After testing more running shoes over the years than I can count, I’ve found that, generally, the lighter the weight, the cushier the sole, and the more flexible the upper, the more I like the silhouette. It’s why I’m drawn to shoes like the Adidas Ultraboost Light, Adidas Adizero Prime X 2 Strung, and the APL TechLoom Dream Sneaker.
Now, I have yet another style to add to my list of top recommendations: the Saucony Triumph RFG running shoe.
Saucony Triumph RFG — $160.00
Sizes available: 5-12 (women’s), 7-15 (men’s)
Colors: 3
Heel-to-toe drop: 10mm
Weight: 9.7 oz
- Designed with an 80% natural rubber outsole
- Colored with plant-based dyes
- Sustainably made with corn-based foam (wild!)
- The color offerings could be more exciting
- Fabric uppers may not wear well in rain
All about the Saucony Triumph RFG running shoes
The Saucony RFG running shoes look pretty basic, I’ll admit. The colors—light blue, mauve, and pale gray—aren’t too exciting. But as soon as I slipped my feet into these shoes and took a few steps, I instantly understood why the shoes have been receiving 5-star reviews across the board.
First, some details: The Saucony Triumph RFG is the sustainable sister to the OG Saucony Triumph, a fan-favorite shoe year after year which boasts the American Podiatric Medical Association’s coveted Seal of Acceptance. The big difference between the two styles is that the RFG (short for Run For Good) iteration is made with sustainable materials, including a 55 percent corn-based PWRRUN BIO+ foam and an 80 percent natural rubber outsole, not to mention plant-based dyes for the coloring.
Materials aside, the Triumph RFG and original Triumph feel very similar, both featuring breathable fabric uppers, cozy, foot-hugging padded interiors, and a cushy heel-to-toe offset designed to propel you through your runs.
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I got the Mist colorway (a super pale gray) in a women’s size 10.5. I’ve been teetering between a women’s size 10 and 10.5 for the past couple years so was curious how they’d wear but they fit like a glove, with just the right amount of space for my toes to stretch out.
Before even leaving my house—after simply walking from my entryway to my garage door—I became a fan of the new design. Then, after jogging in them, I realized these sneakers could very well transform a slow, short-distance runner (like myself) into a run-lover capable of logging miles on end. Seriously, they’re that comfortable. At no point did they chafe any part of my sensitive feet, nor did they trigger any blister alarms (I can usually tell right away if a shoe is going to wreak havoc on my heels).
The Saucony Triumph RFG sneakers are lightweight and breathable, and encourage forward momentum with a light bounce. The traction is stable and supportive. Whether I was running on a treadmill or on pavement, I never feel like I was going to slip in these sustainable sneaks.
That said, I didn’t feel like they inspired me to sprint. These wouldn’t be the kicks I’d recommend when you’re looking to pick up the pace. I’d suggest sticking to easy to moderate efforts here.
Also, since they’re made with knit fabric uppers that look and feel untreated, I don’t think they’d be a great footwear choice for misty or rainy days.
Are the Saucony Triumph RFG running shoes worth it?
Whether you’re looking for sneakers that will encourage you to keep running or comfy everyday shoes, the Saucony RFG running shoes are worth checking out. Literally the only things I’d change about them are the colors they’re offered in (I prefer bright hues and colorblock options) and their resistance to water. Any other time, though, they’re an incredibly comfortable pick.
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