Saucony Women’s Ride 17

The Researcher’s Take: Why We Like It

If you are looking for one running shoe that can literally do it all—from long slow distance to tempo workouts and gym sessions—the Saucony Women’s Ride 17 is the definition of versatility.

Based on our analysis of the updates, this isn’t just a minor tweak; it’s a major upgrade. The Ride series has always been a reliable “workhorse,” but the Ride 17 gets a turbo boost. They replaced the standard foam with PWRRUN+. In plain English, they took the premium, bouncy foam usually reserved for their more expensive models (like the Triumph) and put it into this everyday trainer. The result is a shoe that feels livelier, softer, and more fun than ever before.

Key Features Breakdown

• Supreme Comfort (PWRRUN+): The midsole is now made entirely of PWRRUN+ cushioning. It offers a winning combination of softness for landing and a springy rebound for take-off, putting a literal spring in your daily movement.
• Engineered Mesh Design: The upper has been redesigned for better airflow across the toes. It features an improved midfoot wrap that hugs your arch securely and a heel collar that locks you down for comfort.
• Durable Underfoot: High-wear contact points on the outsole are reinforced with durable rubber. This ensures the shoe can handle hundreds of miles of pavement without losing grip or wearing down prematurely.
• Versatile Geometry: The shoe strikes a balance between cushion and responsiveness, making it suitable for almost any type of run.

Deep Dive: What’s New vs. Ride 16?

The jump from Ride 16 to 17 is significant because of the foam material.

• The Foam Shift: The Ride 16 used standard PWRRUN (EVA-based), which was firm and snappy. The Ride 17 uses PWRRUN+ (TPU-based). This makes the Ride 17 noticeably bouncier, more resistant to temperature changes (won’t get hard in winter), and more durable over time.
• The Fit: The midfoot is slightly wider, offering a more accommodating fit for a broader range of foot shapes compared to the narrower Ride 16.

Who Should Buy This Shoe?

• The “One-Shoe” Runner: If you only want to buy one pair of running shoes this year, this is a top contender because it handles all paces well.
• The Daily Trainer: Perfect for logging consistent weekly mileage with a feel that is protective but not heavy.
• The Gym/Run Hybrid: The stable base and responsive feel make it excellent for treadmill intervals and plyometrics.
• The Walker: The energy return of PWRRUN+ is fantastic for walking, reducing fatigue during long days on your feet.

Sizing and Fit Advice

The Saucony Ride 17 fits true to size.

• Width: The toe box is generous, allowing for natural toe splay. It’s widely considered one of the most comfortable “standard” widths on the market.
• Arch Support: It offers moderate neutral support, suitable for medium to high arches.
• Feel: It feels plush upon step-in but firms up slightly when you run to give you energy back.

Technical Specifications

• Category: Neutral / Daily Training
• Cushioning: PWRRUN+ (High Energy Return)
• Upper: Engineered Mesh
• Drop: 8 mm
• Weight: Approx. 8.4 oz (Women’s)