Saucony guide 18

Learn more about the Saucony guide 18 male running shoes, including key features, performance, reviews, model updates, and more.

Saucony guide 18

Price

$260

Rating

High

Popularity

Less Popular

The Saucony Guide 18 is a stability running shoe designed for moderate overpronators, offering a blend of cushioning and support, and it sits between the Saucony Hurricane and Omni models in terms of stability and cushioning.

Saucony
Saucony guide
6 colorways

Colorway: Skydiver/Black

Widths available: normal, wide

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Summary

The Saucony Guide 18 is a well-cushioned and supportive running shoe designed for runners who require moderate stability in their footwear. It features a balance of comfort and support, making it suitable for overpronators who need some additional guidance without sacrificing cushioning. The shoe is equipped with responsive and durable cushioning through Saucony's PWRRUN midsole technology, ensuring a smooth and energetic ride. Positioned within Saucony's lineup, the Guide 18 sits as a stability shoe, offering more support than the neutral models like the Ride, but less than the more robustly structured Hurricane. Its blend of support and comfort makes it an ideal choice for everyday training and longer runs for those needing extra arch stability.

Surface

road

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(32mm)

Category

ResponsiveBalancedComfort

Breathability

LowMediumHigh(PWRRUN+ Sockliner upper)

Weight

272g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

6mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal, wide

Grip

LowMediumHighMax

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the Saucony guide 18 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 19 wear-tester reviews.

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

firmness (3)
responsiveness (3)
foam (1)
cushioning (1)
heel (1)
moderate (1)
rocker (1)
lightweight (1)
Pros
"Equipped with PowerRun foam for enhanced cushioning and comfort."
PowerRun
cushioning
comfort
"The combination of two layers of foam in the shoe enhances its comfort and support."
multi-layer
comfort
support
"The PWRRUN+ cushioning in the Ride 18 provides a softer and springier feel underfoot."
PWRRUN+
cushion
springy
"It features two cushioning systems that enhance comfort during runs."
pwr run
pwr run plus
"The cushioning on the heel provides a comfortable support for runners."
cushioning
comfort
support
"The shoe provides a moderate level of cushioning while being lightweight."
moderate cushioning
lightweight
"The Saucony Guide 18 maintains a smooth and cushioned rocker, making it suitable for easy and long runs."
smooth
cushioning
comfort
"The shoe is lightweight due to the PWRRUN midsole foam, providing decent cushioning without adding unnecessary weight."
lightweight
cushioning
"The cushioning is well-balanced, providing sufficient impact protection without feeling too soft or bottoming out."
balanced cushioning
impact protection
firmer foam
"The Saucony Guide 18 features excellent cushioning that enhances the running experience."
cushioning
support
"The shoe offers great cushioning, enhancing overall running comfort."
cushioning
comfort
"The Ride 18 features PWRRUN+ cushioning that provides a springy and flexible feel."
PWRRUN+
springy
uptempo
race-pace
"The Guide 17 offers a stable feel with a slightly firmer cushioning that is beneficial for steady runs."
PWRRUN
stable
steady
firm
"The cushioning of the midsole combines response and cushioning for a balanced ride."
cushioning
response
midsole
"The cushioning is described as mid-level to max level, offering significant comfort for the price."
max cushion
value for money
"The Guide 18 offers great value and cushioning for its price."
price
performance
cushioning
"Cushioning in the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 is exceptionally durable, maintaining its performance over long distances."
consistency
long-lasting
impact absorption
"The Sone Guide 18 delivers a surprisingly smooth ride thanks to its effective cushioning."
comfort
ride quality
"The cushioning is adequate for long runs, offering sufficient protection underfoot."
cushioning
long runs
protection
"The sock liner enhances the softness and overall ride of the shoe."
softness
cushioning
Cons
"The shoe may not provide sufficient cushioning for long-distance runners."
cushioning
material
stability
"There's a concern about the long-term durability of the cushioning materials."
cushioning
material longevity
"The EVA foam lacks responsiveness and feel."
foam
uninspired
"The foam's responsiveness decreases over time, leading to a less stable shoe."
foam death
decreased responsiveness
"The cushioning may not be responsive enough for faster runs."
cushioning
everyday use
mid level
"The midsole foam is perceived as dated compared to newer models."
dated
comparison
"The PWRRUN foam in the midsole feels too firm and lacks responsiveness for those wanting a lively ride."
midsole
cushioning
firmness
"The shoe may be too cushioned for those preferring a firmer ground feel."
cushioning
ground feedback
"The Guide 17 is bogged down by its firmer cushioning which may not provide enough comfort for some runners."
PWRRUN cushioning
firm feel
"The midsole is too firm, which may not provide adequate cushioning for all users."
firm cushioning
stability
"The shoe's midsole foam is firmer than competitors, which may not appeal to all runners."
midsole
foam
comfort
"The lack of a traditional cushioning feel in the Guide 17 might deter some runners looking for plush comfort."
plush cushioning
comfort
PWRRUN
"There isn't enough cushioning for long-distance marathon training, making it feel flat during extended runs."
marathon
cushioning
"The midsole cushioning is not one of the most advanced materials available."
midsole
cushioning
material
"The shoe may not offer enough cushioning for some runners looking for more advanced technology."
cushioning
stability
support
"The shoe, while light, may not provide enough cushioning for long-distance runners."
weight
cushioning
"The midsole materials may feel less cushioned compared to other options."
foam
cushioning
midsole
"The cushioning feels insufficient during long runs."
comfort
endurance
"The shoe lacks bounce, making it feel flat and uninspiring during runs."
lack of responsiveness
energy return

breathability (4)
tongue padding (1)
feel (1)
versatility (1)
underfoot (1)
padding (1)
design (1)
foam (1)
Pros
"The Gusseted tongue design enhances the comfort and fit of both shoes, keeping them securely in place during runs."
gusseted tongue
padding
secure fit
"The overall feel of the shoe is soft yet supportive, making it suitable for various running types."
comfort
supportive
softness
"It feels suitable for all-day wear without complaints, enhancing its versatility and comfort."
all-day wear
no complaints
comfortable
"The upper material is breathable, enhancing comfort during runs."
breathable
upper material
"It features a comfortable and breathable mesh upper that enhances overall wearability."
mesh
breathability
comfort
"The shoe features a highly breathable upper design, enhancing airflow for the runner."
breathable
airflow
upper design
"The engineered breathable mesh upper improves breathability and comfort during runs."
breathable
mesh
stretchy
"Comfort underfoot is enhanced by the PWRRUN+ sockliner which adds softness."
PWRRUN+
softness
"There is adequate heel padding to enhance comfort during runs."
heel padding
comfort
"The shoe includes practical design elements like a stretchy pull tab and finger loop, making it easy to wear."
design
comfort
ease_of_use
"The use of different foam types improves overall comfort in the shoe."
comfort
foam
pwr run
"The heel rocker design enhances the overall running experience by promoting smooth transitions."
heel rocker
smooth transitions
comfort
"The shoe offers a good level of comfort due to its wide toe box and cushioning."
wide
cushioning
comfortable
Cons
"The engineered mesh upper may not provide the expected comfort for all runners."
comfort
upper
mesh
"There may be comfort issues for runners with foot conditions due to the lower height on the Ride 18."
comfort
foot conditions
pressure points
"The Guide 17's stiff heel counter, while providing some stability, may feel restrictive to some runners."
heel counter
stiffness
comfort
"The shoe feels overly soft and squishy, which could affect support."
too soft
comfort level
"The overall design might feel bulky for some runners looking for a sleeker option."
design
comfort
"The shoe runs a bit firm overall, which may not suit all runners' preferences."
firm feel
underfoot protection

outsole (3)
mileage (2)
longevity (1)
weight (1)
outsole design (1)
average wear (1)
long-distance (1)
material (1)
Pros
"The outsole design is aimed at maintaining lightweight while ensuring durability in high wear areas."
outsole
lightweight
durability
"The shoe is designed to have a hard outsole that contributes to its durability."
durability
carbon rubber
high mileage
"The durability of the Saucony Guide 18 is notable, promising a long life for the shoes."
long-lasting
wear-resistance
"The shoe is lightweight, making it suitable for daily training without feeling burdensome."
lightweight
daily_trainer
training
"The outsole design wisely minimizes weight while maintaining durability through targeted rubber placement."
lightweight
durable
rubber placement
Cons
"The outsole design prioritizes weight reduction which might affect durability."
weight
durability
outsole
"The durability is only average, with some wear noted after limited mileage."
initial wear
average durability
"The overall durability may not meet the expectations of long-distance runners."
durability
long-haul training
"There is insufficient coverage of the rubber outsole, leading to exposed foam which can impact durability and traction."
traction
rubber coverage
durability
"The use of midsole foam in areas meant for traction results in lower durability."
wear
outsole
"The outsole design has excessive exposed foam which could affect durability for heavy strikers."
exposed foam
durability concern
"The expected mileage of the Guide 18 is lower than what is typical for modern running shoes."
mileage
shoe lifespan
durability
"Overall expected mileage is lower than that of most durable running shoes, limiting its lifespan."
shoe_lifespan
mileage
"With exposed foam in the outsole, some durability concerns might arise over time."
exposed foam
outsole
durability concern
"The lack of aggressive rubber coverage on the outsole may lead to faster wear in certain areas."
rubber placement
outsole wear
durability
"The shoe shows signs of wear after long-term use."
long term
compression
wear
"The heel padding durability is poor, scoring low in durability tests."
poor durability
heel padding
"The absence of more rubber might compromise durability and grip stability."
durability
outsole

transition (3)
rocker (3)
uptempo (2)
versatility (2)
responsiveness (2)
flexibility (1)
curve (1)
ride consistency (1)
Pros
"The podular outsole design promotes flexibility and a smoother transition while running."
podular design
flexibility
smoother transition
"The Guide 18 provides a smooth transition thanks to its midsole design, allowing for various foot strike types."
transition
performance
midsole_design
"The shoe features technology that aids in smooth transitions during running."
center path
smooth
performance
"The Saucony Ride 18 offers increased flexibility compared to its predecessor, enhancing the running experience."
flexibility
midsole
running
"The Ride 18 is suitable for uptempo and faster workouts, enhancing performance for runners seeking speed."
uptempo
faster workouts
race pace
"The Ride 18 is perfect for uptempo runs and faster workouts due to its flexibility and responsiveness."
uptempo_runs
flexible
responsive
faster_workouts
"The shoe has a good curvature that enhances run ability."
runnability
arc
curvature
"The shoe is designed to be versatile for daily training purposes."
daily training
versatile
"The Guide 17 is versatile for easy runs and long runs, serving as a workhorse for daily running."
easy_runs
long_runs
workhorse
daily_running
"The design of the shoe allows for a smooth rolling transition while running."
rockered design
smooth ride
"The shoe features a pronounced rocker for a natural toe-off, enhancing running efficiency."
natural toe-off
efficient running
"The shoe has a noticeable rocker that aids in maintaining a consistent pace during runs."
consistent pace
rocker
"The Guide 18 maintains a smooth and stable ride, helping runners achieve a natural roll-through motion."
smooth ride
stable
natural motion
"The rocker geometry improves the running experience by enhancing propulsion."
rocker
max-cushioned
efficient
"The updated midsole of the Ride 18 is more flexible than its predecessor, enhancing performance."
flexible
updated
midfoot
forefoot
"The shoe has been successfully tested by the reviewer, who has covered a lot of miles in it."
performance
durability
mileage
"The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 is praised for its performance in controlling over-pronation effectively for a wide range of users."
video analysis
control
"Overall, the shoe is noted as a solid option for long runs at a comfortable pace."
long distance
comfort
Cons
"The Guide 17’s increased stability might detract from performance for those looking for speed."
stability
performance
speed
"The overall ride feels clunky until it breaks in."
clunky
break-in
"It is not responsive enough for elevation and faster runs."
plodding
elevation
"The midsole lacks a super responsive and fast feel, making it unsuitable for speed training."
speed
training
"The overall ride lacks excitement and is described as boring."
boring
overly simple
"The shoe's responsiveness does not support runners with toe mobility issues."
toe mobility
support issues
"The shoe's heel drop of 6mm might not be suitable for all runners."
drop
support
"The performance may decline after extended use due to cushioning compression."
performance
cushioning
long distance
"The shoe feels bulky and not agile because of its large build."
bulky feel
lack of agility
"The heavy weight of the shoe is unremarkable, making it neither light nor heavy enough to praise."
unremarkable weight
performance
"The shoe is described as not suitable for speed training due to its design."
speed
versatility

width (3)
design (2)
lockdown (2)
upper (1)
size (1)
comfort (1)
secure fit (1)
lacing system (1)
Pros
"Minor updates to the engineered mesh upper enhance overall fit and comfort for wearers."
fit
mesh
comfort
"The updated upper on the Ride 18 contributes to comfort and fit, providing a breathable and supportive feel."
upper material
breathable
supportive
"The Guide 18 offers a premium feel with a breathable upper construction."
breathability
premium feel
"The shoe's design is appealing visually and functionally for long runs."
marathon
initial impression
look
"The shoe has a sleek and modern design with updated overlays for additional support."
support
design
fit
"The Saucony Guide 18 maintains a consistent and comfortable fit."
true to size
normal width
"The Saucony Guide 18 features a great fit provided by its upper construction, enhancing overall comfort."
fit
comfort
"The upper design allows for a secure fit while accommodating natural foot movement, especially in the toe box."
secure upper
stretch mesh
toe box space
"The innovative lacing system ensures a comfortable fit without pinch points or pressure."
comfortable fit
no pressure
traditional lacing
"The upper of the Ride 18 provides a snug, race-ready fit ideal for runners with narrower feet."
snug_fit
race-ready
narrow
toe_box
"The Guide 17 has a roomier toe box that accommodates conditions like hallux rigidus, making it comfortable for wider feet."
roomy_fit
hallux_rigidus
toe_conditions
comfort
"There is a good fit with enough room in the toe box that facilitates proper biomechanics while running."
fit
biomechanics
wiggle_room
"The shoe's upper provides a snug fit for better lockdown compared to previous models."
snug fit
upper update
better fit
"The PWRRUN PB insole is noted for its secure and comfortable lockdown."
insole
secure fit
comfort
"The upper is designed for a more locked-down fit improving foot security."
fit
security
support
"The Adrenaline GTS 24 offers a comfortable fit as it is designed to cater to a wide range of foot sizes."
wide fit
size availability
"The shoe is designed with a heel-hugging fit, which helps keep the foot secure during runs."
fit
heel hug
Cons
"The fit adjustments in the upper might not suit all foot shapes."
fit
upper
adjustment
"The midsole's stiffness in the Guide 17 reduces flexibility compared to the Ride 18."
midsole
stiffness
flexibility
"The Ride 18 has a lower volume in the toe box, which may not accommodate some runners well."
toe box
volume
space issues
"The broad platform might feel unwieldy for certain runners who prefer a more minimalistic shoe."
bulkiness
running style
"The fit may not accommodate wider feet well."
wide foot
fit issues
"The Ride 18 may not fit well for runners with wider feet due to its snug design."
snug fit
narrow toe box
wider feet
"There could be potential fit issues for users with wider feet due to its support design."
fit
width
"The shoe's fit is slightly more snug than previous models, which may not suit everyone."
snug fit
upper adjustment
personal preference
"The new upper changes may not be significant enough to notice an improvement."
upper
design
change
"The recommendation for a locked down fit suggests that the standard fit may not be sufficient for all runners."
fit
locked_down
support
"The shoe's fit may not accommodate all foot shapes comfortably."
fit
stability
"The fit may not cater to all foot shapes."
stability
fit
customization
"The fit may not be suitable for all foot shapes."
foot_shape
comfort
"While the fit is generally good, the shoe may feel slightly small for some runners."
size issues
fit preference

support (5)
platform (3)
support level (2)
pronation control (1)
lateral support (1)
guidance (1)
subtle (1)
natural support (1)
Pros
"The Guide 18 features broader platform and higher side walls for improved stability during runs."
stability
design
gate cycle
"Both shoes have been designed with a nice wide platform, enhancing stability during runs."
wide platform
stability
sole flare
"The wide platform and heel bevel contribute to the overall stability of the shoe."
stability
platform
"The shoe offers inherent stability suitable for both neutral runners and moderate to maximum over-pronators."
over-pronation
neutral runners
inherent stability
"The shoe offers stability with a broader platform and higher sidewalls, reducing the risk of injury."
stability
injury prevention
platform
"The shoe provides reliable stability, making it suitable for overpronators."
stability
overpronation
"The shoe provides good support for runners who need stability, especially women."
stability
support for women
"The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 has a very effective support system with guide rails that help keep the foot stable during runs."
guide rails
stability
pronation control
"The Scciny Guide 18 provides excellent stability for runners who require it."
stability
support
running
"The overall support structure of the shoe is aimed at improving the running experience for those who need it."
support
performance
"It provides a stable yet non-restrictive ride, making it suitable for various running styles."
stable
supportive
versatility
"The Guide 17 features excellent stability design to control pronation, ideal for runners needing additional support."
stability
pronation
support
"The Guide 17 provides both lateral and medial stability, making it a versatile option for various foot types."
lateral stability
medial stability
versatile
"The stability features provide a gentle guidance to maintain a centered ride."
mild stability
gentle guidance
"The subtle stability from Center Path Technology makes this shoe a good option for average runners needing support."
stability
support
"CenterPath Technology offers light stability while maintaining natural support, preventing a rigid feel."
light stability
natural alignment
no rigidity
"The Guide 17 has unique stability features that help manage overpronation and supination effectively."
stability
overpronation
supination
support
"The Guide 17’s wide base and sole flare enhance its ground contact for improved stability."
wide_base
sole_flare
stability
ground_contact
"The Saucony Guide 18 offers gentle stability, suitable for runners who don't require aggressive support."
stability
support
gentle
"The shoe maintains a 6mm offset for a comfortable transition from heel to toe."
6mm offset
smooth transition
"The shoe's Center PATH technology provides support without being overly aggressive, suitable for both stability and neutral runners."
Center PATH
support
natural feel
"The shoe provides ample stability due to its geometric design."
stability
design
support
"The shoe effectively reduces excessive overpronation."
support
overpronation
safety
"The shoe incorporates effective Center PATH technology for stability."
Center PATH technology
stability
"Stability is enhanced by its design and technology features."
stability
footing
"The shoe has a well-structured midsole that contributes to stability."
midsole
support
"The Sone Guide 18 features a geometry that effectively holds the foot in a more neutral position during the gait cycle."
neutral position
gait cycle
"The shoe has an impressively wide platform which enhances stability."
wide platform
stability
support
"Moderate stability is provided by the power run foam and side walls, suitable for daily training."
daily training
stability
Cons
"The shoe may not be suitable for heavy over-pronators despite claims of stability."
stability
over-pronation
"Some users may prefer a firmer base for better feedback during runs."
flexibility
support
"While it has a stability design, it may not provide adequate support for all foot types."
support
foot type
"The stability is mild, lacking prominent support for those who need it."
mild stability
lack of support
"The sidewalls did not provide significant stability during the run."
sidewalls
stability issues
"The Guide 18 offers only mild support, which may not be sufficient for runners needing more aggressive stability features."
stability
medial support
"The stability features may be insufficient for severe overpronators."
overpronation
stability
"The Ride 18's flexibility may compromise stability, making it less suitable for certain running conditions."
neutral shoe
mild stability
"The shoe lacks enough rigid support for those with severe overpronation issues, making it less suitable for certain runners."
overpronation
support
"The stability features may not be suitable for all users, especially for those who don’t need extra support."
stability
support
"There might not be enough lateral support during sharp turns."
lateral movement
sharp turns
stability
"Both shoes may not be suitable for runners seeking maximum stability due to their design."
mild stability
neutral shoe
"The stability features have been toned down, which might disappoint those seeking aggressive support."
stability
support
pronation control
"Some runners may find the shoe lacks the aggressive support they expect from stability shoes."
stability
support
neutral runners
"The shoe's design for stability may create a stiff feeling for some runners."
stability
motion
fit
"The heel drop may not suit all runners' preferences."
stability
heel drop
runner preference
"The heel counter stiffness is unusually flexible for a stability shoe, which may not provide enough support for some users."
flexible heel counter
stability
"The stability offered by this shoe is subtle and not particularly noticeable."
subtle
stability

traction (3)
slipping (1)
rubber coverage (1)
surface (1)
coverage (1)
Pros
Cons
"Traction is noted to be average, with slipping on wet surfaces."
wet surfaces
average grip
"The zonal outsole rubber may not provide adequate traction in wet conditions."
zonal outsole
wet weather
traction issues
"The shoe's traction may fall short in wet or varying conditions, affecting grip."
slippery surfaces
poor grip
"The rubber used on the outsole is described as not very grippy, especially on wet surfaces."
wet
grip
"The shoe may lack sufficient rubber on the outsole for effective traction."
outsole rubber
traction concerns
"The shoe lacks adequate grip on wet surfaces."
wet
performance
safety
"The outsole has limited rubber coverage, potentially affecting grip."
outsole
rubber
grip

versatility (2)
design (2)
weight (1)
breathability (1)
accessibility (1)
usability (1)
safety (1)
recommendation (1)
Pros
"The shoe is lightweight, making it easy to wear for long periods."
lightweight
ease of wear
"The shoe is lightweight despite its chunky appearance."
lightweight
design
"The shoe is surprisingly lightweight for its category."
lightweight
support
"The breathability of the shoe is commendable due to its light fabric."
breathable
fabric
"The shoe includes a handy pull tab that makes it easy to put on."
pull tab
ease of use
"The inclusion of practical features like a stretchy pull tab and rear finger loop enhances usability for daily wear."
easy on/off
practical features
"The Saucony Guide 18 is a versatile shoe suitable for various situations beyond running."
multi-use
lifestyle
"Both shoes provide stability features that help optimize their performance based on different running needs."
stability_features
performance
different_needs
"The shoe's reflective highlights enhance safety for running in low-light conditions."
reflective
safety
visibility
"The Guide 18 is highly recommended for a wide range of runners."
recommendation
versatility
everyday
"The shoe's price is competitive, making it an economical option."
affordable
economical
"Both shoes represent great value for money at their competitive price point."
affordability
pricing
"The Scciny Guide 18 is priced affordably under $150, making it a great choice for budget-conscious runners."
affordable
value
Cons
"The overall design might not appeal to runners looking for a high-fashion style."
style
fashion
"The design may not appeal to all runners due to its appearance."
design
appearance
"The shoe's price might deter budget-conscious buyers despite its quality."
cost
affordability
"The weight difference between the Guide 17 and Guide 18 is negligible and may not feel different to most runners."
weight
comparison
negligible
"The shoe has a relatively high price compared to similar models."
price
value
"The shoe may feel heavier than expected despite its light weight claim."
weight
design
chunky

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Model Updates

The Saucony Guide 18 introduces a new midsole with PWRRUN foam for enhanced responsiveness and durability compared to the Guide 17. Additionally, the shoe features an updated outsole design for improved grip and a smoother transition, maintaining stability while reducing overall weight.

Older Models

Newer Models

Reviews

Read reviews about the Saucony guide 18 from across the internet, including reviews from other runners on Fittir, wear testers from google & youtube, and more.

Reviews on Fittir (-)

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Wear-tester reviews (19)

4.4/5

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