Saucony Technology Guide: PWRRUN, SPEEDROLL & FORMFIT Explained
Saucony has been engineering running shoes since 1898, named after the creek in Kutztown, Pennsylvania where it all started. Today, every performance shoe contains a carefully selected stack of proprietary technologies — from PWRRUN PB's 88% energy return to SPEEDROLL's forward-propulsion geometry. As authorised UK stockists who fit these shoes daily, this guide breaks down exactly what each technology does and why it matters for your running.
1 | Saucony Foam Technologies: The Complete Hierarchy
Saucony doesn't use one foam for everything. They engineer different compounds for different purposes — from race-day speed to daily training to ultra-distance trail running. Understanding the hierarchy helps you choose the right shoe.
IncrediRUN (TPEE)
Tier: Elite Race. Next-generation superfoam using proprietary TPEE blend. Exceptional energy return — "the faster you go, the more energy it returns." Lightest and softest. Found in Endorphin Elite 2.
PWRRUN PB (PEBA)
Tier: Premium Performance. 88% energy return, half the weight of EVA, temperature-stable, dramatically more durable than EVA. The benchmark foam. Found in Endorphin Speed 5, Triumph 23, Hurricane 25.
PWRRUN+ (TPU)
Tier: Daily Workhorse. Steam-fused TPU beads. Most durable Saucony foam — built for high-mileage runners. Ideal blend of comfort, stability, responsiveness. Found in Ride 19.
PWRRUN (EVA)
Tier: Versatile Foundation. Proprietary blended EVA. High shock absorption, joint and tendon protection. The most versatile foam across the lineup. Found in Guide 19, Kinvara 16, Peregrine 16.
Foam Compound Reference
- PEBA (Polyether Block Amide) — lightest, highest energy return. Used in PWRRUN PB and IncrediRUN
- TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) — most durable, most resilient. Used in PWRRUN+
- TPEE (Thermoplastic Polyester Elastomer) — next-gen proprietary blend. Used in IncrediRUN
- EVA (Ethylene-vinyl Acetate) — traditional, versatile, proven. Used in PWRRUN, VersaRun
2 | What Is PWRRUN PB? Saucony's 88% Energy Return Foam
PWRRUN PB is Saucony's premium performance foam and the technology that transformed their lineup from good to elite. The "PB" stands for the PEBA beaded construction — individual beads of expanded PEBA polymer fused together to create a foam that's lighter, bouncier, and more durable than anything EVA can deliver.
PWRRUN PB By The Numbers
88% energy return — for every unit of impact energy absorbed, 88% is returned as propulsive force. Half the weight of EVA — dramatically lighter at any given stack height. Temperature-stable — performs consistently whether running in January frost or August heat. Dramatically more durable — PEBA beads maintain structure far longer than EVA foam cells.
PWRRUN PB appears across Saucony's range wherever premium cushioning matters most: the Endorphin Speed 5 for race-train versatility, the Triumph 23 for maximum daily cushioning, the Hurricane 25 for stability runners who need premium foam, and the Xodus Ultra 4 for ultra-distance trail running.
PWRRUN HG + PB — The Industry-First Fusion
The Endorphin Pro 4 and Pro 5 use an industry-first fusion of PWRRUN HG (high-grade) and PWRRUN PB in a dual-density configuration. The result: the snappy responsiveness of HG combined with the smooth efficiency of PB. Both worlds in one midsole, designed specifically for 5K-to-marathon racing.
3 | PWRRUN vs PWRRUN+ vs PWRRUN PB: What's the Difference?
This is the most common question we get about Saucony. All three foams share the PWRRUN name but they're built from completely different base compounds for completely different purposes.
PWRRUN (EVA Blend)
Best for: Daily running, stability, trail. Blended EVA with high shock absorption. Protects joints and tendons. The most versatile and affordable option. Shoes: Guide 19 (£140), Kinvara 16, Peregrine 16 (£160).
PWRRUN+ (TPU Beads)
Best for: High-mileage daily training. Steam-fused TPU beads — the most durable Saucony foam. Ideal when you need a shoe that holds up over 700+ km. Shoes: Ride 19 (£140).
PWRRUN PB (PEBA Beads)
Best for: Speed, racing, premium cushioning. 88% energy return at half the weight. The performance flagship. Shoes: Endorphin Speed 5 (£180), Triumph 23 (£170), Hurricane 25 (£165).
The Quick Decision
Need maximum bounce and minimum weight? PWRRUN PB. Need a shoe that lasts the longest? PWRRUN+. Need reliable everyday cushioning at a sensible price? PWRRUN.
4 | What Is IncrediRUN? Saucony's Next-Gen Superfoam
IncrediRUN is Saucony's newest and most advanced foam compound, developed for their elite racing shoes. Built from a proprietary TPEE (Thermoplastic Polyester Elastomer) blend, it represents the next evolution beyond PEBA.
The Faster You Go, The More Energy It Returns
IncrediRUN is rate-responsive — it delivers more energy return at higher impact forces. This means it rewards faster running with greater propulsion. At easy pace it feels soft and comfortable. At race pace it becomes a launch platform.
IncrediRUN Specs
- Compound: Proprietary TPEE blend (not PEBA, not TPU)
- Properties: Exceptional energy return, soft, lightweight, responsive
- Found in: Endorphin Elite 2 (199g men's / 183g women's), Endorphin Trainer
- Plate pairing: Full-length slotted carbon plate + SPEEDROLL geometry
- Purpose: Race day — championship-level speed from 5K to marathon
- Stack: 39.5mm heel / 31.5mm forefoot / 8mm drop
IncrediRUN represents Saucony's direct competition with Nike's ZoomX, adidas' LIGHTSTRIKE PRO, and On Running's Helion HF. Where PWRRUN PB delivers 88% energy return with proven durability, IncrediRUN prioritises maximum energy return at the expense of some longevity — a pure race-day foam.
5 | What Is SPEEDROLL Technology?
SPEEDROLL is Saucony's propulsion geometry system — not a material but a shape. It's the combination of elevated cushioning height with a stiff forefoot rocker profile that creates continuous forward momentum on every stride.
How SPEEDROLL Works
- Two variables: (1) elevated midsole stack height + (2) stiff forefoot geometry
- Result: Your foot naturally rolls forward from heel to toe without fighting the shoe
- Effect: Run faster with less effort — the shoe geometry does part of the work
- Tagline: "Run faster, not harder"
- Found in: All Endorphin models — Elite 2, Pro 5, Speed 5, Azura
SPEEDROLL works with both plated and non-plated shoes. In the Endorphin Elite 2, it pairs with a full-length slotted carbon plate for maximum race-day propulsion. In the Endorphin Azura, it operates without a plate for a more natural but still momentum-forward daily training feel. The geometry is the constant — the plate is the variable.
SPEEDROLL vs On Running's Speedboard
On Running's Speedboard is a physical plate that bends and snaps back. Saucony's SPEEDROLL is a geometry system — the shape of the midsole itself. Both create forward propulsion but through different mechanisms: Speedboard is mechanical (plate flex), SPEEDROLL is geometric (rocker profile).
6 | What Is FORMFIT? Saucony's 3D Fit System
FORMFIT is Saucony's exclusive three-dimensional approach to how a shoe wraps around your foot. It's not a single material — it's a construction philosophy that combines three elements working together.
1. Underfoot Cradle
The midsole is shaped into a curved cradle rather than a flat platform. Your foot sits inside the cushioning rather than on top of it — like a hammock versus a table.
2. Adaptive Cushioning
The foam is zoned to respond differently under different parts of the foot. More compression under the heel for impact, more responsiveness under the forefoot for push-off.
3. Upper Integration
The upper materials flex, stretch, and protect in coordination with the midsole cradle. The entire shoe moves as one unit rather than fighting your foot.
Where It's Found
FORMFIT appears across Saucony's performance range: Triumph 23, Ride 19, Guide 19, Hurricane 25, and the Endorphin collection. It's the system that makes Saucony shoes feel "made for your foot."
Other Fit Technologies
- RUNDRY — Collar lining with superior moisture wicking and a plush feel. Keeps the heel area dry during long runs.
- REACT2U — Ultra-plush memory foam footbed for ultimate cushioning. Found in premium models.
- FORM2U — Memory foam footbed for all-day comfort. Found across the range.
- PRO-LOCK — Supportive straps on either side of the midfoot that encase your foot and lock it to the platform. For secure, stable fit.
7 | Saucony Outsole Technologies: PWRTRAC and Vibram MegaGrip
The outsole determines where you can run and how long the shoe lasts on different surfaces. Saucony uses two primary outsole technologies plus a partnership with Vibram for trail running.
PWRTRAC
Saucony's proprietary tacky rubber. Coefficient of Friction 3x that of normal carbon rubber — exceptional traction and abrasion resistance. Found on road and crossover models like the Ride TR2.
XT-900
Premium carbon rubber outsole. Exceptional traction with high-wear durability. Used on shoes that need maximum road life — the tank rubber of the Saucony lineup.
Vibram MegaGrip
Partnership with Vibram — the gold standard in trail outsoles. 4mm lugs for unparalleled grip on rock, mud, and mixed terrain. Found on Peregrine 16 and Xodus Ultra 4.
Crystal Rubber
A more flexible outsole compound offering great traction and durability with increased flexibility. Creates a fluid, connected feel between foot and ground. Used on select models.
Trail Protection: E-B-0
The Peregrine 16 includes E-B-0 (External Bedrock Outsole) — a protective plate shielding the forefoot from rocks and roots. This sits between the outsole and midsole, so you get Vibram MegaGrip's grip plus underfoot protection from trail debris. The Xodus Ultra 4 relies on its thick PWRRUN PB midsole for protection instead, sacrificing the rock plate for more cushioning on ultra distances.
Shop Saucony Technology at OD's
8 | How Saucony Compares to On Running and Salomon
We stock all three brands. Here's how they compare on the technologies that matter most to runners.
Cushioning Approach
Saucony
Foam-first. Multiple proprietary foam compounds (PWRRUN PB, PWRRUN+, IncrediRUN) each designed for specific performance profiles. The foam IS the technology.
On Running
Structure-first. CloudTec pods create cushioning through shape and geometry. Helion foam fills the pods but the hollow structure does the primary work.
Trail Running
Saucony Peregrine 16
Vibram MegaGrip outsole, 4mm lugs, E-B-0 rock guard, PWRRUN foam. 271g. 4mm drop. The precision trail tool — grip on technical terrain with underfoot protection.
Salomon Speedcross 6
Contagrip outsole with deep chevron lugs, no rock plate. ~295g. 10mm drop. The mud specialist — best in soft, loose terrain but higher drop than the Peregrine.
Propulsion Technology
Saucony SPEEDROLL
Geometry-based propulsion. The shape of the midsole creates a rolling rocker motion. Works with or without a plate. Found across the Endorphin range.
On Running Speedboard
Plate-based propulsion. A physical plate that bends under forefoot pressure and snaps back. Material and stiffness tuned per model. Found across the entire On range.
Not Sure Which Brand Is Right for You?
Visit us at 44 Barrow Street, St Helens (Mon-Sat 9am-5pm) and try all three brands on. The best technology is the one that fits your foot and running style. Or browse our full Saucony collection online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PWRRUN PB and how much energy does it return?
PWRRUN PB is Saucony's premium performance foam made from expanded PEBA beads. It delivers 88% energy return — meaning for every unit of impact energy absorbed, 88% is returned as forward propulsive force. It weighs half as much as EVA and maintains consistent performance across all temperatures.
What is the difference between PWRRUN, PWRRUN+, and PWRRUN PB?
PWRRUN is blended EVA — versatile and affordable. PWRRUN+ is steam-fused TPU beads — the most durable Saucony foam, ideal for high-mileage training. PWRRUN PB is expanded PEBA beads — lightest and bounciest with 88% energy return, used in performance and racing shoes. Different compounds for different needs.
What is SPEEDROLL technology?
SPEEDROLL is Saucony's propulsion geometry system. It combines elevated midsole stack height with a stiff forefoot rocker profile to create continuous forward momentum. The shape of the midsole naturally rolls your foot from heel to toe, reducing the effort needed to push off. Found in all Endorphin models.
What is IncrediRUN foam?
IncrediRUN is Saucony's newest superfoam made from a proprietary TPEE blend. It's rate-responsive — delivering more energy return at higher impact forces. The faster you run, the more energy it returns. Currently found in the Endorphin Elite 2 and Endorphin Trainer.
Does Saucony use Vibram soles?
Yes — on trail models. The Peregrine 16 and Xodus Ultra 4 both use Vibram MegaGrip outsoles with 4mm lugs for unparalleled grip on technical terrain. Vibram is the gold standard in trail outsoles and Saucony partners with them specifically for their dedicated trail running shoes.
Is OD's an authorised Saucony stockist?
Yes. OD's Designer Clothing is an authorised UK stockist of Saucony. Every pair purchased from us is 100% authentic with full manufacturer warranty, sourced directly from official distribution.