Head-to-head · Best Trail Running Shoes

Salomon Aero Glide 4 GRVL vs Saucony Peregrine 16

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Saucony Peregrine 16 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.4 vs 4.6). The gap is mostly about Stable trail runners seeking reliability — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #5 in Best Trail Running Shoes

Salomon Aero Glide 4 GRVL

4.4

11 sources1 derived

The Salomon Aero Glide 4 GRVL stands out in the gravel/hybrid shoe category with its lightweight build and updated upper design. Reviewers praised the QuickLace Neo system for ease of use and the secure fit provided by SensiFit and EndoFit structures. The OptiFoam 2 midsole delivers a comfortable ride suitable for both road and light trail use. While the thicker engineered mesh upper offers better support over the midsole, it reduces breathability. The shoe's bold colorway and sleek design make it a standout choice for runners seeking versatility without compromise, though its appearance may not suit those preferring more traditional aesthetics.

Strengths

— Lightweight design at 9.5 oz (270 g) for men's size M9
— QuickLace Neo system provides secure, easy adjustment without lacing complications
— SensiFit structure and EndoFit sleeve deliver lockdown fit and support

Watch-outs

— Upper material is less breathable due to thicker engineered mesh construction
— Snake-skin-inspired colorway may not appeal to all runners seeking understated aesthetics

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Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Trail Running Shoes

Saucony Peregrine 16

4.6

9 sources$149.95as of Sep 4

The Saucony Peregrine 16 delivers an updated iteration with the highly anticipated Vibram Megagrip outsole, significantly boosting traction and durability. Reviewers noted its stable, trustworthy performance across varied trail conditions, particularly on gravel roads and easier trails. While it maintains a low-drop design and secure fit, some reviewers observed a slight increase in weight and a tapered toebox that may not appeal to all users. The shoe remains a solid choice for longtime Peregrine fans and versatile trail runners seeking reliability and stability.

Strengths

— Vibram Megagrip outsole provides improved traction and durability
— Stable ride with secure, confidence-inspiring fit
— Premium PWRRUN+ insole offers comfortable foam padding

Watch-outs

— Slight weight gain compared to previous version
— Midfoot lockdown is inadequate

$149.95 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Salomon Aero Glide 4 GRVL

The Salomon Aero Glide 4 GRVL is lighter than the Hoka Challenger 8 and offers better lockdown than the Saucony Peregrine 16, but it's less cushioned than the Salomon Ultra Glide 4 and lacks the energy return of the La Sportiva Prodigio Pro. While it provides a secure fit with its QuickLace Neo system, it's not as versatile as the Nike ACG Pegasus Trail for daily training. The Aero Glide 4 GRVL is best for runners seeking lightweight versatility.

Saucony Peregrine 16

The Saucony Peregrine 16 provides better stability than the Adidas Terrex Agravic SL and more traction than the Nike ACG Pegasus Trail, but it's slightly heavier than the Salomon Aero Glide 4 GRVL and lacks the energy return of the La Sportiva Prodigio Pro. It's a reliable choice for trail runners seeking a stable, secure fit but isn't as dynamic as the Hoka Speedgoat 7.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Salomon Aero Glide 4 GRVL	Saucony Peregrine 16
Weight	9.5 oz (270 g) for US M9	9.6 oz / 271g
Upper Material	Engineered mesh	High-strength mesh
Midsole	OptiFoam 2	PWRRUN+
Stack Height	41 mm in heel, 33 mm in forefoot	32.0 mm heel, 28.0 mm forefoot
Drop	8 mm	4.0 mm
Outsole	Rubber with Gravel contaGRIP	Vibram Megagrip
Lug Depth	2.5 mm	4 mm
Toe Box	Regular	—
Upper	Textile	—

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