As an avid runner, I understand the importance of finding the right pair of shoes. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky deciding between popular brands like Saucony and New Balance.
Both companies have been making quality athletic shoes for over a century and offer comparable technologies and performance features. In this article, I’ll compare Saucony and New Balance in depth so you can determine which brand is better suited for your individual needs and preferences.
Comparison Table
| Category | Saucony | New Balance |
|---|---|---|
| Founded In | 1898 in Kutztown, PA | 1906 in Boston, MA |
| Comfort and Fit | Known for plush cushioning and support | Emphasizes comfort and support |
| Color Options | Wide range of colorways | Many classic and fresh color options |
| Durability | Durable outsoles and well-constructed | Very durable, can last 500+ miles |
| Performance | Focused on providing responsive cushioning | Uses innovative foams for soft, responsive ride |
| Design and Style | Contemporary, athletic styling | Classic and modern design aesthetic |
| Popularity | Popular among runners needing stability/cushioning | Wide following among casual and serious runners |
| Best Selling Model | Kinvara | 880v11 for versatile cushioning and support |
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.
New Balance Overview
Founded in 1906 by William J. Riley, New Balance began by making arch supports and prescription shoes for people with foot issues.
Based in Boston, the brand gained popularity for technical innovations like ripple soles and heel counters to stabilize and customize fit.
While New Balance makes athletic shoes across sports, they remain deeply rooted in running due to their origins in correcting overpronated feet.
Core neutral shoes like the 880 use injected EVA midsoles for soft landings and Ortholite insoles for support.
Iconic models like the 990 integrate dual-density midsoles and Abzorb foams to combine cushioning with compression resistance for smooth transitions.
New Balance leans into retros styles while also incorporating new 3D printed midsoles and engineered mesh uppers. With masterful attention to fit adjustments for all foot shapes and biomechanical needs, New Balance delivers versatile performance and classic appeal across running categories.
Major Differences Between these Brands
Comfort and Fit
Both Saucony and New Balance shoes are known for their comfort, cushioning, and support. However, New Balance offers more width sizing for different foot shapes while Saucony excels at adapting to the foot’s shape.
Durability and Performance
Saucony and New Balance shoes are both well-constructed with durable materials that can last hundreds of miles. New Balance shoes tend to have a slightly longer lifespan. In terms of performance, both brands use advanced foams and technologies to optimize responsiveness.
Price
New Balance shoes tend to range from $60-$160 while Saucony shoes fall in the $100-$150 range, with some models nearing $200. On average, Saucony shoes are slightly more expensive.
Design and Style
Saucony offers stylish, sleek athletic designs in vibrant colors. New Balance has more classic silhouettes along with fresh modern aesthetics. Both brands offer versatility.
Popularity
New Balance edges out Saucony as the more popular brand, likely due to its wider range of footwear beyond just running shoes. However, Saucony has a very dedicated following among runners.
Target Market
Saucony targets competitive runners looking for specific features like pronation control. New Balance caters to a wider demographic from casual walkers to serious marathoners.
Performance Comparison
For Nurses
For nurses who are on their feet all day, both New Balance and Saucony shoes provide excellent cushioning and support. Saucony’s bouncy EVERUN foam and New Balance’s Fresh Foam would make prolonged standing and walking more comfortable. New Balance’s wider range of widths is also conducive to accommodating swollen feet.
For Walking
As walking shoes, either New Balance or Saucony would perform well. Both offer stability, cushioning, and good shock absorption. Saucony’s EVERUN topsole provides energetic return with each step while New Balance’s ROLLBAR adds stability. For all-day wear, New Balance’s wider sizing wins out.
For Running
Experienced runners would be happy with either Saucony or New Balance running shoes. Both excel at making cushioned, responsive shoes that aid performance.
Saucony targets pronation control while New Balance prides itself on fit. Serious runners should test out each brand’s premier technologies like Saucony’s PWRRUN+ or New Balance’s FuelCell.
For Flat Feet
New Balance’s flat feet-specific shoes with features like posterior tibial inserts, torsion stability, and motion control provide excellent arch support. However, Saucony also makes stability shoes suitable for flat feet like the Guide or Omni with arch-hugging uppers. Trying on shoes from both brands is recommended.
For Back Pain
With technologies designed to reduce shock and stabilize each step, Saucony and New Balance are both suitable options for runners with back pain. Saucony’s FORMFIT upper and PWRRUN cushioning cradle the foot comfortably while New Balance’s Ultra Heel design softens impact. Those suffering from back pain should look for a supportive neutral shoe.
For Standing All Day
For people whose jobs require standing for prolonged periods, Saucony and New Balance offer all-day comfort. Saucony walking shoes feature shock-absorbing midsoles and New Balance uses premium foams for cushioning. Those standing for long hours would benefit from trying on shoes from both brands and noting arch and heel support.
For High Arches
Due to the plush cushioning from both New Balance and Saucony shoes, runners with high arches can find shoes that cushion their feet well. A flexible forefoot and firm heel counter also help. Trying on each brand’s stability shoes and noting arch shape and support is recommended for high arches.
For Hiking
With their trail running shoes, Saucony and New Balance both make hiking shoes suited for off-road adventures. Compared to Saucony’s Peregrine with its aggressive lugs, New Balance’s fresh foam midsole offers cushioning on uneven terrain. Trying shoes from both brands to gauge ankle support and grip is best for hikers.
For Plantar Fasciitis
To help combat plantar fasciitis pain, runners need optimal cushioning and arch support. Both Saucony’s EVERUN topsole and New Balance’s Abzorb foam provide cushioning, while firm heel counters lend stability. Those with plantar fasciitis should test shoes to see which brand best eases discomfort.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, both Saucony and New Balance produce high-quality athletic shoes that excel in comfort and performance. When choosing between the two brands, consider your individual needs and which specific features are most important for you.
Saucony targets pronation control while New Balance prides itself on accommodating different foot shapes and sizes. Trying shoes from both brands is ideal. Overall, you can’t go wrong with either Saucony or New Balance for your running needs.
Evaluate your own foot type, gait, and comfort preferences to decide which brand’s technology and style suits you best. With shoes from Saucony and New Balance, you’re sure to find a pair that takes your performance to the next level in both style and comfort.