Saucony Tempus Vs Triumph 21: a Comprehensive Review

As you step into the world of running shoes, you're likely to come across two popular options from Saucony: the Tempus and Triumph 21. Both shoes cater to distinct runner profiles, but which one is right for you? The Tempus boasts a sleek, modern design with a lower profile and reduced heel-to-toe offset, while the Triumph 21 offers a more cushioned ride. But what about their midsole and cushioning systems, upper materials, and support features? You're about to find out. Let's break down the key differences between these two shoes and explore which one will help you take your running to the next level.

Key Takeaways

• The Tempus has a more streamlined design with a lower profile and reduced heel-to-toe offset, while the Triumph 21 has a more substantial, cushioned ride.
• The Tempus features a full-length PWRRUN PB midsole for a responsive feel, whereas the Triumph 21 has a PWRRUN+ midsole for a softer, more cushioned ride.
• The Tempus is geared towards runners who need extra support, while the Triumph 21 is better suited for those with neutral foot pronation and a natural stride.
• The Tempus is lighter and more efficient, with a 4mm offset and aggressive toe spring, making it ideal for runners who prioritize speed.

Design and Aesthetics Compared

When comparing the design and aesthetics of the Saucony Tempus and Triumph 21, you'll notice the Tempus features a more streamlined, modern silhouette with a lower profile and reduced heel-to-toe offset, whereas the Triumph 21 boasts a more substantial, cushioned ride with a slightly more pronounced heel counter.

The Tempus has a more minimalist approach, with a sleeker upper and fewer overlays, resulting in a more agile look.

In contrast, the Triumph 21 has a more dramatic color scheme, with bold accents and a statement-making design.

Visually, the Tempus exudes a sense of speed and agility, while the Triumph 21 radiates confidence and comfort.

Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to your personal style and preferences.

If you crave a sleek, modern look, the Tempus might be the better fit, but if you prefer a bolder, more eye-catching design, the Triumph 21 is the way to go.

Midsole and Cushioning Systems

Delving into the midsole and cushioning systems of both shoes, you'll find that the Saucony Tempus features a full-length PWRRUN PB midsole, which provides a responsive and springy feel, whereas the Triumph 21 boasts a PWRRUN+ midsole, offering a softer and more cushioned ride.

The PWRRUN PB midsole in the Tempus has a more pronounced toe spring, allowing for a snappier toe-off, while the PWRRUN+ in the Triumph 21 has a more substantial heel-to-toe offset, promoting a smoother heel strike.

With regard to cushioning types, the Tempus employs a firmer, more responsive cushioning, whereas the Triumph 21 features a softer, more plush cushioning.

The midsole geometry of both shoes is designed to provide peak support and stability, with the Tempus having a slightly more pronounced medial post for added support.

Upper Materials and Breathability

The Saucony Tempus features an engineered mesh upper with a more substantial and denser weave, providing a snug, secure fit.

The Triumph 21 boasts a lightweight, breathable mesh upper with a more relaxed fit.

When it comes to fabric choices, the Tempus opt for a more robust material, whereas the Triumph 21 prioritizes ventilation and airflow.

Ventilation zones: The Triumph 21 has more extensive ventilation zones, allowing for greater airflow and moisture management.

Fabric density: The Tempus has a denser weave, providing a more secure fit, while the Triumph 21's mesh is lighter and more breathable.

Breathability: The Triumph 21's upper is more permeable, allowing for better airflow and moisture evaporation.

Fit: The Tempus provides a snug, secure fit, whereas the Triumph 21 has a more relaxed fit, ideal for runners who prefer a roomier toe box.

Support Features and Stability

By examining the support features and stability of each shoe, runners can determine which model better aligns with their specific needs and preferences.

The Saucony Tempus features a more substantial support system, with a focus on stability zones in the midfoot and heel areas. This provides a more secure ride, particularly for runners with high arches or plantar fasciitis.

In contrast, the Triumph 21 has a more balanced support threshold, catering to runners with neutral foot pronation.

While both shoes offer excellent stability, the Tempus is geared towards runners who need extra support, whereas the Triumph 21 is better suited for those who prefer a more natural stride.

Weight and Heel-to-Toe Offset

As you consider the support features and stability of each shoe, it's also important to factor in the weight and heel-to-toe offset, which can substantially impact your running efficiency and overall performance.

A lightweight construction can make a significant difference in your running experience.

The Saucony Tempus and Triumph 21 have some key differences:

Weight: The Saucony Tempus weighs in at 9.4 oz, while the Triumph 21 is slightly heavier at 10.3 oz.

Heel-to-Toe Offset: The Tempus has a 4mm offset, whereas the Triumph 21 has a 5mm offset, which may affect your stride and foot strike.

Offset Variations: The Tempus features a more aggressive toe spring, which can help with propulsion, while the Triumph 21 has a more subtle offset variation.

Lightweight Construction: Both shoes feature lightweight materials, but the Tempus has a more streamlined design, making it a better option for runners who prioritize speed and efficiency.

Ride and Running Experience

When lacing up either the Saucony Tempus or Triumph 21, runners can expect distinct ride experiences that cater to their individual running styles and preferences.

You'll notice the Tempus provides a softer landing, thanks to its generous stack height and PWRRUN PB cushioning. This results in a more comfortable ride, ideal for long runs or easy recovery days.

In contrast, the Triumph 21 offers a more responsive ride, with a focus on energetic returns and snappy shifts. This makes it better suited for faster paced runs or tempo workouts.

Both shoes deliver responsive shifts, but the Tempus's softer landing and the Triumph 21's more energetic feel set them apart. You'll need to decide which ride experience aligns with your running goals and preferences.

Lacing System and Fit Options

Both shoes feature a lacing system designed to provide a secure, customizable fit, with the Tempus offering a more relaxed, comfortable fit and the Triumph 21 delivering a slightly more snug, performance-oriented fit.

Heel slippage: The Triumph 21's more snug fit reduces heel slippage, allowing for a more responsive ride.

Toe box comfort: The Tempus's roomier toe box provides exceptional comfort and freedom for your toes.

Lacing system flexibility: The Triumph 21's lacing system is more adjustable, allowing for a more customized fit.

Upper material comfort: The Tempus's upper material is more breathable and comfortable against the skin.

Ultimately, the choice between the Tempus and Triumph 21 will depend on your personal preferences for fit and comfort.

Outsole and Traction Patterns

Both the Saucony Tempus and Triumph 21 feature outsoles with distinct traction patterns, each designed to tackle specific running conditions and provide a unique ride experience.

When you take a closer look, you'll notice the Tempus has a more aggressive lug pattern, which excels on wet and slippery surfaces, but may have traction limitations on dry roads.

On the other hand, the Triumph 21 boasts a more subtle tread design, ideal for everyday training on varied terrain.

What's more, you can customize the grip to your liking by tweaking the lacing system.

This allows you to fine-tune the fit and adapt to changing conditions, giving you the freedom to run wherever you choose.

Durability and Longevity Tests

During rigorous durability and longevity tests, the Saucony Tempus and Triumph 21 demonstrated distinct strengths and weaknesses, with the Tempus showcasing exceptional abrasion resistance and the Triumph 21 exhibiting impressive flexibility retention.

As you put these shoes through their paces, you'll want to keep track of your mileage to verify you're not pushing them too far.

A good shoe rotation strategy can also help extend their lifespan.

Abrasion resistance: Tempus outperforms Triumph 21 in high-wear areas.

Flexibility retention: Triumph 21 maintains its flexibility better than Tempus over time.

Mileage tracking: Regular tracking helps you identify when it's time to rotate your shoes.

Shoe rotation: Alternating between shoes can add hundreds of miles to their combined lifespan.

Performance in Different Conditions

Your running experience will vary depending on the terrain and climate, as the Saucony Tempus and Triumph 21 respond differently to distinct conditions, such as wet roads, trails, and scorching summer heat.

On wet roads, the Triumph 21's Rainy grip outperforms the Tempus, providing a more secure footing.

However, when you hit the trails, the Tempus's more aggressive tread pattern gives you better traction and control.

In winter, the Tempus's Winter traction is superior, allowing you to tackle icy and snowy terrain with confidence.

In hot summer conditions, both shoes perform well, but the Tempus's breathable upper helps keep your feet cooler.

Understanding how these shoes respond to different conditions will help you choose the right one for your running needs.

Price and Value Comparison

As you weigh the performance differences between the Saucony Tempus and Triumph 21, it's equally important to ponder the value they offer in relation to their prices, which can be a deciding factor in your purchasing decision.

When assessing your budget constraints, you'll want to evaluate the cost justification of each shoe.

Some key price points to ponder:

Saucony Tempus: Typically priced around $130-$150, offering a premium feel and advanced technology.

Saucony Triumph 21: Generally priced between $100-$130, providing a more affordable option with similar features.

Discounts and sales: Keep an eye out for promotions that can bring the cost down, making either shoe a more attractive option.

Value for money: Weigh the performance benefits against the price to determine which shoe offers the best value for your running needs.

Target Runner and Training Style

Examining your running style and the type of training you'll be doing is crucial in determining which shoe is the best fit for you.

If you're a runner with a higher running cadence, the Saucony Tempus might be the better choice, as it's designed to promote a more efficient stride.

On the other hand, if you're looking for a shoe that can handle heavier training loads, the Triumph 21's more substantial midsole might be a better fit.

Additionally, if you're working with a coach or using personalized coaching tools, you may want to ponder the Tempus, which is designed to provide more feedback on your running form.

Ultimately, understanding your unique needs and preferences will help you make an informed decision between these two shoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Wear Saucony Tempus and Triumph 21 for Walking or Hiking?

You can wear Saucony Tempus or Triumph 21 for walking or hiking, but consider the terrain: Tempus excels on trail excursions, while Triumph 21 is better suited for urban strolls, providing a more comfortable, cushioned ride.

Are Saucony Tempus and Triumph 21 Suitable for Runners With Flat Feet?

When you have flat feet, you'll want shoes that counteract excessive foot pronation. Look for shoes with robust arch support, like the Saucony Tempus and Triumph 21, which can help stabilize your feet and reduce the risk of injuries.

Do Saucony Tempus and Triumph 21 Come With Reflective Materials for Night Running?

When you hit the roads at night, you'll appreciate shoes with visibility features for enhanced nighttime safety. Look for reflective materials that increase your visibility, giving you freedom to run without worrying about being seen by others.

Can I Machine Wash Saucony Tempus and Triumph 21 Shoes?

You should always check the care instructions before washing your shoes. For both Tempus and Triumph 21, hand washing is recommended; avoid machine washing to prevent damage. Follow washing tips to keep your shoes in top condition.

Are Saucony Tempus and Triumph 21 Available in Wide or Narrow Sizes?

You'll find that both Saucony Tempus and Triumph 21 offer various size options to cater to your unique fit preferences, including wide and narrow sizes, ensuring a comfortable, freeing fit that lets you move unrestricted.

Conclusion

You've now got a clear understanding of the Saucony Tempus and Triumph 21's distinct features.

The Tempus is ideal for runners needing extra support, with its reduced heel-to-toe offset and substantial support system.

In contrast, the Triumph 21 suits runners with neutral foot pronation, offering a more cushioned ride and balanced support.

Consider your running style, support needs, and personal preferences when choosing between these two shoes, as they cater to different runner profiles.