Are you wondering if the Saucony Ride 18 is worth the upgrade from the Ride 17? In their latest iteration, Saucony has made some subtle but notable updates to the midsole, stack height, flexibility, and upper. Let’s break down these features so you can decide if the Ride 18 is the right choice for your needs.
Weight and Drop
One of the first changes you’ll notice is the weight reduction in the Ride 18.
- Ride 18: 274g (Men’s size 9 US)
- Ride 17: 282g (Men’s size 9 US)
This 8g reduction is impressive, considering the Ride 18 has an increased stack height:
- Ride 18: 37mm in the rearfoot, 29mm in the forefoot (8mm drop).
- Ride 17: 35mm in the rearfoot, 27mm in the forefoot (8mm drop).
Midsole and Flexibility
Both models feature PWRRUN+ cushioning, but the Ride 18 introduces a more springy and flexible experience.
- Ride 18: The forefoot features four flex grooves, significantly increasing flexibility. This change allows for a smoother transition from the midfoot to the push-off phase during your gait cycle. It’s ideal for runners who appreciate more responsiveness and a faster feel.
- Ride 17: Stiffer in the forefoot, making transitions slightly more aggressive. This stiffness lends itself better to uptempo runs, where a firmer ride might be preferred.
If you’re a fan of versatility, the Ride 18 shines as a neutral daily trainer that can handle everything from long runs to faster sessions.
Upper Material and Fit
The Ride 18 also features an improved upper for enhanced comfort:
- Ride 18: More plush, with a slightly better fit and added padding in the tongue. The design feels similar to the Ride 16, offering a luxurious step-in feel.
- Ride 17: A simpler upper with slightly less padding, although still functional and comfortable for most runners.
Both models feature gusseted tongues for a secure fit and plenty of padding around the heel counter to prevent slippage.
Performance Differences
The Ride 18 stands out for its increased responsiveness and flexibility, which makes it better suited for faster runs. While both models are versatile enough for daily training, the 18 feels slightly more dynamic.
If you’re coming from the Ride 17, the Ride 18 could feel like a small but meaningful upgrade, especially for runners who prioritize:
- A springy, responsive ride.
- Greater forefoot flexibility for smoother transitions.
- A more plush upper for enhanced comfort.
Who Should Upgrade?
- If you’re happy with the Ride 17 and prefer a stiffer forefoot or use it for uptempo runs, you might stick with it for now.
- However, if you’re looking for a more dynamic, flexible ride or prefer a softer, more cushioned upper, the Ride 18 could be worth the investment.
If budget is a concern, it may be wise to wait for the Ride 18’s price to drop, especially as the Ride 17 remains an excellent shoe for neutral runners.
Similar Shoes to Consider
If you’re exploring other options, consider:
- Brooks Ghost 16: A neutral daily trainer with balanced cushioning and responsiveness.
- Asics Gel-Cumulus 26: A plush, cushioned option for neutral runners.
- Hoka Clifton 9: Lightweight and versatile, offering excellent cushioning for daily training.
Final Thoughts
The Saucony Ride 18 delivers small but meaningful improvements over the Ride 17, including better flexibility, added responsiveness, and a more plush upper. If these features align with your running goals, the Ride 18 is a fantastic choice. However, if you’re content with your Ride 17, there’s no immediate rush to upgrade unless you find a good deal.
If you have questions about the Saucony Ride 18, drop them in the comments below! And don’t forget to check out our reviews on the best neutral daily trainers like the Brooks Ghost 16 and Asics Gel-Cumulus 26.
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