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I’ll admit, when I think about stability shoes, fast is typically one of the last descriptors that comes to mind…well, at least until I ran in the Saucony Tempus 2. Not only does this update from Saucony bring moderate stability and plush cushioning to the table, it’s also sneaky fast.
I haven’t always enjoyed running in stability shoes but I have to admit, my time in the Tempus 2 was an absolute delight. The support, cushioning, and snappy feel helped the miles go by quickly.
I logged around 60 miles in the Saucony Tempus 2. This mileage included a half marathon, speedwork sessions on both a track and treadmill, and a few long runs in the 10-12 mile range.
I’m always honest in my reviews and hope they help you find the running shoe that’s right for you!
The Saucony Tempus 2 is a versatile stability training shoe that can be either a daily workhorse or fast race day option.
Who Is It Good For?
Who is the Saucony Tempus 2 Good For? Let’s break it down with some common categories:
- Wide Feet: The narrow midfoot and lack of wide option make this one a no go.
- Heavier Runners: The combination of stability and cushioning make this a great option.
- Long Runs: You betcha! This shoe is great for longer efforts. I wore it for a half marathon and enjoyed every step!
- Front of the Pack: The is going to be a hit with our middle of the pack friends looking for the trifecta of speed, stability, and cushion
While it’s not as light as what we call out in our best lightweight shoes, it’s pretty darn good for anything with stability.
Saucony Tempus 2 Overview
My first run in the Saucony Tempus 2 was a half marathon and the initial thought I had after a few strides was how light the shoe was! From past experience, stability shoes tend to be on the heavy/clunky side of the spectrum but the Tempus 2 weighs in at just 9.4 oz (Men) and 8.2 oz (Women). Look at Saucony just swatting away my pre-dispositions of stability shoes!
Speaking of stability, I usually run in neutral shoes and was apprehensive to run in trainers with more support. I was pleasantly surprised with the subtle support in the Tempus 2.
It’s also one of the few stability shoes to feature a superfoam, (PWRRUN PB) so the ride is remarkably cushioned. And the Tempus 2’s natural rocker shape helps propel you forward, particularly when you’re running harder efforts.
This is the area where the shoe really shines. It is FAST.
This shoe performs adequately at relaxed paces but truly comes alive during uptempo efforts. The midsole is bouncy and responsive, and my legs felt fresh during the final miles of a half marathon as well as multiple long runs. Saucony brought the goods with the Tempus 2.
It’s a well-rounded stability trainer suitable for both uptempo training and longer races (half-marathon and marathon).
I haven’t run in the first version of the Tempus but the main upgrade in the Tempus 2 is the newly-engineered mesh upper. It’s breathable and lightweight. Safe to say if you liked the original Tempus, you should run it back with the new model.
Tempus 2 Specifications
This might go to the top of our list for best stability running shoes when folks are looking for some speed, except for the pesky narrow fit that won’t work for everyone.
- Heel Toe Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 9.4 oz (Men), 8.2 oz (Women)
- Stack Height: 33mm
- Usage: Daily trainer/Race day
- Not available in wide
- Available in 5 different colorways
- Available at Saucony.com for $160
Saucony Tempus 2 Fit
The fit of the Tempus 2 is exceptional. The mesh upper gives you just the right amount of support without being too stiff or restricting. The tongue is made from the same breathable mesh and provides additional midfoot support. Plus it stays in place throughout your run. I mean, no one wants to repeatedly fiddle with the tongue of the shoe, right?
The midfoot is a little narrower, which works great for my skinny feet, but if yours are a bit wider, the Tempus 2 might not be for your jam.
Also, the toe box is a bit snug, so while the shoe runs true to size, you might want to consider bumping up half a size, especially if you’re planning to rock the Tempus 2 on race day.
One little quirk about the Tempus 2 is that the laces are a bit…short. I didn’t experience any issues with them coming untied per se – but it’s worth calling out, especially if you like to do a heel lock lacing style.
Saucony Tempus 2 Feel
Talking about the feel of the Saucony Tempus 2? Honestly, it gets me in my feels.
This shoe feels incredibly light underfoot, kinda like you’re barely wearing anything at all, but it doesn’t sacrifice any support in the process. The secret sauce of the Tempus 2 is the combo of Saucony’s PWRRUN PB Superfoam and adaptive stability.
The superfoam delivers energy return you can actually feel—it’s responsive and bouncy, giving you that spring in your step, especially when you pick up the pace.
What’s really impressive is how the PWRRUN supportive frame helps guide your foot forward smoothly, without any of the jarring or stiff impacts you sometimes get with other stability shoes. It feels like a natural extension of your foot, and that’s exactly what you want in a shoe that balances speed, cushioning, and stability.
This shoe shines brightest when you push into speedier efforts, staying responsive and efficient without losing any of its plush cushioning. While it’s supportive and fast, it doesn’t lose integrity over long runs—holding up from start to finish. The Saucony Tempus 2 is an exceptional running shoe that offers stability, comfort, and all the speed for both daily training and races alike!
Similar Shoes to Saucony Tempus 2
What’s currently out there to rival this massive cushioned shoe? We’ve tested a few that feel similar, but different based on the brand fit:
And that’s our full deep dive Saucony Tempus 2 review!
As always, we’d love to hear from you. Drop a comment below. It all helps fellow runners who are deciding what shoe to try next.
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