An Honest Review and Lab Test
The Saucony Ride 14 is not your average running shoe. Designed for neutral runners who crave both performance and versatility, this everyday trainer delivers consistent comfort on both short and long runs. Let's dive into the details and find out if the Ride 14 is the right shoe for you.
The Saucony Ride 14: A shoe that combines functionality and ease.
Who Should Consider the Saucony Ride 14?
If you prioritize comfort and a secure fit, the Saucony Ride 14 is an excellent choice. Its plushly padded upper, stretchy tongue gussets, and comfortable overall design make it a utilitarian trainer that won't disappoint. This shoe ensures a consistent experience from mile one to mile 300, making it perfect for runners seeking reliability.
The Saucony Ride 14 in vibrant yellow.
On the other hand, if you prefer a super soft and bouncy ride, the Saucony Endorphin Shift or the Triumph 18 might be more suitable options. These models offer a different level of cushioning and responsiveness.
True to Size and Wide Feet Friendly
With the Saucony Ride 14, you can expect a true-to-size fit and ample room in the toe box, perfect for those with wider feet. The shoe's upper measures 101.4mm wide in the forefoot, slightly wider than the average, enhancing comfort for runners who need a little extra space.
The forefoot width of the Saucony Ride 14.
However, if you have super narrow feet, you might find this shoe a bit roomy.
A Closer Look at the Updated Upper
The Saucony Ride 14 features some notable updates in its upper construction. The increased ventilation improves breathability, ensuring a cooler experience for your feet.
The Saucony Ride 14's plush upper, cut in half.
The thickly padded tongue and luxuriously padded ankle collar provide exceptional comfort. The stretchy mesh tongue gussets contribute to a snug fit, while the soft finishes inside the shoe enhance overall enjoyment. Saucony has struck the perfect balance between comfort and practicality with the Ride 14.
The Reliable and Tempered Ride
As expected from the Ride series, the Ride 14 delivers a consistent and utility-driven running experience. The midsole offers a soft and flexible, yet firm ride. While not overly bouncy, it provides a pleasant running experience without feeling dull or heavy. This shoe is a great choice for daily training.
No Break-In Period Necessary
One of the greatest strengths of the Saucony Ride 14 is its immediate comfort. Whether it's your first day or your hundredth day wearing these shoes, they will provide the same level of comfort and support. The upper molds to your foot, and the midsole offers a stable and forgiving ride right from the start.
Lightweight and Durable
Weighing in at 10.15 ounces (286g), the Saucony Ride 14 is not the lightest shoe on the market. However, it doesn't weigh you down or make your feet feel heavy during your runs.
The weight of the Saucony Ride 14.
In terms of durability, the ride 14 stands out. With its 4.23mm thick outsole, which measures 83.5HC on the durometer scale, this shoe is built to withstand hundreds of miles. The midsole's denseness also prevents premature breakdown, making the Ride 14 a long-lasting investment.
Superb Grip and Flexibility
The Ride 14 excels in both grip and flexibility. The outsole design provides excellent traction, while the flex grooves allow the midsole to move naturally with your foot throughout your stride.
The Saucony Ride 14's durable and flexible outsole.
The All-Rounder Shoe
Versatility is a key aspect of the Saucony Ride 14. It is designed to meet the demands of different types of runs. Whether you need a recovery day shoe, a daily trainer, or a shoe to pick up the pace on tempo days, the Ride 14 can handle it all. While it may not stand out in any specific category, it offers a well-rounded performance that caters to a variety of needs.
An Improved and Breathable Upper
One of the notable updates on the Ride 14 is the enhanced breathability of the upper. With better ventilation, the shoe allows heat to escape, keeping your feet cooler and more comfortable during your runs.
The improved upper of the Saucony Ride 14.
Lockdown Concerns
While the Ride 14 offers satisfactory lockdown in the midfoot and toe box area, the heel fit might pose some issues. The updated ankle collar and vented upper inadvertently caused some heel slip during testing. If you prefer a deep heel cup, you may be disappointed with this specific update. However, the gusseted tongue ensures a secure fit and prevents any discomfort in the toe box area.
The lacing system of the Saucony Ride 14.
Lastly, the round laces tend to come undone easily. It's advisable to double knot them for a more secure fit.
In Conclusion
Overall, the Saucony Ride 14 is a reliable and versatile everyday trainer suitable for a wide range of runners. While it may feel slightly firmer than expected, it offers consistent performance and lasting comfort. If you appreciate a tempered shoe that can handle any type of run, the Ride 14 might be the perfect choice for you.
