The Saucony Xodus Ultra 3 Review & Lab Test of 2026

The Saucony Xodus Ultra 3 is a versatile trail shoe designed for outdoor enthusiasts seeking stability and comfort on varied terrains. Its increased cushioning, featuring notable amounts of PWRRUN PB, enhances energy return, making it ideal for runners prioritizing comfort over speed.

The shoe's **maximized width** provides a secure fit, accommodating different foot shapes. However, the trade-off is a slight increase in weight and a decrease in agility during quick maneuvers.

Lab measurements confirm that this model offers a stable platform with its enhanced design, supporting performance across challenging landscapes.

Pros

  • More cushioning!
  • Plush and energetic midsole
  • Versatile across various terrains
  • Doubles as a hiking shoe
  • Highly breathable upper
  • Ready for ultras
  • Non-intrusive rock plate
  • Stable despite increased stack
  • Unique PWRRUN+ footbed

Cons

  • Lacks reflective elements
  • Weight increase
  • Reduced agility

Key Features

  • PWRRUN PB Foam: A thick layer of premium foam directly underfoot for an efficient and responsive feel.
  • PWRRUN Chassis: This supportive frame provides lightweight and durable protection.
  • PWRTRAC Rubber: Full coverage with newly formulated rubber that enhances grip and durability.
  • 4mm Lugs: Versatile lugs designed to provide excellent traction across various terrains.
  • Forefoot Rock Guard: Offers flexible protection to shield your feet from sharp objects on the trail.
  • Breathable Upper Mesh: Durable mesh that wicks moisture effectively and has a higher evaporation rate than standard meshes.
  • 4mm Offset: Provides a comfortable ride while maintaining a natural foot position.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Outer material: Mesh
  • Closure type: Lace-Up

Saucony Xodus Ultra 3 Review & Lab Test – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Saucony Xodus Ultra 3 Saucony Xodus Ultra 4 Hoka Mafate Speed 4 New Balance Fresh Foam X More Trail v3
Price $160 $170 $185 $160
Trail terrain Technical Light Moderate Moderate
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.7 oz / 302g 11 oz / 312g 10.3 oz / 293g 10.6 oz / 301g
Drop lab Drop brand 5.9 mm 6.5 mm 7.2 mm 7.1 mm
Strike pattern Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot
Size True to size - True to size True to size
Midsole softness Soft Soft Soft Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Normal Normal Normal
Plate Rock plate
Toebox durability Decent Decent Good Very bad
Heel padding durability Good Bad Good Decent
Outsole durability Good Decent Good -
Breathability Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Medium Narrow Narrow
Stiffness Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Stiff Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Stiff Flexible Moderate
Lug depth 4.3 mm 3.5 mm 3.9 mm 5.0 mm
Heel stack lab Heel stack brand 35.1 mm 37.6 mm 38.0 mm 38.6 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 29.2 mm 31.1 mm 30.8 mm 31.5 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Orthotic friendly
Ranking Bottom 47% Bottom 45% Top 36% Top 43%
Popularity Bottom 33% Bottom 42% Top 23% Top 6%