Brooks Cascadia 16 vs. Saucony Peregrine 12 (2022)
The Brooks Cascadia 16 is a versatile shoe favored by many trail runners, including Scott Jurek. The Saucony Peregrine 12, on the other hand, has a reputation for being a more stripped-down shoe with even better traction.
In 2022, the Cascadia 16 is heavier with 10.5 oz/298 g compared to 9.6 oz/272 g for the Peregrine 12 (the 11 was 10.9 oz/310 g, so there’s a clear improvement!) The Peregrine has increased but it doesn’t yet reach the level of the Cascadia: 27 mm heel stack height vs. 29 mm for the Cascadia.
In terms of underfoot feel, the Cascadia’s cushioning is softer than the Peregrine’s, which is known to be a firm shoe.
When it comes to the grip, the two shoes are almost equal. The Cascadia’s lugs are more shallow than the Peregrine’s (3.5 mm vs. 5 mm), but this doesn’t significantly impact the shoe’s performance, according to the testers.
Finally, the foot lockdown is tighter with the Peregrine. The Cascadia offers a very effective lockdown but is slightly softer and more comfortable.
Cascadia vs. Peregrine: which one should you choose?
We recommend the Brooks Cascadia 16, which offers a much better cushioning to weight ratio. It’s an advanced yet accessible shoe.
At over 10.9 oz/310 g, the Saucony Peregrine 11 is a bit too heavy. However, it may be more suitable for technical trails with its more aggressive lugs.
In 2022, the Peregrine 12 has improved so much in design and fit that it’s now a matter of personal preference. Runners who prefer firm cushioning will choose this one, while those who want a soft underfoot feel will go for the Cascadia.
Side-by-side comparison
Very good grip on all terrains
+ Softer, more flexible cushioning that continues to provide a good ground feel
+ Durable shoe
+ Looser upper for wide feet, without compromising on fit for others
+ Even more responsive ride
+ Good shock absorption
+ Effective foot protection
+ Flawless grip
– Stiff heel collar can be a hindrance
– Firm cushioning may not be suitable for everyone for long distances
Technical Specs
| Terrain | Trail | Trail |
| Pronation type | Neutral | Neutral |
| Heel drop | 8 mm | 4 mm |
| Lugs | 3.5 mm | 5 mm |
| Heel stack height | 29 mm | 27 mm |
| Forefoot stack height | 21 mm | 23 mm |
| Weight (men) | 298 g/10.5 oz | 272 g/9.6 oz |
| Weight (women) | 269 g/9.5 oz | 237 g/8.35 oz |
| Release year | 2021 | 2022 |
| Features | Gaiter attachment point, Available in GTX, Toe bumper, Wide feet, Rock plate, Vegan | Rock plate, Toe bumper, Available in GTX, Gaiter attachment point |
Technologies
| Outsole | TrailTack | PWRTRAC |
| Midsole | Ballistic Rock Shield, DNA Loft v2 | PWRRUN |
| Upper | Engineered mesh | Engineered mesh |
Cushioning
| Softness (1-5) | 4 – Soft | 2 – Firm |
| Bounce (1-5) | 3 – Moderate | 4 – Bouncy |
Use
| Speed | All | Moderate, fast |
| Distance | Mid, long, ultramarathon | Short, mid |
| Workout | Daily runs | Competition, daily runs |
