Saucony Omni 23 Review

So, Saucony dropped a new shoe, the Saucony Omni 23 ST, and honestly, it kind of came out of nowhere. Most stability shoes these days are pretty much the same – firm, a bit clunky, and not exactly exciting. But this one? It’s different. They took the Omni, a shoe that’s usually pretty quiet in the Saucony lineup, and gave it a serious upgrade. It’s got this new bouncy foam and a stability system that actually feels… well, good. I’ve put about 70 miles on them, and I’m pretty impressed with how they’ve held up and how they feel on the run. It’s a stability shoe that doesn’t feel like a traditional stability shoe, which is a big deal.

Key Takeaways

• The Saucony Omni 23 ST is a surprising update, offering a bouncy and responsive ride thanks to its full-length PWRRUN PB midsole, which is a big change from previous EVA versions.
• Stability is present with a strong medial post and lateral extension, but it’s integrated smoothly and doesn’t feel overly intrusive, making it suitable for moderate support needs.
• The shoe feels lighter than its listed weight, providing a fun and energetic experience that’s rare for stability trainers, making it versatile for daily runs up to some uptempo efforts.
• Durability is a strong point, with minimal wear on the outsole and midsole after 70 miles, suggesting a long lifespan for the Saucony Omni 23 ST.
• While the upper offers a secure midfoot lockdown and a generally comfortable fit, some runners might experience heel slippage, and the forefoot has a slight taper.

Saucony Omni 23 ST: A Surprising Stability Evolution

First Impressions of the Omni 23 ST

Honestly, when I first heard about the Saucony Omni 23 ST, I wasn’t expecting much. The Omni line has always been a bit of a quiet achiever, reliable but not exactly setting the running world on fire. It felt like a shoe that just kept doing its thing, a steady companion for those who needed a bit of extra support.

But picking up the Omni 23 ST, something felt different. It was lighter than I remembered, and the initial feel was surprisingly plush. This shoe felt like a significant departure from its predecessors, hinting at a more dynamic experience. It’s rare for a long-standing stability shoe to feel this fresh right out of the box.

Key Updates from Previous Models

The biggest change in the Omni 23 ST is the move away from Saucony’s older EVA foams. Instead, we’re getting a full-length slab of PWRRUN PB. This is the same bouncy, responsive foam found in some of their faster shoes, and putting it into a stability trainer is a bold move.

Alongside this, the stability system has been revamped. While it still features a medial post, it’s now integrated with a wider platform and a TPU stability frame that extends further, even wrapping slightly to the lateral side. This combination aims to provide support without the harshness often associated with traditional stability measures. The weight has also seen a noticeable reduction, making it feel much more agile than previous Omni models.

The Unexpected Leap in Performance

After logging about 70 miles, I can confidently say the Omni 23 ST has made a significant leap. The PWRRUN PB midsole provides a truly enjoyable ride, it’s soft, it bounces back, and it makes running feel less like a chore. What’s remarkable is how Saucony managed to integrate this lively foam with a robust stability system.

The support feels present and effective, guiding the foot without being intrusive or clunky. It’s a delicate balance, but the Omni 23 ST nails it. This shoe proves that stability doesn’t have to mean sacrificing a fun, energetic feel. It’s a welcome surprise and a strong contender for one of the best stability shoes out there right now.

The shift to PWRRUN PB in a stability shoe like the Omni 23 ST is a game-changer. It demonstrates that the industry is moving towards more versatile stability options, blending cushioning and support in ways we haven’t seen before. This approach makes daily training more enjoyable and opens up possibilities for faster paces within a supportive shoe.

Midsole and Ride Experience

PWRRUN PB: A Bouncy and Responsive Midsole

The Saucony Omni 23 ST uses PWRRUN PB foam, which is a blend of expanded EVA and PEBA beads. This version feels a bit softer and lighter than previous models, offering a nice balance that isn’t too mushy or too firm. It’s a foam that gives back energy, making your runs feel more lively.

Compared to some other foams out there, like the denser Brooks Loft v3 or some of the softer New Balance Fresh Foams, the PWRRUN PB in the Omni 23 ST strikes a good middle ground. It’s not quite as quick as foams designed for pure speed, but for daily training, it’s a really pleasant and fun choice.

The Feel Underfoot: Softness Meets Stability

What’s really interesting about the Omni 23 ST is how it manages to be both soft and stable. The stack height is a reasonable 37mm in the heel and 27mm in the forefoot, with a 10mm drop. This isn’t as high as some other shoes on the market, which can sometimes make them feel stiffer.

The heel platform is quite broad, which helps spread out the impact when you land, especially with the soft foam. Even though the midfoot narrows a bit, the overall feel is one of comfortable cushioning that doesn’t feel unstable.

Transition and Pacing Versatility

This shoe handles transitions pretty well, even at different paces. The geometry, including a slightly less rubber in the midfoot compared to the previous model, allows for a smoother toe-off. It doesn’t feel clunky or forced. While it’s not a shoe built for breaking speed records, it can certainly pick up the pace when needed. It’s a shoe that feels good whether you’re out for a relaxed recovery jog or a steady-paced long run. The combination of the foam and the shoe’s design makes it adaptable to various running styles and speeds.

The way Saucony has blended a soft, energetic foam with robust stability features is quite impressive. It’s a tricky balance to strike, and they’ve managed to make it work well here, creating a shoe that feels protective without being overly rigid.

Stability Features and Integration

Understanding the Medial Post

The Saucony Omni 23 ST takes a different approach to stability compared to many shoes out there. Instead of relying solely on firmer foams or rigid structures, it incorporates a substantial TPU stability frame. This frame acts as a medial post, meaning it’s more prominent on the inside of your foot.

It extends from the heel through the midfoot and even wraps slightly to the lateral side. Visually, the size of this post might make you think it’s a motion control shoe, but don’t let that fool you. The overall ride is kept in check by the softness of the PWRRUN PB midsole.

How Softness Balances Stability

It’s a bit of a balancing act, really. Stability shoes often use firmer materials because they naturally resist excessive foot motion. Softer foams, on the other hand, tend to deform more easily.

The Omni 23 ST uses a very soft and bouncy PWRRUN PB foam throughout. To counteract the inherent flexibility of this soft foam, Saucony has beefed up the stability components.

The large medial post provides the necessary structure, guiding your foot forward without feeling overly intrusive. It’s a clever way to get that bouncy feel without sacrificing too much support, a concept that Carlos Sanchez noted in his review of Saucony shoes.

Moderate Stability for Daily Training

So, what does this all mean for your run? The Omni 23 ST offers what we’d call moderate stability. The prominent medial post is the main player, especially for those who tend to overpronate inward. However, the softer midsole and the geometry of the shoe mean it doesn’t feel like a rigid, clunky stability shoe.

It’s designed to be a comfortable daily trainer that provides reliable support, particularly in the heel and midfoot. While it’s great for everyday miles and even some quicker efforts, runners who need very aggressive forefoot stability might find it a bit lacking in that specific area. It’s a good option for a wide range of runners looking for a supportive yet surprisingly lively ride.

Upper Design and Fit

Engineered Mesh Construction

The Saucony Omni 23 ST sports an engineered mesh upper that feels pretty substantial. It’s not the super thin, airy stuff you find on racing flats, but rather a denser material that wraps the foot securely.

This construction gives a feeling of solid support, which is a nice complement to the shoe’s stability features. While it might not be the most breathable option out there, especially on really hot days, it does a decent job of keeping your feet comfortable during typical daily runs. It feels like a well-built upper, designed for the long haul rather than just a few quick sprints.

Heel and Midfoot Lockdown

Lockdown in the heel and midfoot is where the Omni 23 ST really shines. The heel counter is quite rigid, providing a firm base that keeps your heel from slipping. There’s a separate, padded collar piece around the Achilles tendon that holds things in place without being overly soft or intrusive.

This thoughtful design means your heel stays put, even when you’re picking up the pace or making quick turns. The midfoot also feels very secure, thanks to the dense mesh and a well-gusseted tongue that stays put. Lacing up feels straightforward, and once tied, you get a really locked-in sensation without any uncomfortable pressure points. It’s a fit that inspires confidence, letting you focus on your run.

Forefoot Fit Considerations

Moving to the front of the shoe, the forefoot offers a comfortable, if not overly spacious, fit. The engineered mesh here has just enough give to accommodate your foot without feeling sloppy. There are some overlays on the sides that help keep things structured, preventing excessive side-to-side movement.

While it’s not a wide-open toebox, it doesn’t feel cramped either. For runners with average or slightly narrower feet, this should feel just right. It’s a secure fit that prevents your foot from sliding around, even with the softer midsole cushioning underneath. It’s a good balance for a stability shoe that needs to feel controlled but still comfortable for longer efforts.

Durability and Outsole Performance

Traction on Various Surfaces

The Saucony Omni 23 ST offers pretty decent grip, whether you’re running on wet roads or dry ones. It feels solid enough for most everyday running conditions. However, with a good amount of exposed midsole and a smoother outsole pattern, sticking to pavement is probably your best bet. Trying to push it on anything more technical might be asking a bit too much.

Wear and Tear After 70 Miles

After putting about 70 miles on my pair, I’m genuinely impressed. There’s only a tiny bit of wear showing on the TPU stability frame, and barely anything noticeable elsewhere. This shoe is showing very little sign of aging, which is a great indicator for its lifespan. The midsole still feels just as bouncy as it did on day one, so it hasn’t lost any of its responsiveness.

Long-Term Durability Expectations

Based on how well the Omni 23 ST has held up so far, I’m expecting a lot of miles out of these. They seem to be built to last, likely outperforming many other trainers in terms of longevity. You should feel confident that this shoe can handle a significant amount of training without breaking down too quickly. It feels like a shoe that will stick with you for the long haul, which is always a plus when you’re investing in new running gear.

Who Should Consider the Saucony Omni 23 ST?

Ideal Runner Profile

So, who exactly is this Saucony Omni 23 ST for? If you’re someone who wants a stability shoe that doesn’t feel like a brick, you’re in luck. This shoe is a fantastic option for runners who need a bit of guidance but still want a lively, responsive ride.

Think easy runs, those long weekend efforts, and even some faster-paced workouts. It’s particularly good if you have slightly wider feet and don’t mind a forefoot that tapers a little. The stability is there, integrated nicely without being overly aggressive, making it a great choice for daily training.

Who Might Not Benefit

On the flip side, if you’re looking for a super firm, motion-control shoe with a really stiff forefoot and a snug, locked-down fit, this might not be your jam. The Omni 23 ST leans more towards a softer, more flexible feel. Runners who prefer a very traditional, rigid stability shoe might find this too forgiving. Also, if you have specific toe issues like hallux rigidus, the forefoot flexibility, while good for many, might not be ideal.

Value Proposition of the Omni 23 ST

This shoe really stands out because it manages to be both stable and fun. It’s not often you find a stability trainer that feels genuinely bouncy and light on its feet. The PWRRUN PB midsole provides that sought-after responsiveness, and the stability features are well-integrated, not intrusive.

Plus, after putting in about 70 miles, the durability looks really promising, with minimal wear on the outsole and midsole. It feels like a premium shoe, and for what it offers, a unique blend of comfort, responsiveness, and stability, the price point feels justified.

It’s a bit of a hidden gem in the stability shoe world, offering a really enjoyable ride that many other stability shoes just don’t match. If you’re looking for a bouncy and responsive stability trainer that can handle a variety of runs, the Omni 23 ST is definitely worth a look.

Final Thoughts on the Saucony Omni 23 ST

So, the Saucony Omni 23 ST. Honestly, it’s a bit of a surprise package. Saucony has kept this line pretty steady over the years, but this version? It feels different, and in a good way. It’s got this bouncy feel from the PWRRUN PB foam that you just don’t expect in a stability shoe, and it’s surprisingly light on the feet.

The stability is there, but it’s not in your face, which is nice. It handles easy miles and even some quicker stuff pretty well. The biggest win here is that it proves stability shoes don’t have to be clunky or boring. If you’re looking for something that offers support without feeling like a brick, the Omni 23 ST is definitely worth checking out. It might just be one of those hidden gems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Saucony Omni 23 ST different from older models?

The Omni 23 ST is a big upgrade! It uses a super bouncy foam called PWRRUN PB, which makes it feel much lighter and more fun to run in. It also has a special support system that helps your foot stay steady without feeling stiff.

Is this shoe good for running long distances?

Yes, it’s great for long runs! The soft and bouncy foam feels comfortable mile after mile. It provides good support, so your feet won’t feel tired as quickly.

Does the Omni 23 ST feel stable enough for someone who needs support?

Absolutely. It has a strong support feature built into the middle of the shoe, but it’s designed to work with the soft foam. This means you get stability without feeling like you’re running on a hard board. It’s a moderate level of support, perfect for daily training.

How does the shoe fit?

The shoe generally fits true to size. The middle part of the shoe feels a bit wider, which is nice for comfort. However, the very front part (the toe box) is a little narrower than some might expect.

Is the Saucony Omni 23 ST durable?

Yes, it seems very durable! After running about 70 miles, there’s hardly any sign of wear. The bouncy foam hasn’t lost its springiness either, so you can expect these shoes to last a long time.

Who would benefit most from wearing the Omni 23 ST?

This shoe is ideal for runners who want a stable shoe that’s also soft and bouncy. If you have slightly wider feet and like a shoe that feels energetic for daily runs or even faster paces, this could be a great choice. It’s especially good if you’ve been looking for a stability shoe that doesn’t feel heavy or clunky.