The neon green Saucony Virrata 2 pair that I received were definitely bright and perfect for spring. The shoe is extremely lightweight. New to the Virrata 2 is a reconstructed upper, which provides slight structure to this minimal shoe, and sleeker \u201csportier\u201d graphics. Reflective graphics on the upper come in handy for shoe visibility in the dark.<\/p>\n
Immediately, I noticed the deep \u201ctriangular like grooves\u201d pattern of the outsole. For a minimal shoe, I was surprised at the depth of the grooves. Knowing that the Virrata is modeled similar to the Saucony Kinvara pair, I was intrigued to see what the Saucony team had in mind for this \u201clittle sister\u201d zero-drop version.<\/p>\n
This minimalist shoe is, well minimally structured. However, don\u2019t take it for granted! The Virrata 2\u2019s redesigned upper is constructed of extremely breathable mono mesh. The mesh is not only lightweight but handled its own during light rain showers. After a run in less than ideal weather, the mesh dried quickly and kept shape.<\/p>\n
For more inclimate weather or still early spring mornings, the breathable mesh was not in my favor as the wind cut through easily. The toebox is slimmer than other Saucony models, which I found favorable. I liked the added structure. It contours more to your foot and allows better control.<\/p>\n
The HydraMax collar lining offers cushioning and absorbs moisture. It creates friction against your socks, which controls them from sliding down during your run. The added fabric around the heel and collar gave a snug fit and helped the shoe conform to your foot. This small technology is a nice touch and added to the overall comfort.<\/p>\n
When Saucony says their shoe has an 0mm offset, they mean it. However, just because their drop-zero entry gives you the impression that you\u2019re running barefoot, it doesn\u2019t make you essentially have to feel every bump. The EVA+ midsole gives ample cushioning and protection.<\/p>\n
The midsole proved to offer strong shock absorption and the cushion helped the energy transition to create an efficient and fluid stride. Whether track, concrete, or road, the Virrata 2 provides a smooth ride.<\/p>\n
The XT-Carbon rubber outsole is generous, and is designed in a \u201ctriangular chunk\u201d grooved pattern. This pattern gives great flexibility to the outsole while its deep grooves give solid grip. The outsole pattern and composition provided strong traction in a variety of elements.<\/p>\n
Keep in mind that the composition of the outsole is made of midsole material, and it wore a little easier than typical outsole material. However, that is to be expected with extremely minimalist shoes, as the goal is to be lightweight and not offer structure\/durability.<\/p>\n
The grooves along the outsole opens up your stride, while creating minimal cushion, and creates efficient movement.<\/p>\n
Saucony takes their shoes seriously. From an internal standpoint, this crowd favorite hasn\u2019t changed, and Saucony keeps what works. Externally, Saucony tweaked the upper in the Virrata 2\u2019s for stronger support.<\/p>\n
This minimalist shoe is still something to be excited about, as it\u2019s zero-drop entry, comfortable cushion elements, and smooth ride technologies continues to make this a top favorite. Weighing in at a slim 6.4 ounces, this shoe gets you as close as you can to barefoot running with all the protection of a running shoe.<\/p>\n
Overall, its a fun running shoe both visibly and wearing. I would recommend this on anyone who wants a top performing low profile shoe for long distance runs or races.<\/p>\n
Weighing in at a slim 6.4 ounces, the Saucony Virrata 2 gets you as close as you can to barefoot running with all the protection of a running shoe<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":12582,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"verdict":"Weighing in at a slim 6.4 ounces, the Saucony Virrata 2 gets you as close as you can to barefoot running with all the protection of a running shoe","pros":"Extremely lightweightWe thank the nice people at Saucony for sending us a pair of Virrata 2 to test. This did not influence the outcome of the review, written after running more than 50 miles in them.<\/code><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"