Saucony Triumph 23 Review (2025): Ultimate Comfort?
The Saucony Triumph is one of the most iconic running shoes, renowned for its premium quality and running comfort.
The brand surprised last year by introducing the PWRRUN PB foam found in its competition models. Buoyed by this success, it seems the Triumph 23 continues in this direction with few changes.
What exactly should we expect? Is it a good model and for whom?
Let’s find out in this complete review.
Our Verdict
Very good training running shoes offering comfort, dynamism, and versatility.
The Triumph 23 stays true to its DNA: an ultra-comfortable training shoe, well-cushioned, and now more dynamic thanks to the new PWRRUN PB foam. Saucony doesn’t revolutionize the formula but refines its flagship model with better transitions, reduced weight, and enhanced stability.
Versatile and pleasant for all distances, it excels on long runs at moderate pace. It offers an impeccable fit, a well-thought-out design, and good energy return, though it doesn’t compete with performance models. It’s not the most breathable, and the exposed foam on the sole might trade flexibility for longevity.
It will perfectly suit regular runners who want reliable, protective, and slightly responsive shoes. Ideal for marathons longer than 3h30 or as a single pair for training. Those who prefer classic soles (less than 40 mm) will also find it suitable.
In short, a safe bet, always as comfortable, with a touch of pep. Keep an eye on wear, but otherwise, it’s hard to go wrong.
Pros
- Good dynamism thanks to Peba foam
- Excellent shock absorption
- Great versatility
- Impeccable fit and foot support
- Relatively lightweight
Cons
- Average breathability
- Durability to monitor (less rubber)
Cushioning
The Triumph 23 marks a real evolution with its new PWRRUN PB foam, an optimized version of the supercritical EVA/PEBA blend already present on the v22. According to Saucony, this foam is now lighter, softer, and more responsive.
With its 37 mm at the heel and 27 mm at the forefoot (10 mm drop), the Triumph maintains a traditional geometry, which is rather reassuring for long-time fans of the series.
The thickness is reasonable compared to some competitors exceeding 40 mm, contributing to stability and balance despite the softness of the cushioning.
In terms of feel, there’s hardly any difference with the v22, and that’s understandable given how close the configuration is. I found the cushioning well-balanced, not too plush. Of course, this can vary from runner to runner, as sensations are partly subjective.
This setup works perfectly for long distances. I pushed through some endurance sessions without feeling excessive leg fatigue, even on hard asphalt, which proves the shock absorption is effective.
Energy Return
At 277 g for size 42, the Triumph 23 continues the trajectory of its predecessor (5 g less). It’s only 11 g more than the Saucony Ride 18, its colleague that is less cushioned.
We have a very reasonable weight for the height of the sole of this modern daily trainer.
Combined with the new formulation of the PWRRUN PB foam, there is good dynamism with a slight rebound at each stride. The v22 was already more reactive than most of its direct competitors, and the same is true here—the energy return is perhaps even better. I’ll let you be the judge.
We are not at the level of an Endorphin Speed, of course. But for a pure training shoe with a classic configuration inherited from several decades, the Triumph does very well.
Finally, the heel-to-toe transitions are smooth thanks to a discreet but effective rocker. Additionally, the midfoot is more flexible, enhancing this aspect compared to last year’s iteration.
Stability
Although classified as neutral, the Triumph 23 offers a surprising level of stability for a shoe that is so cushioned. This stability comes from several elements.
First, the sole has a fairly wide base, providing a good platform.
Then, Saucony has intelligently designed the heel with a more pronounced medial side expansion. This asymmetry creates slight pronation resistance without having the rigid block seen in some traditional stability shoes.
Beyond light pronators, this detail helps give you a boost at the end of long sessions when fatigue sets in and technique starts to slip.
Finally, the good foot holding and well-balanced structure underfoot complete the great stability of the Triumph 23.
Foot Lockdown
The upper of the Triumph 23 uses a relatively dense 3D technical mesh.
This configuration has its pros and cons. On the positive side, it offers excellent support and good durability. On the negative, it somewhat limits breathability, especially in hot weather.
The fit is normal in width with a slightly reduced volume compared to the v22. The toe box remains wide enough without being bulky. We get a good balance between space and support.
The midfoot is well locked thanks to a gusseted tongue of good thickness and an efficient lacing system. I noted no uncomfortable pressure points.
The logos on the sides are not just decorative—they also contribute to lateral support.
The heel counter is rigid enough to stabilize the foot while providing enough padding to be comfortable on contact. Moreover, the outward-flared shape releases the Achilles tendon, an appreciable detail on long runs.
The shoe fits true to size—I took my usual size, and the fit was perfect. A wide version is also available. As an ultra-popular model, it generally suits most people, but there are always exceptions. It’s better to try it if possible!
Grip
The outsole of the Triumph 23 combines strategically placed XT-900 rubber reinforcements on areas of direct exposure.
Elsewhere, the foam is exposed. The midfoot notably has less rubber than the v22, which helps lighten the shoe and enhance flexibility.
The grip is impeccable on dry and wet urban surfaces.
I also tested the shoe on some dry dirt paths, and the grip was good. However, I would avoid anything technical to preserve the sole.
Use Scenarios
The Triumph 23 particularly shines as a daily training shoe for easy endurance sessions and long distances.
Its protective yet dynamic cushioning proves very versatile, allowing you to do just about everything. If you’re looking for a single pair for all your runs, the Triumph is made just for that.
It’s also a wise choice for marathons for those prioritizing comfort over pure performance (e.g., aiming for a time beyond 3h30).
Faster marathoners will likely prefer something lighter and more responsive like the Endorphin Speed or Pro.
Similarly, the Triumph won’t be the best option for speed training (e.g., interval runs), though it performs better than many direct competitors such as the Asics Gel Nimbus or Brooks Ghost.
Quality and Durability
Saucony is generally recognized for the quality of its shoes, and the Triumph 23 is no exception. The finishes are neat, without apparent flaws, and the materials seem to be of good quality.
The only unknown is the impact of less rubber on the sole’s durability. I’ve read some comments mentioning wear after just 80 km. I haven’t noticed anything yet, but I’ll update the article if needed.
Until proven otherwise, I think we can expect a good lifespan, with at least 800 km.
In terms of eco-responsibility, Saucony mentions the use of recycled materials but provides no specific data, so it must be quite low. At least the Saucony Triumph 23 has the merit of being animal-free (vegan).
Saucony Triumph 22 vs 23
The changes are very modest, and we recommend getting the 22 if you find it on sale. The main ones are:
- New version of the PWRRUN PB foam
- Less rubber = more flexibility (and perhaps less durability?)
- A little more stable thanks to the new design of the medial part (but the 22 was already very stable).
Conclusion
The Saucony Triumph 23 continues to stand out as the comfort benchmark for daily training, with a rare lightness and dynamism for this type of shoe.
Additionally, its dimensions remain reasonable in 2025, which should appeal to those who don’t like massive soles like on the Nimbus.
Just keep an eye on the sole’s durability to see if the reduction in rubber is a winning bet for Saucony.
Facts
Reference: official site
