As an avid sneakerhead with a passion for performance and style, I’m always interested in learning about popular athletic shoe brands. Saucony and Adidas are two giants in the industry, with die-hard fans praising their technology, fit, and fashion.
I decided to dig into the origins, features, and reputations of both brands to determine which one might be best for my needs and preferences. After extensive research, I was able to compare and contrast Saucony and Adidas across a number of categories to see how they stack up.
Comparison Table
| Category | Saucony | Adidas |
|---|---|---|
| Founded In | 1898 | 1949 |
| Comfort and Fit | Known for plush cushioning and support | Varied – some very comfortable, some run narrow |
| Color Options | Classic and bold color combos | Endless color and style options |
| Durability | Very durable, high mileage expectancy | Fairly durable, mileage depends on model |
| Performance | Focus on technologies for responsiveness and energy return | Innovative performance features like Boost cushioning |
| Design and Style | Heritage styles mixed with new technology | Iconic sports styles plus cutting-edge fashion |
| Popularity | Popular with runners and walkers seeking comfort and support | Extremely popular sports brand around the world |
| Best Selling Model | Saucony Kinvara running shoe | Adidas UltraBoost running shoe |
Saucony Overview
Saucony has been crafting high-quality athletic shoes since 1898 when the brand was founded in Kutztown, Pennsylvania.
Known for their cushioned and supportive fit, Saucony running shoes are designed to provide versatility for runners of all levels.
They incorporate features like PWRRUN+ midsole foam, FORMFIT uppers, and Everun in the outsole to deliver a smooth, flexible ride.
Saucony offers a wide range of pronation control options like their neutral, stability, and motion control shoes.
Their shoes also accommodate different arch types with models featuring low to high arch support.
While the average price point is around $100, Saucony has options spanning from $55 for basic models to $275 for their top designs.
They have a classic, sleek aesthetic that works for athletic training as well as casual everyday use. Saucony is a brand with broad appeal across the running community.
One of their popular model Kinvara is a light, flexible shoe perfect for tempo runs and racing. For runners seeking a reliable, well-cushioned workhorse of a shoe, Saucony delivers quality and performance.
Adidas Overview
Adolf “Adi” Dassler founded Adidas in 1924 in Herzogenaurach, Germany, establishing one of the most recognized and iconic athletic brands worldwide.
Adidas designs performance-driven athletic shoes for running, training, and sports.
Breakthrough innovations like responsive Boost foam midsoles and adaptive Primeknit uppers power popular models like the best-selling UltraBoost.
Adidas maintains a commitment to developing technologies like Formotion and Torsion System that maximize human potential through rigorous athlete testing.
From vintage streetwear classics like the iconic Superstar to new trends like the NMD_R1, Adidas’ sporty style transcends demographics with universal appeal.
With timeless 3-Stripe branding and silhouettes optimized for movement, Adidas continues pushing boundaries while staying true to its roots in athletic performance.
Differences Between the Brands
Comfort and Fit
Saucony shoes are renowned for their plush cushioning and support, making them some of the most comfortable athletic shoes for medium to high arches. Adidas offers a mixed bag of comfort – some shoes like UltraBoost feature pillowy cushioning while other lines run narrow. Saucony focuses on equipping shoes with comfort technologies while Adidas prioritizes style and performance first.
Durability and Performance
Both Saucony and Adidas make high-quality shoes built to last through intense training and regular wear. However, Saucony leads in durability ratings due to their supportive construction and focus on reliable performance features like PWRRUN foam. Adidas isn’t far behind though thanks to performance technologies engineered for elite athletes.
Price
Saucony offers a good mix of value prices and high-end shoes usually ranging from $60 to $150. Adidas footwear also covers the spectrum but trends pricier, with popular models between $100 to $200. Both brands offer sales on last season’s styles.
Design and Style
Saucony shoes have a retro, sporty vibe with bright pops of color while Adidas leans modern and sleek. Adidas pioneers more innovative designs and capitalizes on celebrity collaborations and limited-edition releases. Both have iconic road and trail running shoes as well as vintage lifestyle sneakers.
Popularity
It’s no contest – Adidas dominates in global brand recognition and popularity. However, Saucony has a devout following amongst runners and walkers in North America. Adidas’ lifestyle shoes also enjoy greater mainstream popularity than Saucony models.
Target Market
Saucony targets dedicated runners looking for performance and comfort above all. Adidas has a diverse market spanning casual fashion to elite athletics. The Saucony buyer wants a stability running shoe; the Adidas buyer wants style on and off the track.
Performance Comparison
For Nurses
With all the walking and long hours on their feet, nurses need ultra-cushioned comfort. Saucony wins for nurses due to their focus on plush foam, arch support, and stability to reduce knee and foot pain. The Triumph ISO and ProGrid Integrity ST2 are great options.
For Walking
Both brands offer slick walking shoes but Saucony’s Everun cushioning and shock-absorbing midsoles provide the extra comfort walkers need to log miles happily. Try the Echelon or Cohesion.
For Running
Serious runners can’t go wrong with either brand. Adidas has a great selection of lightweight, responsive shoes like the Adios Pro 2. But Saucony’s PWRRUN PB cushioning and carbon plates give an unbeatable propulsive sensation for racers and marathoners. Check out the Endorphin Pro.
For Flat Feet
With features like arch support, medial posts, and stability frames, Saucony gets the gold for flat feet. The Guide ISO 2 and Omni models offer excellent motion control.
For Back Pain
Extra cushioning and arch support make Saucony ideal for alleviating back pain when exercising. Try the quirky Redeemer ISO 2 with its supportive floating arch or the Hurricane ISO 5.
For Standing All Day
Nurses, teachers, and retail workers logging long hours on their feet should choose Saucony’s Everun and PWRRUN cushioning for superior comfort and energy return.
For High Arches
Saucony’s moderate to high arch support across its line makes it the winner for high arches. Consider the Triumph ISO 5 with its Formfit upper wrapping the foot.
For Hiking
The versatile Adidas Terrex line is engineered for traction and stability across rugged trails. Low to the ground styles like the Terrex Swift R2 GTX provide agile hiking performance.
For Plantar Fasciitis
Rigid midsoles and ample cushioning fight plantar fasciitis pain, so Saucony’s Support Frame technology works wonders. The Omni Walker provides stability and comfort.
Final Verdict
Saucony and Adidas both produce high-performing athletic shoes, but Saucony wins out for those seeking comfort, support, and the perfect fit for activities like running, walking, and nursing. If you prioritize heritage styling and lifestyle appeal, Adidas takes the lead with their vintage classics and collaboration collections.
Serious runners training for their next marathon can rely on Saucony’s smooth, cushioned ride while weekend warriors wanting fashionable fitness gear will love Adidas’ streetwise looks.
With such different strengths and audiences, choosing between the two brands ultimately comes down to personal preferences and needs. Luckily sneakerheads can’t go wrong adding some Sauconys and Adidas to their rotation.