The Saucony Tempus 2 is that rare stability running shoe that actually feels quick. It’s a daily trainer built for comfort on easy days and capable of turning up the pace when you’re ready to push harder. Designed for runners who need extra support but don’t want to sacrifice speed, it offers a lively, responsive ride that feels just as good on slow recovery runs as it does during uptempo workouts or long-distance races. Think of it as a stability shoe that refuses to feel boring.
Unlike most traditional support shoes, the Tempus 2 blends plenty of stability with surprising agility. It doesn’t rely on a carbon plate to deliver speed—just Saucony’s well-tuned geometry, dual-foam setup, and a smooth rocker that helps you roll effortlessly through each stride. The 8 mm heel-to-toe drop (up from 6 mm in the previous model) gives you a bit more lift and smoother transitions, while the new engineered mesh upper feels more breathable and refined. It’s slightly less roomy than before, but still comfortable enough for long wear, whether you’re logging miles or just staying on your feet all day.
You’ll also appreciate the small but meaningful improvements: better outsole grip in high-wear areas, a more stable midsole platform, and a much lighter feel than most stability trainers. The result is a shoe that’s stable, responsive, and well-cushioned—perfect for overpronators who want comfort, performance, and value in one versatile package. In this review, we’ll break down how the Tempus 2 balances comfort, speed, and support to become one of Saucony’s best stability trainers yet.
Table of Contents
- Key Specs at a Glance
- Fit, Upper & Comfort
- Ride & Cushioning
- Stability & Support
- Outsole & Traction
- Durability & Value
- Pros & Cons
- Who Should Buy the Saucony Tempus 2
- Final Verdict
- Saucony Tempus 2 FAQs
Key Specs at a Glance
- Heel-to-toe drop: 8 mm (2 mm more than the previous model’s 6 mm drop)
- Weight: 8.2oz (233g) women, 9.4oz (269g) men
- Stack height: 33/25 mm
- Midsole foam: PWRRUN PB + PWRRUN
- Price: $170.00
Fit, Upper & Comfort
The Saucony Tempus 2 fits true to size and feels secure right out of the box. It has a medium-width platform, making it ideal for runners with narrow to medium feet. Those with wide feet, however, might find it a bit snug—especially since there’s no wide option available. Compared to the previous model, the Tempus 2 definitely feels more fitted and performance-oriented, trading some of that roominess for a sleeker, more locked-in feel.
The engineered mesh upper gives this shoe its personality. It’s snug, flexible, and supportive—very much like what you’d expect from a lightweight performance trainer. The upper wraps around the foot nicely and stretches just enough to adapt to your natural shape, helping the shoe disappear on your foot once you’re moving. It’s breathable enough for most weather conditions, though you’ll notice it can run a bit warm in hot, humid climates, especially during uptempo runs. On the flip side, that extra warmth actually makes it feel cozy in cooler weather, so it’s a great year-round trainer if you live somewhere with mild seasons.
Slipping the shoe on is surprisingly easy thanks to the stretch in the upper, and while it uses a standard lacing system, it almost feels like it could benefit from a quick-lace setup—especially since it’s so effortless to wear. The heel counter is firm but padded, giving you that reassuring stability and lockdown that prevents slippage or rubbing, even on longer runs or walks. It’s stiff enough to hold your heel in place but not so rigid that it feels intrusive.
Overall, the Tempus 2’s fit strikes a fine balance between comfort and performance precision. It’s snug without being restrictive, supportive without feeling bulky, and breathable enough for most training days. Runners who like a secure midfoot hold and a dialed-in fit will find this update a step up in refinement, even if it comes at the expense of some extra toe room.
Ride & Cushioning
The Saucony Tempus 2 offers one of the most balanced and enjoyable rides in the stability category, thanks to its clever dual-foam setup. On top, you get a generous layer of PWRRUN PB, Saucony’s energetic superfoam—the same material found in its top-tier racing shoes. It feels soft and plush underfoot, absorbing impact beautifully while delivering a snappy toe-off that keeps your stride lively. There’s a real sense of energy return here; each step feels light and fluid, not mushy or sluggish like in many traditional stability shoes.
Beneath that sits a layer of PWRRUN foam, which acts as a supportive frame for both stability and durability. This combination works brilliantly—the PWRRUN PB provides cushioning and bounce, while the PWRRUN frame keeps your foot centered and steady. The shoe’s asymmetrical design enhances that effect, giving subtle medial support that guides your stride naturally without the harsh correction or stiffness you’d find in older stability models. From the moment you slip it on, the shoe seems to center your foot automatically, creating a stable platform that feels intuitive and effortless.
Even though its 33/25 mm stack height doesn’t technically classify it as a max-cushioned shoe, it certainly feels well-cushioned underfoot. The cushioning is consistent from heel to toe, making easy runs smooth and comfortable. But where the Tempus 2 really comes alive is at faster paces—that’s when you feel the real bounce and propulsion of the PWRRUN PB foam kick in. It rewards a quicker cadence, feels light on transitions, and offers enough responsiveness to handle tempo runs, workouts, or even long-distance racing.
Stability & Support
One of the most impressive things about the Saucony Tempus 2 is how it manages to feel lightweight yet incredibly stable. In fact, it’s 34 grams lighter than the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 and 11 grams lighter than the Hoka Arahi 8, which is remarkable for a shoe that offers this level of support. You’ll immediately notice how nimble it feels compared to most stability models—it delivers structured guidance without the bulky, restrictive sensation that often comes with shoes in this category.
The Tempus 2’s subtle stability system makes it stand out. Instead of using a firm medial post or stiff midsole walls, it relies on its PWRRUN frame to create natural support that guides your stride without forcing it. This approach keeps the shoe feeling smooth and balanced, letting you run (or walk) in your natural motion path. It’s ideal for runners with mild to moderate overpronation who want dependable control without sacrificing comfort or responsiveness.
The result is a shoe that feels stable, responsive, and nicely cushioned—a rare mix that makes it suitable for a wide range of runners. It’s light enough for tempo days yet steady enough for long runs or all-day wear. Simply put, the Saucony Tempus 2 delivers the kind of stability that works quietly in the background, giving you confidence mile after mile without weighing you down.
Outsole & Traction
The outsole of the Saucony Tempus 2 keeps things simple but effective—just the way a reliable daily trainer should. There’s generous rubber coverage in the high-wear zones, giving the shoe excellent grip and durability without adding unnecessary weight. The tread design provides confident traction on both dry and wet pavement, so you can trust your footing even when the roads get slick. The rubber compound helps the transitions feel smooth and natural while still maintaining solid road contact.
In terms of longevity, you can expect about 300–500 miles of use before noticeable wear sets in, depending on your running style and surfaces. The outsole not only enhances durability but also complements the shoe’s stable ride—it grounds the lively midsole foam nicely, adding a sense of control without dulling the energy return. Whether you’re walking, running easy miles, or tackling tempo sessions, the Tempus 2’s outsole delivers dependable traction, balanced flexibility, and smooth ride transitions that make every step feel secure and confident.
Durability & Value
The Saucony Tempus 2 is built to last—and it shows. This shoe can easily log hundreds of miles without showing major signs of wear, which is impressive given its lightweight build. The combination of durable outsole rubber and resilient midsole foams (PWRRUN PB and PWRRUN) means it holds its structure and cushioning far longer than many daily trainers. Even after extended use, the ride stays smooth, the foam keeps its bounce, and the support remains consistent. It’s one of those shoes that feels just as good on mile 200 as it did on mile 20.
At $170, it’s definitely priced on the higher end of the stability category, but the value more than matches the cost. You’re getting a premium build, race-worthy responsiveness, and stability that doesn’t weigh you down—all in one package. Compared to heavier or more traditional support shoes, the Tempus 2 feels faster, more comfortable, and more durable over time. For runners who want one shoe that can handle daily training, long runs, and even uptempo sessions, the Saucony Tempus 2 offers excellent long-term value that justifies every dollar.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Soft and responsive cushioning from the dual-foam setup (PWRRUN PB + PWRRUN frame) | Medium-width fit may feel snug for runners with wide feet (and there’s no wide option) |
| Lightweight for a stability shoe — 34 g lighter than the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 and 11 g lighter than the Hoka Arahi 8 | Upper can run warm during hot weather or long uptempo sessions |
| Stable, smooth ride with natural medial support that doesn’t feel rigid or over corrective | Premium price ($170) — more expensive than many stability trainers |
| Comfortable for both slow and fast runs, offering soft landings and snappy toe-offs | Not as plush as max-cushioned shoes, so forefoot strikers might want more softness |
| Breathable engineered mesh upper with a secure, adaptive fit | |
| Good grip and traction from well-placed outsole rubber, even on wet pavement | |
| Very durable construction that can handle hundreds of miles without major wear | |
| Excellent versatility and value — works for daily training, tempo runs, and long runs |
Who Should Buy the Saucony Tempus 2
Who Should Buy It
- Runners with mild to moderate overpronation who want a stability shoe that doesn’t feel heavy or restrictive. The Tempus 2 offers just the right amount of guidance to keep your stride aligned without overcorrecting your motion.
- Runners who want versatility — it’s a rare stability shoe that performs just as well on slow, easy runs as it does on tempo workouts or long-distance efforts.
- Those who prefer lightweight stability — it’s noticeably lighter than most support shoes (34 g lighter than the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 and 11 g lighter than the Hoka Arahi 8), making it feel quick and agile.
- Runners who value cushioning and responsiveness — the dual-foam setup (PWRRUN PB + PWRRUN frame) provides soft landings, snappy toe-offs, and lasting comfort for both short and long runs.
- Daily trainers looking for long-lasting durability and comfort, capable of handling high mileage with consistent support and smooth transitions.
Who Shouldn’t Buy It
- Runners with wide feet — the fit is medium-width with a snug toe box and no wide option available, which may feel tight or restrictive for broader feet.
- Runners seeking ultra-plush cushioning — while comfortable, the Tempus 2 isn’t as soft or squishy as some max-cushion shoes.
- Neutral runners who don’t need any stability features — the built-in support might feel unnecessary or slightly intrusive if your gait is naturally balanced.
- Budget-conscious buyers — at $170, it’s on the premium side, though the comfort and performance justify the price for most.
Final Verdict
The Saucony Tempus 2 is one of the few stability shoes that manages to feel fast, fun, and incredibly well-balanced. Its dual-foam setup—PWRRUN PB for softness and bounce paired with a PWRRUN frame for structure and stability—creates a ride that’s smooth, energetic, and supportive without ever feeling rigid. It’s stable enough for overpronators yet light and responsive enough for tempo runs, long-distance efforts, or even daily training. The result is a shoe that performs well across a wide range of paces and distances while maintaining consistent comfort.
Fit-wise, it’s best suited for runners with narrow to medium-width feet, as the toe box feels snug but more comfortable compared to the first version and there’s no wide option available. The upper is breathable and performance-oriented but can run warm in hot weather. Still, the overall build feels premium, secure, and comfortable once you’re locked in.
At $170, it’s pricier than many stability trainers, but the value is excellent considering how well it blends support, durability, and versatility. If you’re a runner with mild to moderate overpronation looking for a stability shoe that feels lightweight, responsive, and ready for speed, the Saucony Tempus 2 is an outstanding pick. It’s not the plushest or widest option out there—but for comfort, performance, and stability in one sleek package, it’s hard to beat.
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Saucony Tempus 2 FAQs
If you’re thinking about picking up the Saucony Tempus 2, here are some of the most common questions runners ask before deciding if it’s the right fit.
Is the Saucony Tempus 2 good for daily training?
Yes. It’s designed as a lightweight stability daily trainer that can handle everything from easy miles to faster workouts. The PWRRUN PB + PWRRUN frame combo gives it both comfort and energy for everyday runs.
Is the Saucony Tempus 2 good for overpronators?
Absolutely. It’s ideal for mild to moderate overpronators, offering structured stability without the stiff, intrusive feel of traditional support shoes.
How does it compare to the original Saucony Tempus?
The Tempus 2 has a slightly higher 8 mm drop (up from 6 mm), a tighter fit, and improved breathability and grip. It feels more performance-oriented, though the previous model feels slightly roomier overall.
Can I use the Saucony Tempus 2 for walking or standing all day?
Yes. Its dual-foam midsole provides excellent cushioning and stability, making it a great option for long hours on your feet. It’s supportive yet soft enough to keep fatigue away.
How much does the Saucony Tempus 2 weigh?
It’s impressively light for a stability shoe—around 34 grams lighter than the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 and 11 grams lighter than the Hoka Arahi 8—making it one of the most agile support trainers on the market.
What’s the expected durability of the Tempus 2?
You can expect 300–500 miles of use depending on running style and surface. The outsole rubber holds up well, and the midsole foam maintains its bounce longer than most daily trainers.
Is the Saucony Tempus 2 worth the $170 price?
For its mix of lightweight stability, responsive cushioning, and durability, yes—it offers excellent value. It’s more expensive than some rivals, but few stability shoes deliver this level of comfort and performance.
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