After logging over 100 kilometers in the latest Saucony Ride 18, I’m ready to share my comprehensive thoughts on what might be the year’s most dependable daily trainer. The Ride series has built a reputation for delivering no-nonsense performance at a reasonable price point, but does the 18th iteration live up to this legacy? Let’s dive deep into this Saucony Ride 18 review to find out.
As someone who’s tested countless running shoes for both personal use and professional consultation, I approach each review with the understanding that different runners have vastly different needs. Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first serious trainer or an experienced runner seeking a reliable workhorse for your rotation, this detailed analysis will help you make an informed decision.
Saucony Ride 18 Specifications
The Saucony Ride 18 arrives with impressive specifications that immediately catch attention. Priced at $145 (£130), it maintains the same cost as its predecessor while delivering notable improvements across multiple areas.
Specifications:
- Price: $145 USD / £130 GBP
- Weight: 266g (9.4 oz) for men’s size 8, 230g (8.1 oz) for women’s size 8
- Stack Heights: 35mm heel, 27mm forefoot
- Drop: 8mm
- Midsole: PWRRUN+ expanded polyurethane foam
- Outsole: XT-900 carbon rubber compound
- Upper: Engineered mesh with internal gusset
- Available widths: Standard (D) and Wide (2E)
- Country of origin: Vietnam
- Recommended use: Daily training, recovery runs, tempo work
The specifications alone tell a compelling story. Saucony has maintained the proven 8mm drop that appeals to heel and midfoot strikers while keeping the weight reasonable for a cushioned trainer. The PWRRUN+ midsole represents a significant upgrade from earlier Ride versions that used standard PWRRUN foam.
What Makes the Saucony Ride 18 Review Stand Out
The Ride 18 introduces several key improvements over the Ride 17, though veterans of the series will recognize the familiar DNA.
The most significant upgrade centers around the PWRRUN+ midsole technology. This expanded polyurethane foam represents a substantial evolution from previous iterations, offering enhanced durability and temperature resistance. Unlike EVA-based foams that harden in cold weather, PWRRUN+ maintains consistent performance across various conditions.
The engineered mesh upper deserves special mention for its exceptional breathability. Lab testing reveals it achieves a perfect 5/5 breathability rating, thanks to strategically placed ventilation zones and oversized mesh holes. The upper combines lightweight construction in the toe box with plush padding around the tongue and heel collar.
Outsole improvements include refined flex grooves in the forefoot area, designed to enhance transition smoothness. The XT-900 rubber compound provides solid durability, though coverage remains selective to maintain the shoe’s lightweight profile.
One standout feature often overlooked is the PWRRUN+ insole. At 7mm thickness, this sockliner uses the same material as the midsole, creating consistency from top to bottom while adding an extra layer of responsive cushioning.
Real-World Saucony Ride 18 Performance Review
My testing regimen for this Saucony Ride 18 review included diverse running scenarios: recovery runs, tempo sessions, long runs up to 20 kilometers, and track intervals. This comprehensive approach reveals how the shoe performs across the training spectrum.
Fit and Sizing Experience:
The Ride 18 fits true to size for most runners, though it runs slightly more snug than the Ride 17. The midfoot lockdown improved significantly thanks to the new lacing system featuring speed loops instead of traditional eyelets. This creates smoother lace adjustment and better foot security.
The toe box offers adequate room without feeling overly spacious. Runners with wider feet will appreciate the available 2E width option, though the standard width accommodates average to slightly wide feet comfortably. The heel collar’s increased padding provides excellent step-in comfort but may require attention to lacing tension to prevent heel slippage during runs.
On-the-Run Performance:
During easy-paced runs, the Saucony Ride 18 shines with its balanced cushioning approach. The PWRRUN+ foam feels firm enough to provide stable landings while offering sufficient softness for comfort over longer distances. The 8mm drop creates a natural heel-to-toe transition that works well for various foot strike patterns.
Tempo runs reveal the shoe’s versatility. While not specifically designed for speed work, the Ride 18 handles faster paces admirably. The responsive nature of the PWRRUN+ foam becomes more apparent as pace increases, providing adequate energy return without feeling bouncy or unstable.
Long-distance performance proves where this shoe truly excels. The consistent cushioning platform prevents fatigue during extended efforts, while the breathable upper maintains comfort even during warmer conditions. The stable geometry instills confidence during the latter stages of long runs when form typically deteriorates.
Weather and Surface Performance:
The XT-900 outsole provides reliable traction on dry surfaces but shows limitations in wet conditions. While not dangerously slippery, the rubber compound lacks the aggressive grip patterns found on shoes designed for variable weather conditions. Runners in consistently wet climates might want to consider this limitation.
Indoor treadmill sessions highlight the shoe’s versatility. The balanced platform works excellently for treadmill running, providing consistent feedback and comfortable cushioning during longer indoor sessions.
Comprehensive Pros and Cons Assessment
Every running shoe involves trade-offs, and the Ride 18 is no exception. Understanding these nuances helps determine whether this trainer aligns with your specific needs and running style.
Pros:
- Consistent, reliable performance across all training paces
- Excellent temperature stability of PWRRUN+ foam
- True-to-size fit with wide option available
- Strong durability prospects
- Reasonable price point for the feature set
- Improved upper breathability
- Versatile enough for most training scenarios
Cons:
- Limited grip on wet surfaces
- Not optimized for speed work or racing
- Some heel slippage potential due to plush collar
- Lacks the excitement factor of newer foam technologies
- Minimal rocker assistance for transitions
Who Should Consider the Saucony Ride 18?
The Ride 18 targets a specific but substantial market segment. This shoe excels for runners seeking a reliable daily trainer that handles 80% of their training without drama or fanfare. It’s particularly well-suited for:
- Beginning runners who need a forgiving yet supportive platform
- High-mileage trainers requiring bulletproof reliability
- Runners in varied climates who need consistent performance
- Athletes seeking value-oriented performance without premium pricing
However, runners focused primarily on speed work or those preferring maximum cushioning should look elsewhere.
FAQs About the Saucony Ride 18
How does the Saucony Ride 18 compare to the Ride 17?
The Ride 18 features refined PWRRUN+ foam that’s slightly softer and more responsive than the Ride 17. The upper offers improved breathability, and overall weight has been reduced by approximately 1 ounce while maintaining the same reliable ride characteristics.
Is the Saucony Ride 18 good for beginners?
Absolutely. The Ride 18 represents an excellent choice for new runners due to its forgiving 8mm drop, stable platform, and versatile performance. The reasonable price point and proven durability make it particularly appealing for those building their first serious running shoe rotation.
Can the Saucony Ride 18 handle speed work?
While capable of tempo runs and threshold work, the Ride 18 isn’t optimized for track intervals or race pace efforts. It’s designed as a daily trainer rather than a speed shoe.
How does the sizing run compared to other brands?
The Ride 18 fits true to size and aligns closely with Nike and Adidas sizing. If you wear a size 9 in the Nike Pegasus or Adidas Supernova, the same size should work well in the Ride 18. Always consider trying the wide width if you typically require it in other brands.
What’s the expected lifespan of the Saucony Ride 18?
Based on the PWRRUN+ foam durability and XT-900 outsole construction, expect 450-500 miles before replacement. Heavier runners or those with aggressive wear patterns might see slightly less, while lighter runners could achieve 600+ miles.
Is the Saucony Ride 18 suitable for flat feet?
The Ride 18 offers a neutral platform without built-in stability features. Runners with flat feet who require motion control should consider the Saucony Guide 18 or consult with a specialist about custom orthotics, which the Ride 18 accommodates well due to its removable insole.
Final Verdict and Where to Get Expert Guidance
The Saucony Ride 18 represents everything a daily trainer should be: reliable, comfortable, durable, and reasonably priced. It won’t win awards for innovation or excitement, but it will faithfully handle the majority of your training miles without complaint.
For runners seeking a workhorse trainer that delivers consistent performance, the Ride 18 earns a strong recommendation. Its $140 price point offers excellent value in today’s inflated market, especially considering the premium PWRRUN+ midsole technology.
However, choosing the right running shoe involves more than reading reviews. Factors like foot shape, gait pattern, training focus, and personal preferences all influence the ideal choice. As someone who helps runners worldwide find their perfect footwear match, I understand that individualized guidance makes all the difference.
If you’re uncertain whether the Saucony Ride 18 suits your specific needs, or if you’d like personalized recommendations based on your running style and goals, I’m here to help. With access to wholesale pricing and deep product knowledge across all major brands, I can provide expert guidance tailored to your situation.
Feel free to reach out via WhatsApp for personalized shoe consultations, sizing advice, or to discuss your specific running needs. Whether you’re a beginner seeking your first quality trainer or an experienced runner optimizing your rotation, professional guidance ensures you make the right choice for your feet and your goals.
