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The Saucony Triumph 22 and Saucony Ride 17 are Saucony’s flagship neutral running shoes. This article breaks down the key differences between them, and suggests what and who they’re best suited to. We hope this article helps decide which model is right for you. Although, you may come to the conclusion that there’s a place for both of them in your shoe rotation.
Key features comparison
Saucony Triumph cushioning vs Ride cushioning
Each model features a completely different midsole foam. The Saucony Ride 17 uses PWRRUN+ foam - a thermoplastic polyurethane material. In contrast, the Saucony Triumph 22 features PWRRUN PB foam - one of Saucony's superfoams.
Pictured: Saucony Triumph 22 (top) and Saucony Ride 17 (bottom)
While the total stack height of each model is comparable - 37/27 mm in the Triumph vs 35/27 mm in the Ride - the midsole section of the Triumph 22 feels thicker and more substantial. Please note, there is always some ambiguity when it comes to total stack height, as measurements can be taken in varying positions. However, it’s fair to say both models offer a lot of protection.
Even though there’s some similarities between the cushioning, they offer different running experiences. The Triumph 22 feels considerably more cushioned, and offers maximum underfoot protection. Whilst they feel very plush, the superfoam cushioning offers lots of energy return. This ensures the Triumph delivers an agile and dynamic ride - perfect for a wide range of paces in distances.
In contrast, even though the Ride don’t offer as much cushioning, the midsole feels slightly softer and more flexible. As a result, they almost feel more forgiving to run in. Like the Triumph, the cushioning in the Ride is suited to a wide range of paces and distances.
Ultimately, the Triumph offers a more protective and bouncier experience. The Ride delivers a slightly softer and lighter-weight feel.
Saucony Triumph vs Ride support
You might think it strange that we’re comparing the support, because both models are neutral running shoes. However, as we’ve alluded to in the previous section, the midsoles feel quite different from one another. And this in turn affects the potential support on offer.
Unlike some superfoam based running shoes, the PWRRUN PB blend in the Triumph feels pretty structured and stable. It’s also worth noting that the midsole features a relatively broad base - making it inherently stable.
Pictured: Saucony Triumph 22 (left) and Saucony Ride 17 (right)
While the Saucony Ride also offer a good degree of support (via the wide based midsole design), the flexible nature of the midsole is likely to feel slightly less stable underfoot than the Triumph. Although, it’s important to state that the Ride 17 sit on the stable end of the neutral running shoe support scale.
Overall, the Triumph are probably the winner when it comes to which model offers the most support. Having said that, if you prefer a more dynamic ride, you might prefer the Ride.
Saucony Triumph fit vs Ride fit
From a fit perspective, there’s a lot of similarities between the Saucony Triumph 22 and Saucony Ride 17. They both feel spacious in the toe box, and offer good midfoot hold. It’s hard to say that one model would suit a certain foot shape better than the other.
Pictured: Saucony Triumph 22 (left) and Saucony Ride 17 (right)
Having said that, the Triumph 22 offers slightly more ankle hold. The Triumph also have more padding around the ankle collar and on the tongue - which is likely to feel more comfortable. We mentioned in our initial review of the Ride 17 that we thought the ankle support could be more secure. However, using the last eyelet solves this problem.
In summary, both models will suit a range of foot shapes, and you could easily alternate between each model. We also recommend choosing your normal running shoe size, as they fit true to size.
Saucony Triumph vs Ride durability
Both models feature a high degree of outsole rubber. This means there shouldn’t be stark differences when it comes to durability. We haven’t tested each model for over 500 miles. However, we have done a considerable number of miles in each one, and there’s nothing to note.
Pictured: Saucony Triumph 22 (top) and Saucony Ride 17 (bottom)
If we’re being very analytical, the cushioning in the heel area of the Ride 17 has potentially compressed slightly more than what it has in the Triumph 22. This is likely because PWRRUN PB offers more cushioning than PWRRUN+.
How to choose between them?
In summary, the key difference between the Saucony Triumph 22 and Saucony Ride 17 Running Shoes is the cushioning on offer. If you’re looking for maximum cushioning and comfort, the Triumph 22 should be the best option. Alternatively, if you’re looking to feel slightly more connected to the ground, the Ride 17 may feel better. As mentioned already, the Ride still feel soft and cushioned underfoot.
The distance you’re running could dictate which model is right for you. For example, if you’re running longer distances, the Triumph 22 should work better. This because the extra cushioning could help keep your muscles and legs feeling fresher for longer. In fact, there are few models better suited to longer distance runs than the Triumph 22. In our opinion, they’re one of the best options you can choose.
Of course, the Saucony Ride 17 are still suitable for longer distances. However, you may find they feel best for everyday miles.
Unlike some maximum cushioned running shoes, the Triumph 22 don’t lack energy return. This means they perform well at steadier paces. Likewise, the Ride 17 feel dynamic and responsive if you pick up the pace. This means you can use both options for steadier paced miles. Of course, the Triumph and Ride work very well for slower paced runs.
Other Saucony alternatives
If you decide to choose either the Saucony Triumph 22 or Saucony Ride 17 as your core mileage running shoes, the Saucony Endorphin Speed Running Shoes should be the perfect companion for your speed work. This is because the full-length nylon plate and PWRRUN PB cushioning offers amazing energy return.
Incorporating shoe rotation into your routine is a great way to get more out of your training. Not only can it help you get more out of your specific session, it should spread the load placed on muscles and tendons - which could reduce the likelihood of overuse related injuries.
On the other hand, if you're looking for more support, you should check out the Saucony Guide Running Shoes.
