Who should buy the Saucony Axon 2
Get the second version of the Saucony Axon if you're getting a:
- pocket-friendly running shoe that can cover short, easy, and fast days
- great-value option that offers a smooth ride and is ready to take a beating
Who should NOT buy it
If you're looking for the same pocket-friendly price but a more adept choice for long runs without the squeaky outsole, take the Saucony Clarion 2 or the Saucony Cohesion 14.
Saucony Axon 2 vs. 1
"Why fix something that's not broken?" is a principle taken to heart by the Axon 2. After garnering positive reviews for the first version of the Saucony Axon, Saucony kept changes in this model at a minimum by only revamping the upper.
This time around, it has a more precise fit for a slip-free ride.
Easy miles, easy ride
If there's a hybrid between the Saucony Kinvara 13 and the Saucony Endorphin Shift 2, that's the Axon 2. Meaning to say, it's very cushioned like the Kinvara and it rolls smoothly like the Endorphin Shift.
It's comfortable for short, easy to moderate days, and maintains efficient heel-to-toe transitions; it's easy to pick up the pace.
Anything but soft
Yes, it's comfortable for short miles and easy days, but the second iteration of the Saucony Axon is anything but plush. That's why for long miles and recovery days, experts find their feet feeling strained and beat-up.
The Saucony Axon 2 won't drag you down
It has plenty of cushion, and it's not the lightest on paper. However, when worn, road runners attest to its lightness, saying that it's lighter than it looks.
A certified bruiser
After 60 miles of rough wear testing, runners claim that they "barely put a dent" on the outsole. It's unscathed, plus the midsole is not bottoming out.
Moreover, the outsole sticks to the ground so well. This shoe has no issues on both damp and dry road surfaces. However, the tradeoff for this is the annoying, squeaky sound it produces.
The upper is a winner
It's soft and acclimates to the foot well. There are no reports of hot spots. The tongue and collar are also perfectly padded; the overall feel of the shoe is comfortable. Some even wear it sockless!
Even more, it provides a form-fitting wrap that prevents slips. And on moderately hot days, the upper remains breathable.
Value is an edge from the Axon 2
While other running shoes' prices continue to go up, the Saucony Axon 2's price tag remains affordable. On top of this, it performs just as well as its steeper-priced counterparts.
For reference, the Saucony Axon 2 only retails for $100 while the other daily trainers cost $118, on average.
