Plush, springy, and versatile: A deep dive into the Saucony Ride 19

Finding the right daily trainer isn’t easy. I need a shoe that’s soft and forgiving, for those easy days and conversational miles. But I also want a tool for quicker paces that responds when I step on the gas. In my time as a distance runner, it’s been rare to find shoes that combine both.

I’ve owned many versions of the Saucony Ride, which is the very definition of a daily trainer, always offering a middle-of-the-road “ride” for any type of run. But some models hit the mark better than others, and a few left me disappointed. For the past several years, the Ride’s been on a good streak with the 16, 17, and 18, while still leaving me wanting in some aspects. How would version 19 stack up?

What to know about the Saucony Ride 19

According to Saucony, “The new Ride 19 is designed to go wherever your run takes you. Softer, lighter, and more responsive than ever, it’s equally at home on easy miles, long steady runs, or faster-paced training.” To do that, the company continued its process of refining fit, cushioning, style, and more.

Central to the Ride 19 is a retuned midsole, comprised of PWRN+, a TPU-based compound that’s both resilient and responsive. Saucony claims the latest formulation “delivers plush cushioning with increased energy return.”

From Saucony: “PWRRUN+ technology is formulated from TPU foam fine-tuned by our engineers and fused together with steam, making it exceptionally durable over long distances. Combined with the ideal blend of comfort, stability, and responsiveness, it is the trusted workhorse for everyday runs and those churning out big miles every week.”

An engineered mesh upper and padded heel collar provide a breathable, locked-in fit and breathability, and a redesigned outsole now features ample exposed foam, with strategic rubber placement along the sides and heel.

The weight and dimensions also changed, with a size 9 weighing 8.9 oz (dropping 13 grams) and the forefoot widening 10 mm to 120 mm. The midfoot and heel remain the same, at 70mm and 90mm, respectively. Stack heights are still 28mm/36mm at the toe and heel, for an 8mm drop. The retail price is $145.

Pros and Cons of the Saucony Ride 19

Pros

Smooth
Absorbent
Springy
Light
Good for any pace

Cons

Lacks “pop”

How the Saucony Ride 19 performed

On my first run in the Ride 19, a smooth and comforting cushion greeted me. I could compress and push forward, and run as slow or as fast as I wanted. I settled into a Zone 2 pace as I cruised sidewalks and nature trails and got to know the shoe.

I found I could run a super-relaxed pace, with the midsole providing a pleasant initial absorption, before gently springing me forward. It wasn’t a “pop” (more on that later), but it helped guide me through a controlled cadence that made running easy. That made it nice to ease into my run, take in the sights, and let the miles go by.

I’ve always found Saucony uppers to be precise and true-to-size, with good stability. The Ride 19 softly clasped over my foot, and the padded, firm heel collar added a locked-in sensation. The shoe never ran hot nor cold across Shenandoah Valley autumn and winter days. (I did wear wool socks in frigid conditions).

While the new midsole formulation provided a springy sensation, it didn’t pop off the pavement like more speed-oriented shoes. Still, there was enough response to up the pace when the mood suited.

Final thoughts on the Saucony Ride 19

The Ride 19 is a do-it-all trainer, but my favorite aspect was its comfort. I exercise almost every day, and often step out the door with sore muscles. In those instances, I need a shoe that soothes my feet and helps me onward when I need to log some miles. Each time I laced up, I knew I had a shoe that would be smooth and enjoyable, whether I was on a club run or a quick 3-miler.

Though the Ride 19 is plenty light and has some spring, speed-focused runners should consider Saucony’s Endorphin series for a more “pop off the pavement” experience. But those who focus on daily miles with brief strides will be just fine in the Ride.

As winter continues in the Shenandoah Valley, I continue enjoying my runs in the Ride 19. To me, that’s what running’s all about. The combination of smoothness, lightness, and fit gives me a shoe I can use for long runs, easy runs, and even races. If you want a shoe that can do anything in comfort, the Ride 19 is worth considering.