What’s new
- Softer, more responsive PWRRUN
- Center Path Technology with higher sidewalls
- New engineered mesh upper
ON THE RUN
SIDNEY: You know those runs when you already assume it is going to feel rough before you even start? That was this one.
I was meeting up with a friend for a run, someone I thought would really like the Guide 19 (you know who you are), so I threw my pair on. This runner happens to be a bit faster than I am, which made the shoe choice questionable right away. The Endorphin Azura was sitting right next to the Guides, and that probably would have been the smarter pick if the goal was to keep up.
But my feet wanted the Guide.
I had heard that nothing changed in the midsole on the Guide 19, so I went into the run with low expectations. A few miles in, I genuinely thought I was losing it. The ride felt softer. There was more bounce. It felt noticeably better than what I remembered, and I kept catching myself thinking, did they actually not change anything?
Even with a shoe that is not built for speed, I never felt held back trying to keep the pace honest. The Guide 19 showed up when I least expected it to.
BLAKE: I used this shoe for all my long runs and as my go-to daily trainer. Every time I laced up, I felt like I could do whatever I set out to do without being held back. The Guide 19 became my safety option because it’s so reliable. I know I’ll be stable, comfortable, and confident with every stride.
I loved the lightweight feel, the stability underfoot, and the cushioning without a bulky, high-stack sensation. The slightly higher stack than previous versions lets me take it out for longer runs, and it feels amazing. What stood out most was the overall quality. The step-in feel is buttery smooth, and once you’re running, the shoe almost disappears, like it’s just part of your foot.
This isn’t a peppy, race-day shoe, and that’s something I actually appreciate. Not everything needs to be extremely propulsive. The Guide 19 is consistent, comfortable, and dependable, and that’s exactly why I keep reaching for it.
THE FIT
SIDNEY: Overall, the shoe hasn’t changed much from the previous version. Saucony does one thing exceptionally well every single time with every single shoe: step-in feel.
Maybe it’s their premium sockliner. Maybe it’s the engineered mesh upper. Whatever it is, they consistently hit the nail on the head. The Guide 19 gives you nice room in the toes, both width-wise and volume-wise. I appreciate that the shoe doesn’t taper aggressively at the forefoot, so even my baby toes get a pass from rubbing the sides of the shoe.
Comfortable, predictable, and easy right out of the box.
BLAKE: I’m absolutely in love with the shape of the Guide 19. It keeps everything I liked about the 17 and 18, roomy without feeling sloppy, and true to size. The toes have just enough stretch and flexibility to stay comfortable on every run.
The upper feels fantastic, with the right balance of flexibility and structure. The step-in feel might be the best yet, almost like sliding your foot into a super-soft blanket with a running midsole attached.
The gusseted tongue helps the shoe wrap snugly around the foot, and the deep heel cup combined with the FormFit structure keeps everything secure and comfortable.
THE FEEL
SIDNEY: Saucony changed the stability game when they introduced Center Path Technology back in the Guide 17, and I’m glad it’s here to stay two versions later. Center Path Technology opens the stability door to all different kinds of runners, it’s versatile and genuinely gives the right kind of support.
The heightened sidewalls cradle your foot in a way that not only supports you well but also feels good. Secure without feeling forced. More hug, less correction.
The softer PWRRUN did good in my opinion. Saucony says “softer, more responsive PWRRUN foam,” and I’d agree. The squish this new blend offers doesn’t flatten out or leave you stagnant. There’s a bounce to it that I haven’t felt in this shoe before.
BLAKE: The cushioning is solid and consistent, not super soft, not overly bouncy. If I had to describe it, it’s like running on a slightly firm mattress: supportive, controlled, and comfortable. The PWRRUN foam softens a bit once you’re moving, and it allows you to flow smoothly through your stride with just a hint of pep in the forefoot.
You still get the stable, controlled ride the Guide is known for. The straight-lasted base adds stability without making the shoe feel stiff, and the flexibility feels even better than before.
THE NITTY GRITTY
SIDNEY: Something about this version of the Guide just feels and looks more premium. Even the way the midsole foam looks elevates the shoe. The last version had a shinier, cheaper appearance, while this one looks plush and durable… and it is plush and durable.
This might be a hot take compared to other opinions I’ve heard and read, but I enjoy the added plushness of the new PWRRUN midsole. If you take the Guide for what it is, it’s easy to appreciate. It’s not trying to be a flashy, fast, lightweight, propulsive beast.
It’s a sturdy workhorse meant for casual, easy miles, and it does that job really well.
BLAKE: This is my go-to shoe for almost everything except super long miles, for those, I’d reach for the Hurricane 25. I easily see this shoe lasting 300–500 miles. It’s not my first pick for speed days (I’d choose something like the Endorphin Speed 5 ;) ), but it can handle a wide range of training.
The added rubber coverage is a big win for durability and traction. Previous versions wore through quickly in the forefoot, but this update should last much longer. After putting more miles on the Guide than almost any shoe over the last two years, this truly feels like my tried-and-true daily trainer.
THE RUNDOWN
SIDNEY: This isn’t the shoe I’m choosing for a 5K PR, but it is the shoe I’d grab for long runs or recovery miles. A reliable friend I can count on to pick me up (or my arches) when I start to fade.
For the price point ($150) and the weight (9.7 oz M / 8.9 oz W), this shoe packs a lot of protection and support into a steady, dependable package. I’ve enjoyed it for a variety of reasons, and I wouldn’t sleep on it.
If you’re a fan of previous Guides, it’s not too different, but it’s different where it counts.
BLAKE: I love what they did with the Guide 19. The upgrades are minimal but meaningful, and the shoe stays true to what makes the Guide great. They took what worked and made it slightly better without overcomplicating anything.
If I had one small complaint, it’s that the forefoot can feel very breathable in cold weather, which is a great problem most of the year, but noticeable during Michigan winters. Aside from that, I wouldn’t change a thing.
Overall, the Guide 19 is consistent, comfortable, and confidence-inspiring. I’ve loved running in it, and I think you will too.
Meet the Reviewers
