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The Saucony Guide has always been a solid, dependable option in the stability category, but it’s rarely been a shoe that stands out. With the Guide 19, Saucony hasn’t gone for a complete overhaul, but it has made enough changes to bring it more in line with modern stability trainers.
After testing it across a mix of easy runs and longer miles, the Guide 19 feels like a more refined, more enjoyable version of what’s come before.
Design & Key Stats
- Price: £140/$150
- Weight: 305g (men’s UK 8)
- Drop: 6mm
- Midsole: PWRRUN
- Upper: Engineered mesh
- Outsole: Thick runner
Saucony Guide 19 Review
How’s The Fit
The fit of the Guide 19 is immediately comfortable and easy to get along with. Both testers found it true to size, with a noticeably roomy feel, especially in the forefoot.
There’s plenty of space in the toe box, including good vertical volume, which makes it well suited to runners with average or slightly wider feet. The engineered mesh upper is soft and flexible, wrapping the foot without feeling restrictive, and remains breathable despite its slightly thicker construction.
Lockdown through the midfoot is secure, thanks to a straightforward lacing system and a lightly padded tongue that prevents lace pressure. Around the heel, there’s a moderate level of padding and a flexible structure that avoids irritation.
Overall, it’s a very accommodating and comfortable fit that works well for longer, easier runs.
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The Run Test: Likes
The biggest improvement in the Guide 19 is the ride. Previous versions often felt a bit flat, but this update brings a softer, smoother feel that makes it more enjoyable for daily running.
It’s not a particularly lively shoe, but it rolls through nicely and feels consistent at easy paces. That makes it ideal for ticking off miles without having to think too much about what’s on your feet.
Comfort is a real highlight. The combination of cushioning, wide platform, and forgiving upper creates a shoe that feels protective and easy to run in from the first step. It’s the kind of shoe you’ll naturally reach for on recovery runs or longer steady efforts.
The stability is also well handled. Instead of feeling intrusive, it’s subtle and only really noticeable if you need it. The wide base helps keep everything stable and balanced, especially over longer distances when fatigue sets in.
Durability looks solid too, with a good amount of rubber on the outsole providing confidence for regular mileage.
The Run Test: Dislikes
The Guide 19 is quite limited when it comes to versatility. It performs best at easy paces and doesn’t offer much when you try to pick things up, feeling a bit flat for faster efforts.
It’s also on the heavier side, which adds to that more grounded, steady feel. While the weight isn’t overly noticeable on easy runs, it does reinforce its role as a workhorse rather than an all-rounder.
The stability, while effective, is fairly mild. Runners who need more structured support may find it doesn’t go far enough.
Verdict And Alternatives
The Saucony Guide 19 is a clear step forward for the range. It keeps the reliability of previous versions but adds a softer, smoother ride that makes it far more enjoyable for everyday running.
It works best as a comfortable, consistent option for easy runs and longer miles, with stability that feels natural rather than forced. While it lacks versatility and isn’t built for speed, it delivers exactly what you’d want from a daily stability trainer.
If you’re looking for alternatives, the Hoka Arahi offers a slightly lighter and more agile feel, while the Brooks Glycerin GTS provides a similarly cushioned ride with a bit more energy. The ASICS Gel-Kayano is another option if you want something softer, although it comes in at a higher price.
Overall, the Guide 19 feels like a more modern take on a classic stability shoe, and one that a lot of more runners will get along with than the previous versions.