If you’re a runner searching for your next pair of trainers, you can’t go wrong with Saucony. Two of their most popular models are the Ride 17 and Kinvara 14.
Both offer responsive cushioning and breathable uppers, but some key differences might make one better suited for your needs. Read on for a detailed comparison of the Ride 17 vs Kinvara 14.
Similarities And Differences Between Saucony Ride 17 And Kinvara 14:
Specs | Ride 17 | Kinvara 14 |
---|---|---|
Launched In | 2024 | 2023 |
Stability | Neutral | Neutral |
Flexibility | Flexible | Flexible |
Sizing | True to size | Runs small, size up 0.5 |
Weight | 10.6 oz | 7 oz |
Cushion | Plush | Medium |
Outsole | Carbon rubber | Exposed EVA foam & rubber |
Midsole | PWRRUN+ | PWRRUN EVA |
Upper | Mesh | Mesh |
Retail Price | $140 | $120 |
Feature Comparision:
Material and Construction:
The Ride 17 uses a breathable mesh upper with minimal overlays, providing a flexible and comfortable fit. The standout feature is the PWRRUN+ midsole, made of Saucony’s most cushioned foam blend. This delivers responsive energy return with plenty of plush padding. The carbon rubber outsole is durable yet flexible.
The Kinvara 14 also utilizes a breathable mesh upper but with a suede heel collar for added comfort. The midsole is PWRRUN EVA foam, which is lighter and firmer than the PWRRUN+ of the Ride 17.
The outsole combines exposed EVA foam with strategic rubber placement in high-wear areas. This pared-down construction sheds weight but impacts durability.
Durability:
The Ride 17’s carbon rubber outsole shows minimal wear even after several hundred miles of use. The durable material is strategically placed in high-wear areas to resist abrasion.
Meanwhile, the PWRRUN+ foam midsole retains its energetic bounce and plush cushioning for an impressively long lifespan of around 500-600 miles before losing responsiveness. This long-lasting foam contributes to the shoe’s overall durability.
In contrast, the Kinvara 14’s exposed foam cushioning will start to permanently compress and lose its spring after just 300-400 miles. Additionally, the rubber outsole sections wear down quickly in high-abrasion areas, negatively impacting traction and durability compared to the Ride 17’s more resilient materials and construction.
Fit:
The Ride 17 offers a true-to-size fit for most foot shapes, with a secure midfoot wrap to lock down the foot over the platform. The engineered mesh upper material is sufficiently padded while avoiding irritating, excessive overlays. The plush collar and tongue comfortably cushion the ankle.
By comparison, the Kinvara 14 runs quite small, so sizing up a half or even a full size is recommended to allow a comfortable amount of space. The overall fit skews narrower through the midfoot and heel, which may not work for wider feet.
However, the mesh upper itself provides a pleasantly snug fit with fewer overlays that bothered some wearers of previous Kinvara versions, making for a comfortable experience for those with narrow to moderate foot widths.
Stability:
With neutral platforms aimed at natural foot motion, neither the Ride 17 nor Kinvara 14 provide explicit pronation control or stability mechanisms.
However, the Ride 17’s higher stack height of 29mm in the heel and 21mm in the forefoot creates an inherently more stable base for runners to control motion. Comparatively, the Kinvara 14’s lower profile at 25mm in the heel and 21mm forefoot has less inherent stability.
Additionally, the Kinvara 14’s snugger fit through the midfoot can feel a bit tippy and less stable at slower paces, though the foot is locked in nicely during faster running. Ultimately, both are neutral shoes, but the Ride 17’s construction lends more subtle stability for pronators.
Cushioning:
The Ride 17 has an abundantly cushioned feel underfoot, with ample padding from the responsive PWRUN+ foam in the midsole. This soft, bouncy foam absorbs impact very comfortably and provides a smooth, well-protected ride.
In contrast, the Kinvara 14 has a distinctly firmer ride with noticeably less overall cushioning. Though the PWRRUN EVA foam does have some bounce back, the thinner layer can’t match the shock absorption of the Ride 17.
This sparse cushioning profile makes the Kinvara 14 more agile with a better ground feel but at the expense of plush softness.
Runners prioritizing a responsive, flexible ride will appreciate the Kinvara 14’s minimal cushioning, while the Ride 17 suits those wanting maximum comfort for logging daily miles.
Value:
With an MSRP of $140, the Ride 17 costs a bit more than the $120 Kinvara 14 but delivers exceptional durability, cushioning, and versatility that help justify the extra investment.
The long-lasting outsole and midsole foam means you can confidently log hundreds of miles in the Ride 17 before considering replacement. In contrast, the pared-down Kinvara 14 prioritizes lightweight performance and speed over longevity, wearing out significantly faster.
However, for runners not need hundreds of miles or want a fast, minimalist trainer, the Kinvara 14 can provide strong value. Overall, the Ride 17 gets the edge for value given its impressive lifespan.
Performance Comparision:
Walking:
The Ride 17’s plush cushioning absorbs heel and forefoot impacts very well during walking. The flexible forefoot allows a natural walking stride.
The Kinvara 14 can feel somewhat flat and firm underfoot at slower paces like walking, providing less shock absorption. However, the low-profile design does promote a smooth heel-to-toe transition.
Running:
During faster running, the Ride 17 offers responsive energy return from the PWRRUN+ foam and can handle both easy and tempo running. However, the substantial cushioning causes some loss of ground feel that makes it less suitable for truly fast-paced workouts or races.
In contrast, the lightweight Kinvara 14 excels at faster paces where its firm, unencumbered cushioning comes alive with snappy responsiveness.
Plantar Fasciitis:
The plush PWRRUN+ foam and mild stability of the Ride 17 help dissipate pressure to relieve pain from plantar fasciitis during running. The active rocker-shaped outsole also encourages a more controlled foot motion.
While the Kinvara 14 is well-cushioned for a lightweight shoe, the lower foam volume provides less shock absorption, so it may not be the best option for plantar fasciitis.
All-Day Standing:
The Ride 17’s ample cushioning works well for prolonged standing and walking required in jobs like retail or healthcare. The soft collar prevents Achilles irritation and the roomy forefoot reduces foot fatigue.
The minimal cushioning and snug fit of the Kinvara 14 is less suitable for all-day wear when frequent walking is required in addition to standing in place.
Final Verdict:
Overall, the Saucony Ride 17 is the better daily training option with superior cushioning and durability. It offers a comfortable ride for most running distances and paces.
The Kinvara 14 shines when speed and agility are priorities, but gives up some cushioning and longevity in exchange for a fast, light feel.
Consider your usage needs and style preferences, but for an all-purpose shoe, the Ride 17 gets the nod.