Been a big Saucony fan for many years. But last year’s pair seemed to wear out more quickly than I think they should have. I’ve been in Saucony Rides for years and years.
My friends at the local running store suggest Hoka Conquest 2 as an alternative. I’m reticent to make what appears to be a dramatic switch especially looking at the profile of the Hokas.
Anyone else scared off by the size and height of Hokas? Seems like a big change to me but if anyone knows it’s the running store guys I suppose.
I could always just get this year’s version of the Ride. Any thoughts and thanks in advance.
pscapp 
I used the Saucony Rides for about 3 years. Switched about 18 months ago to the Adidas Boost and then made the transition recently the Hoka Cliftons. I LOVE the cliftons. Cushy (not squishy, there’s a difference) but I can still feel the road.
Thanks. How is the arch support?
I have high arches, and in the Cliftons I found the sock liner to slip around, so I use my sock liner from another pair of running shoes that I’ve retired. The Cliftons ran really large (I’m usually a 9, but in the Cliftons I was an 8), but it’s a roomy shoe in the toe box (at least for me). I’m a neutral runner, and these really suit my feet. I think I’ve been won over. I do alternate with some other shoes (just to give each pair a longer life), and I’ve noticed my feet are happier when I get back to my Cliftons. I use them on all my long runs.
Happy feet are important. Thanks.
The jury is still out on the Hokas but I’m starting to like them with two exceptions. First, they have the world’s worst laces. Second, I find that when I’m not on the roads and a nice flat even surface that I am in danger of turning my ankle on any number of hidden and shallow gopher holes. There is no give in the sole to adapt to uneven ground. I may buy a pair of Saucony’s just for grass running. I will probably run the 26 in Philly in the Hokas. But in the Hokas defense I am finally 6 feet tall when I wear them so there is that. Have a great Sunday.
Hello! I work at an outdoor store that sells Hokas, with a sales lead who is highly knowledgeable, is a runner and who likes them. As you likely know, Hokas have a huge following, especially among older or injury-prone runners who need the cushion. They typically have a 4-6 mm drop — about midway between a minimalist and conventional shoe; the fact that the toe is not that much lower than the heel may not be immediately apparent because of the build-up over the length of the outsole. I’ve not yet found a model wide enough in the toebox to accommodate my bunions, but if I do, I will give them a try. Oh, not sure on how arch support would compare with Sauconys.
I love my Hoka Cliftons and had no difficulty switching to them from my other running shoes which were much more minimal.
Thanks for the info.