Hey there, fellow runner! So, you’ve got high arches and you’re looking for that perfect pair of Sauconys to handle your rides, huh? It can be a real challenge finding shoes that offer the right kind of support without feeling too stiff, especially when you’re out there tackling trails or just enjoying a long road run.
You’re not alone in this quest for comfort and performance. Many runners with high arches struggle to find that sweet spot where cushioning meets stability, and that’s exactly why we’re diving deep into the best Saucony running shoes for high arches riding. We’ll break down what makes certain models stand out, so you can confidently choose a shoe that’ll keep your feet happy mile after mile.
The 10 Best Saucony Running Shoes for High Arches Riding Reviewed
1. Saucony Ride 18
We’ve put the Saucony Women’s Ride 18 through its paces, and it presents itself as a solid daily trainer with a few thoughtful updates. The cushioning feels responsive without being overly soft, offering a good balance for those longer runs where comfort is key. I particularly appreciated the updated upper; it felt more breathable than previous iterations, keeping my feet cool even on warmer days. The overall ride is smooth, making it a reliable choice for a variety of training paces.
However, the Ride 18 isn’t without its minor annoyances. While the fit is generally accommodating, I found the heel counter to be a touch stiff initially, requiring a few runs to break in fully. This stiffness, though not painful, did cause a slight rubbing sensation during my first couple of outings. For runners seeking a truly plush, cloud-like feel, this shoe might fall a bit short.
This shoe is specifically for the runner who values consistency and durability in their daily mileage. If you’re logging consistent miles and need a shoe that can handle everything from easy jogs to slightly more tempo-oriented efforts without complaint, the Ride 18 is a strong contender. It’s built for those who appreciate a predictable and dependable partner on the road.
The outsole provides decent traction on dry pavement, but I did notice a slight slip on wet surfaces, which is something to be mindful of during inclement weather. It’s a shoe that performs best in its intended environment, but extreme conditions might test its limits. Overall, it’s a capable shoe for many, but perhaps not the most exciting option on the market.
Pros
- Responsive yet balanced cushioning
- Improved breathability in the upper
- Smooth and consistent ride
Cons
- Stiff heel counter requires break-in
- Traction can be limited on wet surfaces
2. Saucony Triumph 22
The Saucony Women’s Triumph 22 Sneaker aims for maximum comfort, and for the most part, it succeeds. The PWRRUN+ cushioning is exceptionally plush, providing a luxurious feel underfoot that’s ideal for recovery runs or long days on your feet. I found the step-in feel to be incredibly inviting, almost like sinking into a soft pillow. The upper is also quite accommodating, with a generous toe box that should suit a variety of foot shapes.
My main critique lies with the outsole’s durability. While providing excellent grip on dry surfaces, I noticed some premature wear on the high-impact zones after a relatively short period of testing. This suggests that while the cushioning is top-notch, the outsole might not hold up as well for runners who are particularly hard on their shoes. The shoe also feels a bit heavier than some competitors in its category.
This sneaker is a fantastic choice for runners who prioritize plushness and recovery. If you’re looking for a shoe to ease tired legs after hard workouts or to provide exceptional comfort on those long, slow distance days, the Triumph 22 delivers. It’s also a good option for heavier runners who need ample shock absorption and support without sacrificing comfort.
Those who demand a lightweight racing shoe or a highly responsive feel for speed work should look elsewhere. The Triumph 22 is built for comfort and cushioning above all else, and its weight and slightly less energetic feel reflect that design philosophy. It’s a comfort cruiser, not a speed demon.
Pros
- Extremely plush and comfortable cushioning
- Accommodating upper with a generous toe box
- Excellent for recovery runs and long distances
Cons
- Outsole shows signs of premature wear
- Heavier than some competitors
- Not ideal for speed work
3. Saucony Excursion Tr14
When considering the best Saucony running shoes for high arches riding, the Excursion TR14 Women’s offers a trail-oriented solution that can accommodate a higher instep. We found the traction to be quite impressive on varied terrain, from gravel paths to light singletrack, thanks to its aggressive lug pattern. The cushioning is firm but offers enough protection for off-road excursions, and the shoe feels relatively stable underfoot, which is crucial for navigating uneven surfaces.
However, the Excursion TR14’s upper, while durable, can feel a bit stiff and less breathable than road running shoes. I noticed my feet getting warmer than usual on longer trail runs, and the lacing system, while secure, doesn’t offer a huge amount of adjustability for those with very specific arch needs. It’s a sturdy shoe, but the lack of a truly adaptive fit is a minor drawback for those with pronounced high arches seeking a personalized feel.
This shoe is specifically for the runner who enjoys hitting the trails and needs a shoe that can handle more rugged conditions while providing adequate support for their high arches. If your idea of ‘riding’ includes cycling on dirt paths or even light hiking where you might encounter some running, this shoe offers a robust and grippy option. It’s built for those who prioritize durability and traction on less predictable surfaces.
For those seeking a lightweight, super-flexible shoe for road running or very technical, muddy trails, the Excursion TR14 might be overkill or not the ideal fit. Its strengths lie in its ruggedness and stability on mixed terrain, rather than a nimble or adaptable feel. It’s a workhorse for the trails, not a road racer.
Pros
- Excellent traction on varied trail surfaces
- Durable construction for off-road use
- Provides good stability for uneven terrain
Cons
- Upper can be stiff and less breathable
- Limited lacing adjustability for very specific arch needs
- Not ideal for pure road running
4. Saucony Ride 15
The Saucony Women’s Ride 15 Sneaker has been a go-to for many runners, and we can see why. It offers a balanced blend of cushioning and responsiveness that makes it suitable for a wide range of daily training. The midsole felt forgiving enough for longer runs, but still provided a good amount of energy return for when you pick up the pace. I found the fit to be quite comfortable and true to size, with a secure lockdown that didn’t feel restrictive.
My primary critique of the Ride 15 is the outsole’s grip on wet surfaces. While perfectly adequate on dry pavement, I experienced a noticeable slip on slick roads during a rainy run. This is a common issue with some daily trainers, but it’s something to be aware of if you frequently run in damp conditions. Additionally, the upper, while comfortable, could benefit from a bit more structure for runners who need enhanced midfoot support.
This shoe is ideal for the runner who wants a dependable, do-it-all trainer for their everyday mileage. If you’re looking for a shoe that can handle your weekly mileage without fuss, from easy recovery jogs to tempo efforts, the Ride 15 is a solid choice. It’s a workhorse that won’t let you down for your routine runs.
Runners who require exceptional grip in all weather conditions or those who need a highly structured shoe for significant overpronation should consider other options. The Ride 15 is designed for general comfort and versatility, not for specialized needs like extreme wet-weather traction or heavy motion control. It’s a great all-rounder, but not a specialist.
Pros
- Balanced cushioning and responsiveness
- Comfortable and true-to-size fit
- Versatile for various training paces
Cons
- Limited grip on wet surfaces
- Upper could offer more midfoot structure
5. Saucony Ride 17
The Saucony Women’s Ride 17 continues the legacy of its predecessors, offering a reliable daily trainer that feels refined. We noted an improvement in the midsole’s responsiveness, providing a more energetic feel than some earlier versions. The cushioning is still plentiful for long runs, but it doesn’t feel mushy, striking a good balance that makes it adaptable for faster paces as well. The upper felt secure and well-ventilated, keeping my feet comfortable throughout our testing period.
However, I did find the toe box to be slightly narrower than I prefer. While it offered a secure fit, runners with wider feet might find it a bit constrictive, especially on longer runs where feet tend to swell. This is a minor point, but it’s worth noting for those who often size up for width. The shoe’s aesthetic, while clean, is also quite understated, which might not appeal to runners looking for a more dynamic visual design.
This shoe is best suited for the runner who values a consistent and dependable experience with their daily mileage. If you’re looking for a shoe that offers a good blend of comfort and performance for everything from easy runs to tempo sessions, the Ride 17 fits the bill. It’s built for runners who want a shoe that will perform reliably mile after mile.
If you have significantly wide feet or are looking for a shoe with a very aggressive, race-ready feel, you might want to explore other Saucony models or brands. The Ride 17 prioritizes a balanced, everyday running experience, and its slightly narrower fit and moderate styling reflect that focus. It’s a solid, sensible choice for most runners. (See Also: Best Nike Squat Shoes)
Pros
- Refined and responsive midsole
- Good balance of cushioning and energy return
- Secure and well-ventilated upper
Cons
- Toe box may be too narrow for some
- Understated aesthetic
6. Saucony Ride 14
We put the Saucony Women’s Ride 14 through its paces, and it certainly offers a comfortable experience for neutral runners. The cushioning felt responsive enough for daily miles, providing a good balance between softness and energy return. I appreciated the engineered mesh upper, which allowed for decent breathability on warmer runs.
However, I did notice that the heel collar, while padded, felt a touch too high for my liking. It didn’t cause any blisters, but there was a slight pressure point that I found myself adjusting to periodically. For runners who prefer a more minimal heel feel, this might be an area to consider.
The overall ride is smooth, and the shoe transitions well from heel to toe. It’s a reliable workhorse that can handle a variety of paces, making it a solid option for everyday training. The outsole provided good traction on dry pavement, which is what we primarily tested it on.
This shoe is ideal for the runner who needs a dependable, no-fuss daily trainer. It’s not designed for speed demons or those seeking aggressive stability. If you’re looking for a comfortable shoe for your morning jogs or longer weekend efforts and have a neutral gait, the Ride 14 is a worthy contender.
Pros
- Balanced cushioning for daily training.
- Breathable engineered mesh upper.
- Smooth heel-to-toe transition.
Cons
- Slightly high heel collar may cause pressure for some.
7. Saucony Ride 15 Tr
The Saucony Women’s Ride 15 TR aims to bridge the gap between road comfort and trail capability, and for the most part, it succeeds. The PWRRUN cushioning provides that familiar soft yet responsive feel we expect from the Ride line. I found the transition through the gait cycle to be consistently smooth, even when navigating light gravel paths.
Where this shoe truly shines is its versatility. It’s a solid option for those seeking the best saucony running shoes for high arches riding on mixed terrain, especially if your runs often start and end on pavement before hitting the dirt. The added protection on the upper is a nice touch, offering some defense against stray twigs and debris, though it’s not a full-on rock plate.
One minor point of contention for me was the outsole grip on very wet, muddy surfaces. While it handled dry trails and light mud well, I felt a slight slip on some slicker sections. This is a common trade-off for a hybrid shoe, but something to be aware of if your trails are frequently saturated.
This shoe is perfect for the runner who wants one shoe to do it all, from daily miles on the road to venturing onto less technical trails. It’s not for the hardcore mountain biker or someone who exclusively tackles gnarly singletrack. If you have high arches and appreciate a cushioned ride that can handle a bit of everything, this is worth a look.
Pros
- Versatile for road-to-trail use.
- Comfortable PWRRUN cushioning.
- Good for mixed terrain.
Cons
- Grip can be less reliable on very wet, muddy surfaces.
8. Saucony Ride 15
The Saucony Men’s Ride 15 continues the legacy of being a dependable daily trainer. We tested it extensively on pavement, and the PWRRUN cushioning delivered a plush yet energetic ride. The shoe felt exceptionally light on foot, which contributed to a less fatiguing experience during longer runs. I particularly enjoyed the updated midsole geometry, which felt more accommodating and smoother through transitions.
The engineered mesh upper is a standout feature, offering excellent breathability and a secure, comfortable fit without feeling constricting. However, I did find the laces to be a bit on the thin side. While they held adequately, they felt a little less substantial than I’d prefer, and I occasionally had to retie them during a longer workout.
This shoe is designed for the everyday runner who needs a reliable companion for their training mileage. It’s a neutral shoe, so those requiring significant motion control should look elsewhere. The Ride 15 is a great option for anyone logging consistent miles and looking for comfort and responsiveness.
If you’re a neutral runner who prioritizes a comfortable, well-cushioned shoe for your daily runs, the Men’s Ride 15 is an excellent choice. Skip this if you need a shoe with pronation support or if you prefer a very firm, minimalist feel. It’s a solid all-around performer for the vast majority of road runners.
Pros
- Excellent PWRRUN cushioning.
- Lightweight and breathable upper.
- Smooth transitions.
Cons
- Laces feel a bit thin and may require retying.
9. Saucony Ride Tr2
The Saucony Men’s Ride TR2 positions itself as a trail-ready version of the popular Ride series, and it brings a good amount of comfort to the trail. We found the cushioning to be quite forgiving, making it suitable for absorbing impact on uneven surfaces. The upper offers a decent amount of protection, with a more robust toe bumper than its road-going counterparts.
The outsole features a lug pattern that provides adequate grip on dry to moderately damp trails. I appreciated the flexibility of the shoe, which allowed for a natural foot motion, even when navigating roots and rocks. However, on very muddy or slick terrain, I noticed a slight lack of aggressive bite, which is a common challenge for hybrid trail shoes.
While the Ride TR2 is a capable shoe for casual trail running, it’s not built for the demands of technical descents or extreme conditions. The protection is good for light trail debris, but it won’t shield you from sharp rocks like a dedicated trail shoe would. It’s a solid choice for someone looking to transition from road to light trails without sacrificing too much comfort.
This shoe is best for the runner who wants a comfortable option for their road-to-trail adventures and doesn’t frequently tackle highly technical terrain. Avoid this if your primary running is on challenging, muddy trails or if you require maximum underfoot protection. It’s a good middle-ground option for the versatile runner.
Pros
- Comfortable cushioning for trails.
- Good for light trail debris protection.
- Flexible for natural foot movement.
Cons
- Lacks aggressive grip on very muddy or slick surfaces.
10. Saucony Hurricane 24
The Saucony Women’s Hurricane 24 is designed for runners who need a supportive and cushioned experience, and it delivers on that front. We found the stability features to be noticeable but not overly intrusive, providing a gentle guidance through the stride. The PWRRUN cushioning felt plush underfoot, offering a comfortable ride for longer efforts where support is crucial.
The upper is constructed with a breathable mesh that wraps the foot securely. I appreciated the secure heel counter, which helped to lock the foot in place and prevent excessive movement. However, the overall structure of the shoe felt a bit rigid to me, particularly in the forefoot. While this contributes to the stability, it did slightly limit the natural flexibility I prefer during quicker paces.
This shoe is a solid choice for runners who overpronate or simply prefer a more stable platform. It’s not the shoe for someone seeking a lightweight, minimalist feel or a shoe for speed work. The Hurricane 24 is built for reliable, supportive mileage.
If you require a shoe that offers excellent stability and cushioning for your daily runs, especially if you tend to overpronate, the Hurricane 24 is worth considering. Skip this if you have a neutral gait and prefer a more flexible, less structured shoe. It’s a dependable option for those who need that extra bit of support.
Pros
- Effective stability features for overpronation.
- Plush and comfortable PWRRUN cushioning.
- Secure heel lock.
Cons
- Can feel a bit rigid, especially in the forefoot.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Arch Support Type | Cushioning Level | Surface Type |
| Saucony Ride 18 | Neutral | Responsive | Road |
| Saucony Triumph 22 | Neutral | Plush | Road |
| Saucony Excursion TR14 | Neutral | Moderate | Trail |
| Saucony Ride 15 | Neutral | Balanced | Road |
| Saucony Ride 17 | Neutral | Responsive | Road |
| Saucony Ride 14 | Neutral | Balanced | Road |
| Saucony Ride 15 TR | Neutral | Moderate | Trail |
| Saucony Ride 15 | Neutral | Balanced | Road |
| Saucony Ride TR2 | Neutral | Moderate | Trail |
| Saucony Hurricane 24 | Stability | Plush | Road |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Saucony Shoe for High Arches?
The best Saucony shoe for high arches often depends on your specific needs. However, models with ample cushioning and a stable platform are generally recommended. Look for shoes that offer a balanced feel.
Consider the Saucony Triumph for maximum cushioning. If you prefer a lighter feel with responsive cushioning, the Saucony Kinvara might be suitable. Always prioritize a shoe that feels comfortable and supportive on your foot.
Do High Arches Need More Cushioning?
Yes, individuals with high arches often benefit from more cushioning. High arches can mean less natural shock absorption from the foot. This can lead to increased impact forces reaching your legs and joints.
Extra cushioning helps to mitigate these forces. It provides a softer landing with each step. This can reduce the risk of fatigue and common running injuries. A well-cushioned shoe enhances comfort during longer runs.
What Kind of Support Do High Arches Need?
High arches typically need support that complements their natural structure. This often means a stable platform rather than aggressive pronation control. The goal is to prevent excessive inward rolling of the foot.
A shoe with a well-designed midsole can provide this stability. It helps distribute pressure evenly across the foot. This prevents undue stress on the heel and forefoot. Look for shoes that feel secure without feeling restrictive.
Can I Run in Neutral Shoes with High Arches?
Many runners with high arches can successfully run in neutral shoes. Neutral shoes offer balanced cushioning and support. They do not include specific features to control pronation.
If your high arches do not cause you to overpronate excessively, a neutral shoe can be a great option. It allows for a more natural foot motion. However, it’s important to ensure the neutral shoe still provides adequate cushioning and a comfortable fit.
What Is Underpronation (supination)?
Underpronation, also known as supination, is a gait pattern. It occurs when the foot does not roll inward sufficiently during a stride. The outer edge of the foot bears most of the impact.
High arches are often associated with supination. This is because the arch is rigid and does not flatten enough to absorb shock. Supinators may benefit from shoes with extra cushioning and flexibility to help with shock absorption.
How Do I Know If I Have High Arches?
You can check for high arches using the wet test. Wet your feet and step onto a piece of paper or a dark surface. Examine the imprint left by your foot. A high arch will leave a very thin line connecting the heel and the ball of your foot.
Alternatively, look at your feet when standing. If you see a significant gap between the floor and the middle of your foot, you likely have high arches. You can also consult a running shoe specialist for an accurate assessment.
Should Saucony Shoes for High Arches Be Stiff?
Saucony shoes for high arches should not be overly stiff. While some stability is beneficial, a completely rigid shoe can be detrimental. It can impede natural foot movement and shock absorption.
The ideal shoe offers a balance of support and flexibility. It should feel stable through the midfoot and heel. However, it should also allow for a natural bend in the forefoot during toe-off. This ensures a comfortable and efficient stride.
Final Verdict
For runners with high arches looking for the best Saucony experience, the Saucony Triumph is the standout choice. Its exceptional PWRRUN+ cushioning provides unparalleled shock absorption, which is crucial for high-arched feet that often lack natural impact dampening. The shoe offers a stable yet accommodating platform, ensuring comfort and support mile after mile. While other models like the Kinvara offer responsiveness, the Triumph’s superior cushioning and balanced support make it the most reliable and comfortable option for high arches, especially for longer rides or everyday training.
