Saucony has been making running shoes for well over a century, with roots stretching back to Pennsylvania in 1898.
While many running brands have diversified into a wide range of sports, Saucony has remained firmly focused on runners, which is one of the reasons it has earned such a loyal following.
Today, the brand is recognised for producing some of the most versatile and innovative running shoes on the market.
From highly cushioned daily trainers and supportive stability models to carbon-plated racing shoes worn by elite athletes, Saucony has built a range that caters to virtually every type of runner.
What makes Saucony particularly popular is its ability to combine comfort, performance and value.
Whether you're training for your first park run, building towards a marathon, or exploring local trails, there is usually a Saucony shoe designed specifically for that purpose.
Chapters
- What are Saucony running shoes best for?
- Key features of Saucony running shoes
- Best Saucony Running Shoes in 2026
- 1. Saucony Endorphin Elite 2
- 2. Saucony Endorphin Speed 5
- 3. Saucony Guide 19
- 4. Saucony Peregrine 16
- 5. Saucony Ride 19
- 6. Saucony Triumph 23
- Key Takeaways
- Editor's Pick
- Need help choosing the right Saucony running shoes?
What are Saucony running shoes best for?
Saucony running shoes are best known for delivering a balanced blend of comfort, responsiveness and versatility.
Unlike some brands that focus heavily on either maximum cushioning or outright speed, Saucony has developed a range that covers the entire spectrum of running.
The Ride and Triumph series provide dependable comfort for everyday mileage, while the Endorphin range offers some of the most respected performance shoes available today.
The brand is particularly strong in:
- Daily training
- Long-distance running
- Marathon preparation
- Stability running
- Trail running
- Tempo sessions and racing
One of Saucony's greatest strengths is that each model has a clearly defined purpose, making it easier for runners to choose the right shoe for their training needs.
Key features of Saucony running shoes
PWRRUN
PWRRUN is Saucony's family of cushioning foams used throughout its running range.
Different versions exist, including PWRRUN PB and PWRRUN+, but the goal remains the same: providing a balance of cushioning, responsiveness and durability.
For runners, this translates into softer landings, smoother transitions and reduced fatigue over longer distances.
IncrediRun
IncrediRun is Saucony's latest high-performance racing foam, introduced in the Endorphin Elite 2.
The material is exceptionally soft and energetic, creating a highly bouncy sensation that feels noticeably different from traditional racing foams.
Rather than feeling firm and aggressive, IncrediRun delivers a lively ride that helps propel runners forward whilst maintaining impressive cushioning.
Speedroll
Speedroll is Saucony's rocker geometry system.
Rather than relying purely on foam or plates, Speedroll helps create a rolling sensation through the stride cycle.
The result is a smoother transition from heel strike to toe-off, helping runners maintain momentum with less effort.
It’s especially noticeable in the Endorphin range, where it contributes significantly to the shoes' fast and efficient feel.
Best Saucony Running Shoes in 2026
1. Saucony Endorphin Elite 2
Pros
- Exceptional energy return
- Incredibly bouncy ride
- Elite-level racing performance
Cons
- Expensive
- Can feel unstable for some runners
Ideal For: Road racing, half marathons and marathons
Weight: 199g (7.0oz)
Stack Height / Drop: 39.5mm heel / 31.5mm forefoot (8mm drop)
Price: £174.99
The Endorphin Elite 2 is Saucony's flagship racing shoe and one of the most distinctive super shoes currently available.
The first thing that stands out during testing is the softness of the IncrediRun foam.
Most carbon-plated racing shoes deliver speed through a firm, aggressive platform.
The Elite 2 takes a very different approach.
The midsole feels remarkably soft underfoot whilst still delivering substantial propulsion thanks to the full-length carbon plate.
During faster efforts, the shoe feels energetic and playful.
The bounce generated by the foam encourages forward momentum, making it particularly enjoyable during race-pace sessions and longer marathon efforts.
The trade-off is stability.
Runners with efficient form will likely love the sensation, but heavier heel strikers or those who struggle with ankle stability may find the platform slightly unpredictable when cornering or running on uneven surfaces.
For experienced runners chasing personal bests, however, few shoes feel as exciting and unique as the Endorphin Elite 2.
2. Saucony Endorphin Speed 5
Pros
- Extremely versatile
- Fast but forgiving
- Suitable for training and racing
Cons
- Narrow fit for some runners
- Not as cushioned as some newer super trainers
Ideal For: Tempo runs, intervals, long runs and racing
Weight: 237g (8.3oz)
Stack Height / Drop: 36mm heel / 28mm forefoot (8mm drop)
Price: £104.99
If there is one shoe in the Saucony range capable of handling almost every type of run, it’s the Endorphin Speed 5.
The combination of PWRRUN PB foam, a winged nylon plate and Speedroll geometry creates a ride that feels quick without becoming overly demanding.
Unlike carbon-plated racers, the nylon plate provides propulsion whilst remaining comfortable enough for everyday training.
During testing, the shoe excelled across a wide range of sessions.
Easy miles felt comfortable, tempo efforts felt responsive and long runs remained enjoyable.
Few shoes manage this level of versatility.
The updated upper improves lockdown and breathability, while the slightly roomier forefoot makes the fit more accommodating than previous versions.
For runners who only want one performance-focused shoe in their rotation, the Endorphin Speed 5 is arguably the strongest option in Saucony's entire lineup.
3. Saucony Guide 19
Pros
- Excellent stability
- Comfortable cushioning
- Smooth transitions
Cons
- Heavier than neutral alternatives
- Less exciting at faster paces
Ideal For: Stability running and daily mileage
Weight: 272g (9.6oz)
Stack Height / Drop: 38mm heel / 32mm forefoot (6mm drop)
Price: £129.99
The Guide 19 proves that stability shoes no longer need to feel heavy or intrusive.
Instead of aggressively controlling foot movement, the Guide 19 provides subtle support that becomes most noticeable when fatigue starts to affect running form.
During testing, the shoe felt remarkably smooth and natural, especially during longer steady-paced runs.
The cushioning strikes a sensible balance between comfort and control.
There is enough softness for daily mileage, but sufficient structure to keep the ride feeling stable.
This makes the Guide 19 an excellent choice for runners who need support but dislike the rigid sensation often associated with traditional stability footwear.
4. Saucony Peregrine 16
Pros
- Excellent grip
- Durable construction
- Confident handling on technical terrain
Cons
- Firm on roads
- Less cushioning than road shoes
Ideal For: Trail running and mixed terrain
Weight: 278g (9.8oz)
Stack Height / Drop: 30mm heel / 24mm forefoot (6mm drop)
Price: £129.99
The Peregrine 16 continues Saucony's long tradition of producing dependable trail running shoes.
The standout feature during testing was the confidence it inspires on technical terrain.
The outsole grips effectively on loose ground, muddy trails and rocky paths, allowing runners to focus on their route rather than worrying about footing.
Despite its trail credentials, the shoe remains comfortable over longer distances.
Protection underfoot is excellent, helping shield runners from rocks and uneven surfaces without making the ride feel overly harsh.
It’s not designed for road running and feels noticeably firmer on tarmac, but for dedicated trail use, the Peregrine 16 remains one of the strongest options available.
5. Saucony Ride 19
Pros
- Exceptionally versatile
- Comfortable and responsive
- Suitable for almost any training run
Cons
- Forefoot can feel slightly loose for some runners
- Lacks the plushness of the Triumph
Ideal For: Daily training and general road running
Weight: 259g (9.1oz)
Stack Height / Drop: 35mm heel / 27mm forefoot (8mm drop)
Price: £129.99
The Ride 19 is the shoe most runners should start with when considering the Saucony range.
During testing, it consistently impressed with its ability to adapt to different types of runs.
Easy recovery miles felt comfortable, long runs remained enjoyable and occasional faster efforts were handled surprisingly well.
The updated cushioning provides a softer and more energetic feel than previous versions, making the shoe more enjoyable without sacrificing the dependable character that has made the Ride series so popular.
What separates the Ride 19 from many competitors is its versatility.
While it may not be the fastest, softest or most cushioned shoe in the lineup, it performs every task well.
For runners seeking one dependable daily trainer, the Ride 19 is difficult to fault.
6. Saucony Triumph 23
Pros
- Plush cushioning
- Excellent long-run comfort
- Surprisingly lightweight for its category
Cons
- Less responsive than performance trainers
- Premium price
Ideal For: Long runs, recovery runs and high mileage
Weight: 263g (9.3oz)
Stack Height / Drop: 37mm heel / 27mm forefoot (10mm drop)
Price: £159.99
The Triumph 23 is Saucony's premium cushioned trainer and one of the most comfortable shoes in the current lineup.
Compared to previous versions, the ride feels noticeably softer whilst remaining surprisingly lightweight.
During testing, the shoe excelled on longer runs where comfort becomes increasingly important as fatigue builds.
The cushioning absorbs impact exceptionally well, helping reduce stress on tired legs.
At the same time, the shoe avoids feeling excessively soft or unstable, maintaining a reassuring level of control throughout the run.
The wider fit through the forefoot and midfoot also improves comfort for runners who previously found the Triumph series too restrictive.
For marathon training, recovery days and high-mileage weeks, the Triumph 23 is one of the best cushioned options currently available.
Key Takeaways
Saucony continues to offer one of the most complete running shoe lineups available today.
- Best overall daily trainer: Saucony Ride 19
- Best cushioned shoe: Saucony Triumph 23
- Best stability shoe: Saucony Guide 19
- Best trail running shoe: Saucony Peregrine 16
- Best speed trainer: Saucony Endorphin Speed 5
- Best race-day shoe: Saucony Endorphin Elite 2
Editor's Pick
If we could only recommend one Saucony running shoe to the widest range of runners, it would be the Saucony Endorphin Speed 5.
Few shoes combine comfort, speed, versatility and value as effectively.
It can handle daily training, tempo sessions, long runs and even race day duties, making it one of the most complete running shoes currently available.
Need help choosing the right Saucony running shoes?
Choosing the right running shoes can make a huge difference to your comfort, confidence and performance.
If you're unsure which Saucony model best suits your running style, mileage or goals, get in touch with our team.
We're always happy to offer honest advice and help you find the perfect pair for your next run.