Have a closer look at the Saucony Triumph ISO 5 for spring marathon training!
The fall marathon season is drawing to a close, but if you are considering a 26.2-mile spring race somewhere, training begins soon. In fact, maybe you’re like me and love the prospect of running in winter. Plowing through frigid temperatures and nasty wind chills as others opt for treadmills indoors.
Yes, winter running is not for everyone, but it’s a delight nonetheless. “It [Winter] is a secret and inward working of powers, which in spring will burst into visible activity,” writes Henry James Slack in The Ministry of the Beautiful.
Speaking of delights, how are your running shoes? How many miles have they accumulated? Unsure? Are you experiencing foot pain or knee pain every time you run? That’s anything but a delight. Translation? It’s time to look for a new pair that’s equipped to handle those impending long runs. Ever owned a Saucony? Have a closer look at the uber soft Saucony Triumph ISO 5!
The Upper
First, like the recently updated Guide ISO 2, the Saucony Triumph ISO 5 incorporates a Jacquard engineered mesh upper. This change is to accommodate more foot types, along with lowering the risk of hot spots during runs.
ISOFIT, now a mainstay in the Saucony family, keeps the feet secure as strategically placed eyelets disperse lace pressure. A plush heel collar adds to the step-in comfort, further buoyed by a lower heel height that’s less likely to irritate the Achilles tendon.
The Midsole
Next, if you’re looking for a shoe suited for long runs, the Saucony Triumph ISO 5 utilizes a full-length EVERUN midsole. Moreover, the Triumph includes a 3-millimeter EVERUN topsole for a substantially soft but responsive ride.
With this much cushioning, you’d think the Triumph weight drastically increased. No, the Triumph IS0 5 is only two-tenths of an ounce heavier than its predecessor. Version five weighs 11.3 ounces in a men’s nine. The Triumph retains an 8-millimeter drop with a slight stack height change. 30 millimeters in the heel and 22 millimeters in the forefoot.
The Outsole
Finally, according to Saucony, the outsole underwent a drastic revision. Engineers removed 2 millimeters from the outsole, along with exchanging XT-900 (carbon rubber) and IBR+ (blown rubber) for the stylish crystal rubber. As a result, this accounts for the minimal weight gain as crystal rubber also provides superb traction and durability.
Conclusion
Though the Saucony Triumph ISO 5 is a fantastic update, visit your local Big Peach Running Co. store and try this model on for yourself as part of the free fit process. A cushioned trainer like the Triumph is worth a closer look for a first marathon. Still, be intentional about trying on other models for the sake of comparison and comfort.
The Saucony Triumph ISO 5 may deliver the fit, feel, and ride, you are seeking. Then again, it may be in a Brooks, New Balance, Adidas, HOKA, or Mizuno. Take the time to find the right shoe as it will become your training partner for the next 16-20 weeks as the temps drop and the daylight diminishes. Yes, winter is drawing nigh. Who’s excited?
Austin Bonds is a Guest Advocate and writer for Big Peach Running Co.
