Cross Country Running Shoes Review: Saucony Kilkenny XC3

If you are looking for a high quality cross country running spikes at a price that won't break the budget, then you should take a look at the Saucony Kilkenny XC3. Released in June 2009, the Kilkenny XC3 is a running spike designed for cross country races from 3K to 10K distances. The XC3 continues the tradition of excellence established by Saucony's popular Kilkenny XC series.

The Kilkenny gets its name in honor of the enthusiastic cross country runners in Ireland, where the sport is hugely popular. The XC3 fits on your foot like a slipper, due to its low profile and extra-snug fit. One very nice (and comfortable) feature is the suede interior of the shoe, which provides extra comfort, and even allows you to race without socks if you want to.

The Saucony Kilkenny XC3 comes in both spike and spikeless (racing flat) versions in both men's and women's sizes. Like most other racing shoes, the XC3 gives you the ability to swap out spikes, which lets you match your shoes to the demands of each particular race. The Kilkenny fits a bit small, so it should be purchased ½ size larger than your normal running shoe size. The men's size 9 weighs in at 6.5 ounces.

The upper part of the shoe is comprised of a closed mesh, which is still breathable, and it has minimal overlays. The midsole has not been changed from the XC2; it is still comprised of low-profile CM-EVA, and the traction-grabbing lugs on the outer sole have also remained unchanged.

With its overall flexibility, comfort and style, the Saucony Kilkenny XC3 continues to provide the same high-quality shoe construction and performance that we have come to expect from Saucony cross country running shoes. It remains an excellent racing shoe selection for great performance on any cross country course.

• White / Green / Gold --- (men)
• Lime Green --- (women)
• White / Pink --- (women)
• Black / Silver / Red --- (Both men and women)

Technical specs of the outsole are as follows:

• Offers 6 spike receptacles
• Rubber spike plate provides traction and flexibility.
• Twelve 5/16" pyramid spikes and a spike wrench are included
• XT-600 (a carbon/rubber hybrid that increases traction) is a main material of the outsole