Saucony Men’s Hurricane ISO Running Shoes
Run Oregon receives and tests running shoes from time to time. This post is the second of three about the Saucony Hurricane ISOFIT, which Matt has been testing. This post goes further into Matt’s first 150 miles with these shoes. Check out the initial post here.
Here is a reminder of the technical details:
Specifications:
Men’s weight: 11.1 oz ; Women’s weight: 9.4 oz
Heel-to-toe offset: 8mm
ISOFIT
Saucony designers engineered an ultra-soft, inner fit-sleeve crafted out of stretchable air mesh that morphs to the foot for a sock-like feel. A floating support cage sits like a saddle over the fit-sleeve, cradling the midfoot and adapting to the foot’s size, shape and movement, allowing the shoe to respond to the individual runner’s gait throughout the run.
PWRGRID+
The PWRGRID+ platform is engineered with PowerGrid™, a Powerfoam material that is integrated with Saucony’s GRID™ technology, creating a system that effectively centers the foot, absorbs impact and distributes pressure. The PWRGRID+ platform’s increased stack heights deliver over 20% more cushioning and 15% more resiliency than PowerGrid construction alone. The result is the most cushioned running experience the brand has ever created.
Wear, Fit, and Comfort:
The fit and construction of the ISOFIT was actually great once I figured out the optimal snugness for me. I had initial concerns that they may be lacking in some support and have my foot flopping around inside the “free floating bootie”. I tried to compensate for this initially by over-tying my laces, but this ended up being completely wrong for me, as keeping them only loosely tied achieved the perfect fit. In fact, I hardly even need to have them tied and they still fit great and keep my foot supported without suffocating it.
But to be completely honest, I had some qualms about this shoes within the first month. I try out new shoes all the time, and I know sometimes there is a “learning curve” when it comes to new shoes. I mean we are used to a certain shoe (my previous Saucony Ride 7’s achieved the 500 mile mark) and the way it fits, so new kicks take a period of adjustment. Unfortunately, I started feeling arch pain in my feet within the first 60 miles of trying the Hurricanes. Now, was it due to the new shoes, my feet closing in on 1200 miles in 2014, or some sort of combination of a variety of things? I suppose we will never know. I do have pretty sensitive arches, which is why I was shocked by my previous Saucony’s ability to be so comfortable from the onset.
But because I really enjoy the ISOFIT design, I didn’t want to give up on them. I purchased some Superfeet Green insoles to more fully support my arch, and the arch pain has disappeared and I really enjoy these shoes now. I should clarify that I have always had arch issues, and my review of Spenco Sandals last year highlighted just how important arch support is, and how I probably need permanent inserts in all my shoes.
I definitely wouldn’t let my arch pain deter you from trying these out. But if you have historically had your own personal problems in this area, know that you may need to bring your own inserts into the mix. My combination of Superfeet and the Saucony Hurricanes have proved to be a great combo!
Would I buy again?
Despite the initial comfort issue, I would buy a pair again. I am currently over 170 miles and they (now) feel great on my feet. They are hardly showing any signs of wear and the ISOFIT is keeping up with its capabilities so far.
My totals:
Races ran in these shoes:
- EWEB Run to Stay Warm Half
- Keizer Jingle Dash
- Capitol Mile
- New Years Hangover Run
- ORRC Y2K Half
Total shoe miles in November = 100
Total shoe miles in December = 13
Total shoe miles in January = 58 (at the time of posting)
