The Saucony Guide 18 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

Saucony Guide 18 is a stability running shoe designed for runners seeking reliable pronation control. Ideal for those who value a breathable upper in their footwear, the Guide 18 features notable adjustments to flexibility and material without sacrificing performance.

The lab data indicates that while there were only minor enhancements, the shoe maintains a solid foundation for stability seekers. However, opportunities to improve the outsole and upgrade the foam remain unaddressed. Overall, it continues to provide dependable support and represents good value in its category.


Pros

  • Upper now has exceptional breathability
  • Stable yet non-restrictive ride
  • Cushioned enough for long runs
  • Handles walking too
  • Impressively wide platform
  • PWRRUN PB insole
  • Secure and comfortable lockdown
  • Excellent heel rocker design

Cons

  • Too much exposed foam on outsole
  • Feels bulky and not agile
  • Midsole runs a bit firm

Key Features

  • Maximal Cushioning: Broad base geometry helps provide an exceptionally cushioned ride while ensuring protection and support.
  • Center Path Technology: Asymmetric geometry that centers the foot from lateral crash through toe-off for a balanced and supportive experience.
  • PWRRUN Foam: Plenty of responsive foam ensures smooth and comfortable miles with ultimate protection.
  • Durable Traction: XT-900 carbon rubber outsole offers excellent grip for various terrains.
  • Breathable Upper: Engineered mesh upper allows for versatile wearability and added ventilation.

Specifications

  • Fabric Type: Synthetic-and-fabric
  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole Material: Rubber
  • Outer Material: Mesh

Saucony Guide 18 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Saucony Guide 18 Hoka Rincon 4 New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 v14 Brooks Glycerin GTS 22
Price $140 $125 $140 $165
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Stability Stability Stability Stability
Weight lab Weight brand 9.8 oz / 278g 8.1 oz / 231g 10.4 oz / 295g 10.8 oz / 305g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand 8.3 mm 9.4 mm 9.3 mm 10.1 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Heel
Size True to size Slightly small Slightly small True to size
Midsole softness Balanced Soft Soft Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Big Big Normal
Toebox durability Good Bad Decent Decent
Heel padding durability Decent Decent Bad Good
Outsole durability Good Bad Decent Good
Breathability Breathable Breathable Moderate Breathable
Width / fit Medium Narrow Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Narrow Medium Medium
Stiffness Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Moderate Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Stiff Stiff Moderate
Rocker
Heel lab Heel brand 36.0 mm 36.0 mm 36.8 mm 37.8 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 27.7 mm 26.6 mm 27.5 mm 27.7 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Narrow Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season Summer Summer All seasons Summer
Removable insole
Ranking Bottom 18% Bottom 18% Bottom 41% Bottom 12%
Popularity Top 16% Top 22% Top 10% Top 12%