Fast-Trac Nitro 3

Yes, for most runners it fits true to size, so order your usual trainer size. The fit is secure and performance-oriented rather than roomy, with a snug midfoot and locked-down heel. The toe box gives enough room to splay on descents, but if you have wide feet or want extra forefoot space you may prefer to size up half a size. Heel hold is excellent once the laces are set.

It is a strong choice for trail racing up to marathon distance. At 290g the Nitro foam gives you a lively, responsive push-off, and the grip lets you attack technical and slippery ground with confidence. It is versatile enough to train and race in the same shoe. For a dedicated lightweight racer you might look elsewhere, but for most runners it races and trains happily without needing a second pair.

Yes, it is a friendly, versatile shoe for runners new to the trail. The moderate 8mm drop and firm-but-protective ride keep things natural and stable, and the confident grip builds trust on wet or loose ground where beginners often feel nervous. It is a neutral shoe, so if you know you overpronate or need support you should factor that in, but for most newer trail runners it is an approachable, capable first proper trail shoe.

The two are close rivals as versatile, grippy do-it-all trail shoes. The Peregrine 16 is a proven benchmark with aggressive grip and a secure fit, while the Fast-Trac Nitro 3 counters with a springier, more responsive Nitro ride at a competitive price. Both suit training and racing on mixed UK terrain. Grip and fit are comparable, so the choice often comes down to whether you prefer the Puma's livelier foam or the Saucony's familiar feel.

For most training runs and races up to a few hours the cushioning is plenty, offering solid protection with a firmer, responsive feel. Push out into long ultra distances on rocky ground, though, and the firmer midsole starts to catch up with your legs, especially for heavier runners or heel strikers. If you regularly run very long days on rough terrain, a deeper, plusher shoe will be kinder, but for everyday trail miles the Fast-Trac is well judged.

The outsole is one of this shoe's strengths and is built to last. The grippy rubber compound holds up well to repeated use on rock, gravel and hard-packed trail, and the lug pattern retains bite over time rather than wearing smooth quickly. As with any trail shoe, running a lot of your miles on tarmac will speed up wear, so keep it on the trails where it belongs to get the most out of it. For the price, durability is very reasonable.