If you're a runner, you're likely familiar with Saucony. The brand is a runner's staple, loved for its high-quality shoes that perfectly balance performance, comfort, and durability. With innovative foam technology and designs made for everyone from marathoners to casual joggers, it's easy to see why they're so popular.
But the world of running shoes is huge, and sometimes you want to explore alternatives that offer a different fit, feel, or feature set. Whether you’re looking for more cushioning, a super-lightweight racing shoe, or something suited for rugged trails, we’ve found some incredible brands that hit a similar mark. Here are 19 brands like Saucony for your next pair of quality running shoes.
Brooks is one of the most beloved brands in the running world, focusing intensely on comfort and injury prevention. With shoes typically in the $100 to $160 range, they offer models that provide exceptional cushioning and biomechanical support. Their DNA LOFT foam is famous for its plush, soft ride, making their shoes a favorite for daily miles and long runs.
Compared to Saucony's focus on lightweight responsiveness, Brooks often zeroes in on structure and support, with a huge selection of stability shoes perfect for runners who overpronate. If you want a shoe that feels incredibly reliable and supportive, mile after mile, Brooks is a must-try. Shop now at brooksrunning.com.
Nike combines high-performance running technology with some of the most stylish designs on the market. Models like the iconic Pegasus blend cutting-edge features like Flyknit uppers and Zoom Air units for a lightweight, breathable, and responsive feel. Priced generally between $100 and $180, Nike offers options for every level of runner.
While Saucony is known for its functional, performance-first aesthetic, Nike brings a more fashion-forward edge to its lineup. If you want a shoe that performs just as well on a race course as it does with your weekend athleisure fits, Nike delivers that perfect blend of speed and style. Shop now at nike.com.
Asics is a legendary sportswear brand celebrated for its incredible comfort and revolutionary Gel cushioning systems. Running shoes like the Gel-Kayano are staples for distance runners who need maximum shock absorption and a reliable fit, typically costing between $120 and $160. Asics is the go-to for many runners who need serious stability and plush comfort.
Where Saucony often prioritizes a lightweight and responsive feel, Asics tends to lead with luxurious cushioning and rock-solid durability. Their shoes are built like tanks in the best way possible, making them an excellent choice for marathon training or anyone whose joints need a little extra love. Shop now at asics.com.
New Balance shines with its versatile lineup of running shoes that easily transition from the track to the street. Models with their Fresh Foam cushioning are known for being incredibly soft yet responsive, and with prices from $80 to $150, they offer great value. Plus, they're famous for offering a wide range of widths, making it easy to find a perfect, custom-like fit.
Compared to Saucony, New Balance has a slightly greater lifestyle crossover appeal with its classic, understated style. If you have a wider foot or just want an ultra-comfortable shoe that comes in tons of different colors and works for just about anything, New Balance is a fantastic option. Shop now at newbalance.com.
Instantly recognizable for its maximalist "moon shoe" design, Hoka is all about providing an ultra-cushy, cloud-like ride. Their thick midsoles, found in popular models like the Clifton and Bondi ($130-$180), deliver amazing shock absorption that helps reduce impact on your joints. This makes them a favorite among long-distance runners and anyone logging serious mileage.
While Saucony offers a great balance of cushioning and responsiveness, Hoka goes all-in on comfort. If you've ever dealt with joint pain or just want a shoe that feels incredibly soft and protective over long runs, Hoka's plush designs are unbeatable. Shop now at hoka.com.
Mizuno is a Japanese brand that stands out with its signature Wave Plate technology, which creates a uniquely stable and cushioned ride. Their shoes, like the much-loved Wave Rider, cost between $100 and $140 and provide a very smooth, responsive feel. They're great for neutral runners and those needing a bit of stability without feeling too controlling.
Mizuno's running experience can feel a bit more structured compared to Saucony's, thanks to the Wave Plate, which helps disperse impact evenly. For runners who appreciate innovative engineering and a distinct, snappy ride, Mizuno offers premium craftsmanship and performance. Shop now at mizuno.com.
Altra is famous for two key features: a zero-drop platform and a wide, foot-shaped toe box. This combination is designed to encourage a more natural foot posture and stride. With shoes in the $120 to $150 range, Altra appeals to runners who find traditional running shoes too narrow or restrictive.
This design philosophy sets them apart from Saucony's more conventional silhouettes. The zero-drop design means your heel and forefoot are at the same distance from the ground, which can help promote better biomechanics. If you're looking for a shoe that lets your feet move naturally, Altra is your brand. Shop now at altrarunning.com.
Hailing from Switzerland, On Running is known for its undeniably cool design and innovative CloudTec sole - those distinctive pods on the outsole. This technology is engineered to cushion your landing and then firm up for an explosive take-off, creating a light and responsive feel. Priced from $120 to $160, On's shoes have a sleek, modern, tech-forward aesthetic.
Compared to Saucony, On is laser-focused on this unique cushioning system and minimalist design. They feel incredibly lightweight and fast underfoot, making them a favorite among runners who want an energetic ride wrapped in a very contemporary package. Shop now at on-running.com.
The Brooks Ghost is so popular and consistent that it's practically its own brand within the running world. This flagship neutral shoe, costing around $130, is praised for its perfectly balanced cushioning and incredibly smooth ride. It uses a combination of soft DNA LOFT foam and adaptive BioMoGo DNA for a ride that’s not too firm and not too mushy - it’s just right.
The Ghost is often compared to Saucony's popular daily trainers like the Ride, but some runners find it offers a slightly more traditional and plush feel. It's the ultimate everyday workhorse that you can rely on for any type of run, making it a perfect starting point for anyone new to Brooks. Shop now at brooksrunning.com.
Wait, a Saucony on a list of brands like Saucony? Absolutely. While you may already love the brand, the Kinvara deserves its own spot. For those who already appreciate Saucony but are looking for something lighter and faster, the Kinvara is the answer. It's a lightweight, stripped-down trainer designed for speed work and race day, typically priced around $100.
The Kinvara has a minimalist profile with just enough of Saucony's responsive PWRRUN cushioning to keep you comfortable at a fast pace. It's more agile and flexible than their daily trainers, giving you that connected-to-the-ground feeling needed for tempo runs and pushing the pace. Shop now at saucony.com.
Reebok delivers surprisingly excellent running shoes that often fly under the radar. Their Forever Floatride Energy series, priced affordably around $80–$120, has gained a cult following for its lightweight and springy Floatride foam. The aesthetic is clean, sporty, and no-frills, focusing purely on function.
Compared to Saucony, Reebok running shoes offer incredible value for money, packing impressive tech into a much more budget-friendly package. They are a fantastic choice for new runners or anyone looking for a dependable daily trainer that won't break the bank. Shop now at reebok.com.
While Nike has a broad range, the ZoomX Vaporfly series stands in a league of its own. These shoes are serious racing machines, packed with a carbon-fiber plate and their ultra-responsive ZoomX foam. With a premium price tag around $250–$300, the Vaporfly is designed for one thing: helping you run your fastest.
Where Saucony excels in creating versatile, durable trainers, the Vaporfly is a pure performance shoe for race day. It offers an incredible level of energy return that you can truly feel with every stride. If you're chasing personal bests in a marathon or half marathon, this is the shoe serious competitors reach for. Shop now at nike.com.
Best known for its wildly popular activewear, Lululemon has entered the shoe game with runners like the Blissfeel. Priced around $148, this shoe was designed specifically for the female foot, promising plush cushioning in a sleek, minimalist package. It seamlessly blends performance features with everyday style.
Compared to a legacy running brand like Saucony, the Blissfeel prioritizes aesthetics and all-day comfort, making it a great option for light jogs, gym sessions, and daily wear. It’s perfect for the person who wants a stylish and functional shoe to power through a workout and then meet friends for coffee. Shop now at shop.lululemon.com.
If your runs take you off the pavement and onto the trails, Salomon is a brand you need to know. They are leaders in trail running, creating shoes with rugged durability, aggressive outsoles for superior grip, and protective features for uneven terrain. Models like the Speedcross cost between $120 and $160 and are built to handle mud, rocks, and anything else the trail throws at you.
While Saucony has some great trail models, Salomon’s primary focus is on off-road adventure. Their shoes are more specialized and technical, sharing a commitment to performance but with an emphasis on protection and stability for the wilderness. Shop now at salomon.com.
Columbia Montrail is another powerhouse in the trail running space, offering tough, protective shoes for exploring the great outdoors. With models priced between $100 and $150, their focus is on waterproof materials, excellent grip, and rugged durability. These shoes can feel a bit bulkier, but that’s because they’re packed with features to keep your feet dry and stable on the trail.
Their design approach is much more utilitarian compared to Saucony’s road-focused lineup. Montrail shoes are built to withstand all weather conditions, emphasizing function over fashion, making them the perfect companion for trail runners who prioritize rugged performance. Shop now at columbia.com.
For lovers of Altra’s unique design, the Escalante Racer takes things up a notch. Priced around $130, this is the racing version of their popular Escalante model. It retains the signature roomy toe box and zero-drop platform but in a much lighter, more responsive, and breathable package. It’s built for speed workouts, 5Ks, and half marathons.
It can be compared to Saucony's lightweight racers like the Kinvara, but with Altra's distinct natural-feel philosophy. The extremely flexible design and minimal cushioning offer a raw, connected-to-the-ground sensation that’s fantastic for pushing the pace. Shop now at altrarunning.com.
Under Armour’s HOVR line, featuring models like the Sonic and Machina, offers a modern take on running shoe technology. Priced between $100 and $150, these shoes feature the brand’s HOVR cushioning, which is designed to feel responsive and return energy with every step. They also have a sleek, contemporary style that appeals to the versatile athlete.
Similar to Saucony’s performance models, the HOVR series combines comfortable cushioning with a sporty look. Under Armour often adds cool tech features, like built-in sensors that connect to their running app to track your metrics, making them a great choice for tech-savvy runners. Shop now at underarmour.com.
Inov-8 is a specialist brand that dominates the scene for technical trail and ultra-running. Their shoes are known for having an incredibly aggressive grip, thanks to innovative materials like Graphene in their outsoles. Priced from $120 to $160, their focus is on creating lightweight, durable shoes that offer a close-to-the-ground feel for navigating tricky terrain.
While Saucony makes some trail-capable shoes, Inov-8 is built specifically for extreme conditions. They are less about plush cushioning and more about stability, protection, and uncompromising grip on wet and rocky surfaces, making them a top choice for serious trail competitors. Shop now at inov-8.com.
Arc'teryx brings its expertise from high-end technical outdoor gear to its line of premium trail running shoes. The Norvan series, which ranges from $150 to $180, is designed for running in demanding mountain environments. It features waterproof Gore-Tex options, a super sticky Vibram outsole, and a lightweight-yet-durable build for precision on tricky terrain.
Contrasting with Saucony, the Arc'teryx Norvan is a highly specialized shoe tailored for adventure racing and challenging trails. It's the perfect choice for the runner who demands the absolute best in materials and construction to tackle the toughest wilderness conditions. Shop now at arcteryx.com.
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