Saucony Vs. Asics Running Shoes – How Do They Compare?

When it comes to running shoes, two well-known brands are Saucony and Asics. Both brands have a reputation for producing high-quality, durable shoes that are suitable for a variety of running styles and surfaces.

However, there are some key differences between the two brands that can help you decide which one is right for you. Saucony shoes are known for their “responsive” feel and the use of the foam material Everun, while Asics shoes are known for providing a cushioned and supportive ride.

Both brands offer a wide range of shoes for different types of runners, including those looking for stability, cushioning, or a minimal feel. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your individual needs and preferences. We’ve outlined some of the differences between the two brands and also their top products below to help you make a decision.

Quick Summary on Saucony vs Asics Running Shoes

• Foot mechanics: Consider any specific needs or issues you have with your feet, such as pronation or a high arch, and look for shoes that are designed to address those issues.
• Running style: Consider your running style and the type of running you’ll be doing most, such as long distance, sprints, trail running, or track. Both brands offer shoes specifically designed for different types of running.
• Cushioning: Think about the level of cushioning you prefer. Saucony is known for its “responsive” feel while Asics provide a more cushioned ride
• Fit and comfort: Try on multiple shoes from both brands and select the one that feels most comfortable to you and fits your foot the best.
• Surface: Think about the types of surfaces you’ll be running on most frequently, such as pavement, trails, or a track. And select the shoes with appropriate outsole and tread.
• Brand reputation and personal preference: Research both brands and decide based on the reviews, durability, and personal preference

It’s also important to remember that brands tend to update their models and technology so it’s also beneficial to check the latest shoe releases. And, it’s always best practice to consult with a specialist or your doctor before making your final decision, especially if you have any concerns or existing medical conditions related to your foot.

About Saucony

Long before Saucony became the running shoes brad it is today, they were making shoes for school-going children. The company entered the running shoe industry in 1968 after Hyde Athletic Industry bought it.

The brand has gained a name in the industry. 

Some of their shoe models that have contributed to their Saucony’s popularity to date include the Triumph, Hurricane, and Guide. They have released over 130 running shoe models.

Saucony puts more emphasis on flexibility and comfort. Some of their popular shoe lines are the Saucony Guide and Saucony Ride models.

Some of the popular Saucony shoes we’ve reviewed are:

About Asics

Asics was started in 1949 as a sneaker-making company for school kids. It was created to encourage young people to adopt a healthy lifestyle through footwear.

This brand has since made many shoe models, but their Gel-Kayano released in 1993 made this brand gain massive popularity. It was a popular shoe model among runners. Asics continues to manufacture quality running shoes that are highly rated. 

They have released over 100 shoe models to date. Like Saucony, this brand emphasizes comfort and flexibility, and the Gel technology in their shoes evidences this.

Some of the popular Asics shoes we’ve reviewed are:

Features That Make the Best Running Shoe: Saucony Vs. Asics Comparison 

Upper Material

Saucony is well known for making shoes with a very breathable upper. Lately, this brand has featured FORMFIT construction in its upper, giving the foot a sock-like feel. This makes the shoe have an excellent snug fit, thus enabling you to run comfortably for a long distance. In addition, the upper mesh is lightweight and keeps the shoe insulated. 

They also use FlexFILM in their shoes’ upper, eliminating rubbing and making the shoe lighter. As such, you have little to worry about in terms of blisters. 

Asics also has a cozy fit, especially in the heel and midfoot. They also use a no-elastic and elastic mesh system known as FluidFit, which holds the foot in place. For a great fit with Asics running shoes, it is recommended that you go half a size up. Their toe box can be small.

Cushioning

Cushioning reduces the shock to the leg and feet upon impact with the ground. As such, it helps prevent muscles and painful injuries. 

Saucony has cushioning in their shoes that remains reliable even after use for long Their cushioning is located close to the foot, so you get a comfortable running experience. Some of Saucony’s best-cushioned running shoes include the Triumph and Hurricane. 

ASICS uses Flytefoam technology to provide responsiveness and bounce back with every stride. Flytefoam is much lighter and resilient compared to the EVA foam used in past models. It is categorized into Flytefoam Propel, which gives more energy return, and Flytefoam Lyte.

They also use Gel technology which is their patented and signature cushioning style. The fluid placed in the shoes’ interior provides structure to the shoe and supports the foot cushioning you from impact. 

The effectiveness of Asics’ cushioning is evidenced in the popularity of their Gel Cumulus, Kayano, and Nimbus models.

Both brands have ideal cushioning in their shoes, but if you want Gel technology go for ASICS. You will not be disappointed.

Midsole

Saucony has introduced new tech in the foot’s midsole. This tech is known as PWRRUN, which adds a layer of cushioning nearer to where the foot sits. Being nearer to the foot ensures that you don’t hurt or you hurt less with every stride.

PWRRUN also gives you energy return irrespective of the duration you have had the shoes. Saucony also incorporates Powergrid+ tech in the midsole, which, as the name suggests, includes grid holes. This helps in reducing impact as your feet spread over a wider area of the grid holes.

Asics uses gel cushioning technology in their shoe’s midsole. They put tiny bits of the gel in the forefoot and heel’s midsole. Ultimately, the gel tech reduces the impact with every stride. Asics also uses Flytefoam technology which is lighter than most of the other foams in the industry. As a result, ASICS shoes are lightweight despite having a lot of foam.

In terms of midsole cushioning and comfort, Saucony is the go-to brand, thanks to their Powergrid+.

Outsole

A shoe’s exterior is a vital consideration; given that it comes into contact with the various surfaces you run on. A sturdy outsole is a must-have for the best running shoes, especially if you run on challenging terrains.

Saucony often uses XT-900 carbon rubber in its outsoles. This delivers ideal traction while making the shoe durable. 

Asics uses a traditional rubber outsole in their shoes. They use the Trusstic system that creates a gap between the forefoot and rearfoot to prevent twisting. The gaps are made of AHAR+ or AHAR. This is a short form for ASICS High Abrasion Resistance Rubber. Besides superior cushioning, this rubber also gives an excellent grip on both dry and wet surfaces.

Both Saucony’s XT 900 and Asics AHAR+ or AHAR deliver outstanding traction and smooth transitions between heel-strike and toe-off. They also do an excellent job in making the shoes durable.

Weight

A running shoe is an extra weight a runner and any other shoe wearer has to carry. As such, the importance of a shoe is an important consideration. Running can be tiresome, and a runner needs every other running accessory to make the process easier. Heavy shoes can stress the foot, calf, and thigh muscles. 

Saucony men’s shoes weigh between 9 oz. and 11 oz. On the other hand, their female models weigh 7 oz. to 9 oz. Such weight is lightweight enough for most runners. However, some Saucony models, such as the Triumph 18, ranked as one of the best running shoes for underpronation or supination, have firm arch support, which makes them heavy.

Asics men running shoe models weigh between 10 oz. and 11 oz. in contrast, those for women weigh from 8 oz. to 9 oz.

The recommended weight for men’s running shoes is ten oz. and below, while that for women is eight oz. and below. Saucony and Asics tie in the weight category because although Saucony has a lower weight range, they also make heavier models for underpronation or supination.

Durability

Compared to its features and price, the durability of a shoe will help you determine if you are getting value for your money. Cheap is said to be expensive, but you should be careful to avoid paying too much for a shoe that doesn’t deliver much.

Saucony shoes are durable, thanks to the kind of rubber outsole they have. On average, their shoes deliver between 300 and 500 miles of running, depending on the sort of terrain you run on. 

When it comes to Asics, their shoes have about 450 – 550 miles of performance. The brand has struggled with the challenge of making the shoes durable while remaining lightweight.

Asics is the winner on durability as their range and average miles are higher than Saucony’s.

Affordability

Saucony’s running shoes range between $110 – $160. While Asics range between $110 and $160. Both brands have averagely priced running shoes. The variation in their prices will come in depending on the shoe model you want to buy from either company. 

The shoe’s value for money can also be determined by additional features such as a heel counter, collar, eyelet design, tongue padding, and insoles. If possible, window shop before making the final purchase decision. Retailers tend to price shoes differently while some may actually have discounts.

Conclusion

It is difficult to say which brand of running shoe is “better” in general, as the best choice for a particular person will depend on their individual needs and preferences.

However, here is a comparison of some key factors to consider when choosing between Saucony and Asics running shoes:

Saucony:

• Known for having a more responsive and “springy” feel, thanks to its use of a foam material called Everun in many of its shoes.
• Offers a wide range of shoes for different types of runners, including those looking for stability, cushioning, or a minimal feel.
• Has a reputation for durability and longevity
• Offers shoes with good arch support

ASICS:

• Known for providing a cushioned and supportive ride
• Offers a wide range of shoes for different types of runners, including those looking for stability, cushioning, or a minimal feel.
• Has a wide range of shoe models
• Also has a reputation for durability and longevity
• Offers shoes with good arch support

It is important to try on multiple shoes from both brands and to select the shoe that feels most comfortable to you and suits your specific needs. It’s also important to consider the surface you’ll be running on and your foot mechanics, as well as your budget before making your decision

The best pair of running shoes does not compromise in durability, comfort, cushioning and it is well priced. You will make a wrong move by choosing either of the brands. With almost equally priced shoes, both brands deliver value for money.

If you are looking for superior padding, Asics is a better choice as they try a lot to reduce impact. On the other hand, if you are very keen on weight, Saucony is a good choice, but this means that you might have to compromise a little on padding. However, Saucony’s models designed to manage pronation or supination are heavier due to the extra padding for arch support. 

We recommend that you identify your running style and know the key features you need the best running shoe for you. There is no one size fits all, but Asics and Saucony do not disappoint in terms of the quality of their shoes.