SHOE REVIEW: Saucony Triumph 20

Saucony has released the 20th version of their high-cushioned neutral trainer, the Triumph. Now you can gear up for a run with full confidence in your shoe’s durability and comfort. With the Triumph 20, every detail supports maximum comfort and softness that lasts.

The Triumph 20 is lighter and softer than its predecessor and offers a highly comfortable ride and versatility that many other high-cushioned trainers don’t have.

Type: Neutral High-Cushioning 
Weight: 292 g/10.3 oz. (men’s 9), 249 g/8.8 oz. (women’s 7)
Drop: 10 mm
Stack height: 37 mm
MSRP: $210.00 CAD
Available: Now

The changes

If you thought the previous version of the Triumph was highly cushioned, the new iteration has even more foam, yet it’s lighter. The drop has increased from 8 mm to 10 mm with the addition of extra cushioning under the heel, and the shoe is about 10 grams lighter than the previous version. 

Saucony has also improved the lacing system, adding reinforced eyelets and a contrasting piece that pulls in the sides of the shoe for a more solid, lock-down fit.

Saucony Triumph 20. Photo: Nick Iwanyshyn

The upper

The upper is quite similar to the previous version–it still features a seamless engineered mesh, with few overlays, to allow for increased breathability. I have always found the footbed in previous versions of the Triumph to be comfortable, and the Triumph 20 follows suit. The shoe tapers at the back to accommodate a smaller ankle, but widens in the forefoot to allow for toe splay when running down hills, and as your feet swell toward the end of a long run.

The midsole

The redesigned PWRRUN+ foam cushioning is softer and lighter than ever before. This iteration of Saucony foam is a game-changer for me, and it feels much more responsive and lighter than the previous model. It’s well-cushioned but also snappy, which is a rare combination. The updated midsole geometry gives more cushion underfoot and a smooth, rocker-like feel. 

The outsole

The crystal rubber in the previous version has been replaced with a new higher-abrasion rubber, and additionally, the triplex design allows for more flexibility and plus quicker transitions. On several rainy runs, this outsole held up well. It is also performed well on loose gravel and entry-level trails.

The verdict

The revamped PWRRUN+ cushioning in the Triumph 20 midsole makes it feel as if you can run forever. The lighter feel makes the Triumph 20 an easy choice for long runs and easy days. I also love the outsole. I was pleasantly surprised at how well this model handled wet surfaces, and the durability of the high-abrasion rubber.

The Triumph 20 is the perfect shoe for those training for a fall or spring marathon.