For most people the Saucony Ride 17 is the one to buy: it is the best balance of comfort, performance and value in this group. If it is not quite right for you, the Saucony Triumph 22 is the strong runner-up that suits a slightly different stride or budget.
Choosing a running shoe online is hard because every brand calls its foam responsive and every model is the most cushioned yet. What actually matters is a much shorter list, and we have done the legwork so you can skip straight to the pick that fits how you move. There is a lot to like across Saucony's lineup, but not every model suits every runner, so we narrowed it to the Saucony running shoes that genuinely stand out.
Below are the options that consistently rise to the top across independent lab measurements and large pools of verified owner reviews. We have grouped them by the job each one does best, so you can jump to the right pick rather than reading all six.
Quick comparison
The picks, in detail
Saucony Ride 17
The quiet all-rounder: balanced PWRRUN+ foam, the lightest weight in the group, no weak spots.
- Lightest in class
- Balanced foam
- Secure midfoot fit
- Firmer than max-cushion
- Plain looks
Saucony Triumph 22
Saucony's max-cushion daily trainer: deep PWRRUN+ foam that stays comfortable mile after mile.
- Deep, soft cushioning
- Comfortable plush upper
- Good durability
- On the heavier side
- Premium price
Saucony Guide 17
Saucony's everyday stability trainer with a supportive frame and soft PWRRUN foam.
- Balanced support and cushion
- Comfortable upper
- Smooth transition
- Mild support only
- Average durability
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4
Saucony's carbon racer pairs PWRRUN PB foam with a stiff plate for a fast, rolling ride.
- Snappy SpeedRoll transition
- Light and fast
- Slightly more durable than rivals
- Expensive
- Race-only
Saucony Endorphin Speed 4
A nylon-plated super-trainer that does it all: tempo runs, long runs, even races on a budget.
- Versatile and fun
- Light, energetic
- Great value vs carbon shoes
- Plate feel not for everyone
- Narrow
Saucony Peregrine 14
A versatile, grippy trail shoe with PWRTRAC lugs that work across most terrain.
- Versatile all-terrain grip
- Responsive
- Good value
- Firm
- Less cushion for ultras
How to choose
- Match the foam to your runs. Soft max-cushion shoes suit easy and recovery miles; firmer, springier shoes feel better when you pick up the pace.
- Watch the weight. An ounce or two adds up over thousands of strides. If you want to feel quick, stay light; if most runs are slow, plush and heavier is fine.
- Mind the drop. A higher 10 to 12 mm drop eases the calves and suits heel strikers; a lower 4 to 8 mm drop loads the calf more and suits midfoot strikers.
- Get the fit right. Leave a thumb's width at the toe, lock the heel in, and pick a model with width options if your feet are broad. Fit beats every spec on paper.
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Related guides
Frequently asked questions
How often should I replace running shoes?
Most trainers are good for roughly 300 to 500 miles. Replace them when the midsole stops bouncing back, the outsole wears smooth, or new aches appear. Rotating two pairs makes both last longer.
Should I size up?
Usually half a size up from your everyday shoe. Feet swell on runs and you want a thumb's width of room at the toe to avoid bruised toenails.
Is the Saucony Ride 17 worth it?
For most buyers, yes. The Saucony Ride 17 earned our top spot for offering the best overall balance in this group, which is why it is our first recommendation.
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