Saucony has been in business since 1898, when a shoe company was opened by four men in Kutztown, Pennsylvania. There were not many options for running shoes in the early to mid-1900s, when it was starting to become popular as a sport. In response to the demand, the business launched its first running shoe in 1958. The company did move to Massachusetts in 1968 but has been located there since. Complete production in the USA did end in 1994, though. The first ever technical walking shoe was released in 1987, bringing the same high-quality technology to walkers as runners. Beginning with the launch of the Kilkenny XC spike in 1993 Saucony has grown to become a cross country running industry leader today. They launched a foundation in 2006 aimed towards ending childhood obesity called Run For Good. For the vegans out there vegan sneakers, with vegan glue holding them together, are part of the lineup. Saucony’s motto is, “A good day is when we get to run. A great day is when we inspire someone else to run.”

A breathable mesh upper is created using material that is stretchy and lightweight. Allowing the foot to get some airflow helps to ward off blisters and to prevent hot spots from developing. Having a cool foot during a workout also helps runners to feel more comfortable, especially on longer runs. A unique feature of this model is that the breathable mesh runs along the entire length of the shoe instead of just the upper part of the foot near the toes. This allows the heel and arch to breathe as well as the toes and creates a more even comfort level throughout the whole shoe. Thanks to the advanced technology, the shoe still excels at repelling water while being breathable. While your socks will still get soaked if you step in a puddle, normal rainfall alone will not typically soak through in anything other than small quantities.

-8mm Heel to Toe Drop (Follows standard ratio now)
-Outsole is made from TRIFLEX technology
-Midsole is made using Everun technology
-Upper is designed with ISOFIT technology
-Designed for runners with a neutral footing
-Entire upper is designed using a breathable mesh

Saucony has worked hard on this new model to bring a whole new level of comfort to the road running game. Reviewers everywhere give this shoe a resounding pat on the back for comfort. Every update has added comfort in mind and it is because of this that the shoe requires no break in period. While the thicker soles provide for more comfort, a runner is still able to feel their foot hit the ground with every step. This allows for easy responses to changes in elevation, direction, footing, and speed. Some reviewers have found that the tongue bunches on occasion when running longer distances, but a few point out that the problem may lie in how the laces were tied that day. Users report that the shoes tend to run true to size, but may be tight in the midsole and forefoot areas. In some cases, this has led to the runner’s toes rubbing a hole through the upper over time. Wide versions of this model are available for purchase, so if your feet are even a bit outside of the normal width you may want to consider the wide. Options for sizing come in D – Medium and 2E – Wide for men, and B – Medium and D – Wide for women.

The heel contains ultra-soft cushioning, with even more cushion in the women’s offering. For those runners who are on the heavier side, the heel has been reported to give out over time and this shoe may not be for you. Weight lifting and similar activities are not recommended for this shoe because it was designed for comfort while running and not to provide stability under pressure. Thanks to researchers in Saucony’s Human Performance and Innovation Lab, the heel to drop is now just 8mm instead of 12mm. The change conforms more with a traditional heel to drop ratios and deviates from Saucony’s typical increased ratio. This change creates a more balanced feeling when the foot hits the pavement while still providing forward momentum. Increasing the feeling of balance during a run also works toward the stated goal of promoting the natural running gait.

A redesigned outsole uses TRI-FLEX technology to provide more lateral flexibility and promote a natural running form. Promoting the natural running form will help to prevent fatigue and stave off potential injury. Previous models used a lateral design in the breaks for the outsole, and this new version uses vertical breaks instead. This increase in lateral flexibility gives the shoe the versatility to function during both long distance runs and fast-paced short runs. The technology also provides for a thicker outsole which gives the shoe a longer lasting durability than previous models. This new design has been reported to not grip surfaces as well as previous versions. Some reviewers recommend avoiding wet surfaces because of the reduced gripping. Others warn that runners should avoid snow/ice and light rainfall, but that a steady rainfall does not seem to impact traction. Injection Blown Rubber has been added to the forefoot of this model and it serves to increase comfort, flexibility and helps to put that extra spring in your step.

The first midsole for running shoes to offer both stability and cushioning was made by Saucony in 1991. Such technology had long been used to assist runners that wanted to stop pronating, and shoes utilizing it used to be quite uncomfortable. For the first time ever, the midsole was created using Everun foam over the entire length. An ultra comfortable midsole with a high level of responsiveness is the result of using this foam. A topsole made of Everun has been placed on top of the foam for added comfort. Overall, the flexibility of this model was reduced when compared to older models, having an impact on the level of comfort. Reviews are mixed on the impact this had, with some claiming their shoe is stiff and others saying it gives them that extra spring. Those who say they felt an extra spring was feeling the technology at work. Everun foam is meant to help absorb the impact of a runner’s foot hitting the ground and send that energy back to the runner. With small bits of energy returning to the runner with every step, they will feel less fatigued and able to run longer. The increased level of comfort and lessened footfall impact provides enough extra cushioning to protect runners who are injury prone. Roughly two millimeters was taken from the midsole since the third generation, giving the shoe a lower profile look.

A custom fit feel is achieved using the lacing system and ISOFIT upper. This technology is designed to keep the upper cushioning where it is supposed to be by giving your foot a little hug. The upper will not require any breaking in period because of this special design. Another benefit of this new model is that the enlarged eyelets have been expanded to include the entire upper instead of just the first two rows. These eyelets allow for more give while running, adding increased comfort by letting the entire lace section move with the foot. One change from the previous model is a new collar foam for the ankle that provides a softer, more cushioned feel. The foam has special qualities that wick away moisture to prevent stink and bacterial buildup. Testers reported that this new design made it feel like the shoe was loose around the ankle, but none reported that it made them feel as if their heel was going to slip out. As if being more comfortable wasn’t enough, the material that the upper is made from is designed to divert dirt and litter while also keeping the shoe looking clean. You will also see reflective material along the upper to help runners be seen when running at night.

With the release of the ISO 4 and its extra cushioning came some added weight. The added weight puts this shoe below the benchmark of many other road-running shoes out there. Some reviewers have said that they are okay with the extra weight because of the high level of comfort provided. While this model will not do for anyone seeking ultralight running shoes, the extra weight is not enough to matter to the average runner. If you are prone to injury or just want that extra cushioning for your feet, then this model is right for you. These also do not have to be racing shoes, but can just be used as trainers to keep your speed up during races. The shoe weight for men is about 10.8 oz, while the shoe weight for women is about 9 oz.

Using their innovative and advanced technologies, Saucony redesigned the Triumph and enhanced it for exceptional comfort. Model number four has improved its cushioning in the midsole, created an ultra comfortable form-fitting upper made of mesh, and a thicker outsole for better durability and flexibility. These new technologies have created a shoe that feels like it was custom made for your foot. Each improvement was made with a neutral footed runner in mind and with the goal of promoting the natural running form. The level of comfort and support provided by this shoe make it ideal for long distance road running, but not in wet weather. Price was the main issue among reviewers, but a high-quality item always comes with a higher price tag. If you are looking for running shoes that are using the best and most recent technology, then this is the shoe for you.