Run Oregon receives and tests running shoes from time to time. This initial post about the Saucony Ride 7, which is being released TODAY! Matt has just received his pair and has outlined some background information about the company and the new Ride 7.
Company: Saucony
Shoe: Saucony Ride 7
This is my first venture into the Saucony running world. I am confident everyone knows of this company, as they have been around forever providing shoes to runners of all skill levels and running styles.
From what I have heard/read, the Ride 6 were well-constructed and generally well-liked by those who had them.
I readily admit that I typically run on “feel” and worry less about the technical jargon (though I should probably pay more attention than I do). Here is some descriptive language highlighting the differences between the Ride 6 and Ride 7:
The plastic shank is gone from the midfoot, replaced by an additional pod of cushioned rubber (on the outside edge of the foot) and a carbon rubber pod (on the inside edge). The new construction provides a more supportive feel and reduces weight (the shank is heavier than the materials that replaced it). The forefoot platform has been made slightly broader, and the outsole configuration is flatter and provides more points of contact with the ground than previously (a similar design update was made from Guide 6 to Guide 7). Overall, the Ride 7 outsole provides roughly 20% more ground contact than Ride 6, which will make the shoe more durable, cushioned and supportive for the runner.
Initial Impression:
My first thought when opening the box was simplistic look. Nothing looks too funky or too out there. It just looks like a solidly constructed running shoe.
I have mentioned before that I am not a runner who typically cares about flashiness or color in my running wardrobe – shoes included. The combination of Blue, Black, and “citron” (or is it a neon green?) gives it a little bit of pop while not being too flashy. It appears that the citron will also provide reflective capabilities. There are 2 other color options (Silver/Black/Slime and Orange/Citron/Red) as well.
Initial Wear:
The shoe is described as a neutral trainer. I typically like the feel of trainers – nothing too light. These appear that they will rank right up there with one of the lightest trainers on the market. I am a runner who runs and trains medium distances (7-13 miles in each run), so I anticipate getting a lot of miles out of these.
The shoes slid on with ease when I first slipped into them. Even before tying them, my feet felt comfortable snug and cushioned. Walking around outside a bit left me noticing the cushioning more than I anticipated. When I first started running a few years back, I sprung for my first ever actual running shoe. I chose one that I quickly ended up distancing myself from due to 1) a heavier weight (almost 12 ounces) and 2) such intense cushioning, even when just walking around, that I never did feel quite comfortable. The Ride 7’s do not feel nearly as “springy” on first wear than that old pair. I will be interested to see how it feels while running and how it holds up over time.
Specifications:
Men’s weight: 9.4oz; Women’s weight: 8.5oz
Heel-to-toe offset: 8mm
Price: $119.95
