SAUCONY XODUS ULTRA 2 REVIEW - A SAUCONY TRAIL SHOE TRIUMPH! - EDDBUD

[@davebelcher8374]

The Xodus Ultra 1 was Loyd Purvis’s shoe of choice for TDS at UTMB last summer and he certainly had nothing but nice things to say in the aftermath.

[@EDDBUD]

It has a great deal on offer. A good balance between cushion and stability

[@davidrogers5443]

I was going to say the same thing.. Loyd Purvis is his go to trail shoe 👍. He used it for his last trail race last weekend. Running with the squirrels 🤣

[@michealGRuns]

I absolutely LOVE my V1’s !!! I even ran a 1:29 half-marathon on light trail with them, so they’re good for faster paces as well!!

[@EDDBUD]

There’s a recommendation right there!

[@bb4prelude73]

It's not the shoe. You are just a beast bro 😎

[@alexkhan2000]

Very cool, Ed. I have two pairs of the Xodus Ultra and a Peregrine 13 in constant rotation for my trail outings and I couldn't resist v2 (arriving later this week) although I still have plenty of miles left in the first version. It's been my favorite all-round trail shoe that handles virtually any type of terrain equally well. I guess there are a few that are lighter and faster, a few that are more grippy for the most technical trails, and a few that are more rugged for the most extreme conditions, but XU is always my first choice for the best combination of comfort, maneuverability, speed, ruggedness, and traction. The only thing about the XU is that the forefoot/toe-box area is a little too roomy and that the laces are a bit too stretchy, so I need to cinch down really hard for a secure lockdown. My understanding is that the XU2 is a little more snug in that area, which should make it virtually perfect for me for any type of trail run. The midsole with PWRRUN PB underneath and PWRRUN+ frame is so comfy yet stable and protective. To me, it's like the Lightstrike Pro for the trail in how it balances springiness and comfort with responsiveness and control. I have many trail shoes too (some which are good deal more expensive than the XU and XU2), and none of them feel and ride as good, including the Endorphin Edge that has the carbon plate. I do like the Hoka Mafate Speed 4 quite a bit as well - especially for the rocky technical trails - but XU is more comfortable for the long runs on a variety of terrains. Really excited about getting the Xodus Ultra 2. A little more snug fit with an improved upper and a much better looking aesthetics were all that I could have hoped for and it seems the XU2 delivers. The XU really is a rather boring looking trail shoe and this one looks a lot better. Now that the weather has warmed, I plan to run the trails more and also save the legs and feet from all the pounding on pavement and it seems XU2 will help me do exactly that! Cheers!

[@EDDBUD]

Ideal shoe for multi terrain. It’s an improved version of that endorphin trail from a while back. Glad it’s working out for you.

[@alexkhan2000]

@@EDDBUD Took it on a 10-mile run on the local mountain trails yesterday and, although my legs felt a little fatigued from a 13-mile road run the day earlier, the XU2 felt great and was exactly as I expected it to be. The XU2 upper is indeed a noticeable improvement over that of the XU with a more conforming fit in the forefoot/toe-box area and more breathable as well. The midsole and outsole felt the same, which is great since no upgrade was required there. The fit is right in between the XU and the Peregrine 13, which is virtually perfect. The XU2 is the best all-round trail running shoes IMO.

[@stephenparkinson4419]

470 miles covered in V1, love it with plenty of life left in them. V2 done about 50 miles, and the fit is even better. Super comfortable and can't see why I would try anything else. Using them for UTMB Val d'Aran start of July.

[@EDDBUD]

Glad they are hitting the spot

[@vnpunt]

Awesome, I'll be using them too for Val d'Aran next month. Which distance will you do and will you switch shoes in Beret?

[@anjalirawat5378]

How is the v1 on road?

[@WillH0724]

Saucony Xodus Ultra 2 (South Africa) My wife, a keen trail runner, has been an avid Saucony supporter for several years … recently, she started using the Xodus Ultra 2 trail shoes. Her first pair of the Ultra 2’s (bought November 2023) outer layer started tearing at about 200kms of use. We sent these in for investigation and Saucony South Africa’s first reaction was that it is her running style that was causing the tears ( she has been running for over 12 years now and used various competitive brands with no issues), however, Saucony ultimately replaced the shoes. These too failed … this time at 170km of use … same issue. So, we sent them back once more. Feedback was, the outer material might be tearing, but the inner membrane should stay intact … 🤷🏼‍♂️. Well the inner layer also started tearing a week later. We reached out to fellow runners, none of our group members run Saucony so we could not compare … Anyone else experience this? … the tears seem to start at the outer point of the toe crease.

[@EDDBUD]

Not seen much of this though I’m not the biggest trail runner in all fairness.

[@frozen_jug_band]

Another big fan of the v1 here, 370 miles and counting in my first pair with only minimal outsole wear and a slight loss of pop/bounce, possibly due to the insole compressing. I've used them on all sorts of terrain too, including rocky fell runs, muddy country paths, gravel tracks and a fair bit of tarmac too. Very stable despite the high stack and extremely comfortable over long distances. Only downside is the lug pattern can gather and hold quite a bit of mud, particularly in the UK winter/spring on sticky clay soil mud. Definitely the best all-around trail shoe I've used though and I've got a box fresh pair of v1s picked up on deep discount (65 Earth Credits) waiting to be used before I go for the v2. Think they're still available in limited sizes for around 70-80 ECs on the web, absolute bargain at that price. Saucony should definitely make their PWRRUN+ insoles available for standalone buy too (like Inov-8's boomerangs), though I suppose they're probably worried about the effect on new shoe sales!

[@ianfraser747]

I ran UTMB in the first iteration last year and never had to adjust or remove over the duration of the entire race. Incredible shoe, I just need to find somewhere that has a pair in my size. On a separate note, I`ve just bought a pair of the new North Face Infinite 2 and they're also a great shoe, worth testing out.

[@EDDBUD]

That’s another top seal of approval

[@pauldelaney4186]

V1 was great for me for the Lap (47 miles, 9,000 feet elevation) no blisters! I’ll definitely give the V2 a go when I see a discount later in the year 👍🏻

[@EDDBUD]

That’s a good seal of approval

[@alanorcharton8855]

Really enjoying the v1. Still feeling great after 150 miles of trail battering - I am wearing down the lugs at the back a bit. It got a nice rock plate too. Will defo pick up this v2 later in the season.

[@ianfraser747]

Mine lasted 450 miles, by far the best trail shoe I`ve ever had.

[@jozefberes250]

It's crazy what a crazy good 2022 year saucony had all of their shoes where great😮

[@EDDBUD]

Yes Saucony are doing good things

[@peterdaire8894]

Best trail shoe I’ve ever had, never want to wear anything else now, a rotation of one!

[@EDDBUD]

Yes it’s so good. A big and nice surprise this one.

[@EDDBUD]

Yes it’s so good. A big and nice surprise this one.

[@paulhammerton4385]

I purchased the Exodus 1, and it has been, by far, my best trail shoe. I used it for UTS this year, and it was Brill. It appears the Exodus 2 it a great upgrade 👍

[@EDDBUD]

Glad these are getting some limelight. Really nice shoe

[@ozenfant_ozn]

i'd love to watch you run a trail race, Edd.

[@EDDBUD]

It would be like a giraffe on ice.

[@SteevWho]

Hope they send you that new Rift from them. Looks to be the same midsole as the Endorphin Pro 3 but, without the Plate. I was a bit concerned with their outting last year with the Edge and that carbon plate on trails. I will be picking up a pair of the Rifts here in a couple of weeks when they release them. Seems as though the Xodus here, has been a good shoe, year over year. I like the new updated upper from last year.

[@EDDBUD]

I hope to try that one out. Good solid trail shoe this one

[@ericperramond3463]

My overall favorite trail shoe for '23 - I only wish that PWRTRAC was just a tad more durable; always wear out the back lugs within 30-40 miles on the lateral side. Great grip, just not as durable as VIBRAM or ASICSGRIP. Great shoe though. Fantastic review, cat!

[@EDDBUD]

Maybe they will go in for a vibram outsole in the future?

[@clivepreston2228]

Cheers Ed. I have these and the V1. They are an improvement on the V1 with a little more room in the toe box and much better heal coller and more dialled in lock down with the new upper. I can confirm they also drain well ! Great shoe

[@EDDBUD]

Very impressive so far Clive

[@mthuthuzelimsobantu5546]

V1 had high riding ankle sides that blistered my malleoli, step-in comfort and ride was phenomenal, hopefully they've corrected that issue

[@EDDBUD]

Didn’t feel anything like that here

[@EDDBUD]

Didn’t feel anything like that here

[@ianwarner1429]

I just bought this shoe online yesterday. Thanks for confirming it was the right choice as both you and Loyd like it.

[@EDDBUD]

Superb shoe. Does many things well

[@dlaforteza]

I have about 310 miles on the v1 and loved every mile in them. Looking forward to lacing up the v2!

[@jasondawson321]

I have the v1 and they performed really well on hundred hills centurion 50k this year, but on the three forts hill marathon I was wishing for more cushion on the day due to chalky hard trail. Maybe I was having a bad day. Overall great shoes in their trail line up👌👏

[@EDDBUD]

Gravel seems to be my nemesis. Saps my legs like nothing else!

[@carlstoakes6240]

Done 350miles in v1 and still looks/feels great. Up to 60miles in v2 & feels better fitting. V1 a bit more room in the upper. Did a 50k in v1 no issues. Have also just done 50m in Wildhorse 8 & think it's easily as good but the React a little more comfortable (slightly heavier though). Try that too!

[@EDDBUD]

React does seem to be a tad firmer. Also there’s loads of react versions I think. The peg trail vs infinity are almost different foams!

[@carlstoakes6240]

@@EDDBUD The Wildhorse 8 is definitely on the Peg Trail midsole firm/soft ness side.

[@robborrel6786]

Due to your video I just ordered a pair as a ‘hike/daily walk/incidental road work’ shoe. Thanks mate!!

[@EDDBUD]

Thanks for the support on the channel! Hope they do the trick for you. 👍🏼👊

[@rinolagace1298]

It’s my favorite trail shoe of all time

[@EDDBUD]

It’s right up there for me too

[@daveoly6947]

Doing some trail running this summer and I just got the xodus ultra 2. Cannot wait. I have always been a big Saucony fan either endorphin speed and pro.

[@sndrcve]

I’ve had v2 for about a week. Very comfortable and little to no blisters after 30m but, inside both trainers by the back of the heel the fabric has split (I bought half size bigger too). I will speak to Saucony support today to see what they can do.

[@EDDBUD]

Hope they will replace it for you

[@sndrcve]

Update: Customer service have been really helpful but unfortunately this trainer is now out of stock, they have offered a refund so all good.

[@paulbeckett3857]

Loved V1, used it for a technical 100km with 5000m of elevation and it did not disappoint. I’ve got an 85km on a buffed out hard packed trail soon and wondering if the V2 will be the right pick. Keen to try the new ultrafly too!!!

[@Guttezzz]

I had to look up what a Fjord is, can you do a follow up video after running on a Fjord with the Xodus to see how they perform. Apparently the closest Fjord is in Scotland.

[@bedillar]

I picked these up for a trail half marathon this summer... great shoes!

[@EDDBUD]

Glad you like them!

[@seanwise7464]

Version 2 a great shoe, instantly became my new favorite trail shoe and knocked my speedgoats out of the rotation.

[@EDDBUD]

Yes they hit all the right notes

[@ericfenske1138]

I wish this shoe was exactly how it is in the upper and midsole with a less aggressive outsole. Like. 3-3.5mm lug depth and less rubber coverage. Something like the Salomon Ultraglide.

[@philiprudd1697]

Thanks Mr Budd for an insightful review. V1 has great feel under step, but the ankle collar pokes my outer ankle bone at times, mostly when walking and descending. Hoping V2 has a little friendlier collar, as everything else is tremendous. Agree that the laces are crazy long, and it lacks the locker loop the Peregrine has, because it has that debris shield instead.

[@EDDBUD]

The v2 doesn’t dig in round there. Maybe they minimised it a little

[@patrickvanderwal6324]

I think you would love the Endorphin Edge as well.

[@alanpelosi2955]

Hi eddbud 👊, wow it did better then some road shoes of late 👍👍👍

[@EDDBUD]

Yes it does, much more cushion and comfort than loads of others.

[@nicograf9745]

I‘ve got three pairs of the V1. I put about 2000 km total on them. I just ran a 81k race in them this weekend. Fantastic shoe. Very durable for me. Just hit 800km on one pair and they are still OK to use. I‘d love to get the V2 to replace one of the V1‘s, but I can‘t seem to find them in the EU without overpaying. Anyone know when availability will improve? Thanks for the review BTW.

[@EDDBUD]

Glad you enjoyed the review. Stock seems a bit patchy on these on the EU

[@CarlosChaconCostaRica]

Looks like a great shoe! I went for the Endorphin Edge, however, and I am really liking it!

[@EDDBUD]

They have hit a rich vain of form in trial offerings

[@ellleigh1216]

Love the xodus ultra, great shoe. Definitely be keen to see what you think of the Altra lone Peak 7, completely different kind of shoe but that and xodus are my fave trail shoes atm

[@bhky]

Thanks for the review! Indeed good looking shoe as well!

[@EDDBUD]

It’s got lots for the price and easily the best trail shoe I’ve tried.

[@konalux06]

Too bad they went back to a more narrow toe box on the 2.

[@Majide10]

Hey Edd. Great review as always. I’d love to hear more about how the upper fits your specific foot shape. I have a similar foot size to you (UK 11-11.5) and I’m always between sizes, so knowing if there is a bit of extra room or if you have to really tighten it down helps me know if I should try one or the other size. Thanks

[@EDDBUD]

It’s a little more spacious than the speed 3.

[@jamescushing7704]

Just what I needed. Great review 👏

[@EDDBUD]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jamescushing7704]

I have to say mate, your reviews are spot on. Always focusing on the ‘useful’ and key points in a brilliant way. Trusted reviewer status for sure 👏👏

[@bradrichards3472]

Mate what have you done 🤦‍♂️ I was all set to use my New Balance Hierro v7 for my snowdon marathon next month.. now this is making me question my choice 😂 oh the pain of having too many shoes to choose from

[@immortalrob1630]

Thanks! See you at Martock

[@EDDBUD]

You bet! Thanks for the support 👍🏼👊

[@vnpunt]

Thanks a lot, Ed. Greetings from Amsterdam here. I was wondering what shoe size you usually have for saucony. I also have the xodus ultra 2 and ran the Canyons 100k in the size 11 even though for most Saucony shoes I have a size 11.5 This was just better, the 11.5 had way too much space in the heel and in the front for my liking. Now I do have to say that I probably tend to go for smaller sizes than others as I have narrow feet and it feels more secure. Thanks again and I just subscribed to your channel.

[@EDDBUD]

I find that for trail shoes sometimes I need a half up. But my uk 11 were perfect.

[@robertarmero6320]

I got v1 and I thought that a road version would be amazing

[@EDDBUD]

I would imagine something is in the works.

[@gileseveringham6851]

Anyone tried the Merrall Agility Peak 5 too? Lyod Purvis seems to be the only person who has. I'm torn between the two. I need something for all surfaces, grip not quite as important as springing and comfort for me. Tempo Next % are my go tos.

[@EDDBUD]

I’m finding the Boston 12 quite reminiscent of the tempo

[@gileseveringham6851]

@@EDDBUD hi Edd, I saw your review on the Boston 12 and I'm going to check them out for sure, thank you 🙂...I got a bit distracted enroute and ended up buying a new pair of Adizaero Takumi Sen 9s, which I think you've favourably reviewed too? They were prioritised following a "customisation" my brother's made to his, as he's not managed to find the perfect parkrun weapon of choice 😂. I don't understand why there seems to be such a void between road and trail in shoe design. Surely a gap in the market? Either a comfortable trail or a more grippy road 🤓. Until then, it's home made Frankenstein's with rubber studs and glue 😂🙃. Perhaps worth an Edd special feature? Btw your KZbin channel is great 👍👍👍. All the best, Giles.

[@davidh5429]

Might be better then my Vaporfly Gyakusou. Most grip in the park comes from debris digging into the zoomx rather then the rubber digging into the ground.

[@EDDBUD]

Yes zoomx is perhaps the most fragile of foams

[@EDDBUD]

Yes zoomx is perhaps the most fragile of foams

[@owenlewis9258]

I am very interested in the Rift 🤔

[@dougsphoto]

Hi E thx for the video nut will it absorb water as its winter in Norway and I have to keep my feet dry thx

[@EDDBUD]

Perhaps go for a more dedicated goretex offering for that

[@dougsphoto]

@@EDDBUD Ok then I'll just keep the Saucony Ride 15 GTX which I have been running in thx

[@lorieengustian4820]

Thanks for the great review! I'd like to pick up XU v1 while they are at a great sale price now. I normally take a women's 9.5 in Saucony ( I have Peregrine 11). I have an average width but very narrow heel. Should I get a size 9 in XU v1? TY

[@EDDBUD]

Felt true to size to me.

[@pedrorelvao4117]

How does it compare to the Speedgoat 5 ir the Hierro v7?

[@EDDBUD]

Haven’t tried those other models sadly.

[@DavidHust]

When I wear this shoe it feels like there is some heel slippage. Size seems good though. Do you feel any heel slippage when walking or running?

[@EDDBUD]

Nothing for me at all

[@michaelalbrecht3395]

I prefer the peregrine 12

[@Formerly-known-as-Steve]

Slowly climbing the podium maybe, I was doing some work…

[@EDDBUD]

🥈

[@Stevenc1984]

If you're heading out in to the countryside you might bump in to Lady Ridgemere. How much is that doggy in the window? 🐈

[@EDDBUD]

I’ve got a nice Queen Anne cabinet if your interested?

[@elliotendures]

Been considering this one as a winter shoe for snow/ice days. I'm a 100% road runner, so not sure if overkill. How's it held up for you?

[@EDDBUD]

Ok though it never gets too slick out here.

[@jenniferswicegood4455]

What is the performance difference between the Xodus and the Peregrine?

[@EDDBUD]

Will review the peregrine soon

[@denho8944]

Thanks Ed. What would you say the outsole grip on wet rocky trails and how would you compare with Speedgoat 5 outsole grip on a technical trail?

[@EDDBUD]

Haven’t much experience in the speedgoat 5 so can’t comment here too much.

[@denho8944]

@EDDBUD ok. Thx. Please do share your thoughts how is this Xodus Ultra 2 compare with other shoes with vibram mega grip. thx

[@scrubsr1304]

​@Den Ho Sadly there is no comparison. Vibram mega grip is the gold standard when it comes to traction on wet terrain. I have the Xodus Ultra 2(love it btw) and immediately switch to my Topo Pursuit or Mtn Racer 2 when conditions are wet.

[@denho8944]

@@scrubsr1304 Thanks for your feedback. Cheers.

[@MadLadsAnonymous]

No experience, but the best comments I've seen for wet rocky trails have been around the VJ Ultra 2. If you can find a sizing that allows the use of Inov8 Boomerang insoles, you're golden.

[@martinmcgrath1985]

Any idea if runnerinn reliable site bud

[@EDDBUD]

Never bought anything from them so can’t comment

[@martinmcgrath1985]

@@EDDBUD one last question thanks for the reply bud love the channel.. Do Nova blast3 get better with runs..worn maybe 5 times and seem quite clumpy/heavy…👍

[@user-zs2tm4cw3o]

38 or 32.5 mm stack in the rear?

[@EDDBUD]

Mine was 38. I think the sample size is closer to 33 ish.

[@cheekster777]

Hi

[@EDDBUD]

🥇

[@RowOfMushyTiT]

360p?

[@EDDBUD]

The videos take an age to process these days