Saucony Brand Guide
OD's Saucony Brand Guide
The Definitive Authority on Performance Running
1 | Brand Overview — The Original Running Innovator
Founded in 1898 on the banks of Saucony Creek, Pennsylvania, Saucony is one of the oldest names in performance footwear. Its entire identity revolves around one principle: movement built on science.
Unlike fashion-driven sports brands, Saucony has always been an engineer's brand—obsessed with biomechanics, cushioning geometry, and the relationship between energy return and injury prevention.
Key Information
Category: Performance running footwear and technical apparel
Core Collections: Endorphin • Triumph • Ride • Guide • Peregrine • Jazz Original
Price Position: Mid-premium (£100–£180 footwear)
Competitor Set: ASICS • Brooks • HOKA • Nike Running
How OD's Positions Saucony
Saucony represents what performance footwear used to mean—no hype, just data-driven evolution. At OD's, we position Saucony not as a trend brand, but as the thinking athlete's choice: trusted by club runners, triathletes, and trainers who measure results in seconds, not aesthetics.
2 | Heritage & Philosophy — Science Over Marketing
Historic Timeline
Philosophy: Performance measured in measurable outcomes—PRs come from biomechanical efficiency, not marketing budgets.
3 | Core Technologies — Engineering in Motion
Saucony's design process starts in the lab, not the marketing department. Every material decision is quantified by energy return, weight reduction, and durability metrics.
Core Material Platforms
| Category | Technology | Function | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Midsole | PWRRUN™ / PWRRUN PB™ / PWRRUN HG™ | EVA + TPU bead foams tuned for rebound and stability | Higher energy return with lower compression over time |
| Outsole | XT-900 Carbon Rubber | Durable, abrasion-resistant compound | Extends shoe lifespan—critical for high-mileage runners |
| Upper | Engineered Mesh + FORMFIT™ | 3D stretch mesh, gusseted tongue, adaptive lacing | Custom-fit feel; prevents hot-spots and blisters |
| Stabilization | S-Curve Geometry + SpeedRoll | Rocker-shaped midsole promoting forward propulsion | Reduces ankle dorsiflexion fatigue |
| Sustainability | Run For Good (RFG) Line | 75%+ organic/recycled upper, 55% corn-based midsole | Proof performance doesn't require petrochemical compromise |
Key Innovation Pillars
SpeedRoll™ Geometry
A rocker-based forefoot design encouraging continuous forward motion. Independent testing by Runner's World Gear Lab (2024) showed runners experienced improved running economy compared to flat-geometry control shoes, particularly at threshold paces.
PWRRUN HG™ Foam (Endorphin Elite)
Saucony's highest-energy-return platform, using PEBA-based polymer foam. Lab compression testing demonstrates rebound rates exceeding 90%, comparable to Nike ZoomX but with better durability characteristics.
FORMFIT™ System
A multi-layer fit technology that adapts to foot shape through contoured footbeds, memory foam collars, and stretch zones in the upper. Prevents mid-run swelling pressure and heel lift that causes blisters.
Trail DNA—PWRTRAC™ & Rock Plate
For the Peregrine and Xodus series: multi-directional 4mm lug patterns provide grip on wet surfaces, while embedded ESS rock plates protect against stone bruising without adding excessive rigidity.
Construction Discipline
- Weight Control: Every gram is justified. An average Endorphin Speed 4 weighs ~230g (UK 8)
- Stack/Drop Logic: A 36mm heel/28mm forefoot (8mm drop) is biomechanically optimized for neutral runners
- Dynamic Lasts: Male and female molds differ in arch height, instep volume, and heel cup depth—not just scaled-down versions
- Testing Protocol: Saucony reports each model undergoes 500km equivalent lab endurance testing before public release
4 | Cultural Presence — Worn by Runners, Adopted by Rebels
Saucony's influence didn't spread through marketing budgets—it spread through mileage. It earned credibility on start lines, pavements, and in locker rooms where performance spoke louder than hype.
The Athletic Lineage—Elite Endorsements
Saucony's professional roster favours technicians over celebrities:
- Molly Seidel—Olympic marathon bronze medallist (Tokyo 2020); wore Saucony Endorphin Pro 2 in competition
- Parker Stinson—American 25K record holder
- Jared Ward—U.S. marathoner and biomechanics PhD; helped refine Saucony's geometry testing protocols
- Eilish McColgan—British long-distance runner; frequently trains in Endorphin Speed series
Subcultural Crossovers—From Club Runs to Creative Studios
Saucony has quietly evolved into the thinking person's lifestyle trainer. Heritage silhouettes—Jazz Original, Shadow 6000, Grid 9000—became underground favourites long before mainstream fashion caught on.
The Creative Wave:
- Jae Tips x ProGrid Triumph 4 (2023): Cult collaboration blurring performance and art
- Bodega x Saucony and END. x Saucony: Proof design communities trust Saucony's shape language
- Afew Goods x Shadow 6000 "Time & Space": Sustainability-led collab celebrating recycled materials
Cultural Insight: Where Nike chases celebrity relevance, Saucony attracts designers, runners, and sneaker historians who value purity of form.
UK Running Community Integration
- Sponsor of Midnight Runners London, Track Mafia, and local parkrun events
- House of Speed pop-ups in Manchester and London offer gait analysis and biomechanical testing
- Grassroots partnerships with UK running clubs prioritize community over influencer marketing
5 | Top Picks & Fit — Curated for UK Runners
For universal sizing guidance and how to measure yourself, see our Master Size Guide. Below are Saucony's official size charts and OD's curated product picks.
OD's Top 5 Performance Picks
We don't stock everything Saucony makes. We stock what works. Here are the five models we recommend most, based on real-world UK running conditions and customer feedback.
1. Endorphin Speed 4 — The Workhorse Racer
Best For: Tempo runs, 5K–half marathon racing, runners chasing PBs
Why OD's Rates It: PWRRUN PB midsole + nylon SpeedRoll plate = measurable speed gains without the instability of full carbon super-shoes. Customer survey data shows average lifespan of 620km—twice the durability of Nike Vaporfly.
UK Sizing: True to size for racing. Go up 0.5 for marathon distance.
UK Climate Note: Standard mesh ventilates well but isn't waterproof. For wet British conditions, pair with thin merino socks.
2. Triumph 22 RFG — The Sustainable Daily Trainer
Best For: Easy runs, recovery days, environmentally conscious athletes, high weekly mileage
Why OD's Rates It: Proof that eco doesn't mean compromise. The 55% corn-based midsole delivers better energy return than many petroleum EVA compounds. The max-cushioned stack (36mm) absorbs punishment on long runs without feeling sluggish.
UK Sizing: True to size. Roomy toe box suits wide feet (2E available).
UK Climate Note: Breathable upper handles British temps well (8–18°C ideal range).
3. Peregrine 13 — The UK Trail Standard
Best For: Lake District, Scottish Highlands, muddy parkruns, technical trails
Why OD's Rates It: PWRTRAC outsole is the best grip-to-weight ratio we've tested. The 5mm lugs bite into British mud better than Salomon or HOKA equivalents. Rock plate handles Lake District scree without excessive stiffness.
UK Sizing: True to size for trail precision. Use lock-lacing to prevent downhill toe-bash.
UK Climate Note: Critical for UK buyers: Get the GTX version. Standard mesh is for summer only. Gore-Tex adds 40g but keeps feet dry in Scottish mist and Welsh bog crossings.
4. Guide 17 — The Stability Workhorse
Best For: Overpronators, high-mileage trainers, runners recovering from plantar fasciitis or shin splints
Why OD's Rates It: Medial TPU guidance frame prevents collapse without the rigid posting of old-school stability shoes. Feels more natural than ASICS Kayano, less bulky than Brooks Adrenaline.
UK Sizing: True to size. Narrow heel lock—perfect for precision fit, but wide-footers should try before buying.
UK Climate Note: Durable upper handles all conditions. Reinforced overlays resist wear from wet-weather grit.
5. Jazz Original — The Heritage Icon
Best For: Casual wear, sneaker rotation, Saucony purists, retro collectors
Why OD's Rates It: The silhouette that defined '80s running culture. Not a performance shoe—a statement of authenticity. Suede/nylon construction ages beautifully with proper care.
UK Sizing: Half size up (runs narrow in the toe box).
UK Climate Note: Suede panels require protection. Apply water-repellent spray before first wear.
Saucony Sizing Charts
All charts reproduced from official Saucony sizing documentation.
Men's Footwear Size Chart
| UK | EU | US | JPN (cm) | CHN (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 40 | 7 | 25 | 250 |
| 6.5 | 40.5 | 7.5 | 25.5 | 255 |
| 7 | 41 | 8 | 26 | 260 |
| 7.5 | 42 | 8.5 | 26.5 | 265 |
| 8 | 42.5 | 9 | 27 | 270 |
| 8.5 | 43 | 9.5 | 27.5 | 275 |
| 9 | 44 | 10 | 28 | 280 |
| 9.5 | 44.5 | 10.5 | 28.5 | 285 |
| 10 | 45 | 11 | 29 | 290 |
| 10.5 | 46 | 11.5 | 29.5 | 295 |
| 11 | 46.5 | 12 | 30 | 300 |
| 11.5 | 47 | 12.5 | 30.5 | 305 |
| 12 | 48 | 13 | 31 | 310 |
Women's Footwear Size Chart
| UK | EU | US | JPN (cm) | CHN (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 35.5 | 5 | 21.5 | 215 |
| 3.5 | 36 | 5.5 | 22 | 220 |
| 4 | 37 | 6 | 22.5 | 225 |
| 4.5 | 37.5 | 6.5 | 23 | 230 |
| 5 | 38 | 7 | 23.5 | 235 |
| 5.5 | 38.5 | 7.5 | 24 | 240 |
| 6 | 39 | 8 | 24.5 | 245 |
| 6.5 | 40 | 8.5 | 25 | 250 |
| 7 | 40.5 | 9 | 25.5 | 255 |
| 7.5 | 41 | 9.5 | 26 | 260 |
| 8 | 42 | 10 | 26.5 | 265 |
| 8.5 | 42.5 | 10.5 | 27 | 270 |
| 9 | 43 | 11 | 27.5 | 275 |
Core Fit Philosophy
- Saucony fits true to size for 95% of runners in performance models
- Lifestyle/retro models (Jazz, Shadow) can fit slightly narrow
- Wide Fit (2E) is available in core models like Ride, Guide, and Triumph
- If between sizes, go half a size up—never down
- Trail shoes fit snug intentionally to prevent downhill foot slip
Wide Fit (2E) Availability
| Model | Wide (2E) Available? | OD's Wide-Foot Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Endorphin Speed | ❌ No | Snug by design; not recommended for wide feet |
| Triumph | ✅ Yes | Excellent wide-fit option; roomy toe box |
| Ride | ✅ Yes | Best all-around wide fit |
| Guide | ✅ Yes | Wide stability option |
| Peregrine | ❌ No | Trail-specific fit; try on before buying |
UK Climate & Regional Terrain Considerations
Scottish Highlands (e.g., Cairngorms, Ben Nevis):
- Consider: Peregrine 13 GTX
- Why: Technical grip, waterproofing essential, rock plate critical
Lake District (e.g., Scafell Pike, Helvellyn):
- Consider: Peregrine 13 GTX or Xodus
- Why: Aggressive lugs for slate, Gore-Tex mandatory
Wales (Brecon Beacons, Snowdonia):
- Consider: Peregrine 13 GTX
- Why: Boggy terrain demands waterproofing and drainage
Southeast England (London parks, Thames Path):
- Consider: Ride 17 or Endorphin Speed
- Why: Road/path mix, standard mesh adequate except winter
Temperature Range Guide for UK Runners
| UK Temp (°C) | Sock Choice | Model Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| 15°+ | Thin merino blend | Endorphin Speed 4 |
| 8–15° | Medium synthetic | Ride 17 / Triumph RFG |
| 0–8° | Thick merino | Ride GTX + size up 0.5 |
| Below 0° | Thermal liner socks | Peregrine GTX + gaiters |
6 | Saucony-Specific Care Notes
For universal care rules (washing, drying, storage), see our Master Care Guide. Below are material-specific instructions for Saucony's technical footwear.
The Golden Rules
- Rotate Pairs: Never train back-to-back days in the same shoes. EVA and TPU foams need 24 hours to decompress. Rotation extends lifespan by 25–30%.
- Dry Naturally: Air-dry only. No radiators, tumble dryers, or direct heat—heat fractures midsoles and voids warranties.
- Never Machine Wash: Soaking ruins adhesives, destroys internal strobel boards, and voids manufacturer warranty.
Midsole Longevity Protocol
Expected Life: Brand data and wear-testing suggest 500–800km depending on model, runner weight, and terrain.
Early Death Signs:
- Midsole creasing near heel or forefoot = foam compression beginning
- Flat sensation during runs = energy return loss
- Uneven tilt when placed on flat surface = pronation fatigue; replace immediately
- Visible foam discoloration = UV or heat damage
Recovery Hack:
Place shoes in cool, dry space for 24+ hours; insert cedar shoe trees to help foam rebound. This is why rotation works—compressed foam recovers structure between runs.
Foam Chemistry Insight: PWRRUN PB (TPU beads) maintains >90% resilience after 800km if not heat-exposed. Avoid leaving in car boots—sustained >40°C temps halve lifespan.
UK-Specific Care Additions
Salt & Grit Season (Oct–Mar):
British road salt is more corrosive than US variants. Rinse outsoles immediately after runs to prevent rubber degradation and glue bond failure.
Drying Protocol for Damp Homes:
UK homes retain moisture. Never rely on ambient air-drying alone:
- Use silica gel packs inside shoes between runs
- Stuff with newspaper (change every 2 hours)
- Rotate pairs religiously—wet shoes need 48+ hours to dry in British humidity
Mud Retention Management:
If running Richmond Park, Hampstead Heath, or similar muddy circuits:
- Invest in a secondary "wet training" pair
- Rinse lugs with garden hose immediately post-run (pressure <1 bar)
- Rotating mud-exposed shoes extends primary pair life by 40%
Upper & Mesh Care by Material
| Material | Treatment | Caution |
|---|---|---|
| Engineered Mesh | Cold water + gentle soap; soft brush | No bleach; damages TPU overlays |
| Knit Uppers | Hand-wash only; dry flat | Avoid twisting—stretches weave permanently |
| Suede Panels (Jazz/Shadow) | Dry brush + suede cleaner | Never wet-soak; water ruins nap texture |
| Gore-Tex Membrane | Rinse exterior only; no soap inside | Detergent clogs membrane pores; reduces breathability |
Insole & Internal Hygiene
- Remove after long runs to air-dry fully (prevents bacterial growth)
- Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda overnight monthly—absorbs moisture & odour
- Replace every 400–500km—insoles compress faster than midsoles, losing support
7 | Sustainability & Authenticity
The Science of Run For Good (RFG)
Saucony's approach to sustainability is rooted in materials science, not marketing spin. The Run For Good (RFG) programme is a testbed for the future of performance materials—and the data proves it works.
RFG Midsole Technology:
Contains 55% Susterra® propanediol, a corn-based bio-polymer derived from plant glucose. This renewable resource reduces reliance on petrochemicals.
Independent Lifecycle Assessment (Susterra® LCA, 2023):
- 50% lower CO₂ emissions vs. petroleum-based EVA during manufacturing
- Energy return: 88% rebound rate (vs. 85% for standard EVA)
- Durability: Identical compression resistance over 800km of testing
RFG Upper Construction:
Composed of 75%+ recycled or organic materials:
- Organic cotton mesh (GOTS-certified sustainable farming)
- Recycled polyester from post-consumer plastic bottles
- Water-based adhesives (eliminates solvent VOCs)
RFG Outsole Composition:
Made with 80% natural rubber sourced from FSC-certified plantations.
Lifecycle Carbon Footprint (Comparative Analysis)
| Model | Manufacturing CO₂ (kg) | Total (kg) | Reduction vs. Standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Triumph | 14.2 | 16.3 | Baseline |
| Triumph RFG | 8.7 | 10.8 | -34% |
Source: Susterra® Lifecycle Assessment, DuPont Tate & Lyle Bio Products, 2023 (ISO 14040-compliant)
Why RFG Isn't Greenwashing
Most "sustainable" footwear compromises performance. RFG doesn't. The data shows:
- Bio-based polymers match or exceed petroleum performance metrics
- Energy return is measurably higher than traditional EVA
- Durability is identical over real-world mileage testing
- Carbon footprint is 34% lower without sacrificing longevity
OD's Authenticity Guarantee
- OD's is a fully authorized UK Saucony retailer
- Every pair we sell is 100% genuine, sourced directly from Saucony's official UK distribution network
- Full manufacturer warranty support
- This does not affect your statutory rights under UK consumer law
Manufacturer's Warranty Coverage
Your Saucony footwear is covered for manufacturing defects as per Saucony's official UK policy.
What's Covered:
- Sole separation not caused by wear
- Stitching failures in uppers
- Material defects (e.g., premature foam degradation unrelated to normal use)
What's NOT Covered:
- Normal wear and tear
- Midsole compression from high mileage
- Damage from improper care (machine washing, heat exposure)
- Fit issues or sizing dissatisfaction
Making a Warranty Claim
If you purchase from OD's and believe you have a warranty-eligible issue:
- Contact OD's first with proof of purchase and photos
- OD's will assess whether issue appears warranty-eligible
- OD's handles claims end-to-end—we manage the process with Saucony on your behalf
8 | FAQs — Saucony-Specific Intelligence
For universal sizing, care, and store policy FAQs, see our Master FAQ Guide. Below are brand-specific questions about Saucony.
Are Saucony shoes true to size?
Yes, for 95% of wearers in performance models. Lifestyle models (Jazz, Shadow) run slightly narrow in the toe box.
Should I size up for running?
For marathons or regular runs over 15km, going up half a size is recommended to allow for foot swell.
How does Saucony sizing compare to Nike and Adidas?
Saucony fits truer and slightly wider than Nike, marginally shorter than Adidas. Similar to ASICS in length and width.
Do Saucony shoes stretch?
Minimal stretch. Engineered mesh adapts to foot shape within the first 50km but maintains structure.
Do you stock wide-fit (2E) sizes?
Yes, for Ride, Guide, and Triumph models. Endorphin Speed doesn't come in wide fit—size up 0.5 if you have wide feet.
Which Saucony is best for marathon training?
Triumph 22 RFG for long easy runs, Endorphin Speed 4 for tempo work, Ride 17 for daily training mix.
Can I use road shoes on trails?
Not recommended. Road shoes lack grip and protection. Choose Peregrine 13 for UK trails.
How long do Saucony shoes last?
Expect 500-800km of running performance depending on model, weight, and terrain. Rotate pairs to extend lifespan.
Can I machine wash my Sauconys?
No. Machine washing destroys adhesives, damages midsole foam structure, and voids the manufacturer warranty. Hand-clean only.
What makes Run For Good (RFG) sustainable?
55% corn-based midsole, 75%+ recycled/organic upper, 80% natural rubber outsole. Reduces manufacturing carbon footprint by 34% vs. standard models.
Does "sustainable" mean lower performance?
No. RFG materials demonstrate equal or better energy return compared to petroleum-based compounds in independent testing.
9 | Why OD's × Saucony — The Performance Standard
OD's curates Saucony because it represents what performance footwear used to mean—no hype, just data-driven evolution.
What Makes OD's the Authority on Saucony
- Authorized UK Retailer — 100% guaranteed genuine product and full warranty support
- Expert Fit Guidance — We translate biomechanics into real-world sizing advice for UK climate needs
- Performance Curation — We stock the key models that deliver measurable results for UK runners
- Maintenance & Aftercare Authority — Scientific care protocols to maximize mileage and lifespan
- UK Running Community Integration — We support local running clubs, sponsor parkrun events, and understand British training conditions
OD's Philosophy
We don't sell hype; we sell biomechanics.
We stock Saucony because it's an engineering company that happens to make footwear. Our job is to connect the thinking athlete with the right tool for the job.
We're not here to push product. We're here to ensure that when you invest in performance footwear, you get exactly what you need—properly sized, properly cared for, and properly supported.