boots provide superior ankle support, durability, traction, and waterproofing that Saucony shoes may not offer.
Conclusion
Saucony shoes are a solid option for certain types of hiking, particularly for those who prioritize lightweight footwear, breathability, and comfort. They are a great choice for shorter, easier hikes or trail running, but they may not be the best option for more challenging conditions. For long hikes, wet environments, or difficult terrain, you may want to opt for more traditional hiking boots.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on the type of hiking you plan to do and the conditions you expect to face. With the right research and fit, Saucony shoes can be an excellent companion for many outdoor adventures.
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