Editor’s note, May 21, 2026: Our team is currently testing several new models launching this summer. The Triumph 23 and Endorphin Elite 2 are currently 20% off.
While Saucony is well-regarded in runners’ circles, it’s still gaining traction in the non-runner space. I personally know because a couple of friends at a local festival asked, “Nice shoes—are those Nikes?” But as Brooks has taken the dad shoe mantle from New Balance, and Hoka continues to float between lifestyle and running footwear, I’d like to think only the real ones know what Saucony is—and how it’s pronounced (“sock-a-knee”).
The origin story of Saucony actually began a couple of towns away from RW HQ. The brand’s name was inspired by Saucony Creek (or Sacony Creek, according to US Geological Survey data) in Kutztown, PA. Beginning in 1898, the brand eventually merged with A.R. Hyde and Sons, the company behind PF Flyers 70 years later. In 1977, we gave Saucony two places in our top 10. The brand has its share of shoes in this year’s Shoe Awards—and the rest is running history.
Sure, Brooks Ghost is our go-to recommendation for new runners, but have you tried the Saucony Ride? It’s a shoe just as cushioned that delivers bouncy energy return and a smidge more room in the toe area. Surely you’ve seen the slime green Endorphin Elite in the hot pink mass of Nike Alphaflys at past races. That’s Saucony. Below is a list to help you get acquainted with this brand’s shoes, and if you’re already in the know, you can also look here for the hottest releases our team has tested.
Best Saucony Running Shoes
- Best Daily Trainer: Saucony Ride 19 (Men’s/Women’s)
- Best Value: Saucony Kinvara 16 (Men’s/Women’s)
- Best for Racing: Saucony Endorphin Pro 5 (Men’s/Women’s)
- Best Value Racing Shoe: Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 (Men’s/Women’s)
- Most Aggressive Racing Shoe: Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 (unisex)
How We Selected
Most of the shoes listed here have been tested by RW staff and our team of 300+ local wear-testers who log at least 100 miles in every pair of shoes they test. I also based some picks on my own testing and product research—including interviews with the Saucony development team and reading through shoe forums. The shoes listed here are monitored based on inventory and relevance, as well.
Full Reviews
Pros
- Responsive ride
- Lightweight
- Rocker geometry
Cons
- Less responsive compared to more advanced foamed shoes
Features at a Glance
| Weight | 8.9 oz (M), 7.7 oz (W) |
| Drop | 8 mm |
The Ride and Guide complement each other by being two sides of a coin, where the Ride is a neutral cushioned trainer and the Guide has cushioning with stability. The 19th iteration of the Ride keeps its predecessor’s Pwrrun+ cushioning, a beaded TPU midsole that’s softer and more responsive than the brand’s original Pwrrun.
The Ride is my non-Brooks Ghost 17 recommendation for new runners and vets looking for a base-building shoe. The trainer is still lighter than the Ghost, and (dare I say it) a little bouncier. The Ride 19 is multi-use and extremely versatile. Choose it as your everyday trainer, long run shoe, and/or recovery shoe. They’re also great for run/walkers.
Shop Men’s at saucony.com Shop Women’s at saucony.com
Pros
- Lightweight, great for runners looking for less stack
- Responsive midsole foam
- Airy upper provides ventilation during hot and long runs
Cons
- Cushioning is on the firm side
- Runs a little long and narrow
Features at a Glance
| Weight | 7.3 oz (M), 6.3 oz (W) |
| Drop | 4 mm |
The Kinvara 16 is a quality lightweight trainer that costs under $140, which in this day and age is a bargain for a premium running shoe. The shoe is a fan fave for those looking for less stack height (not the sky-high cushioning we continue seeing); it preserves what we are looking for in non-super shoes: light and dynamic. The newest version is updated with a new blend of Pwrrun that delivers more rebound and has more durability than before. The airy mesh upper with its molded heel collar provides a breathable, padded fit. The shoes have a snug fit, which helps with stability, especially when turning corners.
Like previous Kinvaras, the 16 is a little narrow in the midfoot, so runners with wide feet may find the shoe a little tight. Runners on the lighter side may also find the Pwrrun cushioning, while responsive, quite firm. You may want a more cushioned trainer instead. But if you’re looking for a good old-fashioned speedwork trainer with traditional cushioning and some modernization, the Kinvara 16 is a great choice.
Shop Men’s at saucony.com Shop Women’s at saucony.com
Pros
- Lightweight and speedy with bouncy PEBA foams
- Stable with carbon-fiber plate sandwiched in midsole
- Rocker geometry promotes smooth turnover
Cons
- Some rubbing in heel area
Features at a Glance
| Weight | 7.3 oz (M), 6.3 oz (W) |
| Drop | 8 mm |
Around the time the Endorphin Pro was released, it was a magical moment. Molly Seidel, then Saucony-sponsored, had made the Olympics Marathon team running in the Endorphin Pro. When I got my hands on that shoe, I was shocked how my body felt off-kilter the moment I stood up after putting them on. The rocker on that shoe felt wobbly standing and walking, but it was a secret weapon when racing. It felt like the shoe had one gear, and that gear was fast. We’re on Endorphin Pro 5 five years later, and the shoe feels as edgy as the OG. I’d also argue it’s the most stable super shoe you can run in right now.
This iteration has the same dual-foam midsole with PEBA-based Pwrrun PB foam and Pwrrun HG, so named for its “highest grade” energy return. The combination feels propulsive and supportive. Unlike the Endorphin Elite 2, which is featherlight but squishy with TPEE-based incrediRUN foam, the Endorphin Pro 5 lends control while also encouraging you to speed onward.
“What stood out most was the combination of propulsion and stability,” said tester Sarah Pezzino. “The carbon plate paired with Saucony’s Pwrrun HG foam delivers a responsive, fast ride without feeling unstable or overly bouncy. This helped immensely during longer tempo runs when fatigue starts to creep in. I felt like the shoe encouraged good mechanics and smooth turnover rather than forcing speed. Compared to previous carbon-plated shoes I’ve worn, the Pro 5 feels more predictable and controlled.”
Shop Men’s at saucony.com Shop Women’s at saucony.com
Pros
- Shoe has a livelier, bouncier ride compared to past iterations
- Updated nylon plate provides more rigidity for stability during propulsive efforts
Cons
- Runs slightly narrow for wide feet
Features at a Glance
| Weight | 8.3 oz (M), 7.2 oz (W) |
| Drop | 8 mm |
The Endorphin Speed is a fan fave as a carbon-plate alternative. We recommend it when you’re looking for a more affordable racing shoe option. It has all the ingredients: Pwrrun PB cushioning, which is a PEBA-blend foam; a thin, breathable performance-driven mesh upper; and a nylon plate sandwiched in the midsole. A nylon-plated shoe is a terrific option for runners who feel the run-of-the-mill carbon shoe is a tad too aggressive. The nylon is less rigid but still helps encourage a competitive snap to your kick.
Saucony tweaked the plate in the fifth iteration, making it ridged for torsional stiffness to provide more stability during propulsion, promoted by Saucony’s rocker Speedroll. A knock on past Endorphin Speeds was the noticeable wear on the outsole after just a couple of runs in the shoes. The Speed 5 has more rubber on the heel that’s brought out to the edge to enhance durability. A built-up collar and heel counter provides more comfort and support.
Shop Men’s at saucony.com Shop Women’s at saucony.com
Pros
- New über-responsive TPEE-based foam provides propulsive rebound
- Soft, roomy upper secures feet and accommodates wide feet
Cons
- The squishiness of the midsole foam can take some getting used to
Features at a Glance
| Weight | 7 oz (M), 6.4 oz (W), *unisex |
| Drop | 8 mm |
The Endorphin Elite 2 delivers such a volatile spring that Saucony had to add a new outsole, Sticky PwrTrac, to ensure runners would be able to weave, descend, and cut sharp tangents without wiping out. At least that’s my assumption after testing the shoe for several runs and praying I wouldn’t fall headfirst running down a hill by my apartment (the outsole works; I didn’t).
Exaggerations aside, the shoe may require an acclimation period if you’re used to firmer super foams. The Endorphin Elite is more powerful than its predecessor and squishy. Saucony formulated incrediRUN, a thermoplastic polyester elastomer-based (TPEE) foam that may have you saying, “PEBA? Meh.”
“Saucony does it again with their racing shoes,” said shoe tester Eileen Cody, who runs a 7:00 pace on her training runs. “I have yet to find a Saucony carbon-plated shoe that my foot hasn’t loved. They find the perfect balance of cushion and being able to feel the road for a stable ride. This sensation is especially true when completing tempo efforts as the shoe glides across the ground somehow being responsive and cushy without being hard and mushy.”
After the learning curve of running in my Elite 2s—several times—I slightly agree with Cody. The shoes have that right balance of softness and springiness, making any fast workout—or race—an exciting experience.
Looking for a firmer super shoe? There’s also the trusty Endorphin Pro 4.
Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 Review
Pros
- Softer midsole, collar, tongue than previous version
- Responsive foam for long runs
- Surprisingly lightweight despite max cushioning
Cons
- Feels bulky compared to standard trainer
Features at a Glance
| Weight | 9.2 oz (M), 8.4 oz (W) |
| Drop | 10 mm |
The Triumph is the first Saucony shoe I fell in love with because everything about it screams comfort from the padded collar to the soft shoelaces to the plush footbed. The Triumph 23 continues this tradition with even more Pwrrun PB cushioning underfoot and a new sockliner that adds another layer of responsive cushioning.
The shoe is great for long runs; Pwrrun PB originated with the brand’s Endorphin racing series of shoes. Saucony updated the foam, making it softer and more energy efficient. The shoe also has 9 percent more foam compared to the Triumph 22, but you wouldn’t know it based on the weight; the shoe is an ounce lighter. It is also more flexible in the midfoot area despite additional foam.
The shoe’s touchpoints are also amplified this round, with a plusher tongue and heel collar. The midfoot and forefoot are slightly wider for a more accommodating fit. For an even wider fit and more support, try the Triumph 23’s stability counterpart, the Hurricane 25.
Shop Men’s at saucony.com Shop Women’s at saucony.com
Pros
- Comfy, cushioned fit and feel
- Accommodating midfoot fit
- Balanced support
Cons
- Slightly runs long
Features at a Glance
| Weight | 8.9 oz (M), 7.7 oz (W) |
| Drop | 6 mm |
Compared to its neutral sibling, the Ride 19, the Guide 19 is slightly wider in the midfoot, which is a part of its framework to promote stability. Center Path Technology, which uses asymmetric geometry in the midsole and a wider midfoot, makes the Guide 19 a reliable trainer for overpronators and late-onset overpronators. The shoe has Pwrrun foam to cushion your run and a rocker sole to promote smooth toe-off.
“I gave the shoe the highest rating for its strong comfort, support, and cushioning, and the fact that it had no major weaknesses,” said tester Dave Block. “I was lucky enough to test this shoe’s predecessor, the Saucony Guide 18, and I enjoyed that shoe immensely for the same reasons. But I think this model has even more cushioning and softness.”
Shop Men’s at saucony.com Shop Women’s at saucony.com
Pros
- Roomy toebox
- Lightweight and responsive
Cons
- Felt heavy and stiff for some
Features at a Glance
| Weight | 8.5 oz (M), 7.5 oz (W) |
| Drop | 8 mm |
At 40mm stack height with a full PEBA midsole, the Azura is a versatile trainer that can also double as a cheaper, less aggressive racing shoe.
The first time I went out running in the Azura, I didn’t realize there was no midsole plate. I figured if it did, the plate would be nylon, like the one in the Endorphin Speed 5, or even Pebax. But no. The Azura is a plate-free super shoe that delivers a high-energy return, stable ride.
Pwrrun PB and rocker geometry feed your need for speed. And the shoe isn’t awkward at recovery pace; I can take it easy after a hard workout without my arches screaming after being subjected to a stiff, snappy plated midsole.
“The feature I liked most about the shoe is the overall comfort and versatility,” said Renae Peczenij. “It is a solid shoe for multiple training purposes. The forefront roll is good for speed and the cushioning is good for comfort and the fit is good for stability. I like the padding on the tongue—it was a nice comfort feature of the lacing system.”
Shop Men’s at saucony.com Shop Women’s at saucony.com
Pros
- Reliable Vibram Megagrip outsole for technical trails
- Responsive, shock-absorbing Pwrrun cushioning
Cons
- Shoe laces kept loosening
Features at a Glance
| Weight | 9.5 oz (M), 8.4 oz (W) |
| Drop | 4 mm |
| Lug Height | 4 mm |
The Peregrine 16 makes technical trails easier to maneuver—with high-rebound fun. You’ll find reliable, all-terrain traction thanks to its Vibram Megagrip outsole with 4mm lugs.
The shoe has gaiter attachments and reinforced areas to protect your feet from trail debris and rocky conditions. Pwrrun foam buffers your feet and provides high energy return, while a Pwrrun+ sockliner adds an extra layer of comfort on the beaten path.
“I loved the overall EVERYTHING about this shoe,” said Diane Grim, who gave the Peregrine 16 a top rating. “My feet always felt fresh running in this shoe. [I experienced] total comfort, great grip with the Vibram lugs no matter the surface, and it felt responsive. The ride was awesome. It was not squishy, firm but not rigid. You felt the trail without the harshness, if that makes sense. This shoe felt like an extension of my foot.”
Shop Men’s at saucony.com Shop Women’s at saucony.com
What to Consider
Saucony FAQ
Amanda Furrer, Editor, Running Reviews, studied journalism at NYU and writing at Emerson College. She has reviewed gear and covered other topics in the running space for almost 10 years. Since 2013, she has consecutively run the Boston Marathon. She also has a master’s degree in gastronomy from Boston University and was formerly a professional baker for two years before hanging up her apron.
Cat Bowen, senior editor of commerce; reviews, is a seasoned runner with more than 20 years of distance running experience, including dozens of marathons, half marathons, and even a few ultra marathons. For over a decade, she has tested parenting, fitness, home, and running gear and written in-depth guides to help readers with their next purchase. Holding multiple advanced degrees and currently studying kinesiology, Cat Bowen brings research-backed insight to all of her guides. Passionate about women’s health and neurodivergent inclusion, she advocates for closing research gaps and helping others—especially AudHD people—find joy in running and fitness.
