The Saucony Tempus and Guide are two popular running shoes designed for different needs. Both feature PWRRUN technology but cater to unique preferences, making this comparison essential for runners seeking the best fit.
Overview of Saucony Tempus and Guide
The Saucony Tempus and Guide are two distinct running shoes designed to meet different runner needs. The Tempus features a lightweight, dynamic design with PWRRUN PB superfoam, offering responsive cushioning for everyday runs and tempo workouts. In contrast, the Guide is a stability-focused shoe with PWRRUN technology, providing support for runners who need pronation control. Both shoes emphasize comfort and performance but cater to different preferences: the Tempus for speed and versatility, and the Guide for stability and support. This overview highlights their unique designs and technologies, setting the stage for a detailed comparison.
Importance of Choosing the Right Running Shoe
Choosing the right running shoe is crucial for performance, comfort, and injury prevention. With options like the Saucony Tempus and Guide, understanding their differences helps runners select a shoe that aligns with their needs. The Tempus excels in lightweight responsiveness, ideal for tempo runs and everyday training, while the Guide offers stability and support for runners who need pronation control. Both shoes prioritize cushioning and durability, but their unique designs cater to different preferences. Selecting the right shoe ensures optimal performance, reduces injury risk, and enhances overall running satisfaction, making this comparison essential for runners seeking the best fit for their goals.
Objective of the Comparison
The objective of this comparison is to provide a detailed analysis of the Saucony Tempus and Guide, highlighting their key features, technologies, and benefits. By examining their differences in cushioning, stability, weight, and performance, runners can make informed decisions based on their specific needs. This comparison aims to help runners understand which shoe is best suited for their running style, whether they prioritize speed, comfort, or support. By breaking down the unique aspects of each model, this guide ensures runners can choose the perfect shoe to enhance their training and performance, addressing both everyday runs and specialized workouts.

Saucony Tempus
The Saucony Tempus is a lightweight, responsive shoe featuring PWRRUN PB superfoam for dynamic cushioning. Designed for everyday runs and long-distance training, it offers a balance of comfort and performance.
Key Features of the Saucony Tempus
The Saucony Tempus is built with PWRRUN PB superfoam, offering lightweight and responsive cushioning. It features a breathable upper for comfort and a 8mm heel-to-toe offset for a natural running experience. Designed for versatility, the Tempus combines stability with a dynamic feel, making it suitable for both everyday runs and tempo workouts. Its engineered stability ensures support without sacrificing flexibility, while the PEBA midsole provides a peppy and energetic ride. These features make the Tempus a great option for runners seeking a balance of performance and comfort in a lightweight package.
Technology Used in the Saucony Tempus

The Saucony Tempus utilizes cutting-edge PWRRUN PB superfoam, a lightweight and responsive midsole material that delivers exceptional cushioning and energy return. It also features a PEBA midsole, known for its peppy feel and durability. The shoe incorporates CenterPath Technology, which enhances stability and guidance during runs. Additionally, the Tempus includes an engineered stability system that provides subtle support without feeling rigid. These technologies work together to create a smooth, dynamic, and comfortable running experience, making the Tempus ideal for runners who prioritize both performance and versatility in their training.
Benefits of the Saucony Tempus
The Saucony Tempus offers exceptional lightweight cushioning and responsiveness, making it ideal for both everyday runs and long-distance training. Its PWRRUN PB superfoam provides excellent energy return, ensuring a springy feel with every stride. The shoe excels in comfort and versatility, catering to runners who seek a balance between performance and durability. It is particularly well-suited for tempo runs due to its dynamic ride and smooth transitions. Additionally, the Tempus delivers subtle stability, making it a great option for runners with mild pronation control needs. Its blend of performance and comfort makes it a standout choice for various training demands.
Who is the Saucony Tempus Best For?
The Saucony Tempus is ideal for runners seeking a lightweight and responsive shoe for tempo runs and long-distance training. It suits runners who prefer a dynamic ride with excellent energy return. The Tempus is also a great choice for those who need mild pronation control but still want a versatile shoe for everyday runs. Its comfort-first design makes it suitable for runners prioritizing performance without sacrificing durability. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a recreational runner, the Tempus delivers a smooth and adaptive experience, catering to a wide range of training needs and preferences.
Saucony Guide
The Saucony Guide is a stability-focused running shoe designed for runners needing support and comfort. It features CenterPath Technology for a smooth ride and is ideal for long-distance training and everyday runs.
Key Features of the Saucony Guide
The Saucony Guide is a stability-focused running shoe designed for runners needing support and comfort. It features CenterPath Technology for a smooth ride and is ideal for long-distance training and everyday runs. The shoe uses PWRRUN foam in the midsole for responsive cushioning and support, while the engineered mesh upper provides breathability and a secure fit. The Guide also includes a stability frame to help with pronation control and an IBR rubber outsole for durable traction. These features make it a great choice for runners seeking a balanced blend of stability, cushioning, and flexibility.
Technology Used in the Saucony Guide
The Saucony Guide incorporates CenterPath Technology, which enhances stability and provides a smooth transition during runs. It features PWRRUN foam in the midsole for responsive cushioning and energy return. The shoe also utilizes an engineered mesh upper for breathability and a secure fit. Additionally, the Guide includes IBR rubber in the outsole for durable traction and flexibility. These technologies work together to deliver a balanced blend of stability, cushioning, and performance, making the Guide a reliable choice for runners seeking support without sacrificing comfort or responsiveness.
Benefits of the Saucony Guide
The Saucony Guide offers excellent stability for runners with mild to moderate pronation, providing smooth transitions and consistent support. Its cushioned ride ensures comfort during long runs, while the responsive midsole delivers energy return for a peppy feel. The shoe’s durable construction and breathable upper make it suitable for everyday training and high-mileage workouts. Runners appreciate its balanced blend of support and flexibility, making it ideal for those seeking a reliable, versatile shoe that performs well on various surfaces and running conditions.
Who is the Saucony Guide Best For?
The Saucony Guide is ideal for runners seeking stability and support without sacrificing comfort. It’s perfect for those with mild to moderate pronation who need consistent guidance during runs. The shoe is also great for everyday training and high-mileage workouts, offering a smooth ride and durable performance. Runners who prioritize support but still want a flexible feel will appreciate the Guide’s balanced design. It’s an excellent choice for runners transitioning from neutral shoes to a supportive option or for those who need reliable stability for long-distance runs.
Comparison of Saucony Tempus vs Guide
The Saucony Tempus and Guide differ in focus: Tempus excels in lightweight responsiveness for speed, while Guide prioritizes stability and support for controlled runs, catering to distinct runner needs.
Cushioning and Comfort
The Saucony Tempus offers lightweight responsiveness with its PWRRUN PB superfoam, providing a plush yet springy feel for dynamic runs. In contrast, the Guide features a dual-density PWRRUN midsole for enhanced stability and cushioning, making it ideal for runners needing support. While the Tempus excels in delivering a smooth, energetic ride, the Guide prioritizes comfort and protection over longer distances. Both shoes balance cushioning with performance, but the Tempus leans toward speed, and the Guide focuses on support and durability, catering to different runner preferences and needs.
Stability and Support

The Saucony Guide excels in stability and support, featuring a dual-density PWRRUN midsole and CenterPath Technology for enhanced pronation control. It’s designed for runners needing moderate to high support, offering a stable platform for longer runs. The Tempus, while lighter, provides adequate support through its PWRRUN PB superfoam, catering to runners with mild pronation or those seeking a more natural ride. The Guide’s stability features make it ideal for runners with flat feet or those who need extra support, while the Tempus is better suited for runners prioritizing responsiveness over heavy-duty stability.
Weight and Responsiveness
The Saucony Tempus is notably lighter than the Guide, offering a more responsive feel during runs. Its PEBA midsole provides a springy, dynamic ride, making it ideal for runners seeking quick turnover and energy return. The Guide, while still lightweight, prioritizes stability over pure responsiveness, with a slightly heavier build to accommodate its support features. The Tempus’s PWRRUN PB superfoam delivers a lively, engaging experience, while the Guide’s dual-density midsole balances cushioning and support. For runners prioritizing speed and agility, the Tempus shines, whereas the Guide offers a more stable, durable ride for training.
Ride and Performance
The Saucony Tempus delivers a lively, responsive ride with its PWRRUN PB superfoam, making it ideal for tempo runs and long-distance efforts. Its dynamic feel encourages quick turnover and energy return. In contrast, the Guide offers a smoother, more stable ride, thanks to its dual-density midsole and CenterPath technology, which enhances support and reduces excessive movement. While the Tempus excels in speed and agility, the Guide provides a balanced, cushioned experience for everyday training and runners needing mild stability. Both shoes cater to different running styles, ensuring optimal performance based on individual preferences and running goals.

Runner Preferences and Running Activities
This section explores how the Saucony Tempus and Guide cater to different runner preferences and activities, helping runners choose the best shoe for their specific needs.
Best for Tempo Runs
The Saucony Tempus excels for tempo runs due to its lightweight design and responsive cushioning, providing a dynamic feel that enhances speed and efficiency. Its PWRRUN PB superfoam delivers a snappy ride, making it ideal for faster-paced workouts. In contrast, the Guide, while stable, feels heavier and less agile, making it less suitable for tempo runs. Runners seeking a shoe for interval training or race-day performance will find the Tempus more responsive and better-suited for these high-intensity efforts, while the Guide is better reserved for steady-state runs or long-distance training where stability is prioritized over speed.
Best for Long-Distance Training
The Saucony Guide is better suited for long-distance training due to its superior cushioning and stability. With a 35mm heel and 27mm forefoot stack height, it offers a plush ride that absorbs impact over miles. The Guide’s stability features, like the CenterPath Technology, help maintain alignment during extended runs, reducing fatigue. While the Tempus is lightweight and responsive, its cushioning is less generous, making it less ideal for long distances. For runners prioritizing comfort and support during endurance training, the Guide is the clear choice, providing the necessary protection and stability to handle high mileage effectively.

Best for Everyday Runs
The Saucony Tempus excels for everyday runs due to its lightweight design and responsive cushioning. Its PWRRUN PB superfoam provides a springy feel, making it ideal for consistent training. The shoe’s balanced comfort and energy return ensure a smooth experience for daily miles. While the Guide offers stability, the Tempus’s versatility and lower weight make it more appealing for casual runners. For runners seeking a shoe that combines comfort, responsiveness, and durability for regular use, the Tempus is a standout choice, delivering a reliable performance day after day without unnecessary bulk or complexity.
Fit and Comfort
Both shoes offer a comfortable fit, with the Tempus featuring a snug, adaptive upper and the Guide providing a secure, supportive design for various foot shapes and running styles.
Upper Materials and Fit
The Saucony Tempus features a lightweight, breathable engineered mesh upper, providing a snug and adaptive fit for various foot shapes. Its design emphasizes comfort and flexibility, making it ideal for runners seeking a natural feel. The Saucony Guide, on the other hand, offers a more supportive upper with a focus on stability, utilizing ISOFit technology to create a secure and customizable fit. Both shoes prioritize comfort, but the Guide’s upper is slightly more structured to accommodate runners who need additional support. The Tempus leans toward a racing-inspired fit, while the Guide balances support and comfort for everyday training.
Heel-to-Toe Offset
The Saucony Tempus features a lower heel-to-toe offset of 4mm, promoting a more natural running experience and encouraging a midfoot or forefoot strike. This design is ideal for runners seeking a responsive and efficient ride. In contrast, the Saucony Guide offers an 8mm offset, providing a more traditional and cushioned feel. The higher offset in the Guide is better suited for runners who need additional support and a smoother heel-to-toe transition, especially during longer runs or for those with pronation concerns. Both offsets cater to different running styles, making each shoe versatile for its intended purpose.
Width Options
The Saucony Tempus and Guide both offer standard and wide width options to accommodate various foot shapes. The Tempus features a snug, performance-oriented fit, while the Guide provides a slightly roomier toe box for added comfort. Both models cater to runners with wider feet, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. The Tempus is ideal for those seeking a responsive feel, whereas the Guide’s wider option is better for runners needing extra space. This versatility makes both shoes inclusive for different foot types, enhancing overall running comfort and performance.

Durability and Build Quality
The Saucony Tempus and Guide feature durable materials, with the Tempus using lightweight PWRRUN PB superfoam and the Guide offering a redesigned upper for enhanced longevity and performance.
Outsole Durability
The Saucony Tempus features a durable rubber outsole designed for traction and longevity, suitable for various running surfaces. The Guide 15 also boasts a resilient rubber outsole with deeper grooves for enhanced flexibility and grip. Both shoes are built to withstand regular use, but the Tempus is slightly lighter, making it ideal for runners prioritizing speed. The Guide 15, with its more robust design, offers superior durability for high-mileage training. Both outsoles are crafted to deliver consistent performance over time, catering to different runner preferences and activities.
Midsole Longevity
The Saucony Tempus and Guide 15 feature midsoles designed for durability and performance. The Tempus uses PWRRUN PB, a lightweight, responsive superfoam that retains its cushioning over time. The Guide 15 employs a dual-density PWRRUN midsole, offering stability and longevity for high-mileage training. Both midsoles are built to withstand repetitive impact, but the Guide 15’s denser construction provides slightly better long-term support. Runners report consistent performance from both shoes after hundreds of miles, with minimal midsole compression. The Tempus excels in maintaining its bounce, while the Guide 15 ensures sustained stability, making both excellent choices for runners seeking durable midsoles.
Upper Material Quality

The Saucony Tempus and Guide feature high-quality upper materials designed for comfort and durability. The Tempus uses a lightweight, breathable mesh upper that provides a snug fit and excellent flexibility. The Guide employs an engineered mesh upper with added support features, ensuring a secure and stable fit. Both uppers are durable, with reinforced stitching and materials that withstand regular use. Runners report minimal wear and tear over time, with both shoes maintaining their shape and comfort. The Tempus excels in breathability, while the Guide offers slightly more structure, making both excellent choices for runners prioritizing upper material quality and longevity.

User Reviews and Expert Opinions
Runners praise the Saucony Tempus for its lightweight feel and dynamic performance, while experts highlight the Guide’s superior stability and support. Both shoes receive high marks for comfort and durability.
Positive Feedback on the Saucony Tempus
Runners praise the Saucony Tempus for its lightweight, responsive feel and excellent cushioning. The PWRRUN PB midsole is highlighted for its energy return and comfort during long runs. Many appreciate its versatility, excelling in both tempo runs and everyday training. The breathable upper and snug fit also receive positive mentions, ensuring a secure and comfortable ride. Experts note its dynamic performance, making it a top choice for runners seeking a balance of speed and support without sacrificing comfort.
Positive Feedback on the Saucony Guide
The Saucony Guide has received praise for its exceptional stability and cushioning, making it ideal for runners who need support without sacrificing comfort. The redesigned CenterPath technology is often highlighted for its smooth transition and enhanced guidance. Many runners appreciate the ISOFit upper for its secure, adaptable fit, while the PWRRUN midsole provides a responsive yet cushioned ride. Experts and users alike commend the Guide for its ability to balance stability and flexibility, making it a reliable choice for long-distance training and everyday runs. Its durability and consistent performance have solidified its reputation as a top pick for runners seeking structured support.
Common Criticisms and Drawbacks
Both the Saucony Tempus and Guide have faced some criticism. The Tempus is noted for its limited stability for severe pronation and a slightly snug fit in the toe box. The Guide, while improved, has been criticized for its cushioning not living up to expectations for some runners. Additionally, the ISOFit upper in the Guide can feel restrictive for those with wider feet. Both models are also on the pricier side, and some users find the color options limited. Despite their strengths, these drawbacks highlight areas where runners with specific needs may find better alternatives in the market.
Conclusion
The Saucony Tempus and Guide cater to different runner needs, with the Tempus excelling in speed and the Guide offering stability. Both are high-quality options tailored to specific preferences.

Final Thoughts on Saucony Tempus vs Guide
The Saucony Tempus and Guide are both excellent choices, but they serve different purposes. The Tempus shines with its lightweight design and responsive cushioning, making it ideal for tempo runs and runners seeking a dynamic feel. On the other hand, the Guide offers superior stability and support, catering to those who need mild to moderate pronation control. Both shoes feature PWRRUN technology, ensuring high performance and durability. Ultimately, the decision between the two depends on individual running needs and preferences, whether prioritizing speed or stability.
Recommendation Based on Running Needs
For runners prioritizing stability and support, the Saucony Guide is the better choice, offering excellent pronation control and a smooth ride. Its CenterPath technology ensures a balanced stride, making it ideal for long-distance training or everyday runs. Conversely, the Saucony Tempus is perfect for those seeking a lightweight, responsive shoe for tempo runs or faster workouts. Its PWRRUN PB midsole delivers a dynamic feel, appealing to runners who value speed and agility. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether stability or responsiveness is more critical to your running goals.