Saucony Ride 19 Review 2026: Is This the Best Daily Trainer?

If you are looking for a reliable daily running shoe that feels soft, smooth, and ready for any distance, the Saucony Ride 19 deserves your full attention. This shoe has been a favorite among runners for nearly two decades.

But does it actually live up to the hype? We put the Saucony Ride 19 through its paces on easy runs, long runs, and even some tempo efforts.

This review covers every detail you need to know before you buy. We break down the cushioning, fit, weight, durability, traction, and much more.

Key Takeaways

• The Saucony Ride 19 uses a reformulated supercritical PWRRUN+ midsole that delivers a soft yet bouncy ride. The energy return reaches 66.7% in the heel and 70.7% in the forefoot, which is well above average for daily trainers.
• The shoe retails at $145, placing it below the average running shoe price of $153. You get premium foam technology and a quality upper at a price that does not break the bank.
• The weight has increased slightly to approximately 8.9 oz (men’s size 9) compared to the Ride 18. The added stack height and thicker outsole rubber contribute to this. If weight is a top priority for you, lighter options exist.
• Breathability earns a perfect 5/5 score. The engineered mesh upper allows excellent airflow, making the Ride 19 a strong pick for warm weather running.
• Durability is a standout feature. The XT-900 outsole rubber shows only 0.6mm of wear in lab tests, and the PWRRUN+ foam holds up well over hundreds of miles. You can expect 400 to 500 miles from this shoe.
• The fit is true to size with a spacious toe box and average midfoot width. Wide sizing is available in select regions for runners who need extra room.

Saucony Ride 19 Overview

Last update on 2026-08-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Saucony Ride 19 is a neutral daily training shoe built for runners who want comfort and reliability in a single package. It sits in the heart of Saucony’s lineup as their flagship everyday trainer. The shoe works for easy runs, long runs, and moderate tempo efforts.

This version brings several updates over the Ride 18. The PWRRUN+ foam has been reformulated to feel softer and more responsive. The stack height has increased slightly, with 36mm in the heel and 28mm in the forefoot. The 8mm heel to toe drop remains the same.

Saucony also redesigned the outsole with more forefoot rubber and added flex grooves. The upper uses a new engineered mesh that feels lighter and more breathable. These changes make the Ride 19 feel like a genuine step forward from its predecessor.

The shoe is available in both men’s and women’s versions. Multiple colorways are offered, and wide options exist for runners who need them.

PWRRUN+ Midsole Performance

The midsole is the star of the Saucony Ride 19. Saucony used a reformulated supercritical PWRRUN+ foam that delivers excellent energy return. Lab tests show the foam returns 66.7% energy in the heel and an impressive 70.7% in the forefoot. These numbers are well above the average for daily trainers.

The foam uses an eTPU compound that resembles the beaded structure found in Adidas Boost technology. It provides a balanced ride that is neither too soft nor too firm. The shoe feels lively under foot without being unstable.

On easy runs, the cushioning absorbs impact smoothly. On longer efforts, the foam stays consistent and does not bottom out. The PWRRUN+ also performs well in cold weather. Lab tests show the foam gets only 9% firmer after 20 minutes in freezing conditions. This is far better than the 24% average for running shoes.

The midsole is a single block of foam with no separate crash pad or plate. This keeps the ride simple and predictable.

Fit and Comfort

The Saucony Ride 19 fits true to size for most runners. The toe box is spacious with a measured width of 72.8mm and a generous height of 28.8mm. You will not feel pressure on your toenails during long runs.

The midfoot width sits close to the industry average at 96.3mm. This means the shoe works well for runners with standard to slightly wide feet. If you need extra room, wide sizing is available in select markets.

The semi-gusseted tongue stays in place throughout your run. It does not slide to one side. The tongue padding measures 7.3mm, which provides comfort without feeling bulky. The heel collar features generous padding with a deeper heel cradle than the Ride 18.

Overall, the step in feel is plush and secure. The upper wraps around the foot nicely without hot spots. Multiple testers noted that the fit feels like a shoe costing $160 or more.

Upper Material and Breathability

Saucony upgraded the upper on the Ride 19 with a new engineered mesh that scores a perfect 5 out of 5 for breathability. Air moves freely through the material with no blocked zones between the sock and the outside.

Under a microscope, the mesh reveals a perforated inner layer that mirrors the main outer mesh. This dual layer design promotes strong airflow while keeping the structure intact. Many brands skip this detail to save on manufacturing costs.

The upper feels soft against the skin. It is not scratchy or stiff. The material stretches slightly around the toe box, which helps accommodate foot swelling during long runs.

Reflective elements appear on both the heel and forefoot. This makes the shoe visible during early morning or evening runs. The lacing system uses traditional punched eyelets instead of the fabric lace loops from the Ride 18. This change improves durability.

Top 3 Alternatives for Saucony Ride 19

1. Brooks Ghost 16 — A classic neutral trainer with DNA LOFT cushioning and a smooth transition. It is a direct competitor to the Ride 19 and offers a slightly firmer ride.

Last update on 2026-06-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

2. ASICS Gel Nimbus 27 — A premium cushioned neutral shoe with PureGEL technology. It delivers a plush, cloud like feel and works well for runners who prefer maximum softness.

Last update on 2026-06-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

3. HOKA Clifton 10 — A lightweight cushioned trainer with a meta rocker design. It weighs less than the Ride 19 and offers a rolling transition that many runners love.

Last update on 2026-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Cushioning and Shock Absorption

The Saucony Ride 19 scores 132 SA in the heel for shock absorption, which sits above the 130 SA average for running shoes. The forefoot measures 118 SA. These numbers confirm that the shoe provides generous cushioning for daily training and long runs.

The foam does not feel overly mushy. It strikes a good balance between protection and ground feel. Runners who prefer a moderate cushion level will enjoy this shoe. It absorbs impact well without making you feel like you are sinking into the ground.

The insole adds another layer of comfort. It measures 6.5mm thick, which is well above the 4.5mm average. Saucony moved away from a PWRRUN+ insole to a softer, lighter material. This change improves the step in feel.

You can remove the insole if you use custom orthotics or want more room in the toe box. The shoe also works well for runners who swap insoles for a thinner option.

Weight Analysis

The Ride 19 weighs approximately 8.9 oz (252g) for a men’s size 9 and 7.7 oz (218g) for a women’s size 8, according to Saucony. Independent lab tests measured closer to 9.8 oz (278g) for a men’s size, which is heavier than the Ride 18’s 9.0 oz.

This weight increase comes from the added stack height and thicker outsole rubber. The PWRRUN+ foam is inherently heavier than some competing foam technologies. This is the main trade off for its strong durability and energy return.

The shoe does not feel heavy on the run. The balanced design and moderate rocker help the shoe turn over smoothly. However, if you want the lightest possible daily trainer, options like the HOKA Mach 6 or Adidas Supernova Rise 2 weigh less.

For most runners, the weight difference is small enough that it will not affect their training. The Ride 19 still moves well at easy to moderate paces.

Outsole Durability and Traction

The outsole on the Ride 19 uses XT-900 rubber that delivers excellent durability. Lab tests show only 0.6mm of wear, which is nearly half the 1.1mm average. This means the outsole will last hundreds of miles before showing major signs of degradation.

Saucony redesigned the outsole pattern for this version. There is more rubber coverage in the forefoot and added flex grooves for smoother transitions. The midfoot and heel sections have less rubber to save weight.

Traction scores 0.52 in lab tests, which places the Ride 19 right in the reliable range. The shoe grips well on dry asphalt, wet concrete, and packed dirt roads. It is not a trail shoe, but it handles light off road surfaces without issues.

The outsole rubber measures 3.5mm thick. This is slightly above the 3.2mm average and adds to the overall longevity of the shoe.

Stability and Support

The Saucony Ride 19 is a neutral shoe without any stability posts or medial support devices. However, Saucony made several changes to improve inherent stability.

The forefoot midsole width now measures 127.1mm, and the heel width reaches 100.7mm. Both numbers sit well above average. The wider base helps prevent ankle roll and keeps the shoe stable during heel strikes.

The heel counter earns a maximum 5/5 stiffness score. This locks the heel firmly in place and reduces unwanted movement. Torsional rigidity scores 4 out of 5, meaning the shoe resists twisting well.

These stability improvements are a direct response to the increased stack height. The taller foam platform required a wider and stiffer base to maintain control. Runners who need additional support should consider the Saucony Guide 19 or the Saucony Tempus 2 instead.

Saucony Ride 19 vs Saucony Ride 18

The Ride 19 brings several meaningful changes over the Ride 18. The PWRRUN+ foam has been reformulated to feel softer and more responsive. Stack height increased from 35mm to 38.7mm in the heel.

The heel width jumped from 91.9mm to 100.7mm. This gives the newer version better stability but also changes the overall feel of the shoe. The Ride 18 felt more compact and nimble. The Ride 19 leans more toward a cushioned platform trainer.

Weight went up slightly due to the extra foam and rubber. The outsole design changed with more forefoot rubber and less midfoot coverage. Traction improved marginally, and durability remains strong.

The upper switched from fabric lace loops to punched eyelets. The tongue gained a bit more padding. The overall fit remains similar, with a spacious toe box and secure midfoot lockdown.

If you loved the lighter, nimbler feel of the Ride 18, the Ride 19 might feel slightly different. If you want more cushioning and stability, the update is welcome.

Who Should Buy the Saucony Ride 19

Last update on 2026-08-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Ride 19 is a strong choice for daily trainers who value comfort, durability, and value. It works well for easy runs, recovery runs, and long distance efforts. You can also pick up the pace for moderate tempo sessions.

First time runners will appreciate the uncomplicated design. The shoe does not require a break in period. It feels great right out of the box. The true to size fit and spacious toe box accommodate a wide range of foot shapes.

Experienced runners looking for a dependable workhorse shoe will also find a lot to like here. The PWRRUN+ foam delivers consistent performance over hundreds of miles. The outsole rubber resists wear impressively well.

The shoe is also a solid option for walkers. The cushioning and rocker geometry make it comfortable for extended time on your feet.

Who Should Skip the Saucony Ride 19

The Ride 19 is not ideal for speed work or racing. It lacks the lightweight feel and aggressive rocker needed for fast interval sessions. If you want a speed focused shoe, look at the Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 instead.

Runners who prefer a minimal, close to ground feel should also skip this shoe. The increased stack height and wider base give it a bigger platform feel. The flexibility score of 19.1N is significantly stiffer than the Ride 18.

If weight is your top priority, lighter daily trainers exist. The HOKA Mach 6, Adidas Supernova Rise 2, and PUMA Velocity Nitro 4 offer similar cushioning at a lower weight.

Runners with severe overpronation need a stability shoe. The Ride 19 is neutral and does not offer medial post support.

Pricing and Value

The Saucony Ride 19 retails at $145, which is below the industry average of $153 for running shoes. At this price, you get a reformulated eTPU midsole, a premium breathable upper, and a durable XT-900 outsole.

Compared to competitors, the value is strong. The ASICS Gel Nimbus 27 costs around $160. The Nike Pegasus 42 sits at a similar price but uses a different foam technology. The HOKA Clifton 10 costs about $150.

The Ride 19 offers excellent cost per mile. With an expected lifespan of 400 to 500 miles, you pay roughly $0.29 to $0.36 per mile. That is hard to beat for a shoe with this level of cushioning and energy return.

Sales and discounts often bring the price down further. Previous Ride models regularly drop to $100 or less during clearance events.

Final Verdict on the Saucony Ride 19

The Saucony Ride 19 is a fantastic daily trainer that gets the fundamentals right. The reformulated PWRRUN+ foam delivers impressive energy return. The breathable upper keeps your feet cool. The XT-900 outsole lasts for hundreds of miles.

The shoe is not perfect. It gained some weight compared to the Ride 18. The platform feels wider and stiffer than before. It will not replace your speed day shoe.

But for the $145 price tag, the Ride 19 offers remarkable value. It handles easy runs, long runs, and moderate tempo efforts with equal confidence. The fit is accessible and comfortable for most foot shapes.

If you need one shoe that can cover 80% of your training miles, the Saucony Ride 19 belongs on your short list. It is a dependable, well built trainer that earns its place in the Saucony lineup year after year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Saucony Ride 19 good for beginners?

Yes. The Saucony Ride 19 is an excellent choice for beginners. It offers a comfortable, true to size fit and a cushioned ride that does not require any break in period. The neutral design works for most foot types. The $145 price point is also reasonable for a first quality running shoe.

How many miles can I get from the Saucony Ride 19?

Most runners can expect 400 to 500 miles from the Saucony Ride 19. The PWRRUN+ foam maintains its bounce well over time. The XT-900 outsole rubber shows very low wear in lab tests. Some runners report getting even more miles from previous Ride models.

Is the Saucony Ride 19 good for long runs?

Yes. The shoe provides enough cushioning and energy return for long distance efforts. The 36mm heel stack and responsive foam keep your legs feeling fresh over extended mileage. The breathable upper also helps manage heat buildup during longer sessions.

Can I use the Saucony Ride 19 for speed work?

The Ride 19 handles moderate tempo efforts well. However, it is not the best choice for fast interval sessions or track workouts. The shoe is heavier and stiffer than dedicated speed trainers. For speed work, consider the Saucony Endorphin Speed 5.

How does the Saucony Ride 19 compare to the Brooks Ghost?

Both shoes are neutral daily trainers at a similar price point. The Ride 19 offers more energy return thanks to its PWRRUN+ foam. The Brooks Ghost provides a slightly firmer and more traditional ride. The Ride 19 has better breathability scores. The choice often comes down to personal preference for foam feel.

Does the Saucony Ride 19 come in wide sizes?

Yes. Saucony offers the Ride 19 in wide sizing in select markets. The standard width already provides a spacious toe box and average midfoot width. If you have broader feet, the wide option gives you extra room without changing the overall ride quality.