Head-to-head · Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet

Saucony Guide 18 vs Saucony Tempus 2

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Saucony Tempus 2 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.4 vs 4.5). The gap is mostly about runners with narrow feet wanting energy return — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #5 in Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet

Saucony Guide 18

4.4

$140

The Saucony Guide 18 delivers dependable stability and pronation control, with Tom's Guide calling it a 'solid choice for stability seekers.' RunRepeat praised its exceptional upper breathability and cushioning for long runs, though noted the outsole design leaves too much foam exposed, potentially affecting durability. While reviewers appreciated the wide platform and secure lockdown, the midsole was described as firm and lacking in energy return compared to modern foams. This shoe is best suited for runners seeking a stable, supportive daily trainer at a reasonable price, but those looking for a more responsive ride may want to consider alternatives like the Brooks Glycerin GTS 21.

Strengths

— Ultra-breathable upper design improves comfort and ventilation
— Excellent pronation control and stable ride for overpronators
— Cushioned enough for long runs and comfortable for walking

Watch-outs

— Too much exposed foam on outsole raises durability concerns
— Midsole feels a bit firm and lacks energy return
— Outsole design doesn't provide sufficient rubber coverage for heavy strikers

$140 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet

Saucony Tempus 2

4.5

$159

The Saucony Tempus 2 maintains its position as one of the lightest stability shoes on the market, featuring the energetic PWRRUN PB foam that delivers strong energy return. Reviewers praised its stability and durability, with RunRepeat calling it a 'solid choice' for heel strikers seeking a responsive daily trainer. However, the shoe's snug fit, particularly in the forefoot, and lack of breathability were common complaints. DOCTORS OF RUNNING noted the tapered toe box could cause minor abrasion, and some users found the laces too short for a secure fit. This shoe is best suited for runners with narrow to standard feet who prioritize stability and energy return over cushioning and breathability.

Strengths

— Lightest superfoam stability shoe available
— Excellent energy return with PWRRUN PB foam
— Very stable ride with firm PWRRUN frame support

Watch-outs

— Poor breathability in upper mesh
— Slightly heavier than previous version
— Overly snug forefoot and narrow toe box

$159 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Saucony Guide 18

The Saucony Guide 18 provides better breathability than the New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 v14 and more pronation control than the Hoka Arahi 8, but it's less cushioned than the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 and lacks the energy return of the Saucony Hurricane 25. It's also less stable than the Hoka Gaviota 6.

Saucony Tempus 2

The Saucony Tempus 2 is lighter and more responsive than the ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 and offers better energy return than the Saucony Hurricane 25, but it's less stable than the Hoka Gaviota 6 and lacks the breathability of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 v14. It's also more restrictive than the Saucony Guide 18.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Saucony Guide 18	Saucony Tempus 2
Weight	273g (Men's)	9.3 oz
Stack Height	36.0 mm	38 mm
Drop	8mm	8 mm
Midsole	PWRRUN PB	PWRRUN PB
Stability	Guidance Rail	Neutral
Arch Support	Stability	Medium

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