Saucony Freedom 4

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Saucony Freedom 4: Review

β€œA stylish and responsive choice for daily runners and gym enthusiasts.”

Overview


The Saucony Freedom 4 is a versatile running shoe that caters to those who seek a balance between comfort and performance. With its sleek design and innovative features, it stands out in the Saucony lineup.

Key Features:

  • Midsole: Equipped with PWRRUN PB foam, the midsole offers a firm yet responsive ride, suitable for a variety of paces.
  • Upper: The engineered mesh upper, complemented by suede overlays, provides a comfortable and breathable fit, while also adding a touch of style.
  • Outsole: Durable rubber coverage ensures longevity and stability, making it a reliable choice for daily use.

The Saucony Freedom 4 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize a stable and responsive ride for daily running. Its firm cushioning offers benefits for both running and gym workouts, while the stylish design allows for casual all-day wear. Part of the Saucony Freedom family, this model continues the tradition of providing a dynamic running experience.

According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 71%. This puts it in the lowest rated 10% of comparable running shoes. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's in the cheapest 10% of running shoes.

Verdict

The consensus on the Saucony Freedom 4


The Saucony Freedom 4 delivers a firm and responsive ride that is best suited for short to mid-distance runs. Its PWRRUN PB midsole, while not as soft as some might expect from a 'super foam', provides a stable and natural feel that many runners appreciate. The shoe's upper is comfortable and stylish, making it a great option for those who value aesthetics alongside performance. However, the shoe's firmness and lack of a propulsion plate may limit its appeal to those seeking a plush or highly energetic ride for longer distances. For gym workouts and casual wear, the Freedom 4 excels with its breathable mesh and durable outsole. While it may not be the standout performer in any single category, it's a solid all-rounder that offers versatility and durability.

Updates to Saucony Freedom 4


The Saucony Freedom 4 introduces a new PWRRUN PB foam midsole, which is firmer and more responsive than the previous version's cushioning. This update contributes to the shoe's versatility, allowing it to perform well in both running and gym environments. The upper has also been redesigned with a sleeker look and added suede overlays, enhancing both style and durability. Compared to its predecessor, the Saucony Freedom 3, the Freedom 4 maintains the same 4mm drop but gains a slight increase in stack height, offering a bit more underfoot protection without compromising the shoe's lightweight feel.

Comparable Shoes


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The Saucony Freedom 4 and the New Balance Rebel v2 are both designed for daily running, but they offer different experiences. The Rebel v2 is lighter and more versatile, with a softer ride that some runners may prefer for longer distances. In contrast, the Freedom 4 provides a firmer, more stable feel that excels in gym workouts and casual wear.

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When comparing the Saucony Freedom 4 to the Hoka Mach 4, runners will notice that the Mach 4 offers a softer and more cushioned ride, which may be more comfortable for long-distance runs. The Freedom 4, on the other hand, stands out with its firm cushioning and stylish design, making it a better option for those who prioritize stability and aesthetics.

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The Saucony Endorphin Speed is a high-performance running shoe that features a nylon plate for added propulsion, making it a great choice for faster paces and race days. The Saucony Freedom 4, without a plate, offers a more stable and firm ride, suitable for daily training and gym sessions.

6 Saucony Freedom 4 Pros & Cons


3 Pros

The Saucony Freedom 4 offers a natural and stable ride, making it a reliable choice for daily runs.
The shoe's upper is supremely comfortable and well-ventilated, ensuring a pleasant experience during workouts.
Good outsole durability and visible reflective elements make the Freedom 4 a practical and safe option for runners.

3 Cons

Some runners may find the level of cushioning too low for their preferences, especially for longer distances.
The ride can feel stiff, which might not be suitable for those looking for a bouncy or plush feel.
Heel slippage has been noted by some users, which could affect the overall fit and comfort.

In Depth


Upper

The Saucony Freedom 4's upper is a blend of engineered mesh and suede overlays, striking a balance between breathability and style. The mesh ensures a well-ventilated experience, making it suitable for runs in various climates. The inclusion of suede adds a touch of sophistication, allowing the shoe to transition smoothly from running paths to casual settings. Reflective elements on the rear enhance visibility during low-light conditions, adding a layer of safety for runners.

Midsole

At the heart of the Saucony Freedom 4 is the PWRRUN PB foam midsole. This material is known for its firmness, which contributes to the shoe's stability and responsiveness. While it may not provide the plush sensation associated with some other foams, it does offer a consistent and reliable ride. Runners looking for a shoe that feels quick and agile without excessive softness will find the midsole to be a strong feature of the Freedom 4.

Outsole

The outsole of the Saucony Freedom 4 is designed with durability in mind. The rubber coverage is extensive, suggesting that the shoe can withstand high mileage without significant wear. This makes the Freedom 4 a practical choice for runners who value longevity in their footwear. The flat design of the outsole may not provide aggressive traction, but it is adequate for road running and dry conditions.

Size/fit

The Saucony Freedom 4 fits true to size, offering a snug and secure feel in the midfoot while providing ample space in the toe box. The gusseted tongue contributes to the midfoot lockdown, preventing any unwanted movement during runs. Some runners may find the heel fit to be slightly loose, but this can be mitigated with proper lacing techniques.

Comfort

Comfort is a standout feature of the Saucony Freedom 4. The shoe's upper materials and construction create a cozy environment for the foot, suitable for extended periods of wear. Whether you're running, walking, or standing, the Freedom 4 maintains a high level of comfort throughout.

Cushioning

The cushioning of the Saucony Freedom 4 is firm, providing a stable platform for various activities. While it may not be the softest option on the market, the cushioning is sufficient for daily runs and gym workouts. The shoe's low stack height contributes to a grounded feel, which some runners prefer for a more connected experience with the road.

Breathability

The engineered mesh upper of the Saucony Freedom 4 ensures that the shoe remains breathable, even on warmer days. This feature is essential for maintaining comfort and preventing overheating during runs.

Stability

Stability is a key aspect of the Saucony Freedom 4's design. The firm midsole and low-to-the-ground profile provide a secure and planted feel, which is beneficial for runners who value a stable ride. The shoe's wide base further enhances this sense of stability, making it a reliable choice for a variety of workouts.

Durability

The Saucony Freedom 4 is built to last, with a robust outsole and reinforced upper materials. The suede overlays not only add style but also contribute to the shoe's overall durability, ensuring that it can handle the rigors of regular use.

Grip

While the Saucony Freedom 4 may not have the most aggressive outsole, the grip is sufficient for road running and dry conditions. The rubber coverage provides a reliable contact with the ground, offering confidence during runs.

Who should buy the Saucony Freedom 4?


The Saucony Freedom 4 is well-suited for runners who seek a shoe that can handle both their running and gym needs. Its firm ride and responsive cushioning make it ideal for those who enjoy a stable and connected ground feel. The stylish design also appeals to runners who want a shoe that looks good during casual wear. If you're in the market for a durable, versatile shoe that can transition from workouts to everyday life, the Freedom 4 is a strong contender.

Who should not buy the Saucony Freedom 4?


Runners who prefer a plush, highly cushioned ride may want to look elsewhere, as the Saucony Freedom 4 offers a firmer experience. Those seeking a shoe with a propulsion plate for an extra energy return during long runs might also be disappointed. If you're after a shoe specifically designed for wet or technical terrain, the Freedom 4's grip may not meet your needs.

Saucony Freedom 4: What's it good for?


The Saucony Freedom 4 is good for short to mid-distance road running, providing a firm and responsive ride. It's also suitable for gym workouts and casual wear, thanks to its durable construction and stylish design. The shoe's breathability and comfort make it a solid choice for everyday training.

4 Saucony Freedom 4 FAQs


Is the Saucony Freedom 4 suitable for long-distance running?

The Saucony Freedom 4 is best suited for short to mid-distance runs due to its firm cushioning. For longer distances, runners may prefer a shoe with softer cushioning and more energy return.

Can the Saucony Freedom 4 be used for gym workouts?

Yes, the Saucony Freedom 4's stable and responsive cushioning makes it an excellent choice for gym workouts, providing a secure platform for a variety of exercises.

How does the Saucony Freedom 4 perform in wet conditions?

The Saucony Freedom 4 offers adequate grip for dry conditions, but its traction may not be optimal for wet or slippery surfaces.

What type of arch support does the Saucony Freedom 4 provide?

The Saucony Freedom 4 is designed for runners with a neutral arch, offering a balanced level of support without specific features for overpronation or underpronation.

Saucony Freedom 4 alternatives

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Saucony Freedom 4
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Saucony Freedom 4
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released
Released
Mar 2021
May 2021Aug 2022Feb 2018
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Kaci LickteigJim Walmsley
Weight
Weight
M: 269 g
W: 241 g
261 g
M: 269 g
W: 227 g
M: 278 g
W: 244 g
M: 232 g
W: 190 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
24 mm
21 mm
21 mm
19 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
4 mm
5 mm
M: 8 mm
W: 10 mm
8 mm
5 mm
Heel
Heel
28 mm
26 mm
29 mm
24 mm
Usages
Usages
Daily running
CompetitionDaily runningRacingSpeed trainingDaily runningRacingSpeed trainingDaily runningDaily runningDaily runningSpeed training
Brand
Brand
Saucony
OnASICSASICSBrooksHoka
Strike Type
Strike Type
Fore/Midfoot strike
Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strike
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
Lightweight
LightweightComfortableLightweight
Lightweight
Removable insole
Removable insole
Breathable
Breathable
Rocker
Rocker
Techs
Techs
OrthoLite
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Vegan β“‹
Vegan β“‹
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Saucony Freedom 4: what the experts say (2 reviews)

Saucony Freedom 4: 2 Expert video reviews

Saucony Freedom 4 characteristics and specifications

Specificationsvs Average
Model
4
Released
Mar 2021
Measurements
Weight
M: 269 g
W: 241 g
Heel to toe drop
4 mm
Heel
28 mm
Forefoot
24 mm

Evolution of the Saucony Freedom product family

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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October 17, 2024 at 9:55 AM
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πŸ“Š Stats by geerly πŸ‘Ÿ πŸ•’ Official time: 00:22:45 | Course PB 🚨 🏁 Overall position: 35/549 🚹 Gender position: 21/299 🎯 Age grade: 61%