What happens when a lightweight racer takes to the trails? The Saucony Peregrine.

The Saucony Kinvara has received a lot of praise in it's own right as a very light weight, bouncy and minimal road racing and training shoe that looks sharp as a tack. Weighing only 7.7 oz, the Kinvara flies fast and has an amazingly light and airy ride. This is great for a fast tempo or for intervals on the track but as I think about pounding out a long run I start to imagine ripping the the paper thin mesh to shreds, crushing the light as a feather foam and scuffing up those pearly white uppers. Now add only 1.4 oz of durability, versatility and protection and you have yourself the Saucony Peregrine, and the happy mix between a flexible minimalist and the bulky, over-protective feel of structured shoes.

The Saucony Peregrine is a light weight trail burner that wears tough and rides smooth. With closed mesh fabric and synthetic leather webbing on the same cut nd snug fit of the Kinvara, the Peregrine provides a greater amount of control for a responsive feel that is essential for a good trail shoe.

The tissue paper feel of he Kinvara has been upgraded to a protective and reliable mesh that you feel safe in pushing on even the most technical trails... and also through the most extreme elements. With a Gusseted Tongue, Hydrator Collar Lining and gaiter compatibility the Peregrine can trek through mud, snow and shine.

Memory Foam heel pods and a small decrease in the wider-than-average forefoot that is typical of Saucony creates a very snug, secure and locked in feel from toe to heel. In true minimalist style the 4 mm heel drop of the Kinvara is maintained in the Peregrine and matches that of the hugely popular New Balance Minimus. This keeps you close to the trail and well balanced.

The SSL EVA and ProGride LITE midsole foam is very cushy and responds well to rocks, roots and other obstacles and the External Bedrock Outsole provides protection and a touch of stability through its rugged composition. Aggressive lugs and a High Traction Carbon Compound Rubber keep you from slipping up or falling down and in control of the trail.

Ultimately the Peregrine offers subsantial protection and support in a light, flexible package. You can develop strength and coordination with the light minimalist characteristics, but keep running all those big miles without overextending your muscles and legs with plenty of cushioning. A snug fit, great protection and a low-profile, cushy shoe that is responsive yet sturdy. The balanced and versatile Saucony Peregrine may just provde to be one of the biggest crowd pleasers of 2011.