Saucony Kinvara 16 vs Kinvara 15
Kinvara 16 or Kinvara 15? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.
The short answer
The Kinvara 16 replaced the Kinvara 15.
Much softer foam and a slightly lower stack, with a little less bounce.
What changed
- Foam: Much softer midsole.
- Shape: Same low stack and 4mm drop.
- Upper: New, very breathable upper with more tongue padding, though it may not be as durable.
- On the run: Much softer, less bouncy, stiffer up front and snugger.
- Measured: 0.5 oz heavier. Heel stack and drop about the same.
The Kinvara 15 is sold out online. Ask at one of our stores in case they still have your size.
On the run
Kinvara 16: The light, low classic. Low, light and flexible. You feel the road more than in a max-cushion shoe, and it picks up the pace easily, though the foam is more muted than bouncy.
Kinvara 15: Light, low and flexible. Low, light and flexible, with a close connection to the road. Fun at faster paces, but firm, so it’s best kept to shorter runs.
Specs side by side
| Kinvara 16 | Kinvara 15 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $130 | $94.95 (was $120) |
| Stack height (heel / forefoot) | 28 / 24mm | 30 / 26mm* |
| Drop | 4mm | 4mm* |
| Weight, men’s | 7.3 oz | 6.7 oz* |
| Weight, women’s | 6.3 oz | 6 oz* |
| Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Plate | None | None |
| Widths | Standard | Standard |
| Built for | Tempo & workouts, Race day, Easy days | Tempo & workouts, Race day, Easy days |
| Expected life | 200–300 miles | 250–350 miles |
Stack, drop and weight come from each brand’s own website. Numbers marked * aren’t published by the brand and come from other published specs. Weights are for the size each brand quotes. Expected life is our estimate.
Fit
Kinvara 16. True to size, but narrow through the midfoot and toes.
Kinvara 15. Runs slightly short, so if you’re between sizes, go up a half. Plenty of toe height and a very breathable upper.
Try them on
Come try on both at The Run House in Walpole, Needham or Falmouth. Gait analysis is always free.
Shop the Kinvara 16 · Shop the Kinvara 15 · Compare other running shoes