Saucony Paramount Max Review
- FORDY RUNS
- 4 hours ago
- 3 min read
The super trainer category has exploded over the last couple of years—but most shoes have followed a similar formula: high stack, some kind of plate, and a balance between speed and comfort. The Saucony Paramount Max takes a different route entirely. Set to launch in the UK on September 1st, this is Saucony’s boldest attempt yet to blur the line between race-day foam and everyday mileage—and in many ways, it succeeds.
Big, bold, and unapologetically cushioned
At first glance, the Paramount Max looks like a maximalist cruiser. And it is—but there’s more going on underfoot than just stack height. With 43mm in the heel and 37mm in the forefoot, this is a seriously tall shoe, built around a wide, stable platform. But the real story is the midsole.
Midsole & ride: IncrediRUN changes the game
This is the first non-racing shoe to feature Saucony’s IncrediRUN foam, the same supercritical TPEE compound found in its top-tier racing shoes.
The result? A ride that feels:
Exceptionally soft—but not mushy
Highly responsive without a plate
Distinctly “springy” compared to most daily trainers
It is very much a “trampoline-like” experience, where the foam compresses and rebounds in a way that feels lively rather than sluggish.
Importantly, Saucony has tuned the foam to be firmer than its race-day version for durability and stability, which keeps it usable across longer training blocks—not just short bursts.
No plate, no problem
Unlike many modern super trainers, the Paramount Max ditches the plate entirely.
Instead, stability comes from:
A broad base
Raised sidewalls that cradle the foot
A naturally guided geometry
This creates a ride that feels more natural than plated shoes, while still offering enough structure for long miles. The trade-off? It’s not designed for aggressive cornering or technical routes—but that’s not its purpose.
Upper & fit: comfortable, but not perfect
The engineered mesh upper delivers:
A secure heel lockdown
Decent midfoot hold
Slightly more room in the toe box than typical Saucony models
However, breathability is the main drawback, shoe can run noticeably warm over longer efforts, especially in hotter conditions.
Weight & feel on the run
This is not a lightweight shoe. At roughly 300g+ (men’s), it sits on the heavier end of the category. That weight translates differently depending on the runner:
Heavier runners will appreciate the protection and cushioning
Lighter runners may notice the bulk during longer efforts
Still, the energetic foam helps offset the weight, especially when picking up the pace slightly.
What it’s best for
The Paramount Max excels in one area above all:
Long, easy-to-steady miles
It’s ideal for:
Long runs
Recovery days
High-mileage training blocks
There’s enough responsiveness to handle progression runs or moderate uptempo efforts—but this is not a tempo or race shoe replacement. That said, for runners prioritising comfort and protection, it could even double as a marathon option.
The verdict
The Saucony Paramount Max isn’t just another super trainer—it’s one of the few that genuinely feels new. By combining race-day foam with a stable, plateless design, Saucony has created a shoe that:
Prioritises comfort without killing energy return
Delivers a unique underfoot feel
Excels at long-distance training
Pros
Outstanding cushioning with real bounce
Unique, lively ride feel
Stable for such a high stack
Excellent for long runs
Cons
Heavy compared to rivals
Breathability could be better
Premium price point