125 best Saucony running shoes

Saucony is popular brand that offers a wide variety of shoes meant for road running, walking, racing, and trail running. These shoes are specially designed depending on the targeted activity they are used for. Saucony running shoes are engineered on the runner's specific arch type, running condition, foot size, and running style.

Affordable women's and men's Saucony running shoes

Below is a list of the most affordable Saucony running shoes in the market as of December 2018.

Saucony Echelon 6

Crafted to be a road running shoe, the Echelon 6 is specifically engineered for those who are neutral pronators. When compared to its predecessor, the shoe's seamless construction gained a lot of appreciation from its fans and users.

It utilizes the Sauc-Fit technology that is made up of lightweight and thin materials. This overlay system is directly fused to the upper section rather than being stitched into the shoe.

Located in the midsole is the EVERUN foam. It is integrated into the Saucony Echelon 6 to aid in the attenuation of shock that is generated in every step.

Saucony Cohesion 11

The Saucony Cohesion 11 is a road running shoe that is intended for users who have neutral foot mechanisms. When compared to the Cohesion 10, it utilizes the mesh upper. The crafting of this new version results in the more prominent ventilation pores of the running shoe. Because of this, added breathability is provided to the foot.

It uses a full-length midsole foam that aims to deliver excellent cushioning underneath. It also features a memory foam footbed that is meant to support the curves and arch of the forefoot.

Saucony Freedom ISO

The incarnation of the Freedom ISO rolled out Saucony's innovative technology. Even if the ISO fit is integrated into a lot of Saucony shoes, the Freedom versions made sure to take the upper technology to a new level.

The ISO tech is now fully incorporated into the shoe instead of being attached to the upper as 2 pieces. The purpose of this technology is to provide support without compromising the movement of the foot with every step.

Lying just beneath the shoe sock liner, an EVERUN topsole can be found. The goal of this is to deliver a more responsive and lightweight cushioning. The utilization of the EVERUN tech is another feature of the Saucony Freedom ISO. It aims to provide a resilient response as well as a smoother and more powerful ride.

The outsole features a combination of blown and carbon rubber materials. With the placement of the Arrow-shaped lugs, called Tri-Flex, flexibility is improved without compromising durability and grip.

Saucony Kinvara 8

With the utilization of the thinner fused overlays, the Saucony Kinvara series provides a new sleeker look. This new design makes the upper area looks like a race-day shoe that has an almost transparent quality.

The Kinvara series is considered as one of the most popular shoes in the market.  At a reasonable price, excellent support is provided to the runner without compromising its quality. When compared to the previous model, the ventilation provided by the 8th installment of the Kinvara is better.

Saucony Cohesion TR 11

This Saucony running shoe utilizes a reinforced upper section for added durability and protection to the foot. This material prevents the possibility of early abrasions and tearing when running. The Saucony Cohesion TR 11 features the GRID or Ground Inertia Impact Device cushioning system that ensures a steady ride, especially for those who are neutral pronators.

The shoe is crafted with a rugged outsole that aims to provide an increased traction. The sole unit of the shoe maintains its good performance because of the combination of the XT-600 rubber outsole and IMEVA with the GRID system.

Top Saucony running shoes

Below are the best Saucony running shoes intended for trail and road running. The following list is based on RR's Corescore as of December 2018.

Saucony Ride 7

There are a few changes in the upper section of the Saucony Ride 7, which includes the improved tongue and collar unit. The goal of which is to deliver added comfort to the foot. It also features an enhanced cushioning system that is meant to provide underfoot protection. It was designed to deliver a softer feel and more comfort to the foot, especially on long-distance runs.

Saucony Excursion TR 12

Described as a durable and rugged shoe, the Saucony Grid Excursion TR 12 promises a more protective coverage. Its construction ensures a wearable and comfortable appearance. The 12th iteration of the Excursion delivers an improved full-length cushioning.  

With the utilization of the aggressive outsole and lugs, the Saucony Excursion TR 12 is prepared to face challenging and hazardous outdoor elements.

Saucony Breakthru 3

This Saucony running shoe utilizes a cushioning that is equally distributed in the heel and forefoot area. With an 8mm offset and an EVERUN topsole, smoother landings, as well as stronger and more powerful take-offs are encouraged.

Located in the outsole is the TRI-FLEX. This component of the shoe aims to increase the distribution of forces in the sole unit. The Saucony Breakthru 3 also features an IBR+ compound. It is described to be durable and lightweight outsole material that is meant to provide grip and protection.

Saucony Kinvara 9

The Saucony Kinvara 9 has impressed a lot of users.. They lauded the shoe's performance along with its visually-appealing design and fantastic structure.

Located in the forefoot and the heel section is the Strategic Rubber. This material is essential in providing added durability to the platform, especially to high-wear areas.

When compared to the previous version, the Saucony Kinvara 9 features an enhanced flexibility in the forefoot section. It is primarily designed to provide a smoother, more powerful, faster and stronger toe-off.

Saucony Zealot ISO 3

The ISO 3 is an expensive running shoe from Saucony. This neutral running shoe is ready to tackle the roads. The 3rd installment of the Zealot series possesses features that are present in the previous model. Components and technologies were enhanced to improve the footwear's responsiveness, efficiency and cushioning.

The upper section of the shoe has been updated. It uses an engineered mesh material that is stronger, but has an elastic characteristic. With the utilization of lesser overlays, the upper area looks minimal and sleek. FlexFilm overlays were utilized in critical areas of the upper area as well.

Technologies found in most Saucony running shoes

• ISOFIT. The ISOFIT is a combination of a soft inner sleeve and a floating support cage that create a dynamic fit system. The inner sleeve is made of stretchable air mesh that provides a sock-like feel. The floating support cage is essential in comfortably cradling the foot. This element aims to conform to the natural shape and movements of the foot.
• POWERGRID+. This technology is an engineering-enhanced cushioning that starts with the geometries and heights of the POWERGRID platform. This component of the shoe provides impact protection and additional comfort to the foot.
• POWERGRID. When compared to the traditional EVA, this material is 30% more durable and 15% lighter. The POWERGRID is sure to provide a lightweight and responsive propulsion during the heel-to-toe transition.
• SSL (Saucony SuperLite) EVA. Saucony's most advanced EVA blend is the SSL. This material is significant in maximizing durability and rebound while minimizing the shoe's weight.
• IBR +. The IBR+ is three times more absorbent and 33 % lighter when compared to the standard blown rubber in the market. It is described to be durable but supremely lightweight in structure. This material is vital in enhancing Saucony shoes' cushioning elements.
• XT-600. This material is made up of a carbon rubber that aims to provide excellent traction and abrasion properties. Its durability is intended to withstand the challenging roads and trails.
• Arch-Lock. This stretchable and lightweight material is located in the arch area that extends to one eyelet. It has the ability to adapt to the foot with the aim to deliver a snugger midfoot fit.
• IMEVA midsole. With the utilization of Injection Moulded EVA, it creates a flexible and lightweight midsole unit. Because of this material, less waste product is produced by its manufacturer.
• SACU-FIT. This technology is described to be a unique system that locks and supports the midfoot area. It lies in the upper area of the running shoe which keeps the heel comfortable and secure as well.
• PRO-LOCK. Supportive straps called PRO-LOCK are used on either side of the midfoot area. This technology encases the foot which results in a more secure and locked fit to the platform.
• PWRTRAC. This material is described to be a tacky and durable rubber that aims to provide excellent grip and abrasion resistance in a wide variety of surfaces. The material has three times more Coefficient of Friction (COF) when compared to the normal carbon rubber.
• RUNDRY. The RUNDRY is integrated into the Saucony shoes. It is defined as a collar lining material that is focused on delivering excellent moisture wicking properties. As a result, a comfortable and plush feel is experienced by the user.
• Rugged synthetics. The sturdy upper construction of the running shoe is specifically designed to protect the human foot during the running activities. It is also meant to increase durability.
• REACT2U. For ultimate cushioning, the ultra-plush memory foam footbed is integrated into Saucony running shoes. The REACT2U molds itself to the natural curves and shape of the user’s underfoot. As a result, defined support is given to the areas and curves of the foot that need special attention.

Top competitors of Saucony running shoes

Nike

Nike has a wide variety of high-quality women’s and men’s running shoe for users to choose from. The way the shoes are crafted makes every athlete prepared to tackle any challenging activity on the roads and trails. When it comes to Nike's style, construction, and design, they never fail to build a running shoe that delivers top-notch performance. Advanced or beginner runners consider Nike as one of the best brands when it comes to running shoes.

Reebok

Experts in manufacturing and designing a wide range of athletic accessories, apparel, and footwear, Reebok excels in providing products that are admired by a lot of users. This European company produces running shoes that can be used on a wide variety of surfaces. Since 1985, professional athletes and fitness enthusiasts loved their sports items, workout clothes and running shoes.

New Balance

As the years pass by, New Balance has made sure to meet the expectations of the users. They continue to make gradual steps to enhance their running catalog. The company utilizes components and compounds that perfectly work well to provide a smoother running experience to the user. They decided to expand and add other sports and activities such as Hiking, Training, and Basketball. Their ever famous "N" logo doesn't seem to lose in the market until now.

Puma

During the time of Gebrüder Dassler Schuhfabrik's, the Dassler brothers separated in 1948.  The two encountered several problems that resulted in the destruction of their relationship. Because of this, two companies were formed. These two brands are known to be Adidas and Puma which are both located in Herzogenaurach, Germany. After their separation, Rudolf Dassler named his company as Ruda but later changed to Puma.

Adidas

Adidas was created because of the separation of the two Dassler brothers in 1948. This event gave Adi Dassler the opportunity and the chance to make his own company. He named his shoe making business as Adidas.

In the market today, around 2445 shops and outlets are scattered around the world to distribute and sell their products. Adidas is well-known for creating and crafting basketball, training, soccer, sneakers and running shoes as well as apparels and sports accessories. Because of the quality of their shoes, Adidas is now considered as the third most famous sporting goods company in the whole world.

Brooks

Brooks is an American company that has gained a good reputation in the shoe business industry. They are experts in designing and making high-performing apparels, accessories and running shoes for both men and women. Brooks products are loved by sports enthusiasts and athletes. Their items are available in more than 60 different countries across the globe.

Asics

Asics products range from wrestling, basketball, volleyball and running shoes and sporting accessories. The brand offers the right blend of quality items that would benefit athletes and runners. The company's name came from the Greek acronym " Anima Sana In Corpora Sano.” Its English translation means "a healthy soul ought to be in a healthy body". With their visually-appealing design, marketing strategies, and development plans, Asics still continues to grow and be successful in the business until now.  

Under Armour

Under Armour, being one of the competitors of Saucony, maintains its position in the shoe-making industry. Their best-selling products such as protective gears, pants, shoes and apparels are lauded by the majority of runners and athletes all around the world. Under Armour was chosen to be the supplier of different American football, basketball and soccer teams. Because of their success, the competition with other brands in the market becomes more challenging nowadays.  

Other information about Saucony

How it started

In 1989, the company's first ever factory was built on the high banks of the Saucony Creek. It was landed in Kutztown, Pennsylvania. A.R. Hyde, a Russian immigrant, started a shoe company in 1910. It was called Hyde Athletic Industries which was located at Cambridge, Massachusetts. As time passes by, Hyde became well-known for crafting excellent athletic shoes. These brands include PF players and SpotBilt. In the 1960s, Hyde Athletic Industries bought and moved Saucony to Cambridge.  Two of Saucony's products were chosen as one of the top 10 running shoes by Runner's World magazine in 1979. Because of the success of the brand in the 1980s, Hyde Athletic Industries changed its name to Saucony. This is the time when Saucony became Hyde's dominating brand. The company is known to be one of the favorite racing shoe producers in the industry. They are experts in creating cross country racing flats and track spikes. Saucony is also adept at making specific track and field athletic shoes.

In the boxes of Saucony shoes, the phrase " sock a knee" was printed on them. This phrase was the representation of the right pronunciation of the company's name. Their brand logo symbolizes the constant flow of the  Saucony Creek, and the boulders lining represents creek bed.

In 2012, after a joint agreement with Blum Capital Partners and Golden Gate Capital, Saucony, along with Sperry Top-Sider, Keds, and Sperry Top-Sider, became part of the famous Wolverine World Wide. The majority of the Wolverine World Wide's footwear sources from a number of third-party manufacturers in South America and the Asia Pacific.

The name “Saucony” and its success

The word Saucony came from the Lenni Lenape Native American word “saconk” which means “where two rivers run together." It was inspired by the original location on the Saucony Creek. Throughout the mid and early 1900s, running became the concentration of serious athletes in the area. During this time, Saucony's products were not considered as high-performing running shoes. A lot of people are using spikes, leather and even barefoot when running. This is the very reason why Saucony was determined to create a shoe that will change the way people think about running. In 1972, Frank Shorter, an American man, won the gold medal for the Olympic Marathon. This success ignites the running trend in the US.

Throughout the early and mid-1900s, running became the focus of serious athletes. Saucony's shoes were awarded by Consumer Reports magazine as the “Best Quality” in 1977. This event paved the way for the company's product to be considered as one of the sought-after running shoes of the time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to maintain the beauty of my Saucony shoes?

Cleaning: On a regular basis, remove away any dirt with the use of a soft brush. Be sure to wash the shoes with warm water and mild soap. After which, rinse the shoes properly to remove all the soap suds that are present.

Drying: Remember to open the shoes fully. Be sure to remove the laces and insoles for natural drying. To maintain the original shape of the running shoes, put a newspaper or cloth inside. After that, store and secure the shoe in a safe place.

Is Saucony running shoes more expensive than any other brands?

The price of Saucony running shoes is a little bit expensive when compared to other brands. But, with the excellent performance and versatility of the shoes, some runners considered it as worthy investment.

Are the men's and the women's  Saucony running shoes better than its competitors?

When we talk about which brand is better, it actually depends on the user. It is subjective. Other runners may consider Nike or Adidas as the better running shoes, while some may say that Puma or New Balance is the best among the others. This depends on the experience of the runner while using the shoe in their activities.

Can I wear my Saucony running shoes with jeans and a skirt?

Yes. Nowadays, people try to be more fashionable and stylish by experimenting with what they wear every day. As long as you are comfortable pairing your Saucony running shoes with skirts or jeans, then you can go ahead and use them in your daily activities.

What is the Saucony X Dunkin’ Kinvara 9?

Producing a strawberry-frosted donut-themed running shoe, Saucony teamed up with the coffee and doughnut company, Dunkin' Donuts on April 3, 2018. Saucony and the Massachusetts-based company commemorated the Boston Marathon's 122nd running during this time. So, they ended up crafting the Saucony X Dunkin’ Kinvara 9. The heel of the footwear is covered with colorful rainbow sprinklers, and the packaging comes with a donut box.

Author

Jens Jakob Andersen

Jens Jakob is a fan of short distances with a 5K PR at 15:58 minutes. Based on 35 million race results, he's among the fastest 0.2% runners. Jens Jakob previously owned a running store, when he was also a competitive runner. His work is regularly featured in The New York Times, Washington Post, BBC and the likes as well as peer-reviewed journals. Finally, he has been a guest on +30 podcasts on running.

jens@runrepeat.com