If your goal is easy miles with top underfoot protection, the Saucony Triumph 23 has probably caught your eye at some point.
This latest version of Saucony’s long-running daily trainer leans heavily into soft cushioning and a smooth ride that favors heel strikers and runners with larger builds.
But does it do enough to justify its $160 price tag—and how does it stack up against the Triumph 22?
Key specifications
- Price: $160 at saucony.com / Sportsshoes.com (For UK readers) - Available for purchase June 1.
- Weight: 10 oz / 283 g (Men’s US 9)
- Drop: 10mm (37mm heel / 27mm forefoot)
- Upper: Engineered mesh that's light and soft but not super breathable
- Midsole: PWRRUN PB foam with flared base for added stability
- Outsole: XT-900 rubber (with some exposed foam sections)
- Extra attributes: Articulated heel counter, padded tongue and collar, wide fit option available
Sizing and fit
The Triumph 23 fits true to size with a medium width, but it can comfortably accommodate higher volume feet.
There's also a wide version available if you think you need it.
The heel counter is flexible and articulated, which helps with comfort and ease of entry, especially around the Achilles.
Performance review
The Triumph 23 is built for comfort over speed, it shines as a daily trainer for slower-paced runs, especially if you're a heel striker or someone who prefers—or needs—a bit more cushioning and support underfoot.
The PWRRUN PB foam brings that springy-yet-soft underfoot feel.
It’s not overly plush, and that’s a good thing—it strikes a solid balance between comfort and support, especially for heavier runners who might struggle with overly soft midsoles causing instability.
While the 10mm drop clearly encourages a heel-strike landing, it does so in a way that feels forgiving rather than forced.
The flared midsole design helps here too—it gives you a wide landing platform and subtle stability, without veering into “stability shoe” territory.
It's not controlling your stride, just gently guiding it.
That said, lightweight or forefoot-striking runners will probably find the Triumph 23 too bulky.
For me personally, it feels a bit much for my usual daily training and progression runs—I tend to prefer something lighter with more ground feel and responsiveness.
Alastair Dixon
The engineered mesh upper is ok—it holds the foot securely and adapts well to shape, but breathability is limited, especially in hot and humid climates.
That said, the collar and tongue are beautifully cushioned, offering a secure and comfortable lockdown without any pressure hot spots.
The articulated heel counter helps a lot with comfort around the Achilles, and I really like how secure it feels without being stiff or restrictive.
The outsole offers decent traction with Saucony’s XT-900 rubber in the key zones, but there is more exposed midsole foam than in the Triumph 22.
That means you might see faster wear in high-abrasion areas depending on how and where you run. Tradeoff: slightly lighter shoe, but potentially less durability.
Is the new version better?
In most ways, yes. The Triumph 23 feels more refined. The heel counter redesign is a big improvement—it's more comfortable and provides better heel lock without pressure.
The fit and comfort around the ankle are also improved, and overall ride stability is better thanks to the midsole flare.
However, outsole durability takes a small hit compared to the Triumph 22 due to more exposed foam. So if you're looking to get the most miles out of your shoes, that’s something to keep in mind.
My verdict
For runners looking to log slow, easy miles in comfort, especially heavier runners or heel strikers, the Triumph 23 is a solid option.
It’s not flashy, and it’s not trying to be. What it delivers is consistent, cushioned comfort with just enough bounce to keep things feeling smooth and fluid.
Alastair Dixon
But it’s not for everyone. If you're a forefoot striker, a faster runner, or someone who likes more minimal/responsive, and lower drop shoes, this might not be your best match.
I’d steer you toward a tempo running shoe instead.
If you're after a plush but stable workhorse for recovery runs or long, easy days, the Triumph 23 is worth the $160 investment. Just don’t expect speed—or exceptional breathability.
You can pick up a pair at the following stores:
$160 at saucony.com / Sportsshoes.com (For UK readers) - Available for purchase June 1.
