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I spent a good part of this summer testing the Saucony Xodus Ultra 4 on Michigan trails, and it quickly became one of my favorite trail running shoes. The shoe immediately impressed me with its combination of cushioning, comfort, and durability on rough terrain. Whether I was running on sandy paths, rocky singletrack, or muddy sections, the Xodus Ultra 4 performed consistently well and gave me confidence on every step.
Fit and Comfort of the Saucony Xodus Ultra 4
The fit of the Xodus Ultra 4 was great from the start. I wear a size 12.5, and the shoe fit true to size with plenty of room in the forefoot. That extra space lets my toes move naturally and keeps my feet comfortable during longer runs, when they tend to swell. The shoe hugs the midfoot and heel well without feeling tight or loose.
The upper is made from a strong, breathable mesh. It does a great job of keeping out dirt and debris without making my feet feel hot or sweaty, even on warm, humid mornings. Padding around the heel and tongue adds comfort without unnecessary bulk. The heel collar holds my foot securely, and I did not need any special lacing tricks to get a good fit. Once I laced them up, I could focus on my run without thinking about my shoes.
Cushioning and Ride
The cushioning on the Xodus Ultra 4 is where this shoe really stands out. Saucony uses a foam called PWRRUN PB surrounded by a frame of PWRRUN foam that creates a soft but responsive feel. The shoe absorbs impact well on rocky and root-covered trails but still gives me a good sense of the ground beneath my feet. The ride feels smooth and comfortable over long distances.
The shoe helps reduce fatigue during long runs by cushioning my feet without feeling mushy or slow. The protection underfoot lets me run with confidence on uneven surfaces while keeping my legs fresh. I like the Xodus Ultra 4 better than the Peregrine 15 I tested earlier this season because of this plush cushioning and extra room. It gives me the support I need on long miles without feeling heavy or stiff.
Grip and Traction on the Saucony Xodus Ultra 4
The outsole of the Xodus Ultra 4 has Vibram MegaGrip with 4 millimeter lugs that provide strong traction on many trail surfaces. I have run on loose gravel, sand, roots, rocks, and muddy spots, and the shoe held firm on all of them. The lugs are aggressive enough to grip soft terrain but not so tall that they slow me down on harder ground.
I felt confident running downhill on tricky sections and climbing steep hills without slipping. The outsole also sheds mud effectively, maintaining traction even after rain or on swampy trails. Having reliable grip like this means I can focus on running fast and safely instead of worrying about my footing.
Saucony Xodus Ultra 4 Durability and Build Quality
After more than 100 miles of use on different trails and some pavement, the Xodus Ultra 4 still looks and feels solid. The upper mesh has no tears or damage, and the overlays that add support have held up well. The outsole shows only small signs of wear, and the cushioning still feels fresh without compressing.
I appreciate the small details, like the reinforced toe bumper that protects my toes from rocks and roots. The shoe also features a gaiter hook at the front, which helps keep dirt and small stones out when used with compatible gaiters. Overall, the shoe feels well built and ready to handle many more miles of tough trail running.
Who Should Choose the Xodus Ultra 4
The Xodus Ultra 4 is great for runners who spend long hours on dirt, gravel, and light technical trails. It works well for ultramarathoners, marathon trainees, and weekend trail runners looking for a durable and comfortable shoe for long runs. It is especially good for people who want extra cushioning and foot protection without giving up a lively ride.
Hikers and fastpackers who need a shoe that combines comfort, grip, and ruggedness will also find the Xodus Ultra 4 a good option. It adapts well to many types of terrain and conditions, making it a versatile choice for anyone who spends time off road.
Final Thoughts
At $160, the Saucony Xodus Ultra 4 offers great value as a trail running shoe built for comfort, durability, and performance. It fits true to size with a roomy toe box and secure midfoot and heel hold. The cushioning protects your feet on rough ground without making the shoe feel soft or unstable. The Vibram MegaGrip outsole gives you the confidence to tackle a variety of surfaces with steady traction.
Whether you’re logging long training runs, chasing ultramarathon goals, or enjoying weekend trail outings, the Xodus Ultra 4 is a reliable and comfortable shoe. It has earned a permanent place in my rotation, and I plan to keep running in it for many more miles. To learn more or check out a pair of the Saucony Xodus Ultra 4s, visit saucony.com, rei.com or amazon.com.