Image credit: Saucony/Canva/Women’s Running

Max-cushioned running shoes are all the rage these days among runners who prefer a comfortable landing and a squishier sole. Particularly for long runs or recovery runs, having a pair in your running shoe rotation is a good idea. This latest Saucony running shoe, out 1st September, follows the trend, but with a super-wide base and bold design that instantly caught my attention. Let’s see how it compares to the best running shoes out there…

Image credit: Saucony

Saucony Paramount Max technical details

• RRP: £200
• Weight: 250g
• Drop: 6mm
• Stack height: 43mm/37mm
• Special features: IncrediRUN foam

Who is this shoe for?

If you’re a fan of a max-cushioned shoe and are in need of something for easy runs, this shoe is worth a try. If you struggle with impact-related injuries then they’d work very well, as the wider base and chunky sole absorb shock brilliantly. The design really stands out from other shoes in my collection, so if that’s important to you and you like a bold look then you’ll be a fan.

How does this shoe fit?

The Paramount Max feels roomy in the toe box with a comfortably snug upper and a secure fit around the heel. As a runner with wide feet and a high arch, it was an excellent fit for me. As always with running shoes, I sized up slightly for the perfect fit.

Is this shoe comfortable?

Absolutely – comfort is the aim of the game, and the Paramount Max definitely delivers. The wider base gives an added element of stability to the chunky sole that you don’t usually get with a max-cushioned shoe. It really allows you to feel the benefits of the foam without any wobbles. It’s not the most breathable shoe – all of that chunk did cause my feet to overheat a bit – but overall it’s ideal for those seeking a soft landing for long miles.

Saucony Paramount Max running review

I’ve had a mixed experience running in the Paramount Max overall. There are elements I’ve loved, but some I’ve found trickier to get on board with.

Starting with the positives, I was truly blown away by how comfortable they felt as soon as I put them on. Heavier runners, those with a higher ground contact time or runners struggling impact issues could really benefit from this shoe, as it’s so absorbent and squishy, with just enough bounce to deliver decent energy return. I was also a big fan of the design, which could be quite polarising – it certainly makes a statement, but it was one I was happy to wear proudly! I thought it was innovative and cool, and I’ll be wearing these for recovery walks or long days on my feet.

I wasn’t such a fan of how clunky they felt, though. As previously mentioned, the added bulk means they’re not as light or well-ventilated as other running shoes. They’re around 50g heavier than my usual running shoes, which doesn’t sound like much, but was noticeable on the run. I was also a bit unimpressed by the energy return. Saucony promise bounce with these shoes, but I’m yet to have found it. I felt like I was trudging in them a bit – not the worst if you’re aiming for easy pace, but still not a great feeling.

I also found the wide base a little cumbersome; it provided a stability that I didn’t really need. A great option for overpronators, but without the versatility of something like the Saucony Guide 19, which I prefer.

I’ll be reserving them for walking as they felt a little too heavy and restrictive to run in, but that’s not to say they won’t be for you – try before you buy, and they could be your next favourite shoe. They certainly don’t shy away from making a statement.

The Saucony Paramount Max will be available from 1st September.