Running shoes have evolved over time and in many ways, they're getting better. It's an interesting topic to discuss because there are so many opinions on which runner is the best and so on. However, it really depends on what you need in a shoe and how you use it. If you're in it for the style and appeal, you can skip to the end of this post to see how it looks close up and so on.
I'm no professional when it comes to running, but I've tried my share of runners - whether they're for style purposes or practical exercise - and it's not easy to pick out the right running shoe, especially with so many out there. But the one thing we can all agree upon when it comes to a running shoe is comfort. Being comfortable in a pair of runners goes a long way. In fact, it's pretty much the main reason why I consider any running shoe in the first place.
Today I'll be focusing on one particular shoe, and as you may have read in the title of this post, it's the Saucony Freedom Iso. I've had about 2 months to test them out and develop an opinion to write this review. I used them for a variety of things: from just walking around in them after my surgery, light jogs around the neighborhood, as well as sprints on a football field. Again, I'm no expert, but coming from a regular guy who uses them for multiple purposes, you'll get an idea of what they're capable of.
So why focus on this particular shoe?
It stood out to me aesthetically and in a practical sense, so I wanted to share my thoughts about it. I've also had the ability to compare it with a shoe I've been using simultaneously, the New Balance Fuelcell - which compares really well actually, but let's stick to the Freedom Iso for now.
Diving deeper.
The Freedom line is a new series of running shoes from Saucony. Designed for every runner in mind, it's an exciting shoe that fairs really well in all elements. The cushioning is extremely helpful for long distance running (I did 6k as my longest run in these) as well as sprints. Although I may have not pushed these shoes to their limit, they get the job done in an effective and comfortable manner, which is all that I need from a running shoe.
Aesthetically speaking, this shoe really does stand out. The versatility aspect not only makes this pair super functional, but allows for casual uses beyond exercise. The refined and streamlined design not only makes them a capable runner, but also a casual sneaker that works well with casual looks. I put that to test and was able to carry them forward as a stylish sneaker (see photos below - although I don't have the full outfit pictured, you can see from the rolled chinos that they do in fact work as a sneaker option).
As far as the technical stuff goes, the Freedom Iso has a full Everun sole (not many shoes have this), which adds to comfort and stability of the shoe, enabling you to get the most out of any activity. Some runners have great soles, but end up falling behind when you wear the shoe in a bit. I'll have to give it more time to see the true extent of this sole, but for the past 2 months it's been as good as new.
The sleek Isofit design allows the shoe to fit great on your foot (true to size for myself, however I've heard a friend suggest that they ran small on him), without feeling like your feet are suffocating. I found this to be a great thing with this pair and the New Balance Fuelcell, since in most running shoes I've tried before, I've simply wanted to unlace and take them off immediately.
The verdict.
Overall - I have to say that I'm impressed with the shoe as a whole. The combination of comfort and aesthetic appeal really elevate the runner as a whole. It does run at a steep price point in comparison to other sneakers in the same class, but it does live up to its value. It will be interesting to see how long they last and how they perform in the long run (no pun intended), but so far they've proven to be a competent contender in the running shoe sector.
