Introducing a new method of control to stability-type shoes, the Saucony Tempus features a combination of foams and contoured midsole sections to create a smooth riding control shoe.
The cushioning uses both the brand’s PWRRUN PB foam, found on the faster models such as the Endorphin Speed and Endorphin Pro as well as the more traditional PWRRUN foam from models such as the Ride.
The more traditional PWRRUN creates a contoured cradle around the more responsive PWRRUN PB. Together they help guide and control the foot through the gait cycle as well as providing a good level of energy return.
Saucony Tempus – First Impression
For a stability shoe, it’s pretty light. Not much heavier than many carbon-plated racers or performance shoes, the Saucony Tempus is quite a departure from most support category models.
The light weight comes from the use of the PWRRUN PB foam. Used in key areas of the shoe it helps to drastically reduce the overall weight.
When pulling the shoe on the support is noticeable as is the springy nature of the PWRRUN PB. Remember, this foam has previously only been used in performance shoes, so it’s somewhat of a treat to discover it in an everyday trainer.
The fit is true-to-size and in this model, the upper feels a little roomier in the toe box becoming slimmer around the midfoot.
Saucony Tempus – The Tech
The full-length core of PWRRUN PB cushioning provides a soft, springy ride with a nice level of energy return. To have this utilized in an everyday trainer makes a big difference when it comes to the ride.
A contoured PWRRUN frame is what helps get the most from the PWRRUN PB. Providing a stable structure to encase the springy foam, the frame keeps the foot stable without feeling intrusive.
Saucony’s FORMFIT upper holds the foot well, and here uses midfoot straps incorporated into the upper and lacing system to hold the foot securely in place.
XT-900 outsole is used on the outsole. This is the brand’s hard-wearing and abrasion-resistant rubber. It provides good coverage in areas of contact and friction.
Saucony Tempus – Road Test
Using this category of shoe for my everyday training, I had no hesitation in pulling them on and heading straight out of the door. I’ve also worn the Guide 15 from Saucony as well as the Endorphin Speed and Pro 3 in the last 12 months. I know the brand and their shoes usually work well for me.
The Tempus blends the best of both worlds, the support and control of the Guide, and the responsive feel of the Speed.
Support is right up there with the best in the category, performing as well in terms of control as models like the New Balance 860 and Mizuno Wave Inspire.
Where it differs slightly is that its support feels a little more subtle, akin to say the Brooks Adrenaline GTS.
The Tempus provides very effective control yet is not at all intrusive. I think this is down to the perfect balance of the two midsole foams.
The contrast between the PWRRUN PB and regular PWRRUN isn’t too great, but rather just enough to make a difference to over-pronators.
A steady midweek run felt great, the standout feature being the energy return feel of the shoe. This was followed the next day by a run with a few miles in the middle at marathon pace. Again, the Tempus felt great and comfortable enough that I was already considering my new daily trainer.
The shoe has seen plenty of happy miles since and durability has been great considering the number of miles covered. So much so that I still have the shoe in the cupboard, albeit rather dirty now, so I can reach for them just to change things up on a midweek run.
Saucony Tempus – Conclusion
The Tempus is a great shoe. Yes, it’s at the top end of the price scale for daily trainers, but it sits between regular training shoes and performance models.
For those requiring support in a shoe they’d like to go quicker in, it’s a no-brainer. It ticks plenty of boxes and has proven to be durable.
It’s a daily trainer capable of handling any pace, even fast intervals. It’s a great supportive shoe for over-pronators, and it could also be an out-and-out speed shoe perhaps for the heavier runner.
