When you think about running, the first thing that pops into your mind is a good pair of running shoes. And, if you’re a running fan, then you’ve certainly heard of the popular brand Saucony. You might even own a pair or two of their awesome running shoes. But, have you ever wondered where Saucony began? Or, how they have evolved to be a competitive brand in the running community? Let’s find out!
Saucony is a sneaker brand that’s made a name for itself in the athletics world. It’s been making waves since 1898 when the brand was started in Kutztown, Pennsylvania, by four ambitious businessmen. The original shoe factory was established on the banks of Saucony Creek, where the brand got its name. The brand logo is another notable feature of Saucony, which was originally derived from 3 boulders around which the Saucony Creek flowed.
It was then bought out by a number of companies until it was acquired by its current owner, Wolverine World Wide in 2012, which moved the company’s regional headquarters to Waltham, Massachusetts. One of the greatest Saucony achievements is the vintage Dixon trainer, named after New Zealand athlete Rod Dixon, who won the 1983 New York Marathon. The Saucony sneakers he wore helped him attain the gold medal.
Why were they made?
Saucony sneakers were made for foot racing, running, and walking. Although they make a select line of performance clothing, their main focus is footwear for athletes and anyone who keeps fit by running, hiking, or walking.
“We give runners the power to challenge themselves every day through our commitment to innovation, design, and boundary-pushing products.” – Saucony
Why do they care about keeping folks active?
Saucony’s logo doesn’t just stand for the boulders on Saucony Creek. They also represent their 3 guiding principles:
- Good performance
- Good health
- Good community
With Saucony’s core principles, it’s only natural that they partnered up with Omega Sports for the Omega Sports Move Morevember initiative. This month-long program is dedicated to getting folks active and moving more in the colder months while finding ways to give back to the community and help neighbors in need. Find out more about Move Morevember.
And that’s not all! Saucony is always thinking ahead. And their actions prove their passion. They believe that the future of running is dependant on the future of our planet. Saucony is dedicated to sustainability and produces products with the lightest footprint possible, without sacrificing quality and performance. They take their passions seriously and it shows in their continuous dedication to evolve and propel us forward.
They prioritize reducing plastic use, and using eco-friendly materials whenever possible as well as being members of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition; the apparel, footwear, and textile industry’s leading alliance for sustainable production.
Who is Saucony for?
Everyone! Saucony footwear can be worn by anyone, and are particularly popular among athletes of all levels. The brand has a long-standing history of athlete-focused innovations.
Aside from athletes, they target fitness runners and all who run or walk to keep fit, including hikers. Saucony is truly loyal to the sport.
Saucony’s Impressive Shoe Evolution
With over a century of running flowing through Saucony, they are constantly looking into the future and evolving. Some flagship items include the following:
- Jazz 1981: This is one of Saucony’s earliest milestones, made in 1981. The Jazz has an iconic design that has been proven timeless in the fashion sneaker world.
- Shadow 1985: Shadow has Saucony’s original comfort, style, and stability, making it a pleasing choice for different generations of athletes.
- Azura 1988: This is a lightweight sneaker that has a synthetic, micro-suede top and a vintage torsional rigidity bar.
- Grid 2000: The Grid sneaker opened up Saucony’s decade-long brand of Saucony originals.
- Kilkenny XC spike 2003: This shoe made a lasting impact on XC competition. It’s a lightweight, slipper-fit sneaker designed by athletes for athletes.
- Kinvara 2009: Kinvara is a pioneer of the 4mm heel-to-toe drop design. It became the legendary precursor all through Saucony’s line and probably throughout the athlete footwear industry.
- Peregrine 2011: The innovation of Peregrine in 2011 was fueled by Kinvara’s success. It has been used by runners of all ages.
- Guide 2011: This sneaker is an improvement from the Peregrine shoe. It has a lowered heel-to-toe offset, from 12mm to 8mm. This gave all runners using the shoe a much better running experience.
- Fastswitch⁷ 2015: This sneaker was specially designed for super tacky traction, with its PWRTRAC rubber outsole, which became a leading design for Saucony’s trail line, offering long-lasting off-road grip.
- Triumph ISO 2 2015: This running shoe offers even more support, spring, and running energy.
- Ride ISO 2 2018: The Ride ISO 2 released, FORMFIT, a revolutionary 3D design that gives the runner 360⁰ foot support and a personalized foot feel throughout any race.
- Endorphin Pro 2020: This is another shoe engineered by pro athletes for athletes. It pioneered SPEEDROLL technology to bring out the best in all kinds of runners.
- Endorphin Shift 2 2021: SPEEDROLL Technology propels you forward effortlessly, so you can run faster, not harder
A generous bed of PWRRUN cushioning provides a plush yet springy ride, perfect for any day of the week. FORMFIT hugs the foot in 3D comfort and delivers our most personalized fit yet and the XT-900 outsole with reinforced high-abrasion zones provides optimal traction and durability.
Sustainable Activewear
Aside from shoes, Saucony also makes activewear for adults, and all its items are environmentally friendly. As a matter of fact, nearly all of the designs in their apparel collection contain either recycled or more sustainable components.
Saucony at Omega Sports
You can find Saucony products at OmegaSports.com or in-stores. Stop by anytime we’re open and have an Active-Play Expert fit you properly for your next pair of Saucony shoes.
