Shoe review: Saucony Triumph ISO

Whoa. That one word expresses the unprecedented sensation that runners experience when they step into the all-new Saucony Triumph ISO performance running shoe.

Launching this month, the Triumph ISO showcases two of Saucony’s latest innovations: ISOFIT and PWRGRID+. The ISOFIT dynamic fit system adapts to the runner’s foot in action, allowing the shoe to move in perfect harmony with the foot. Combined with a PWRGRID+ platform for enhanced cushioning, the Triumph ISO is the latest demonstration of Saucony’s relentless commitment to elevating the running experience through performance innovation.

“Our design philosophy has always been to look at the dynamics of the runner’s entire stride, not just the moment of impact,” says Pat O'Malley, senior vice-president of global product for Saucony. “Runners continue to tell us that fit is the most important criteria in their choice of a running shoe. But there’s fit and then there’s fit in motion. ISOFIT provides a sustained dynamic fit − a truly personal connection between the runner and their shoe − no matter foot shape, stride mechanics or ground surface. The ISO-Series’ fine-tuned approach is engineered to make you want to run, fully enjoying the experience like never before.”

ISOFIT™

According to the Running USA 2013 National Runner Survey, 92 per cent of respondents surveyed selected “fit” as the most important criteria when purchasing running shoes. Saucony designers engineered an ultra-soft, inner fit-sleeve crafted out of stretchable air mesh that morphs to the foot for a sock-like feel. A floating support cage sits like a saddle over the fit-sleeve, cradling the midfoot and adapting to the foot’s size, shape and movement, allowing the shoe to respond to the individual runner’s gait throughout the run.

PWRGRID+™

The PWRGRID+ platform is engineered with PowerGrid™, a Powerfoam material that is integrated with Saucony’s GRID™ technology, creating a system that effectively centres the foot, absorbs impact and distributes pressure. The PWRGRID+ platform’s increased stack heights deliver over 20 per cent more cushioning and 15 per cent more resiliency than PowerGrid construction alone. The result is the most cushioned running experience the brand has ever created.

PWRGRID(TM)

The Triumph ISO: “Whoa”

“The Whoa campaign concept was really an unintended, genuine creation by our athletes and community of wear-testers,” says Mary O’Brien, vice-president of global marketing for Saucony. “Every time one of these runners stepped into an ISO-Series shoe, their first reaction, consistently, was “whoa”. It was a moment of truth − an absolute expression of delight and surprise. And it’s these moments, linked together, which ultimately create not only an unforgettable running experience, but a sharable one as well.”

The all-new Triumph ISO ... Woah.

Triumph ISO

Weighing in at just under 300 grams, the Triumph, with ISOFIT and PWRGRID, is the brand’s super-plush neutral trainer. The open toe box of the 8mm-offset Triumph further enhances the shoe’s sock-like feel. The shoe’s SRC™ (Super Rebound Compound) Impact Zone provides durable shock-absorption at impact, while a lightweight Support Frame™ locks the heel in place for a secure fit.

The INSIDE SPORT View ...

Saucony claims the Triumph ISO will make you exclaim "whoa" when it slips on your foot and I was genuinely impressed when I first tried the shoe on. The new ISOFIT upper technology is a great development. I have a wide foot and the Triumph ISO has plenty of room and a sizeable toe box, almost to the extent that when I first tried on the shoe I thought I might want a slightly tighter grasp from the upper in order to feel truly secure while running and to really feel the terrain underfoot. But as soon as I started running the stability and responsiveness I was looking for was there and my foot didn’t feel loose in the shoe at all. The PWRGRID+ platform also allows a natural movement and successfully strikes the balance of providing substantial cushioning in the heel and mid-foot to absorb impact while transferring pressure effectively to ensure you don’t feel any loss of energy in your stride. The combination of these features makes the Triumph ISO an excellent lightweight long distance shoe. - Ryan, Inside Sport staffer.

About Saucony: Saucony is a leading global running lifestyle brand that fuses performance, innovation and style to create compelling footwear and apparel with its widely recognised brands Saucony and Saucony Originals. Founded in 1898, Saucony continues to inspire runners everywhere with its award-winning innovations. At Saucony, a good day is when we get to run. A great day is when we inspire someone else to run. For more information, go to www.saucony.com.au - The Triumph will be available exclusively through The Athlete’s Foot from November 1st 2014, and then available from all good running retailers from 1st December 2014, at a suggested retail price of $239.95.