Best Saucony Running Shoes for Speed, Comfort, and Daily Training
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 U.S. Geological Survey data) in Kutztown, Pennsylvania. 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 Preview
- Best Overall: Saucony Paramount Max (Men’s/Women’s)
- 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 3 (unisex)
How We Selected
Most of the shoes listed here have been tested by RW staff and our team of 300-plus 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
- Comfortable for miles and miles
- No hot spots with testing
- Breathable and light feeling
Cons
- Collar could be more plush for security
| Weight | 10.6 oz (M), 8.8 oz (W) |
| Drop | 43 mm |
I know it sounds a little bold to award a super trainer the Best Overall accolade, but I can’t get over the unassuming, retro-looking, gargantuan, highly responsive Paramount Max. What you think you’ll get is a shoe that will slow you down because of its beefiness. But the ride the Paramount Max provides makes it worthy to put at the top of this list. However, the ride alone isn’t what won the test team over. We were delighted by the overall comfort of the shoe, as well.
Saucony’s IncrediLux foam offers a plush 43 mm mountain of foam underfoot. The broad platform provides stability. But the bouncy ride places this shoe as an everyday trainer on our shoe racks as well as go-to long run footwear.
And you know what? That pumped up, mesh, 2000s-look grew on us as well.
Shop Men’s at saucony.com | Shop Women’s at saucony.com | See Full Paramount Max Review
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 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 multiuse and extremely versatile. Choose it as your everyday trainer, long run shoe, and/or recovery shoe. They’re also great for run/walkers.
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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
Saucony Endorphin Pro 5
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 Olympic Marathon team running in the Endorphin Pro. When I got my hands on that shoe, I was shocked by 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.”
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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 provide more comfort and support.
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Saucony Endorphin Elite 3
Pros
- Knit, secure upper
- Updated plate and midsole provides more stability
- Explosive bounce with TPEE foam
Cons
- Requires a couple runs to get used to the squishy bounce
- Noisy
| Weight | 7.2 oz (M), 6.5 oz (W), unisex |
| Drop | 8 mm |
The Endorphin Elite 3 is still as crazy explosive as its predecessor in terms of bounce, but Saucony made tweaks so it’s more stable. You still have that tacky PwrTrac outsole and annoying “swish-squeaking” running in the shoe, but it’s not as obnoxious as the thunderous gallop of other super shoes (looking at you, Alphafly).
To make cutting corners easy for the rest of us, the shoe has more ground contact. The heel and midfoot are now connected. More fluting to the carbon plate was also added to assist with smoother heel-to-toe transitions.
Still, that TPEE-based IncrediRun foam is a gangbuster on the road (and, as I’ve learned, pretty wobbly on sandy gravel). You’ll still want to race these on a pavement course not riddled with turns. But if you could handle the Elite 2, then by all means, wear this at your next mixed-terrain marathon.
Saucony Endorphin Elite 3 Review
Pros
- Jazzy and responsive
- Roomy and comfortable
- Cushioning holds up over long miles
Cons
- Could have more of a rocker profile
| Weight | 8.8 oz (M) 7.6 oz (W) |
| Drop | 10 mm |
The Triumph 24 is, personally, my favorite version of the shoe since I first fell in love with it circa Triumph 17. The neutral trainer features Saucony’s extra cushy but very responsive IncrediLux foam, priming the shoe for long runs.
Runner-in-Chief Jeff Dengate liked the shoe, saying it is “an easy cruiser for morning jogs and recovery runs.” However, he wished for more of a rocker for smoother toe-off. On the other hand, the less angled geometry will appeal to run/walkers and walkers, whose calves begin to scream due to the more curved soles out there now.
For an even plusher version with built-in stability, the Hurricane 26 has a broader platform while also treating your feet to plush IncrediLux foam.
Shop Men’s at saucony.com | Shop Women’s at saucony.com
Saucony Guide 19
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.”
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Saucony Endorphin Azura
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 have a plate, 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 forefoot 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
Saucony Peregrine 16
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.”
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What to Consider
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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.