The Saucony Xodus Ultra 4 Review & Lab Test of 2026

The Saucony Xodus Ultra 4 is a durable trail running shoe designed for heel strikers seeking enhanced stability. With a significant focus on performance, the shoe features a robust Vibram outsole that optimizes traction and durability in various conditions.

The incorporation of PWRRUN PB foam delivers a balanced mix of cushioning and responsiveness. This combination results in a stable platform for heel strikers, while midfoot and forefoot strikers benefit from effective shock absorption and smooth transitions.

Overall, the Saucony Xodus Ultra 4 is an excellent choice for runners prioritizing stability and comfort on challenging terrains.

Pros

  • Amazing bounce from PWRRUN PB foam
  • First Xodus Ultra with a Vibram outsole
  • Stable platform underfoot
  • Premium PWRRUN+ insole
  • Works well for hiking too
  • Full-length outsole coverage
  • Excellent for ultras
  • Fantastic traction on easy terrain

Cons

  • Weight is becoming a real problem
  • Tapered toebox fit
  • Small price increase
  • Weak heel padding durability

Key Features

  • Max Cushioning: Enhanced PWRRUN PB foam provides soft and bouncy cushioning for added comfort during long runs.
  • Durable Protection: The shoe features a chassis made of responsive PWRRUN material that ensures durability and protection against rough trails.
  • Exceptional Traction: Full coverage Vibram Mega-Grip outsole offers superior traction on various surfaces, ensuring you stay stable and secure.
  • Engineered Mesh Construction: High-strength mesh protects against dirt and debris while remaining lightweight in high-abrasion areas.
  • Gaiter Compatibility: D-Ring design allows for easy attachment of gaiters, enhancing the shoe's versatility on challenging trails.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole Material: Rubber
  • Outer Material: Mesh
  • Inner Material: Mesh

Saucony Xodus Ultra 4 Review & Lab Test – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Saucony Xodus Ultra 4 ASICS Trabuco Max 4 Brooks Caldera 8 New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9
Price $170 $160 $150 $155
Trail terrain Light Light Light Light
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 11 oz / 312g 11 oz / 312g 10.9 oz / 309g 10.9 oz / 309g
Drop lab Drop brand 6.5 mm 6.1 mm 8.8 mm 4.2 mm
Strike pattern Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Heel Mid/forefoot
Size - Half size small True to size Half size small
Midsole softness Soft Balanced Soft Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Normal Small Big Small
Toebox durability Decent Decent Bad Good
Heel padding durability Bad Good Good Good
Outsole durability Decent Decent Decent Good
Breathability Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Medium Medium Medium
Stiffness Moderate Stiff Moderate Stiff
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Stiff Stiff Stiff Moderate
Lug depth 3.5 mm 3.1 mm 3.6 mm 3.3 mm
Heel stack lab Heel stack brand 37.6 mm 39.3 mm 36.7 mm 37.3 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 31.1 mm 33.2 mm 27.9 mm 33.1 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Orthotic friendly
Ranking Bottom 45% Top 38% Top 25% Bottom 36%
Popularity Bottom 42% Top 30% Top 47% Top 8%