If you’re a runner searching for your next pair of trainers, the Saucony Tempus and Triumph 21 are two impressive options to consider. Both deliver responsive cushioning and premium comfort in a lightweight package. But which is the better choice for your needs?
Read on as we compare these popular neutral running shoes across a range of key factors. Discover similarities and differences in stability, flexibility, sizing, weight, materials, durability, and more. By the end, you’ll know exactly which Saucony trainer is the ideal pick based on your running style and preferences.
Similarities And Differences Between Saucony Tempus And Triumph 21:
Feature | Saucony Tempus | Triumph 21 |
---|---|---|
Launched In | 2022 | 2023 |
Stability | Moderate | Neutral |
Flexibility | Moderate | Medium |
Weight | 10.4oz (men’s), 8.8oz (women’s) | 10oz (men’s) |
Cushioning | PWRRUN PB | PWRRUN+ |
Outsole | XT-900 rubber | XT-900 Carbon Rubber |
Midsole | PWRRUN PB | PWRRUN+ |
Upper | Engineered mesh | Soft, flat knit |
Retail Price | $160 | $160 |
Features Comparison:
Materials:
The Tempus features a PWRRUN PB midsole paired with a durable XT-900 rubber outsole that provides grip and traction over varied terrain. PWRRUN PB is a responsive and energetic foam that maintains cushioning for up to 500 miles.
The Triumph 21 uses a PWRRUN+ midsole, which has a softer feel than PWRRUN PB, along with XT-900 carbon rubber in the outsole. PWRRUN+ compresses easily for a plush ride but can pack out faster than other midsole foams.
Both the Tempus and Triumph 21 incorporate engineered mesh uppers made of flexible, breathable material that adapts to the shape of the foot. The open construction allows air to pass through the shoes, keeping feet cool and dry.
Overall, the Tempus utilizes robust materials like PWRRUN PB and XT-900 rubber that prioritize durability and support. Meanwhile, the Triumph 21 focuses more on delivering ultra-soft cushioning through its PWRRUN+ midsole, with slightly less hardy outsole rubber.
Durability:
Examining longevity, the Tempus is the clear winner. The durable PWRRUN PB cushioning retains its bounce and energy return for over 300 miles, showing minimal packing out or flattening over time. This responsive foam pops back efficiently stride after stride.
Additionally, the rugged carbon-infused XT-900 rubber outsole can stand up to repetitive pounding on roads without noticeable wear. The Triumph 21 simply doesn’t match the resilient materials used in the Tempus.
The PWRRUN+ foam, while ultra-plush at first, loses some oomph after 200-300 miles as compression sets in. You’ll get less springiness off the toe. The outsole also shows typical signs of wear faster than the Tempus.
Both models can last runners around 500 miles with proper rotation. But the Tempus retains its structural integrity and cushioning properties longer thanks to premium materials.
Fit:
The Tempus runs true to size for most runners, according to user reviews. The shoe features a secure midfoot wrap that provides a snug, tailored fit through the center of the foot while allowing some movement and natural expansion.
The engineered mesh upper is soft and adaptable, molding comfortably around the foot without uncomfortable pressure points. The roomy toe box grants toes plenty of room to splay naturally on toe-off.
This can help relieve pain from jammed toes over long distances. The Triumph 21 fits slightly small, so sizing up half a size is recommended for those who like some wiggle room and foot swelling allowance on long runs.
Both shoes only come in standard D/medium and 4E/wide widths currently, so narrow feet could potentially swim around unless properly tightened via laces and midfoot cage. Overall, both models should adapt to a variety of foot shapes thanks to the flexible uppers.
Stability:
With its medial support clips embedded into the midsole, the Tempus guides moderate overpronators into proper alignment during transitions. This prevents too much inward rolling from the shin to the toe-off.
However, severe overpronators requiring motion control would likely require additional stability features lacking in the Tempus. Comparatively, the Triumph 21 does not attempt to actively correct overpronation. It allows the foot to move through its natural range of motion without intervention.
Consequently, neutral runners would appreciate the uncompromised smoothness while pronation sufferers may experience knee or other aches over longer distances due to poor support.
For those needing only mild stability assistance, the Tempus has you covered. But more competitive runners not weighing comfort over foot-correcting utility may desire the unrestrained platform of the Triumph 21.
Cushioning:
Step after step, the Triumph 21 surrounds your foot in pillowy-soft PWRRUN+ foam. This bouncy, resilient cushioning absorbs shock gracefully and rebounds energetically to propel you forward with minimal effort.
PWRRUN+ also maintains its cushy characteristics reliably over hundreds of miles, retaining the softness shoe lovers crave. Plus, the plush OrthoLite sock liner adds an extra touch of cushioned comfort. The firm yet responsive PWRRUN PB foam in the Tempus offers a markedly different ride.
More race-ready in feel, the springy material transforms leg input into kinetic energy while still smoothing uneven surfaces. This close-to-ground feel lets you pick up cues from the pavement to adjust form and power in real time.
While not as outright cushy as the Triumph 21, it fills a niche for runners wanting some shock absorption without sinking too far into the midsole. Choose the Tempus for sensory feedback or the Triumph 21 to float effortlessly on pillows of PWRRUN+.
Value for Money:
With an identical $160 price tag, both the Tempus and Triumph 21 provide lots of value for the investment. Considering its sturdy build and advanced energy-returning midsole material, the Tempus offers superb technology for the price.
While some may prefer the ultra-cushioned feel of the Triumph 21, the Tempus does everything well at a reasonable cost, from providing stability and a dialed-in fit to lasting hundreds of miles. Unless you need maximum responsiveness or support underfoot, it’s hard to beat the deal the versatile Tempus presents..
Performance Comparision:
Walking:
With a spacious toe box and enhanced flexibility from deep flex grooves in the outsole, the Tempus makes an adequate walking shoe for shorter strolls. The Triumph 21 outperforms for leisurely walking longer distances though.
Abundant, enduring cushioning softens every step while the knit upper breathes exceptionally well, preventing hot spots and blisters during miles-long walks.
Running:
The Tempus suits most running gaits for daily training with its balanced cushioning and supportive midsole clips. Adaptive features give fatigued runners better control even at higher paces.
For recovery days or long runs, however, the Triumph 21 stands tallest. Energy pulses back with each footfall to maintain efficiency while the plush upper cocoons feet in peerless comfort over any distance.
Plantar Fasciitis:
By promoting foot strength, the Tempus’ deep flex grooves and arch support assist Plantar Fasciitis recovery. Cushioning is ample but firmer than the packed-out Triumph 21, giving better leverage to roll off the toes.
Without targeted arch reinforcement or the responsive foam of the Tempus, the Triumph 21 risks worsening Pain over time despite initial comfort.
Standing All Day:
The Triumph 21 takes gold for all-day wear thanks to durable softness that won’t pack out under heavy use. Forgiving PWRRUN+ takes the pressure off feet hour after hour.
Despite having better stability, the Tempus can’t match the standing comfort of the Triumph 21. But its support does reduce fatigue versus less structured shoes when long periods on your feet are unavoidable.
Final Verdict:
For runners who value a balanced blend of cushioning, support, and versatility, the Tempus claims victory. A durable build, stability guidance, and an accommodating fit make it the more well-rounded option for training.
However, the Triumph 21 triumphs for pure plushness. Its cloud-like comfort and smooth energy return help you bounce back mile after mile with a smile.
Choose the exuberant Triumph 21 if a fun, pillowy ride is your top priority. Both models check the boxes for consistent mile after mile while keeping your feet happy along the way.