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10 Best Saucony Running Shoes – 2021 Buying Guide
Our review assessment focused on comfort, breathability, durability, weight, and support but we also take a few other notes into consideration. But don't sleep on Saucony. They'll release new models frequently, so check back often to see how we rank the best Saucony running shoes in the future.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
Our most important measurement is the comfort. We will let you know what other runners think of the comfort level of these running shoes.
How much cushioning is provided, does it have support, and does is provide flexibility? These are some of the things we consider when is taking an overall look at what kind and how much comfort a shoe provides.
When we rated each of our models for comfort we took a look at several different factors to ensure we were providing our readers with the most comfortable selections. First and foremost, we took a look at what actual users had to say about the shoes and how they hold up, in terms of comfort, during all of the runs.
We also took a look at any additional padding the shoes may have in the tongue or heel color. This padding helps prevent blisters from forming and ensures that you have a better fit. Make sure to take a look at the lacing system as well to ensure you get a pair of running shoes that fit you comfortably and securely no matter how far you run.
Durability
A good pair of running shoes should last between 400 and 600 miles. We want you to know if these shoes meet that criterion as far as durability goes, or if they will likely wear earlier or last even longer.
We consider if they will stand up to the task they are meant to perform, what kind of materials are used, and how they are put together during the construction of the shoes.
The most important thing we looked at when we evaluated the overall durability of each of the running shoes on our list is what other real0world users had to say about each of the shoes. While manufacturers offer a suggestion on how long the shoes will last, the best way to really know is to put the shoes through the test of time.
Looking through actual user reviews will help you take a look at how the running shoes will hold up over the test of time. Make sure you research the terrain the running shoes are designed for as well because this plays a huge role in how long they will last. If you use your running shoes in the wrong terrain they won't last long as they were designed for.
Breathability
Whether you suffer from sweaty feet or not, you will find that having a pair of breathable shoes is a must-have--especially during the hot summer months.
When we evaluated each of our selections in terms of breathability we took a look at the factors below to ensure we were choosing the best selections for our readers.
Do they have any additional ventilating features?
While many shoes are built to be breathable on their own, many running shoes also feature additional ventilation features that will optimize your overall breathability. If you suffer from sweaty feet you will want to look for a pair of shoes that add additional ventilation features into their design to ensure your feet stay cool and dry as well.
Does the upper feature mesh material?
One of the most popular features breathable running shoes is mesh material in the upper portion of the shoes. The most breathable shoes offer mesh material in the upper, however, it is important to note that the mesh material will be less durable. This is especially important to remember for those of you who want a pair of shoes for your favorite trails or technical terrain.
Are they fast drying and/or moisture-wicking?
Although not all running shoes are designed to be fast drying or moisture-wicking, a lot of them do offer features that allow them to dry quickly. Those that offer moisture-wicking features will wick away moisture to ensure that your feet stay cool and dry no matter how much you sweat.
Weight
The weight of a running shoe can vary by its intended function. For example, trail running shoes often weigh a bit more than road running shoes.
We have determined if the weight of the shoe fits the intended activity the shoe is to be used for. We’ll let you know if reviewers thought it was too heavy, too light, or just right.
Keep in mind that the running shoes come in a variety of different weight options to choose from. Some of the Saucony shoes we chose are really lightweight while some other models are on the heavier side. It is important to note, however, that even the heavier options will not weigh you down and are still lighter than many other "heavy" shoes.
The reason the running shoes on our list are heavy is that they are designed to provide you with additional support and stability than others. If you are a neutral runner you won't need those models but if you suffer from pronation issues you will need to opt for the shoes that offer the right amount of stability and support--which also means they will be heavier than other models.
Support
Depending on your foot type and where you intend to run the amount of support you need or prefer can vary by user.
We’ve searched and found if these Saucony running shoes provide enough of the correct support for the type of use the shoe is intended for. When we evaluated the support of each of the running shoes we considered each of the following:
What type of foot are they designed for?
It is important to get a shoe that is made for your foot type. If you need additional support you will need to get certain models because others won't work. This is what you should look for:
Neutral runners: these types of runners don't really need too many additional features and can use the standard neutral running shoe. If you are a neutral runner you can stick to the lightweight options that don't offer a ton of cushioning--the additional cushioning may make you uncomfortable.
Overpronators and Underpronators:
If you are an overpronator or underpronator you will find that you need additional support to ensure you can continue running. If you are not sure if you are either you can do the wet foot test by wetting your foot and stepping on a piece of cardboard and looking at your footprint. Once you figure out if you are either, make sure you get a running shoe that is made for your needs.
Our Favorite Saucony Running Shoes
1. Omni 19
Looking to put a few hundred miles behind you? If long distances are what you are after, the Omni 19 will help you get there. What we love most about this workhorse is that it is made from incredibly durable materials that hold up just as well at mile one as they do at mile one hundred. Plus, they are packed with features to protect your feet without weighing them down.
Read moreThe very first thing that we noticed about this design is that it has a lightweight and breathable upper that feels like you aren’t wearing anything at all. The FORM FIT mesh design naturally contours to the shape of your foot to promote lockdown, which prevents blisters and rashes from occurring. No matter the size or shape of your foot, this 3D mesh design will feel like it was cut specially for you.
PWRRUN cushioning in the midsole provides excellent energy feedback that protects your knees and joints when running on hard surfaces. It also has extended medial posts that help to naturally guide your foot into an even gait. This design makes it a perfect option for those that overpronate or are heavy-strikers.
The reason that we selected the Omni 19 to top our list is that it hosts all of the features that runners love most about Saucony in one tight and lightweight package. This design is the perfect marriage between stability and minimalism and boasts a design that works for runners of all shapes and skill levels.
2. Guide 13
For those that need a good deal of extra stability, the Guide 13 is a great choice. As the name implies, this design helps to naturally correct your gait, making it the ideal choice for overpronators or those with a heavy strike. It boasts a sleek and simple frame, which isn't typical for most stability sneakers and comes in a wide variety of color and design options.
Read moreThe most notable feature of the Guide 13 is that it has a medial TPU guidance frame that helps to correct your gait. This frame helps to even out your gait so that you don’t put too much pressure on certain points on your foot. By correcting your gait, you take a lot of pressure off of your knees and joints. This design makes this design a great option for those that are on the heavier side.
PWRRUN cushioning in the midsole provides runners with that squishy feeling that absorbs much of the impact when running on hard surfaces. This material is super lightweight and allows you to stay light on your feet. It has an 8 mm drop, which is slightly higher than many of the designs in the Saucony line and makes it ideal for heavy heel-strikers.
If you are in the market for a great stability shoe, the Guide 13 is a great choice. We love that it boasts super supportive features such as a guide frame and lightweight cushioning that protects knees and joints without weighing you down with a heavy and clunky frame. It cost a little bit more than some of the other designs that we have seen, but we feel that it is worth every penny.
3. Freedom ISO
The Saucony brand is known for quality and excellence and the Freedom ISO is no exception. It has earned a top three spot on our list due to its high quality, affordability, durability, and comfort!
Read moreThese shoes are made for active individuals and are designed to support the feet of runners and athletes. The sole and outer design keep your feet stable and allow you to run for longer periods without fatigue or pain.
The Freedom ISO is a very durable shoe that will hold up well to the wear and tear of your most intense workouts or runs. If you want a durable shoe that will serve you well, this is a great shoe to consider! The fabric used in the outer and inner lining of the Freedom ISO is designed to be more breathable than most shoes so your feet stay cool and dry and comfortable for the duration of your running session.
These shoes are a little heavier which can be an issue for some runners but they are still relatively light and easy to wear, perfect for active runners who like to run on a variety of terrains. A final consideration that has the Freedom ISO in our top three products is the superior support and stability that they offer so be sure to get yours today and see the difference for yourself!
4. Excursion TR12
Looking for a great hybrid sneaker that you can take to the gym and then lace up for some off-roading? What we love most about the Excursion TR12 is that it is built like a tank to tackle rocky trails, but it isn’t so heavy and clunky that you can wear them for a light jog down the sidewalk. Plus, it is built with features to help keep your foot cushioned and protected.
Read moreBy simply looking at the lugs on the outsole of this design, you know that it is great at really gripping the trail under your feet. These lugs are subtle enough, however, that they can also be worn to the gym as well. We love that the midsole boasts Saucony’s Heel GRID system that provides runners with even support that adapts to the unique way that you train.
The outsole of this design is a little bit stiffer and structured when compared to road runners in this series of sneakers. It provides additional padding on the tongue and the heel collar to help provide extra stability so you are less likely to roll your ankle on uneven trails. The midsole also boasts IMEVA Shock-absorbing midsole that helps to protect your knees and joints as you train.
If you want a good trail runner but are reluctant to select a design that is made for the trails and nowhere else, the Excursion TR12 is a great compromise. While the lugs and outsole are designed treacherous trails, they aren’t so deep and heavy that you can’t wear them at the gym as well.
5. Shadow 6000
Looking for a robust reliable shoe, here it is. This shoe will ensure a good level of durability and protection on those more challenging mid-tempo runs. The shoe has a robust quality and offers reliability, a very nicely designed shoe with upper suede and leather features excellent surface traction due to the designed in innovative Triangular lugs, top performing cushion response for the underfoot and a shoe which gives a nice level of stability and comfortable FIT.
Read moreA very stylish suede upper combined with leather overlays that have updated the durability level for this shoe. Comfort and enhanced stability due to the shoe tongue and padded collar, this shoe feels snug and secure and stays that way while running. This is known as a robust shoe, so, the construction requires the use of top quality materials capable of giving durability. Saucony has delivered on durability and quality and this shoe will perform well for runners.
A nice balanced level of breathability to ensure dry comfortable feet and less chance of skin friction. In terms of weight, these aren't the lightest, but that is due to their additional support and gripping features.
The mid-sole is Ethylene vinyl acetate a reliable material for a responsive underfoot cushion, you can feel the spring back after each touchdown. Durable Triangular Lugs on the outsole ensures you have confidence and performance boosting grip on challenging surfaces.
6. Nomad TR
If you are looking for a good quality running shoe that will meet your needs and serve you well on your runs then you need to consider the Nomad TR by Saucony.
Read moreThese shoes are designed to be comfortable and supportive so your feet feel rested and stable throughout your run. This will help you get more out of your runs and will improve your overall performance as well. The Nomad TR running shoes by Saucony are built to last and will hold up to the wear and tear of even the roughest terrain and the most rigorous training and workout sessions!
These shoes use fabric that is open and breathable, which in turn, keeps your feet cool, dry, and comfortable while you are out for your run. In terms of overall shoe weight, these shoes are middle of the range. They have enough substance to be durable and supportive while still being light enough to not bog you down during your runs.
Like all Saucony shoes, the Nomad TR running shoes offer support right where your feet need it most and will help keep you moving for longer with less strain and fatigue in the end.
7. Kinvara 11
Do you have the need for speed? Not only is the Kinvara 11 a great trainer for shaving a few seconds off of your time, but it is also a great pair to take for long runs as well. It is constructed from lightweight materials that help you engage in a full range of motion while subtle materials in the midsole help to absorb the impact and provide a modest amount of stability. The Kinvara 11 isn’t a minimalist trainer, but it does boast many of the beneficial features you would find in minimalist trainers.
Read moreWhat makes the Kinvara stand out from the pack is that it has PWRRUN cushioning in the midsole. This style of cushioning is super lightweight and flexible and provides runners with unmatched energy feedback. It also has a 4 mm drop which helps you make contact with the ground beneath you for an easy stride.
We also like that the upper is made from a blend of synthetic and mesh materials. Runners find that the upper is super lightweight and breathable. The mesh panels help to lift hot air up and away from the foot, and the synthetic overlays provide subtle stability in places where you need it most (such as the heels).
If you love to stick to sidewalks and treadmills, you can’t go wrong with the Kinvara 11. It is composed of lightweight and easy materials that help you reach high speeds without weighing you down. Plus, they come in a wide variety of neutral and bright colors options that are bound to match your personal style.
8. Triumph ISO 4
In search of an eye-catching shoe that offers cushioning while also remaining flexible? The Triumph ISO might just be the shoe for you. Read on to find out more.
Read moreIf you’re looking for a shoe that’s got all the goods and looks like a complete superstar, go for the Triumph. These Saucony running shoes are bright and crowd-stopping in their variety of color combos. These running shoes are incredibly durable since they are made of high-quality materials that are built to hold up to long-term use.
As far as breathability, this option offers excellent ventilation so your feet stay cool and dry through each and every month. It has a lightweight support frame that provides stability, and Pwrgrid+ that gives the midsole cushion. Its Run-dry moisture collar keeps away sweat.
Its Everun cushioning provides responsive underfoot support and shock absorption at the same time. Its Isofit upper adapts to the shape of your foot providing flexibility,
9. Peregrine 10
Want a minimalistic trainer that you can take for a ride out on the trails? What we love most about the Peregrine 10 is that it boasts a chunky outsole that has a tacky texture that can grip most trails with ease, and has a sleek and simple upper that won’t weigh you down. In terms of trailer runners, this is the lightest and most breathable option in the Saucony lineup!
Read moreWhat makes the Peregrine 10 unique is all of the small attention to detail to help you perform at your very best out on the trails. It boasts serious PWRTRAC rubber lugs that grip the dirt, and also prevent you from slipping on wet leaves or other slick surfaces. It even has a reinforced upper to keep stray rock and pebbles on the trail and out of your shoes!
The midsole is composed of PWRFOAM that adds an extra spring in your step without hindering your full range of motion. The EVERUN topsole is composed of a blend of mesh and synthetic materials. Runners love that the topsole offers a form-fit design that contours to the shape of your foot to promote excellent lockdown.
If you are on the market for something that is composed of quality materials that really shine out on the trails, the Peregrine 10 is an excellent choice. We love that it is composed of materials that are lightweight and pliable, and helps to protect your knees and joints from hard and uneven surfaces.
10. Type A8
The Saucony Type A8 is the 8th edition of a powerful yet lightweight racing road flat that is designed to give you an edge. This low-profile shoe offers high-performance features and Saucony trademark tech at an affordable price.
Read moreThese shoes are based on 7 previous editions and have plenty of consideration and customer feedback built into the design. They have plenty of awesome features and, compared to other shoes on the list, sit in a mid to low-cost range are decently affordable.
The rubber soles are tough on roads and these shoes have plenty of great Saucony tech design that is centered around durability and keeping strong support no matter how many miles you put in. The mesh uppers are breathable and lightweight as well.
These shoes are built for road runners and are lightweight without sacrificing cushioning. The Superlite EVA midsoles provide great support and help you rebound with each step. The PwrTrac rubber sole is specifically designed for running on the road and track surfaces and offers great traction with plenty of flexibility.
Sources
- , Our Guarantee, Brand Website
- , The Wet Foot Test: Find Your Foot Type, Outdoor Gear Website
- , Running 101: How To Select The Best Pair Of Running Shoes , Running Website
- , Pronation, ExplainedUnderstanding your personal pronation type is crucial to choosing the proper running shoes., Running Website
