Saucony Tempus Review: Comfortable or Just Hype?

Finding the perfect stability running shoe can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Most stability shoes sacrifice comfort for support or speed for stability. Enter the Saucony Tempus – a revolutionary running shoe that challenges everything you thought you knew about stability footwear.

After extensive testing across various terrains and distances, we’ve discovered why running experts consistently rank the Tempus among the top stability shoes available today.

This comprehensive review will help you understand whether this $160 investment deserves a spot in your running rotation.

Key Takeaways

• Dual-density midsole technology combines responsive PWRRUN PB foam with supportive EVA framework for perfect balance
• Lightweight construction at just 8.9 oz (252g) makes it the lightest stability shoe in its category
• Versatile performance works equally well for daily training, tempo runs, and long-distance efforts
• Excellent breathability features highly ventilated upper perfect for warm weather running
• Wide platform design provides exceptional stability without feeling bulky or restrictive
• Smooth heel-to-toe transitions thanks to subtle rocker geometry and 8mm heel-to-toe drop

Revolutionary Midsole Design That Redefines Stability

The Saucony Tempus introduces a completely new approach to stability running shoes. Traditional stability shoes rely on dense medial posts or rigid support systems that can feel intrusive and unnatural. The Tempus takes a different path entirely.

The dual-layered midsole combines a core of responsive PWRRUN PB foam – the same material found in Saucony’s premium Endorphin series – wrapped in a supportive PWRRUN EVA frame. This design creates a unique riding experience where you get the bouncy, energetic feel of a performance foam while maintaining the stability needed for overpronators.

The EVA frame slopes downward under the midfoot, creating the forefoot base and providing torsional support. This prevents the cushioning bias that plagues many other stability shoes. The frame supports your foot without getting in the way of natural movement patterns.

What makes this design truly special is how it appeals to both neutral runners and those needing stability. The 36.5mm heel stack and 28.5mm forefoot stack provide substantial cushioning, while the wide platform creates inherent stability without relying on harsh corrective elements.

Performance Across All Paces and Distances

The Tempus truly lives up to its name, which means “time” in Latin. This shoe adapts seamlessly to different paces and running demands. Whether you’re grinding out easy miles at recovery pace or pushing through tempo intervals, the Tempus responds appropriately.

For daily training, the shoe provides excellent comfort and support for high-mileage weeks. The generous cushioning protects your legs during back-to-back training days, while the stable platform keeps your form consistent even when fatigue sets in.

For tempo runs, the responsive PWRRUN PB core comes alive, providing energy return that helps maintain faster paces. The relatively firm ride prevents energy loss through excessive compression, making each stride feel efficient and propulsive.

For long runs, the combination of cushioning and stability makes the Tempus an excellent choice for marathon training. The shoe maintains its supportive characteristics even as your form begins to deteriorate during the later miles of long efforts.

The inflexible forefoot creates a natural rocker effect that promotes quick transitions. This design helps you maintain efficient turnover at various paces without forcing a particular foot strike pattern.

Top 3 Alternatives for Saucony Tempus

Exceptional Upper Design and Breathability

The Tempus features one of the most breathable uppers in the stability category. The highly ventilated mesh construction includes generous perforations throughout the toe box and even ventilation ports in the tongue. This design excels in warm weather conditions, keeping your feet comfortable during summer training sessions.

The upper materials strike an excellent balance between support and flexibility. Synthetic overlays at the midfoot provide structure and lockdown without creating hot spots or pressure points. The adaptive lacing system works with these overlays to create a secure, customized fit that accommodates various foot shapes.

Fit characteristics include a true-to-size length with a comfortably roomy toe box that allows natural toe splay. The midfoot provides secure lockdown without feeling restrictive. Wide-foot runners will appreciate that Saucony offers the Tempus in 2E width options.

The heel counter provides adequate support without being overly rigid. The collar padding strikes the right balance – enough cushioning for comfort but not so much that it creates bulk or heat retention issues.

Weight and Efficiency That Surprises

At 8.9 ounces (252 grams) for a men’s size 9, the Tempus challenges preconceptions about stability shoes. Traditional stability trainers often weigh 10+ ounces due to their support systems and dense materials. The Tempus achieves its light weight through intelligent design rather than sacrificing durability or support.

This weight advantage becomes noticeable during longer runs and faster-paced efforts. The shoe never feels heavy or cumbersome, allowing you to maintain efficient turnover even during challenging workouts. The weight distribution feels balanced, preventing the front-heavy or rear-heavy sensations that can affect running mechanics.

The responsive characteristics of the PWRRUN PB foam contribute to the shoe’s efficiency. While not as bouncy as dedicated racing shoes, the Tempus provides enough energy return to make each stride feel lively and engaging.

Durability and Construction Quality

The Tempus demonstrates excellent build quality across all components. The EVA frame construction not only provides stability but also protects the softer PWRRUN PB core from premature wear and compression set. This dual-density approach actually extends the life of the cushioning system compared to single-foam designs.

Outsole durability stands out as particularly impressive. The rubber compound is harder than average, measuring significantly above typical running shoe standards in durometer testing. While this creates excellent wear resistance, it does result in slightly reduced wet weather traction compared to softer rubber compounds.

The full outsole coverage protects the midsole from abrasion and provides consistent grip across the entire platform. Strategic flex grooves maintain forefoot flexibility without compromising durability in high-wear areas.

Upper durability appears solid based on testing periods. The reinforced toe box and strategic overlay placement protect high-stress areas. The only potential concern involves the reflective strip over the toe box, which sits in a high-flex zone and could potentially experience edge lifting over time.

Stability Technology That Actually Works

Unlike traditional stability shoes that rely on dense medial posts, the Tempus uses a more sophisticated approach. The EVA frame wraps around the PWRRUN PB core, creating what Saucony calls a “cradle” system. This provides support from multiple directions rather than just pushing against overpronation from the medial side.

The wide forefoot platform measures over 4mm wider than average running shoes, creating inherent stability through increased ground contact area. This geometric stability works for all runners, not just overpronators.

Heel stability benefits from both the wide 94.5mm heel platform and the curved EVA frame design. The frame extends higher on the medial side, providing the support where overpronators need it most while maintaining balance through the transition.

The stability system never feels intrusive or corrective. Instead of fighting against natural foot motion, the Tempus guides and supports your foot through its natural movement pattern.

Comfort Features and Cushioning Quality

The PWRRUN PB core provides excellent shock absorption while maintaining responsiveness. Lab testing shows energy return percentages well above average for stability shoes – 66.9% in the heel and 70.9% in the forefoot. This combination of cushioning and energy return creates a comfortable yet lively ride experience.

Midsole softness measures at an optimal level – soft enough for all-day comfort but firm enough to prevent instability. The foam maintains its characteristics across temperature ranges, showing minimal hardening in cold conditions.

The removable EVA insole adds an extra layer of comfort over the textile lasting. While not as plush as premium foam footbeds found in some shoes, it provides adequate comfort and can be easily replaced with custom orthotics if needed.

Heel collar padding provides comfortable ankle support without excessive bulk. The materials feel soft against skin and show good moisture-wicking properties during extended wear.

Traction and Weather Performance

The Tempus performs well on dry surfaces, providing confident grip across various road surfaces. The hard rubber compound creates excellent durability and reliable traction on clean pavement and asphalt.

Wet weather performance represents the shoe’s main limitation. The hard rubber compound that provides excellent durability becomes less effective on wet surfaces. While not dangerously slippery, the Tempus requires more caution during rainy conditions compared to shoes with softer, more compliant rubber compounds.

The outsole pattern features strategic grooves and texture that help with straight-line traction. The design prioritizes durability and forward motion over aggressive lateral grip, which aligns with the shoe’s intended use for road running rather than trail or track activities.

Temperature Regulation and Seasonal Use

The Tempus excels as a warm weather running shoe. The highly ventilated upper provides exceptional airflow, keeping feet comfortable during hot summer training sessions. The breathability extends throughout the entire upper, not just the toe box area.

Cold weather performance remains solid thanks to the midsole’s temperature stability. The PWRRUN PB foam shows minimal stiffening in cold conditions, maintaining its cushioning and responsiveness across a wide temperature range.

The upper materials provide adequate protection from wind and light precipitation while maintaining breathability. However, the high ventilation makes the shoe less suitable for very cold or wet conditions where foot warmth becomes a priority.

Sizing and Fit Considerations

The Tempus runs slightly small according to extensive user feedback and testing. Most runners find success going up a half-size from their normal running shoe size. This sizing characteristic remains consistent across both men’s and women’s versions.

Width accommodation works well for average and wide feet. The roomy toe box allows natural toe splay, while the secure midfoot prevents slippage. Narrow-footed runners might find the toe box too spacious, though the secure lacing system helps compensate.

The heel fit provides good security without being overly tight. The internal heel counter and collar design work together to prevent heel slippage while allowing comfortable ankle movement.

Value Proposition and Price Analysis

At $160 retail price, the Tempus positions itself at the premium end of the stability shoe market. This pricing reflects the advanced materials and construction methods used in the shoe’s design.

Comparing value to alternatives shows the Tempus offers unique benefits that justify its price point. The combination of lightweight construction, premium foam technology, and versatile performance creates value for serious runners who can utilize all these features.

Cost per mile should prove favorable given the shoe’s excellent durability characteristics. The protective EVA frame and hard-wearing outsole suggest the Tempus will provide service well beyond 500 miles for most runners.

Comparison with Saucony Guide Series

The Saucony Guide 15 represents Saucony’s traditional approach to stability shoes. Compared to the Tempus, the Guide feels significantly firmer and more traditional. The Guide uses EVA foam throughout the midsole, creating a fundamentally different ride experience.

Stability characteristics differ substantially between the two shoes. The Guide relies on firmer materials and traditional medial posting, while the Tempus uses geometric stability and foam density variations. The Tempus feels more natural and less corrective.

Performance applications vary between the shoes. The Guide works better for runners who prefer traditional stability shoe feel and want maximum support. The Tempus appeals to runners seeking stability with performance characteristics similar to neutral trainers.

Long-Distance and Marathon Suitability

The Tempus proves excellent for marathon training and racing. The substantial cushioning stack provides protection during high-mileage training blocks, while the stability system maintains form integrity as fatigue accumulates.

Energy return characteristics help maintain pace during longer efforts. While not as aggressive as carbon-plated racing shoes, the PWRRUN PB foam provides enough spring to reduce perceived effort at marathon paces.

The wide platform design becomes particularly beneficial during the later stages of long runs when form begins to deteriorate. The inherent stability helps maintain efficient mechanics even when neuromuscular fatigue affects proprioception.

Speed Work and Tempo Capabilities

Despite being a stability shoe, the Tempus handles tempo runs and interval training exceptionally well. The responsive foam core and lightweight construction allow for comfortable pace changes without feeling sluggish or cumbersome.

Forefoot flexibility provides adequate toe-off characteristics for faster running while maintaining the support needed during high-intensity efforts. The inflexible design creates a natural rocker that actually helps with quick turnover.

The stable platform proves beneficial during track workouts and speed sessions where precise foot placement becomes important. The consistent feel helps maintain confidence during direction changes and pace variations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Saucony Tempus good for overpronators?

Yes, the Saucony Tempus provides excellent support for overpronators through its innovative EVA frame design and wide platform geometry. The stability system guides foot motion without feeling restrictive or corrective.

How does the Tempus compare to Nike stability shoes?

The Tempus offers a more responsive and lightweight experience compared to traditional Nike stability shoes. While Nike focuses on dense foam systems, the Tempus uses advanced dual-density technology for better performance characteristics.

Can neutral runners wear the Saucony Tempus?

Absolutely. The Tempus works well for neutral runners who want extra stability during longer runs or when fatigue affects their form. The non-intrusive stability system doesn’t interfere with natural foot motion.

What is the expected lifespan of the Tempus?

Based on construction quality and materials, the Tempus should provide 400-600 miles of service for most runners. The protective EVA frame and durable outsole contribute to extended shoe life.

Does the Tempus work for heavier runners?

Yes, the substantial cushioning stack and stable platform make the Tempus suitable for heavier runners. The supportive EVA frame provides additional structure that benefits runners who place higher loads on their footwear.

Last update on 2025-08-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API