Saucony Guide 19 vs Guide 18
Guide 19 or Guide 18? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.
The short answer
The Guide 19 replaced the Guide 18.
Softer foam, a more flexible forefoot, a new upper and more rubber underfoot.
What changed
- Foam: New, clearly softer PWRRUN foam.
- Shape: Redesigned rocker, with a steeper toe spring and a deeper heel curve.
- Outsole: Rubber now covers the center of the forefoot instead of exposed foam.
- Upper: New upper.
- On the run: Much softer and more flexible up front. Bounce and fit about the same.
- Measured: 0.7 oz heavier and drop down from 8.3mm to 6mm. Heel stack about the same.
Still like the Guide 18? It’s $30 less than the Guide 19 while supplies last, with 4 colors in stock.
On the run
Guide 19: Gentle support, soft landing. Soft and smooth with an early rocker. The support is subtle, coming from high sidewalls and a wide base rather than a hard post, so it feels like a neutral shoe that keeps you centered.
Guide 18: Dependable, no-fuss stability. Stable but not restrictive, with a firm-ish midsole and an excellent heel rocker. Cushioned enough for long runs, though it feels a bit bulky.
Specs side by side
| Guide 19 | Guide 18 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $150 | $119.95 (was $140) |
| Stack height (heel / forefoot) | 35 / 29mm | 35 / 29mm* |
| Drop | 6mm | 6mm* |
| Weight, men’s | 9.7 oz | 9.6 oz* |
| Weight, women’s | 8.9 oz | 8.6 oz* |
| Support | Stability | Stability |
| Plate | None | None |
| Widths | Standard, Wide, Extra wide | Standard |
| Built for | Easy days, Long runs, Walking & all-day wear | Easy days, Long runs, Walking & all-day wear |
| Expected life | 450–550 miles | 350–450 miles |
Stack, drop and weight come from each brand’s own website. Numbers marked * aren’t published by the brand and come from other published specs. Weights are for the size each brand quotes. Expected life is our estimate.
Fit
Guide 19. True to size with a medium-width toebox and soft, stretchy mesh that suits most feet. Wide and extra-wide in men’s and women’s.
Guide 18. Runs slightly short, so if you’re between sizes, go up a half. Secure, comfortable lockdown with plenty of toe room.
Try them on
Come try on both at The Run House in Walpole, Needham or Falmouth. Gait analysis is always free.
Shop the Guide 19 · Shop the Guide 18 · Compare other running shoes