Saucony Kinvara 12 Review Analysis (2022)
Last update: [wpdts-month-name] [wpdts-year]
Check out the latest release: Saucony Kinvara 13!
The Saucony Kinvara 12 is a very good lightweight running shoe for daily training.
The Consensus
Technologies
Outsole
- The outsole of the Saucony Kinvara 12 is equipped with exposed foam from the midsole to ensure a more flexible ride by reducing the quantity of rubber. Such setup can worsen the durability of the shoe but overall midsole foams have become sturdier so this is less of a problem.
- Sturdy rubber covers the strategic contact zones to protect the shoe and increase grip, especially on wet surfaces
- Flex grooves helps athletes to transition more smoothly from heel to toes by enabling the shoe to follow the movement of the foot.
Midsole
- The midsole features PWRRUN, a lightweight and responsive EVA and TPU-based foam thats equips the entire midsole.
Upper
- The Saucony Kinvara 12’s upper uses an engineered mesh that provides a secure and comfortable foot lockdown.
- The FormFit technology translates into discreet overlays and anatomical design to provide a targeted and pleasant fit.
- The gusseted tongue stays in the middle to run worry-free and has just the right thickness and length for optimal comfort.
Facts
Technical Specs
| Terrain | Road |
| Pronation type | Neutral |
| Drop | 4 mm |
| Heel stack height | 28 mm |
| Forefoot stack height | 24 mm |
| Features | Lightweight |
| Weight (men) | 219 g/7.7 oz |
| Weight (women) | 183 g/6.5 oz |
| Fit | Wide feet |
| Release year | 2021 |
Cushioning
| Softness (1-5) | 2 – Firm |
| Bounce (1-5) | 2 – Low |
Technologies
| Outsole | Exposed foam, sturdy rubber, flex grooves |
| Midsole | PWRRUN |
| Upper | Engineered mesh, FormFit, gusseted tongue |
Use
| Speed | Slow, moderate |
| Distance | Mid, long, 10k, half marathon, marathon |
| Workout | Daily runs |
Reference: Saucony’s official website
Comparisons – Saucony Kinvara 12 vs.:
Saucony Kinvara 11
Testers deemed the K12 a step in the right direction compared to the K11. The latter was more stable but less flexible. The K12 is lighter, and its cushioning is firmer and offers a better ground feeling. Overall, runners found the Kinvara 12 more in line with the original spirit of the range.
Saucony Freedom 3
These two shoes have a similar weight and the same stack height. However, the cushioning of the Freedom is softer, and the lockdown is more stretchy. If you prefer a model with a precise lockdown and firm cushioning, we recommend the Kinvara; otherwise, choose the Freedom.
Saucony Ride 13
These two shoes have different profiles with the Kinvara and its lightweight build and effective but firm cushioning. On the other side, the Ride is more of a cruiser with comfortable cushioning for long distances. If you want a decently cushioned shoe with a good ground feel, the Kinvara is for you. If you’re looking for a more versatile configuration that’s comfortable in all conditions, choose the Ride.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, until now, we haven’t seen notes from athletes suggesting that the fit is surprising. Therefore, you can buy your usual size for running shoes. However, if this your very first pair of Saucony shoes, it may be a good idea to give them a try in-store to avoid surprises.
Yes, this shoe should be suitable for everyone. Indeed, it’s a neutral running shoe. As such, it aims to suit all athletes regardless of their pronation type. It’s not equipped with support aids to correct the movement and help with overpronation. That doesn’t really matter, though: there’s no proof that stability shoes can decrease injury risk. We only recommend them if you find them more comfortable than their neutral counterparts.
Yes, this model should be suitable for everyone as it features a moderate to high stack height with 28 mm under the heel and 24 mm under the forefoot. According to science, heavyweight runners are mostly at risk when using minimalist shoes. The Saucony Kinvara 12 is not a minimalist model, so it should be safe for all runners.
Let’s remember that the most important criterion to choose what shoes to wear during your marathon competition should be your personal preference. In theory, any running shoe could be a good fit. Having said that, some testers mentioned that the cushioning of the K12 is quite firm, which may not be comfortable for runners who prefer a plush feel underfoot, especially for such a long distance like the marathon.
