I was excited to try the Saucony Triumph 22. The shoe has long been celebrated for its plush cushioning, making it a favorite for me a while. With the Triumph 22, Saucony introduces notable changes, including a full-length PWRRUN PB midsole and a redesigned upper, aiming to enhance the running experience.
I was trying to remember the first year I used the Triumph and it was the Saucony Triumph ISO in 2015. Wow! After 10 years, there have been some good versions and bad versions. Honestly the last few versions haven’t felt exciting or interesting to me.
Before trying the Saucony Triumph 22, I had a few questions:
- Is the Saucony Triumph 22 good? Yes. Saucony has added some features that make this a great option.
- Does the Saucony Triumph 22 fit true to size? Yes. Some years Saucony has felt short, but this year isn’t it.
- What is the Saucony Triumph 22 shoe made for? Daily training and easy running, although it is easier to pick up the pace than previous versions.
- Is there a big update in the Saucony Triumph 22? Yes, Saucony has redone the midsole (in a good way).
Now read this honest Saucony Triumph 22 shoe review.
Saucony Triumph 22 Quick Facts
- Price: $160
- Weight: 10.5 oz men’s; 9.0 oz women’s
- Stack Height: 40 mm (heel) / 30 mm (forefoot)
- Drop: 10 mm
Saucony Triumph 22 Fit
right off the bat, running shoe color is not important but man who doesn’t love a fun running shoe? This bright yellow-green has been delightful. The Triumph 22 features a thicker engineered mesh upper, providing a plush and comfortable feel. This is a catch 22 because I do worry the Saucony Triumph 22 won’t breathe well in the warmer months. Oh well, it’s winter now so hopefully I’ve run through these by July or August.
The fit is slightly more relaxed compared to previous versions, offering a bit more room in both width and length. One of the biggest complaints I heard in previous versions was how it fit much more narrow.
The heel and tongue are generously padded, enhancing comfort but potentially contributing to a warmer feel during runs. The best running shoe uppers disappear off your feet and I’ve found that to be true for the Saucony Triumph 22. If you are new to Saucony, you’ll notice the shoe does hit lower on the ankles. I’ve never had an issue with a shoe sliding off because of that, but it does make some people worry.
In running shoes, I tend to wear between a women’s size 10-11 wide and in the Saucony Triumph 22 I’ve found the size 11 to fit the best.
Saucony Triumph 22 Ride:
The midsole is where the magic happens, right? A significant update in the Triumph 22 is the transition to a full-length PWRRUN PB midsole. This superfoam provides a highly cushioned and protective ride, tuned specifically for training purposes. The midsole offers a plush feel with a controlled bounce, making it ideal for easy and long runs.
For years, I have used the Saucony Triumph as a daily run/easy run shoe. With the introduction of the new full lenght PWRRUN PB midsole, I was not sure where it would fit into my rotation. The first run I used it for was an easy run on the treadmill. It felt good and I felt like I could pick up the pace. I was surprised with how firmer it’s gotten since the last time (and I usually prefer a firmer shoe).
I’ve since used it in several runs including daily runs, workouts, and long runs. I still think it’s best as a daily run/recovery shoe but I do think it can handle picking up the pace a lot better than it once could.
Outsole
The outsole of the Triumph 22 is equipped with durable XT-900 rubber, offering excellent traction and longevity. I haven’t found too many Saucony shoes that don’t last the full 400 miles. The outsole’s durability ensures that the shoe can handle high mileage, making it a reliable choice for runners seeking a long-lasting trainer. I’ve currently put about 100 miles on mine with no signs of slowing down.
As far as traction I’ve used them in inclement weather days and on easy, sandy trails with no issues. They aren’t a trail shoe, but they do have good traction.
Saucony Triumph 22 Conclusion
The Saucony Triumph 22 marks a return to its roots as a highly cushioned, premium daily trainer. The introduction of the PWRRUN PB midsole provides a plush and balanced ride, while the redesigned upper enhances comfort with a more relaxed fit. If you are looking for a high cushioned, daily trainer, it’s a great option.
Who Should Buy the Saucony Triumph 22
- Runners Seeking Maximum Cushioning: If you prioritize a plush, cushioned ride for your easy and long runs, the Triumph 22 is designed to provide that comfort.
- Neutral Runners: Those with neutral mechanics looking for a stable and durable daily trainer will find the Triumph 22 suitable for their needs.
Who Should Not Buy the Saucony Triumph 22
- Those looking for a speed work shoe: There are plenty of better options, even from Saucony.
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Mizuno Neo Zen, Topo Magnifly 5, Antepes Muscle Runners, New Balance 1080v13 Shoe Review , Newton Gravity 12, ASICS Superblast 2
Speed Work: 361 Degrees Furious Future 2.0 Nike Tempo Next%, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike ZoomX Streakfly, Nike Alphafly 3
Long Runs: Topo Specter 2, 361 Degrees Eleos Shoe Review
Trail Running/Hiking: 361 Futura, Hoka Tecton X2 Shoe Review Speedland SL: PDX,
Races: 361 Degrees Furious Future 2.0, ASICS Metaspeed Edge Paris, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Reebok Run fast Pro ,Nike Vaporfly 3 ,
You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.
Looking to learn more about running shoes? In my ebook, I talk about why you need a good running shoe, a shoe’s anatomy, neutral vs. stable, and even myths of running shoes.
Questions for you:
What is your favorite daily trainer?
What shoe model have you used the longest? The Triumph is definitely up there for me.
