Quarter one of 2025 is chalk full of new releases from some running stalwarts. This is our third Saucony review of the year, this time coming in the form of the Saucony Guide 18.
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We recently reviewed the Saucony Ride, a rhyming counterpart to this shoe, but don’t be confused. Really, it’s all in the name. The “Guide” is key here, and it’s easy to see and understand that this shoe is built with stability in mind, guiding runners along an easy foot path to put in some miles as a daily trainer.
Looks
As the Guide has been around for a significant number of iterations, it’s obvious that this is one of their core shoes. Most companies have a variety of new designs popping up every year or so, but there are those tried-and-true options that have been around forever. In the case of Saucony, the Guide is one such shoe. What that means in the looks department is that these long-standing shoes will generally have a variety of different colorways available.
That said, don’t put too much stock into any one reviewer’s opinion (including mine) about the specific colorway they received. If it’s a one- or two-option release, sure, but for shoes like this—which tend to offer a wider variety of colors—it’s always going to come down to personal preference. Personally, I’ve never been a huge fan of all-blue shoes, though this simplistic blue visual will likely please many others. Again, expect a variety of options.
Construction and Fit
Sometimes the key to these long-standing shoes is minor modifications. I mean, there’s a reason why these have been around for so long: people like them and continue to purchase them. The Guide 18 follows this formula a bit. It has a handful of modifications but stays true to what makes a Guide a Guide.
When it comes to construction, the Guide 18 takes a “don’t fix what isn’t broken” approach. It feels remarkably similar to its predecessor but with a few subtle tweaks. The upper has been adjusted to provide a touch more room, which slightly increases the weight but improves overall comfort.
Specs
- Weight: 9.6 oz (men’s size 9); 8.6 oz (women’s size 8)
- Stack Height: 35mm heel / 29mm forefoot
- Drop: 6mm
Upper
The tongue is of moderate thickness, with a gusseted design that keeps your foot securely in place. There’s ample padding around the heel, contributing to the shoe’s comfort for longer runs. The fit is comfortably snug through the midfoot and toebox, offering enough room without feeling loose. The breathability of the upper ensures your feet stay cool, even on warmer days. Overall, it’s a forgettable fit—and I mean that in the best way possible. Nothing stood out as uncomfortable or problematic.
The upper on the Guide 18 continues to prioritize comfort and breathability. Saucony has preserved much of what runners loved in the Guide 17, with a small tweak for extra room in the toebox. This adjustment makes it feel accommodating without being too loose. The gusseted tongue does an excellent job of locking the foot in place, and the padding around the heel adds a layer of plushness that many runners will appreciate. The material itself is lightweight and breathable, ensuring airflow even during longer runs. Overall, the upper strikes a balance between comfort and functionality.
Midsole
The midsole is where the Guide 18 does most of its work. It features a full-length slab of Saucony’s PWRRUN foam, a durable and moderately cushioned material that provides a smooth, stable ride. The shoe also includes a PWRRUN+ sockliner, adding a touch of comfort right underfoot.
The geometry of the midsole leans heavily into a rocker shape, promoting a rolling sensation that’s ideal for easy or recovery runs. While it’s great for medium distances, the midsole isn’t particularly responsive or bouncy, so it’s not the best option for faster-paced efforts. The Center Path technology helps keep your stride steady, making it a solid pick for runners who need mild stability without feeling overly corrected.
Outsole
The outsole features Saucony’s XT-900 carbon rubber, providing decent durability and grip. While traction is generally sufficient for dry roads or tracks, I did notice some slipping on wet surfaces. Additionally, the outsole’s smoother design and exposed midsole sections make it less suitable for gravel or trails. For runners sticking to paved surfaces, it should hold up well, but it’s worth being mindful of conditions when venturing out.
Final Thoughts
The Saucony Guide 18 sticks to its roots, offering mild stability, comfort, and reliability. With minor updates to the upper and a tried-and-true midsole setup, it remains a solid choice for runners who want a dependable daily trainer. While it’s not the most versatile shoe for speedwork or trails, it’s perfect for easy runs and recovery days. If you’ve been a fan of the Guide line, this iteration won’t disappoint.
