Details
Brand
Saucony
Heel To Toe Drop
4mm
Breathability
6/10
Latest Version
Yes
Terrain
Road
Type
Racing
Key Features
• FLEXSHELL water repellent upper material• TRI-FLEX outsole• XT-900 carbon rubber• Saucony’s iBR+ rubber• FLEXFILM inserts in the upper• EVERUN heel inserts• SSL EVA midsole
Upper
FLEXSHELL water-resistant upper in the Kinvara 7 Runshield differs from totally waterproof membranes but gives enough protection from rain and snow. DWR water-repelling technology that covers all the upper works to keep the shoes dry without compromising their breathability and weight. The strong yet lightweight material called FLEXFILM adds the upper more seamless and flexible support. The design is completed with a Rundry collar lining, also intended to protect from moisture. All these features lock out moisture making Kinvara 7 Runshield a good choice for seasons with the cold or unstable weather.
Midsole
The midsole of this shoe incorporates old and new solutions that help evenly distribute weight and impact at every step. It is entirely covered with SSL EVA, Saucony’s upgrade of the normal EVA that increases both the cushioning and the durability of the shoe without compromising the shoes’ light weight. The main improvement in the model is a wedge of foam (the same foam from the midsole) placed in the heel of the shoe. The technology called EVERUN greatly improves responsiveness and gives even more durability.
Outsole
Saucony Kinvara 7 Runshield has a revamped outsole with the newly released TRI-FLEX design that incorporates a multitude of grooves for better flexibility. Added angular rectangular pods provide improved traction and ground contact. Areas most likely to experience wear are reinforced with light, but durable XT-900 carbon rubber. Saucony’s own iBR+ rubber around the mid-foot area gives better cushioning and smoother transitions. The new outsole construction incorporating all the latest Saucony’s technologies makes it exceptionally durable and stable on different terrains. At the same time, the outsole stays as flexible and lightweight as previous Kinvara models.
Breathability
Some users had complained about breathability in the Kinvara 6 Runshield compared to normal Saucony Kinvara 6. So far, there have been no such complains about the Kinvara Runshield 7. Its water-resistant upper breathes well enough, though it may be not perfect for running in high temperatures.
Comfort
The Kinvara 7 Runshield boasts the same good feel and comfort that is signature for the Kinvara line. However, the trainers do not mold to the feet like “summer” models, leaving some room for thicker socks. However, the fit is adequate. The fit is characterized by a secured heel, snug midfoot and a bit more spacious forefoot. The Kinvara 7 is supposed to work for different types of feet while still providing a secure fit.;Some runners noted that the new upper takes some time to break-in before getting that “perfect fit”. However, the period is very short. Most of the users especially enjoy the additional comfort of the new Saucony’s SSL EVA foam material in the midsole. A new locking mechanism placed under the shoes’ laces that helps keep its tongue in place, adding to the overall comfort of the shoe.
Style
The Kinvara 7 Runshield looks as sleek and stylish as the other models of the series. However, it is available in only 2 color combinations: Red/Black/Silver for men and Sky/Blue/Slime for women.
Durability
The Saucony Kinvara line has kept its base of loyal followers since its introduction in 2010. However, Kinvara fans often complained about the durability issues of the shoes. With Kinvara 7 Runshield, this is not a problem anymore. While staying as light as its predecessors, this model has a very good durability from outsole to upper.
Protection
With added weather protection and better support and cushioning, the Kinvara 7 Runshield provides good protection while still providing a minimalist feel with its low drop and solid ground feel. This is a good trainer for those looking for something in between a traditional and minimalistic running shoe.
Responsiveness
The Kinvara 7 Runshield provides natural responsive feel thanks to EVERUN heel insert and SSL EVA material in the midsole. Working in tandem, the technologies not only enhance the durability of the shoes but also give them more support and responsiveness.
Support
In previous Kinvara models, some runners complained that the shoe was not supportive enough. The problem is solved in the Kinvara 7 Runshield. It is exceptionally stable, especially for such a lightweight shoe. The support comes from the EVERUN inserts placed under the heels as well as the relatively low heel-to-toe drop. The heels are also equipped with memory foam pads that help keep your heels in place. The FLEXFILM outer inserts add more support by hugging the feet and preventing excessive movements.
Terrain
The Kinvara 7 Runshield is a road and a track shoe. The carbon rubber outsole has enough grips to provide traction on a variety of surfaces, including light trail. However, overall, it has performed best on smooth surfaces.
Price
The Saucony Kinvara has always been a high quality affordable price. The Kinvara 7 Runshield is also a good price, especially taking into account the number of improvements and newest technologies incorporated into the shoe.
Drop
The Kinvara 7 Runshield has a 4 mm heel-toe drop. If you are transitioning from shoes with a higher drop, you may need some time to adjust to the lower drop.
Stability
Kinvara shoes are designed to be more of a “minimalistic” shoe, and the Kinvara 7 Runshield is no exception. It is not a stability shoe. However, thanks to the incorporated features and technologies, such as the EVERUN inserts under the heels, the 4 mm heel-toe drop, and FLEXFILM outer, the model provides more than enough support and stability for a shoe of this type.
Flexibility
From the carbon rubber sole to the upper, exceptional comfort and flexibility are provided. The FLEXSHELL and FLEXFILM materials of the outer give the Kinvara 7 Runshield protection and support, but at the same time, can stretch and move naturally with your foot. Some runners note that the upper in the model is relatively stiff compared to previous Kinvara models.
Traction
The XT-900 carbon rubber outsole reinforced with angled rectangular pods and iBR+ rubber inserts in the midfoot area work together to provide good traction. These technologies ensure good grip with a variety of surfaces.
Bottom Line
Weather protected and durable, though still lightweight, flexible and responsive, the Kinvara 7 Runshield is another worthy addition to the family of Saucony’s iconic minimalistic running shoes. In this iteration, the company’s engineers and designers solved most of the problems of the previous models. Runners had issues with previous model’s about the durability of the upper, but the FLEXSHELL material in the Kinvara 7 Runshield solved that problem, providing durability while remaining lightweight. A number of additional features make the Kinvara 7 Runshield more stable, responsive and overall advanced affordable running shoes.;Many runners had hoped for a shoe that would provide good protection during colder weather, and luckily, the Kinara 7 Runshield is perfect for that. However, the Saucony Kinvara 7 Runshield may not be the best choice for running during the hot summer. The shoes are still very light and breathable but may retain heat when the outside temperatures are high. Apart from this, the updates of the shoe are definite improvements in the Kinvara line.
