Summary

We spent 6.8 hours reading reviews from experts and users. In summary, this is what trackers think:

5 reasons to buy

  • Many of the runners claim that the Saucony Showdown 4 has improved their speed.
  • A lot of athletes appreciate the rigidity of the shoe.
  • It has a great fit, according to several users.
  • Some reviewers claim that it is very comfortable. 
  • The stability provided by the shoe is lauded by quite a few people. 

2 reasons not to buy

  • Several are disappointed with the shoe’s massive weight. 
  • Some customers state that the shoe easily wore out. 

Bottom line

The Saucony Showdown 4 is best for neutral runners looking for a barefoot feel when running. A track and field shoe intended for optimal performance, the Showdown 4 gives runners speed and comfort at a reasonable cost. Achieving such a feat has been through the coordination of the lightweight and aggressive technical features of the shoe. 

For more, check our guide to the best track & field shoes

Facts

Rankings

A top rated tracking shoe

Reviews from around the internet

User reviews:

SportsShoes, REI and 19 other shops don't have user reviews

Use - The technical features of the Saucony Showdown 4 yield optimal performance in sprints and short-distance races that range from 100 meters to 400 meters. With its functional elements, support and speed are prioritized. 

Spike Type - This running shoe from Saucony employs 10 pyramid spikes that are ¼-inch in diameter. These spikes are ideal for utilization on rubber surfaces, providing optimal grip and traction. 

Spike Plate - The Pebax® plate of the Showdown 4 exhibits flexibility and lightness while providing durability to the overall construction of the shoe. Additionally, it offers superior grip and traction on varied surfaces. 

  • Enhancing the structural integrity of this fourth version to the Saucony Showdown series are the Flex Film overlays welded to the upper. These embellishments are one of the noticeable updates to the shoe. 
  • Since the series’ signature is the support it supplies, the Showdown 4 maintains some of its predecessor’s features. This includes the ISOFIT system that gives it security and comfort. 
  • For superior traction and prevention of any slippage during competitions, it still incorporates the same 10-pin Pebax® plate design. 

Designed for lockdown and supportive fit, the Saucony Showdown 4 is wrapped with Saucony’s revolutionary ISOFIT system. The open mesh upper, meanwhile, gives it a breathable fit. 

The Showdown 4 is available in standard sizing scheme for both male and female users. However, it is advised that one should go through various user feedback or try on the fit of the shoe first before proceeding to purchase. This is to secure the proper size and fit of the shoe. 

XT LITE is a carbon rubber sole integrated into the composition of the Saucony Showdown 4. It is utilized in the heel in order to provide a lightweight yet durable traction. 

Implemented in the forefoot of the shoe is a Pebax® plate. It is a stiff polymer plate that employs minimal weight. It is also recognized for its flexible properties that allow unrestricted foot movements from runners. Lastly, it presents a superior grip and traction on varied surfaces.

One notable element from Saucony Showdown 4 is its ISOFIT system that consists of a stretchable mesh. It conforms to the natural contours of the foot and its shape, thus promoting a stabilizing support to the foot. Not only that, but it also mimics the natural movement of the foot, allowing unrestricted movement. 

Offering the same breathable fit with Nike Zoom Mamba 5, this fourth version to the Showdown series consists of open mesh. It covers the upper of the shoe, employing minimal weight to adhere to the shoe’s lightweight construction. 

Made of thin film, the Flex Film overlays of the ShFlex Film overlays are made of a thin layer of film welded to the upper for a snug, secure fit. 

Author
Jens