Ride 18 Trainers

I’ve been running for nearly 25 years, averaging five miles every weekday. For the last several years, I’ve relied on Saucony shoes — particularly the Kinvara, which was light, low-profile, responsive, and perfectly balanced for efficient, natural running. When I could no longer find the Kinvara 13 in my size, I decided to try the Ride 18 based on strong reviews and brand loyalty. While it technically fit true to size, it felt like an entirely different experience. The sole is much thicker, the platform noticeably wider, and the toe curls sharply upward. They look huge when I have them on — almost cartoonish — and feel more like soft blocks of foam than performance trainers. From my first run, the difference was clear. My 5-mile times slowed by several minutes, turning and accelerating felt awkward, and the smooth, natural stride I’ve had for decades disappeared. The heavier, softer build absorbed too much energy, leaving my legs working against the shoe rather than with it. Over time, I even developed tightness and discomfort I’d never experienced in 25 years of running. Out of curiosity, I put on my old, worn-out Kinvara 13s, and the difference was immediate — light, fast, and natural once again. I truly believe the bulk and geometry of the Ride 18s contributed to the imbalance and discomfort I experienced. Kinvaras are still being made, but like most “modern” running shoes, they now feature super-thick soles and upward-curved toes. It’s disappointing to see such a great line move away from what made it exceptional. I hope Saucony continues to offer options for runners who value speed, control, and ground connection over excessive cushioning.

Wonderful shoe. Love that they have half sizes above a 12.

I bought my first pair of the Suacony Ride 18s about 9 months ago. Put 430 miles on them and they are still in great shape for walking/weight training shoes. I also wore them for 24 consecutive hours during a no-sitting, no-sleeping dance marathon- and they were comfortable the entire time. The most comfortable and supportive running shoes I've ever worn. Just bought my second pair.

Have 300 miles on these shoes so far. Very happy with these shoes. Will buy again.

Good shoe. The fact I have to enter 50 characters is insane.

The Ride is my go to for daily runs, long runs, or easy runs. It is durable and comfortable.

I’m a marathon runner who typically goes through 4 pairs of shoes a year, and the Saucony Ride 18 has quickly become my top pick. The cushioning strikes a perfect balance between comfort and responsiveness — soft enough for long runs, but still snappy on tempo days. The fit feels natural, secure, and broken-in right out of the box. In my opinion, the Ride 18 outperforms the Hoka Clifton 9, ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, and New Balance FuelCell models I’ve used. It’s lighter, smoother, and the overall ride feels more stable over high mileage. For runners who want a reliable, versatile daily trainer that holds up across marathon training cycles, this one’s hard to beat.

I own these shoes for less than a month. I ran less than 50 miles in them. The shoes fell apart faster than any shoe I’ve ever worn. I’m very confused about all the positive reviews. The material of the souls must be so cheap. The company did a great job refunding me, but I’m just in disbelief of the materials.

Fits narrower than my Guide 17s and a little less support, but noticeably greater flex in the arch. On a superficial level, a much nicer looking shoe. Guides are boats.

My shoes were stolen and the company did little to help or seemed to care very little. I would not buy shoes from the site again.

I have been very happy with the ride 18s I purchased. In my opinion, the previous medel--ride 17s-- were a big disappointment and a low point in your stream of models. I am relieved that rides have returned to their previous level of quality.

I bought these to be a cushioned trainer for longer runs, though I've by accident used them for several 5-7km faster runs. I'm very happy with them so far!

Many years ago I ran exclusively in Ride but had to switch because they changed for the worse for me. This iteration, however, is amazing. The Triumph line hasn’t been the same in 3 iterations so I’ve lost faith in them. These new Ride’s are what the Triumphs were. Super comfortable and able to pick up the pace without feeling heavy. For reference I’m 53 years old, 5’ 11”, 175lbs. I will probably buy two more pairs and stick them on a shelf. The rate at which shoe companies change their design for the worse gives me no faith that the next iteration will be the same or better.

I like the ride's, but prefer the 17's over the 18's. I started having pain in my right Achilles tendon from the very first run with these. The breathability is also not as good. I usually do 6-10 mile runs 3-4 days a week, and my feet are completely soaked in these. On my walk home after my run I get a squishing sound with every step, as if I just ran in the pouring rain.