Bring the Saucony Guide ISO 2 into those crisp autumn runs!
October is here, which means fiery leaves, pumpkin spice lattes, Halloween candy (for carb loading), and excellent temperatures for running. October is also the time of the year when many shoes update, including the popular Saucony Guide. A structured shoe for the runner who needs of a touch of additional stability, the Saucony Guide ISO 2 exhibits many of the hallmarks of its predecessor.
The Upper
According to Saucony, the Guide ISO 2 dons a Jacquard engineered mesh upper. What’s a Jacquard mesh? Glad you asked! I decided to look it up so we both know. Named after French inventor Joseph Marie Jacquard, a Jacquard device is a mechanism that attaches to a power loom to create unique patterns during textile manufacturing. Cool.
What does that mean for runners intrigued about buying the Guide ISO 2? Lighter weight and a better fit. Next, Saucony tweaked the ISOFIT lacing system to create a more customized feel in the midfoot. Finally, a soft tongue, padded heel collar, and omission of forefoot overlays adds to the comfort factor.
The Midsole
The Guide ISO 2 midsole is a combination of the full-length PWRFOAM midsole and a 3-millimeter EVERUN topsole for soft but responsive cushioning. The unchanged stack height (27 millimeters in the heel and 19 in the forefoot) results in an 8-millimeter offset. Weight is identical too (10.3 ounces in a men’s size nine).
For stability, the Saucony Guide ISO 2 utilizes a medial post. Higher density EVA foam provides guidance—as the shoe name indicates—to keep the feet in a stable position. Speaking of which, if you’re not sure what type of shoe you need, Big Peach Running Co. can assist! Neutral cushioned shoes and structured shoes impact biomechanics, so take the time to be professionally fitted. Your feet will thank you.
The Outsole
The Saucony Guide ISO 2 keeps the Tri-Flex pattern for better flexibility and traction on the roads. IBR+ (blown rubber) adds cushioning while XT-900 (carbon rubber) in the heel and forefoot increases the durability factor as the miles accumulate. How long do they last? Another excellent question. As a rule of thumb, most running shoes have a lifespan of 300-500 miles before the midsole is flat and sad. At this point, buy a fresh pair so the injury risk stays low.
Conclusion
At $119.99, the Guide ISO 2 is a solid trainer for any distance you have in mind. PWRFOAM, EVERUN, ISOFIT lacing, and a Jacquard mesh upper make for a complete package. As for colors, skip the men’s blue and gray pattern as Olive Shade has autumn written all over it. For the ladies, I favor the Gray and Blush. That’s me, though. Find your color at your local store, and then go enjoy Georgia’s glorious fall temps in your new sneaks!
Austin Bonds is a Guest Advocate and writer for Big Peach Running Co.
