The Saucony Guide series is a trusted daily trainer for runners who want a touch of stability without an overly bulky feel. The latest version, the Guide 18, launched this year with some subtle updates, including an improved upper and a smooth, reliable ride designed for easy miles and recovery runs.
I tested the Guide 18 during a block of post-marathon training, where I focused on shorter distances, recovery runs, and speed sessions to help bring my 10K time down. That gave me a good chance to see how the shoe handles slower, easy miles, faster reps, and the odd longer run, and how it stacks up against the best running shoes. Here’s my full verdict after putting the miles in.
Saucony Guide 18: Price and availability
The Saucony Guide 18 is available now for $150 / £130 and is available to purchase from Saucony and other major retailers like REI and Amazon. While that price might feel a bit steep for some, this seems to be a pretty standard price for any new daily trainer released by a reputable running brand these days. The previous Guide 17 originally retailed for $140 / £135 but now can often be found in the sale for nearly half the price.
If you like to always have the latest version of a running shoe, the Guide 18 certainly isn’t a waste of money. But if you don’t mind saving some cash, the Guide 17 feels very similar underfoot, so you won’t miss out on anything major if you spot a good deal on the previous model.
Saucony Guide 18: Design and fit
The Guide 18 is best described as a mild stability shoe. It uses a guidance frame, slightly higher sidewalls, and gentle medial support to add a bit of structure for runners who mildly overpronate (when your foot rolls inward slightly). These higher walls help cradle the foot and guide your stride without relying on the firm posting or rigid correction you’d find in a more traditional stability shoe. So you get a stable feel, but the ride stays smooth and unobtrusive.
Visually, the Guide 18 isn’t the flashiest shoe out there. When I first pulled them out of the box, I thought they looked a little bulkier than the Guide 17. However, they didn’t feel clunky and overall are pretty lightweight (9.6oz / 272g) despite being ever so slightly heavier than its predecessor.
The fit is true to size, which I really appreciate because I find some brands can be quite inconsistent with sizing. It’s also available in wide and extra wide versions, so runners with wider feet aren’t left out.
Upper
The upper is the top part of the shoe that wraps around your foot. Saucony has improved the upper on the Guide 18, using a more breathable mesh that feels soft yet secure.
During my testing — which included easy runs, a few steady miles, and a short tempo session — the shoe hugged my foot comfortably without any hot spots or areas of rubbing. Compared to the Guide 17, this new upper feels slightly more refined and better ventilated, which is great if you run in warmer weather.
Midsole
The midsole is the layer of foam between your foot and the ground, and is where most of the cushioning and bounce happens. The Guide 18 uses Saucony’s PWRRUN foam, which provides a nice mix of softness and mild responsiveness. There’s also a rocker geometry here, which is when the shoe curves upward at the heel and toe to help roll you forward smoothly.
I found the rocker in the Guide 18 felt smoother than it did on the Guide 17, thanks to the addition of Saucony’s new CenterPath Technology in the midsole. This design helps guide your foot through a more natural stride by cradling and centering each step.
Outsole
The outsole is the bottom of the shoe that makes contact with the ground. Saucony has kept it pretty simple here with durable rubber in high-wear areas to help grip the road. I tested these on damp pavements and light gravel paths, and they held traction well with no slipping.
I haven’t had the chance to run in wet conditions yet, but I have seen some runners mention that the traction can feel a bit unreliable on wetter surfaces. Once I get a chance to run in wetter conditions, I'll update here if I notice any issues.
Saucony Guide 18: Running performance
Overall, I felt very comfortable running in the Guide 18. I enjoyed them most during easy and recovery runs, where they shine thanks to that smooth rocker and comfortable cushioning. From my testing, I wouldn't say it's an aggressive stability shoe, but that gentle support does help keep your stride feeling controlled.
They do have a bit of pop if you want to pick up the pace, but don’t expect race-day speed. This is more of a reliable daily workhorse. They felt consistent, forgiving, and enjoyable over a mix of training.
Should you buy the Saucony Guide 18?
The Saucony Guide 18 is a solid choice if you want a versatile daily trainer that feels smooth and supportive without being overly stiff. It delivers a smooth, steady ride and fits true to size, while the improved upper feels more comfortable than the Guide 17. Plus, with wide and extra wide options, it’s a more inclusive pick for runners who need a bit more room.
However, it’s not a shoe that’s going to blow you away with speed or bounce. While the rocker and CenterPath Technology help each stride feel smooth, there’s only so much energy return here. If you’re after a shoe for fast training sessions or race day PBs, you’ll probably want something lighter and more responsive.
If you already own the Guide 17 and it’s still in good shape, I don’t think you need to rush to upgrade. The updates are subtle rather than game-changing. But if your pair is getting tired, the Guide 18 is a safe bet that builds on the same easy-going, stable feel.
For a more stability intense design, something like the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23, ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 will give you firmer structure.
