Saucony Progrid Xodus 3.0 GTX Shoes

The Xodus has always been a top-end off-road shoe with bags of grip, thanks to the Vibram outsole and protection from the elements. However, Saucony have now made the one improvement possible by adding a Gore-Tex upper option. This is the first time that specialist running company have teamed with Gore to provide a guaranteed waterproof, breathable running shoe. The upper has a Gore-Tex lining and is seam sealed to provide waterproofing (up to the lace and foot-holes of course!!), providing dry comfortable running for as long as you need it!

Away from the new GTX option, the Xodus is Saucony’s collaboration with outdoor outsole manufacturer Vibram. Pick up any decent walking boot and you’ll see the Vibram hexagon adorning the outsole. Recognising that many off-road running shoes are left wanting when it comes to traction, Saucony have used a lightweight flexible outsole in the last two versions of the Xodus. Now in version 3.0 they have really ramped up the lugging to give great grip both in mud and trail, but also on wet tarmac often the downfall (literally) of hard, carbon rubber based outsoles.

However, the Xodus has never been just about the grip, it’s also the fit and the cushioning. Now with ProGrid Lite, the Xodus 3.0 is over 20 skinnier than its predecessor, it’s also closer to the ground, utilising Saucony’s minimalist 4mm heel-to-toe drop giving you great stability and control, even over rough terrain.

Protection was also a major consideration when building the Xodus with the EBO plate protecting the foot from sharp stones, tree roots and other objects underfoot. This is coupled with the bootie construction to keep debris out of the shoe itself and the outsole wrap which holds the foot securely but also provides another layer of protection.