Saucony Switchback ISO

“Life is better in running shoes.”

Since my running journey began, one of the things I’ve been told repeatedly is to make sure I’m wearing the right shoes.  My shoe needs have changed since I started running—I began in a stability shoe with a high heel-to-toe drop and now find the most comfortable shoe for me to be a neutral shoe with a  zero heel-to-toe drop.  I recognize that the type of shoe that works best for me can change over time so in the past few months, I’ve been trying out various styles to see if there is a shoe that will work better for me. 

One shoe that I’ve tried and liked is the Saucony Freedom ISO 2 so when I heard they had a new trail shoe coming out that some compared to the Freedom, I was excited to try it. 

This is how Saucony describes the shoe on their website--

“For the Switchback ISO, we partnered with BOA Technology®, creators of The BOA System, to take their dial lacing system and combine it with our ISOFIT construction, creating a game-changing fit experience that quickly and easily hugs your foot. The low profile, full-length EVERUN contoured midsole of this trail running shoe gives amazing flexibility and energy return while cradling and protecting your foot. The dual-density PWRTRAC outsole combines a firmer center footprint with a softer, tackier perimeter for traction, allowing you to conquer all obstacles in your path.”

Their description is pretty spot on, but here’s a breakdown of what I like about the shoe and what I think could make the shoe better. 

Things I totally dig about the Switchback are:

Lightweight

When I put this shoe on, one of the first things I noticed was how light it felt.   According to their website, it weighs 8.8oz.  When I’m going on shorter runs or when my legs feel tired, I definitely want a lightweight shoe.

Lacing System

I will admit that I was a little apprehensive about the BOA lacing system.  My foot is on the narrow side and I was concerned that I wouldn’t be able to get the laces tight enough in the center of my foot when I needed it.  I was wrong!   I was able to get the snug fit that I like and I never felt like it became loose during my runs.  And with the BOA system, you don’t have to worry about your laces coming untied.

Sole Grip

Not all trail shoes are created equal and having a good grip on the bottom is important to me.  With a better grip, I feel more secure during my runs and it allows me to focus on other things such as form or pace without worrying about slipping.  And full disclosure—I don’t just wear my trail shoes on the trails.  I run in beach community where my runs are a combination of road, beach trails and sandy sea walls.  This shoe transitioned well to all surfaces.

The Fit

I got the Switchback in my regular size and it was the perfect fit.  It has a wider toe-box which I prefer, while still fitting how it should in the back of the shoe.  It has a contoured footbed which hugged my feet in all the right places. I’m a big believer that you shouldn’t have to break shoes in and these felt good from the get go. 

Now the things I'm not quite digging about the Switchback:

Lightweight

Yes, I know I said I loved that element.  But I also didn’t love it.  The Switchback is definitely a minimalist shoe and when I took it to more technical trails, my feet could feel everything beneath me.   If you like a minimalist shoe, you will love these.  I have sensitive feet so I know these won’t be my go-to shoes for trails that are more technical and rocky.  Perhaps a rock guard would help with this and maybe that's something they could add to future models. 

Gaiters?

I like run trails with gaiters to keep the dirt and rocks inside my shoes to a minimum.  With the lacing system on these shoes, I’m not quite sure how I would get my gaiters to stay on.  I didn’t actually try it, so I am sure that there is some way for it to be done, but there is not a front loop on the shoe that makes it obvious. 

Overall, I like the Switchbacks. A lot.  They were super comfy when I ran smooth dirt trails and were perfect for my beachy runs.  I can’t wait to explore and get some miles on them!

What’s your go to trail shoe?

Until next time, happy running!

Jenn13.1