Saucony Ride ISO 2 Intro

The Ride ISO 2 has an updated ISOFIT closure system that integrates into the shoe better providing better lock down at the saddle. Double Jacquard mesh has replaced the non-supportive material that plagued the first version.

The new mesh is not only more comfortable but flexible to accommodate varying foot shapes. 2mm of PWRFOAM have been to the midsole adding a bit more cushion but also helps to soften the ride.

Saucony Ride ISO 2 First Impressions

Saucony Ride ISO 2 – Lateral Side

The updates to the Ride ISO 2 have really improved the fit. Its snug with a touch of room in the forefoot and doesn’t allow for any slippage.

This version has a more traditional appearance with simple color ways,minus the hot pink outsole which does not really clash with the overall design.

The ISO 2 has an almost luxurious step in feel that was true to size. The shoe requires no break in time as my first outing was 10 miles and they felt amazing.

Saucony Ride ISO 2 Sole Unit

Sauconys dependable PWRFOAM midsole carries over into the ISO 2 with very subtle changes that have returned big comfort dividends. 2mm of the conventional foam have been added in this update.

This has given the shoe a more luxurious step in fell but also softened thigs a bit which is evident on higher mileage runs. The marked band of thin EVERUN still remains hiding just below the upper of the shoe.

The cushioning of the ISO two hits a sweet spot between performance and daily trainer. The ISO is soft but not too soft and remains relatively responsive for up-tempo running like fartlek’s, or mile repeats.

Even with the 2mm addition the overall stack height remains the same at 27mm/19mm. Saucony has done this by a reducing the amount of outsole rubber. A new Crystal Rubber has replaced the thicker carbon rubber of the ISO 1.

The outsole is now thinner and more streamlined with a bit of bounce. This has led to a much smoother transition, nice proprioceptive ground feel, and a distinctive easy toe off.

I don’t see any issue with durability so far as the amount of rubber seems adequate and there are very little signs of wear.

Saucony Ride ISO 2 Upper Unit

Saucony Ride ISO 2 – Top

Many of the Ride ISO’s improvements were made to the upper. A new Double Jacquard mesh replaces the non-stretch monofilament upper previously used.

This new mesh provides stretch and structure with superior comfort and breathability. What I appreciated most about it was the effective yet spacious hold it provided through the toe box.

A major issue that many had with the first version was a lack of midfoot support. The ISO 2 resolves the issue with a better integrated Fit Band that has narrower and shallower cut bands.

This allows a more customizable fit that conformed well to my foot. The amount of support was spot on locking my midfoot securely without pressure or discomfort even at higher paces.

Saucony Ride ISO 2 – Inner

An internal bootie carries over to the ISO 2 and remains unchanged keeping the overstuffed tongue of the shoe held in place. The generously padded ankle collar that sits atop a stiff heel counter seem to remain unchanged as well.

The heel kept my foot centered while providing effective and comfortable lock down and I never experienced any slippage or discomfort.

Very rarely is it that an upper really grabs my attention but I have to say that this one of the most comfortable, best fitting, that I have experienced in a while.

Saucony Ride ISO 2 Conclusion

The Ride ISO 2 is a well cushioned yet responsive trainer that is more comfortable and snappier than before.

This is really a shoe that does well at just about everything from daily running to tempo training but really excels over longer distances.

For a clear majority of runners this would also be a respectable race shoe. The traditional appearance and feel of this shoe in my opinion make it a single go to shoe for many runners.

We purchased a pair of Saucony Ride ISO 2 from runningwarehouse using our own money. This did not influence the outcome of this review, written after running more than 50 miles in them.