The Saucony Ride 19 is the upcoming 2026 update to Saucony’s flagship neutral daily trainer. Positioned as a versatile "workhorse," it continues the trend of moving toward premium foams while maintaining the classic 8mm drop that fans of the series expect.
The most significant change in this version is a complete transition to a supercritical PWRRUN+ midsole, making it noticeably softer and more energetic than the Ride 18
Key Updates & Features
1. Reformulated Midsole
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The Ride 19 moves to a Supercritical (SCF) PWRRUN+ foam. While the Ride 18 also used PWRRUN+, the 19 uses a reformulated version that is lighter and more compliant.
- Feel:Â It provides a plusher "step-in" comfort and more "bounce" compared to the firmer, more traditional feel of older Ride models.
- Stack: The stack height has increased by 1mm, bringing the heel to 36mm for extra impact protection.
Stability and Fit:
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Natural Foot Design: The broad underfoot platform further enhances the shoe’s stability. The outsole is made up of large rubber sections at the front and back of the shoe.
Outsole:
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The outsole still utilizes XT-900 carbon rubber, but the layout has been refined.
- Flexibility:Â There are deeper, strategically placed flex grooves in the forefoot to allow for a smoother transition from midfoot to toe-off.
- Stability:Â The base is slightly wider, helping to counteract the softness of the new foam and keeping the shoe stable for neutral runners.
Upper:
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Re-engineered Upper Saucony has redesigned the upper with a more open, engineered mesh.
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Heel Lockdown:Â A deeper "heel cradle" or cup has been integrated, allowing your foot to sit slightly further down into the midsole for a more secure, stable feeling.
- Breathability:Â The mesh is more porous than previous versions, aimed at improving airflow during longer efforts.
Summary:
The Saucony Ride 19 represents the most significant evolution of this model in years. It has transitioned from a firm, traditional daily trainer into a modern, highly cushioned "super-daily" that prioritizes comfort and energy return without losing its reliable identity.
The Bottom Line
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The Big Change: The shift to supercritical PWRRUN+ foam makes the shoe significantly softer, lighter, and more "bouncy" than the Ride 18.
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The Experience:Â It offers a smooth, protective ride that feels effortless for daily miles while providing enough "pop" to pick up the pace if needed.
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Best For: Runners who want a single, versatile shoe for daily training, easy runs, and long-distance comfort.