Saucony Guide 16 Vs Guide 17: a Comprehensive Review
As you consider your next running shoe purchase, you're likely weighing the pros and cons of the Saucony Guide 16 and 17. You've probably heard that both models offer a great ride, but which one is right for you? The answer depends on your running style, preferred terrain, and personal comfort preferences. While the Guide 16 excels on roads, the Guide 17 shines on trails – but what exactly sets them apart? From upper materials to midsole design, stability features to outsole durability, there's more to these shoes than meets the eye.
Key Takeaways
- The Saucony Guide 17 features a more minimalist upper, reducing weight and increasing breathability for a cooler, drier ride.
- The Guide 17's midsole has a more substantial amount of PWTRC material, providing enhanced support, stability, and cushioning technology.
- The Guide 17's stability features, including a more substantial heel counter, promote a smooth shift from heel strike to toe-off and a more natural stride.
- The Guide 17's outsole is more durable and resistant to abrasion, with a more even wear distribution and a smoother heel-to-toe shift.
Upper Materials Compared
When you slip your feet into the Saucony Guide, you'll immediately notice the upper materials, which have undergone significant changes compared to its predecessor.
The new design features a more minimalist approach, shedding excess material to reduce weight.
This redesign has a significant material weight impact, making the shoe feel lighter and more agile.
The upper's breathability benefits are also remarkable, with increased airflow and moisture-wicking properties.
This allows for a cooler, drier ride, giving you the freedom to run without restriction.
The result is a more comfortable, responsive feel that lets you focus on your stride, not your footwear.
Midsole Design Differences
The midsole design of the Saucony Guide has also undergone significant changes, incorporating a more substantial amount of PWTRC (Polyurethane Winged TPU RC) material for enhanced support and stability. This updated design provides a more responsive ride and improved cushioning technology. The heel to toe offset has also been tweaked, offering a more natural stride and reduced impact on your joints.
Enhanced support: The increased PWTRC material provides additional stability and support for runners with mild to moderate overpronation.
Improved cushioning: The updated design absorbs shock more efficiently, reducing the impact on your joints and muscles.
Increased responsiveness: The midsole's improved flexibility allows for a more natural stride and a more energetic return with each step.
Stability Features Breakdown
The Saucony Guide's stability features are designed to work in tandem, with a combination of technologies and design elements coming together to provide a supportive and stable ride for runners with mild to moderate overpronation.
When you slip into the Guide 16 or 17, you'll notice the heel counter comparison is a key differentiator. The Guide 16's heel counter is more substantial, providing a snugger fit, while the Guide 17's is slightly more relaxed.
This affects the overall stability and support you'll experience. Additionally, the forefoot flexibility in both models allows for a smooth shift from heel strike to toe-off, but the Guide 17's is slightly more flexible, promoting a more natural stride.
These subtle differences will impact your running experience, so it's vital to weigh your personal preferences and running style when choosing between the two models.
Outsole Durability Analysis
Analyzing the outsole durability of the Saucony Guide 16 and 17 reveals significant differences in the traction patterns and materials used, which directly impact the shoe's overall lifespan.
As you put these shoes to the test, you'll notice distinct wear patterns emerging. The Guide 16's outsole is more prone to wear on the heel and ball of the foot, whereas the Guide 17's outsole shows more even wear distribution.
Three key takeaways to ponder:
- Sole flexibility: The Guide 17's outsole is more flexible, allowing for a smoother heel-to-toe shift.
- Traction pattern: The Guide 16's outsole features a more aggressive traction pattern, which can lead to increased wear.
- Durability: The Guide 17's outsole material is more durable and resistant to abrasion, making it a better choice for high-mileage runners.
Performance on Different Terrains
Runners tackling diverse terrain will appreciate how the Saucony Guide 16 and 17 respond differently to various surfaces, from smooth roads to rugged trails.
You'll notice the Guide 16 excels on roads, providing a smooth ride and efficient energy return.
However, when you hit the trails, the Guide 17 takes the lead with its superior trail responsiveness.
The updated PWRTRAC technology in the Guide 17 offers enhanced Mountain grip, giving you confidence on technical terrain.
Additionally, the Guide 17's more aggressive outsole design allows for better traction and grip on various trail surfaces.
Whether you're a road warrior or trail blazer, both shoes will adapt to your running style, but the Guide 17 is the clear winner for off-road adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Saucony Guide 16 and 17 Suitable for High-Arched Runners?
You'll find that both Saucony Guide 16 and 17 offer excellent arch support and heel stability, making them suitable for high-arched runners who need a balance of comfort and corrective features for a liberating run.
Can I Wear the Guide 16/17 for Daily Casual Walking?
You can wear the Guide 16/17 for daily casual walking if you prioritize a high comfort level, as they offer sufficient support for neutral to mild overpronation walking styles, but consider your gait and stride for peak performance.
Do the Guide 16 and 17 Come With a Waterproof or Water-Resistant Version?
You're wondering if the Guide 16 and 17 have waterproof or water-resistant versions for trail running in rainy conditions. Unfortunately, neither model features a fully waterproof design, but they do offer water-resistant treatments to help keep your feet dry.
Can I Use Orthotics With the Saucony Guide 16 and 17?
You can definitely use orthotics with the Saucony Guide 16 and 17, as they accommodate custom insoles and allow for arch support modifications, giving you the freedom to personalize your fit and optimize your running experience.
Are the Saucony Guide 16 and 17 Available in Wide or Narrow Sizes?
You'll be happy to know that both Saucony Guide 16 and 17 offer various sizing options to cater to your unique fit preferences, including wide and narrow sizes to guarantee a comfortable, unrestricted stride.
Conclusion
You've reached the end of this exhaustive review, and it's time to summarize.
The Saucony Guide 16 and 17 cater to different running styles and preferences.
If you're a road runner seeking a smooth ride and efficient energy return, the Guide 16 is the better choice.
However, if you're an off-road enthusiast who demands superior responsiveness and enhanced grip, the Guide 17 is the clear winner.
Ultimately, your running terrain and style will dictate which model is right for you.
Mia Smith is the founder of Shoe Storyteller, a blog that celebrates the art and stories behind shoes. With a passion for fashion and a flair for storytelling, Mia brings a unique perspective to the world of footwear.
