THE SPECS
Support: Neutral
Weight: 10.8oz / 308g (men), 8.6oz / 245g (women)
Stack Height: 35mm heel, 27mm forefoot
Midsole Drop: 8mm
Cushion Level: High
ON THE RUN
Shannon: These shoes have your back whether you're running from the couch into the kitchen or going for a serious jog. It’ll keep you steady, supported, and feeling like you're moonwalking through life. You’ll almost forget you’re running in these - almost. The arch feels perfect on my foot (someone who has low arches) and I feel like I am kept on the centerpath of my gate, not tipping over on either side. I would pull this shoe for daily walking, running errands, and recovery runs. It doesn't exactly have the perfect bounce that I like for my serious running, but this shoe is a great pull for anyone who wants to feel secure in every aspect of their daily lives. I never felt any fatigue or soreness in my feet anytime I've worn them. There was no “”break-in” period for me, they felt perfect right from the start.
Joe: The Saucony Echelon 10 is a rock-solid, supportive running shoe that provides stability and protection with every step. Although my running has been limited lately due to some family challenges (thank you, kids, for sharing your germs), I’ve been putting the Echelon 10 to good use during my work hours. It’s been a lifesaver for those long shifts on concrete floors, and I’m happy to report my feet don’t ache at the end of the day. Whether I’m using the standard PWRRUN+ insole or swapping it out for an orthotic for a little extra support on those plantar fasciitis flare-ups, the fit and comfort have been spot on.
THE FIT
Shannon: The Echelon 10 is like the perfect pair of sweatpants that you want to lounge in all day. It's roomy enough to let your foot breathe and wiggle but snug enough that you don't feel like they are going to slip off of you throughout the day. If your feet are on the wider side, these shoes should fit easily and comfortably on you without causing you to feel constricted. Stay true to size with this shoe, you’ll have more than enough room in it to attack anything the day brings you. It's the shoe equivalent of a hug to your feet, without squeezing you too tight like your grandma will.
Joe: This shoe is all about giving your feet a little extra room to breathe. The Echelon 10 features a wider, higher-volume fit, especially around the midfoot and forefoot. The mesh is wonderfully stretchy, and the Saucony logo and laces let you fine-tune the fit for your needs. The gusseted tongue is plush and stays put while providing a secure wrap around your foot. The heel fit is true to size with moderate heel collar cushioning and a solid, moderately stiff heel counter for added support.
The updated one-piece engineered mesh upper offers a secure and comfortable fit, while the thick insole allows for easy orthotic swapping. This added volume means even the bulkiest orthotics can slide in with ease, making it a great choice for those with wider or higher-volume feet. All in all, the Echelon 10 offers a perfect fit for anyone needing that extra space and support.
THE FEEL
Shannon: Imagine stepping onto a cloud that is trying to be an overachiever of being squishy - that's the Echelon 10. Squishy and soft but enough shape and structure to hold you up when needed. I overpronate, but in this shoe I feel like I am being kept in a neutral alignment based on how the foam is structured. The heel is soft and plush when stepping down, but it feels like the sides are a tad firmer so that I don't tip to the outside or roll inward. When running in the shoe, I don't sense there being responsiveness like their other shoes, but for a shoe to walk around in, run errands, be on your feet all day, and maybe do some recovery miles - this is your shoe.
Joe: The Echelon 10 has kept the best qualities of its predecessor, the Echelon 9, but with a few tweaks that elevate the overall feel. With its higher stack height and soft yet stable cushioning, this shoe feels like a cushioned ride without feeling too soft or mushy. At 10.8 oz for a men’s size 9, it strikes the perfect balance between being substantial enough for daily training while still lighter than the bulkier versions of the past.
The ride is smooth and comfortable, thanks to the wide base and decently rockered design. The heel bevel is well-placed, providing a gentle transition at heel strike, and the forefoot is flexible enough to allow for easy toe-off. Saucony’s Center Path Technology gives the shoe a unique, balanced feel, ensuring support throughout your stride. The XT-900 carbon rubber outsole offers excellent traction on even the slickest surfaces.
THE NITTY GRITTY
Shannon: The Echelon 10 is a sturdy shoe. The sole grips the ground like a cat climbing up a tree. You won't feel unbalanced, you have minimum risk of tripping or slipping and sliding. I have done many circuit training classes in this shoe that has you running, jumping, doing burpees and squats and even lunges, not once have I felt like this shoe was uncomfortable or unbalanced for any of these movements. From working 8+ hour shifts, going on short runs or long walks, this shoe has my back and I don't feel like it's ever going to let me down.
Joe: The Echelon 10 is built for daily training and long-distance walking or running. It’s a stable, neutral shoe that works wonders for anyone sensitive to posts or traditional stability measures. The insole design is one of the best out there—whether you’re using the stock insole or swapping it for an orthotic, it’s a seamless transition. I genuinely believe this is the best orthotic-friendly running shoe on the market right now, hands down.
It’s perfect for those who want a stable, neutral, and wide-fitting shoe that easily accommodates orthotics. The moderate cushioning, stability, and smooth transitions make it an excellent option for easy, longer runs or walks. Compared to other shoes on the market, like the New Balance Fresh Foam X 840v1, Brooks Ghost Max 2, and Hoka Bondi 9, the Echelon 10 stands out for its combination of comfort, stability, and orthotic compatibility.
THE RUNDOWN
Shannon: In short, the Echelon 10 is a sweet package of comfort, support, and durability. It’ll make you feel like you have the support of a personal trainer, and the comfort of your favorite pair of slippers. From casual running to recovery days, it’s the perfect pair of sweatpants that won't fall down on you, but will keep you feeling nice and comfy. This shoe has been one of my most consistent pulls for customers. It is quite literally the do all shoe. Even when I try to stay away from it because I feel like I am constantly pulling it. I’ll get a customer and I just know that this shoe is what will be the cure all for them.
Joe: The updates in the Echelon 10 are a game-changer. The sleek, modern design makes it stylish enough for road runs but also business-casual enough for the office—no need to sacrifice support for style. Saucony has clearly invested in the Echelon line, and it’s paying off. This shoe is a perfect option for those needing a high-quality, orthotic-friendly shoe that doesn’t compromise on comfort or performance.
For those of us who need that extra support without feeling clunky, I’m thrilled to see Saucony continue to refine and improve the Echelon. In my opinion, this style of shoe is quickly becoming the last of its kind, and for many of the customers that stop by our store on a daily basis, I’m glad Saucony is continuing to invest in it.
MEET JOE
Joe has been running consistently for two decades. In that time he's run everything from a coach's 4X100 relay to completing 3.75 marathons to stroller runs with his kids. During the spring of 2020 he ran every street in his town in a week. Today he enjoys runs with his wife, watching others smash their PRs, and finding creative ways to give back to the community through running.
All time favorite shoe: Altra FWD Via
MEET SHANNON
Shannon is always looking for her next adventure. Between teaching yoga, coaching lacrosse, and training for a trail race she is always zooming around waiting for the next thing to say yes to.
All time favorite shoe: Hoka Clifton 9