Rachel Brumfield can be seen racing anything from the Resolution Run to Eleven Miles to Paradise, but also likes to explore and spends time in the mountains during the summer. You can follow her adventures on instagram @rachbrums. As a 2017/2018 RErun she tested the Saucony Ride Gore-Tex shoe and gave us her thoughts.
Saucony Ride 10 GTX: A Winter Runner’s Dream
Once upon a time, a very nice sales associate at my local running store introduced me to the Saucony Ride. At the time, they were not the cute, classy or cool choice – but they fit like Cinderella’s glass slipper. For over a decade, the Ride has proven itself as my go-to running shoe. I’ve put them (12+ pairs!) through everything – XC races, muddy trail runs, rocky hikes, marathons, half marathons, etc.
Naturally, I was very excited to test the GORE TEX version of my favorite shoes for Runner’s Edge. I’ll start by covering a few of what I consider to be the best aspects of the Saucony Ride, then move on to my thoughts on the GTX model.
Specs
| Saucony Ride 10 | Saucony Ride 10 GTX | |
| Weight | 8.4 oz | 9.0oz |
| Heel Drop | 8mm | 8mm |
| Cushion | Moderate | Moderate |
| Tech | Everun Topsole, Tri-Flex outsole | Everun Topsole, Tri-Flex outsole |
Fit
These shoes are a well-known neutral option for good reason. They’re lightweight (8.4oz) with sufficient, but not over-the-top cushioning. With a 8mm heel drop, the slope is moderate enough to suite the heel-striker (guilty!) to the toe-runner. The upper feels snug and stable, without being too tight. While you don’t notice arch support at first, my high arches have never taken issue to pounding out miles in these shoes. The Ride also nails the roomy toe box – plenty of space without feeling like you’re carrying extra inches on your feet.
Durability
While the Ride has always held up well, I have been especially pleased with the durability of the Ride 9 and 10. The upper material was upgraded to a tighter knit (though still very breathable), which I think was a big style and functionality improvement. It’s tough to tear them and easier to rinse off the grime of a long and wet trail run. I’ve been known to stretch my shoes to 800+ miles, and while I’d never recommend it, these shoes certainly don’t scream REPLACE ME. (For reference, it’s recommended to replace your running shoes every 300-500 miles. I can say from experience it’s worth it.)
Other Favorite Features
I would be doing you a disservice by not mentioning this shoe’s laces. Narrow and flat with just a little bit of stretch, they are hands-down one of my favorite features. I rarely double knot them and never worry about them coming untied mid-run.
Style
Unlike the early versions of the Ride (see intro – not cool shoes), Saucony has really upped the game in terms of style. The Ride 10 comes in six different colors, including a bright red which I personally think is the fastest option.
Price
Another reason I’m drawn to the Ride again and again is price. They fall right in the middle of the spectrum at $120 or $140 for the GTX.
GORE TEX is great
First off, I can’t believe I grew up in Oregon and never knew they made GORE TEX running shoes. I’ve spent countless hours spent slogging through rainy runs, only to put on soggy running shoes the next morning. And somehow, no one ever told me there are water proof running shoes. GORE TEX is a game-changer! I have run these puppies through puddle after puddle and have come away with dry socks. (Of course, nothing can really save you from the water that splashes in from the top. Except maybe gators? That may need to be my next investment.)
Besides the water-proof anomaly, I also noticed the GTX version of the shoe kept my feet a bit warmer. They also seem to provide a bit more traction than the normal model. Other than that, all the benefits of the Ride were consistent in the GTX model. Lightweight, comfortable, great laces, neutral support and highly versatile.
Summary
In summary, the Ride should be your next running shoe. They are a great friend through the miles and are now stylish enough to wear around town. If you plan to log off-season miles this winter, the GTX model is an excellent option. I think dry and warm feet are worth the extra $20 – but I’ll let you see for yourself.
