I swapped my heavy hiking boots for these Saucony trainers in the Alps – they're light, comfy, supportive and now under £100

Over the summer in Chamonix, I spent dozens of hours running and hiking trails and mountain paths, testing the best trail running shoes and walking shoes. The Saucony Peregrine 16's improved grip and secure fit made them a pick of the bunch.

I tackled steep, rocky trails and long, muddy paths in these shoes, and I was really impressed with the traction and all-day comfort. The snug upper wrapped around my midfoot, giving me confidence on all terrains, and the foam underfoot offered spring without sacrificing ground feel.

The Saucony Peregrine 16 could use a little more toe protection, and the tapered toe box means I'd suggest sizing up if you have wider feet, but otherwise I'd give these top marks. It's a reliable, durable shoe for less-beaten paths, whether you're walking or running.

Saucony Peregrine 16 trail shoes review

Specifications

• Size range: 3 - 10
• Weight: 216g per shoe
• Stack height: 32 mm - 28 mm
• Heel-to-toe drop: 4 mm
• Lug depth: 3.5 mm
• Waterproof version available: Yes

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Saucony Peregrine 16 Trail Running Shoes: was £139 now £75 at Sports Direct UK

Available in sizes 4 to 8 in this colourful pastel pink and bright orange colourway, this is the cheapest I've seen the Peregrine 16 on sale so far.

They are also available in blue and orange in the same size range from Sports Direct.

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What are the Saucony Peregrine 16 Trail shoes like for running?

As soon as I put these shoes on, I was impressed with how secure they felt. The last pair of shoes that really hugged my foot like this were the Hoka Speedgoat 6s, but these felt much more comfortable and less stiff.

I put this down to the moderate cushioning underfoot. It's definitely enough for running or walking for a few hours on the trails, but I could still feel the trail variations, which always helps me feel more connected to the ground when I'm on the move.

These shoes felt really comfortable thanks to the moderate amount of cushioning underfoot. It’s definitely enough for running or walking for a few hours on the trails. Once I got out in them, I liked how I could still feel the trail variations underfoot. It helps me feel more connected to what I’m running on, and I can respond better to the trail surface. The foam midsole is responsive too, and even though the shoe has a rock plate for protection, there’s enough flex that I felt like I was rolling along.

The mesh upper makes these fairly breathable, and even in warmer temperatures in Chamonix, I didn’t get overly hot feet. It also repels mud and dirt really well, so even though the ones I’m wearing have mostly white uppers, they still look good after a few muddy dashes.

The lace garage, which I think should be mandatory on all trail shoes, stopped the long grass from untying my laces. It's even more helpful now I’m back in Scotland, where the trails are more overgrown.

Striking a good balance between a maximalist shoe with superior cushioning and support and a barefoot shoe, it's hard for me to imagine someone who wouldn't enjoy running in the Saucony Peregrine 16 shoes. However, they may not be ideal for anyone with wider feet. For wider options, I'd recommend the Keen Seek trail shoe or my other budget-friendly favourite, the Merrell Morphlite running shoe.

What are the Saucony Peregrine 16 Trail shoes like for hiking?

The Saucony Peregrine 16 shoes aren’t as light as my Hoka Speedgoat 6s, but they are supremely comfortable and a great lightweight hiking shoe for when you don't want the bulk of traditional walking shoes, whether that's because it's the summer months, you're going for a stroll, or you're packing light for an active holiday.

The real selling point of this shoe for both hikers and runners is the amazing grip. This is the first time that Saucony has used a Vibram outsole on the Peregrines, and it fully covers the bottom of the shoe, leaving no foam exposed. The lugs have tiny fins for added traction. While you might want something more rugged for really sloppy trails, I’ve had no issues on crumbly rock, wet grass and a little mud. I can walk quite nimbly and confidently.

While they come in bright colourways, the shoe has a discreet profile and passes as a regular pair of trainers, making them a good option for a walking workout as much as a proper hike.

I do wish the toes had a little more protection, though. Moving on rocky trails increases the chance of stubbing my toes, and the tapered toe box does shave off some room. I think sizing up would be a good idea, as long as you can keep the lovely snug fit around the midfoot.

Who are the Saucony Peregrine 16 Trail shoes made for?

This shoe is a great all-rounder, balancing comfort with trail feel, and performance-ready traction with a nice, not-too-sporty aesthetic. I tested them in the White/Navy colourway. With its light splash of colour, it’s not too outrageous to wear with regular clothes or to the airport.

They’re pretty snappy, but not so stacked that I feel like I’m running on stilts as I find with some cushioned running shoes. For that reason, they work for long, slow plods and short, fast-paced jaunts. They’re highly capable on many types of terrain, but they won’t save your run in really muddy conditions.

I think they’re a great choice for anyone who wants one pair of shoes that will work for both hiking and trail running. The Peregrine 16s are priced right in line with other high-performing all-rounder trail shoes, including the Hoka Speedgoat 7 and 6, and the Brooks Cascadia 19.