Saucony Axon 3

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94%
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Saucony Axon 3: Review

β€œA versatile and value-packed shoe for daily training.”

Overview


The Saucony Axon 3 is a running shoe that stands out for its exceptional value and versatility. Part of the Saucony Axon family, this model is designed with daily training and comfort in mind, making it a solid choice for a wide range of runners.

Key Features:

  • Engineered mesh upper: Offers a breathable and comfortable fit, suitable for various foot shapes.
  • PWRRUN midsole: Provides a cushioned (soft and supportive) and responsive (quickly returns to its original shape after being compressed) ride, ideal for both short and long runs.
  • Updated outsole: Features a thicker carbon rubber material for improved grip (traction) and durability (long-lasting wear), especially on wet surfaces.

The Saucony Axon 3 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize a shoe that delivers both performance and value. Its updated features offer a comfortable and secure fit, making it suitable for a range of running activities.

According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 94%. This puts it in the highest rated 10% of comparable running shoes. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's in the cheapest 30% of running shoes.

Verdict

The consensus on the Saucony Axon 3


The Saucony Axon 3 has received praise for its balance of cushioning, responsiveness, and durability. Runners appreciate the shoe's ability to handle various types of runs, from short sprints to longer distances. The updated outsole with thicker carbon rubber has been noted for its improved grip, particularly on wet surfaces, addressing a previous concern with the Axon 2. While the shoe's upper may feel warm during hotter runs, the overall comfort and fit have been well-received. The consensus is that the Axon 3 offers excellent value for money, making it a strong contender against more expensive models. Overall, the Saucony Axon 3 is recommended for its impressive performance as a daily trainer at a competitive price point.

Updates to Saucony Axon 3


The Saucony Axon 3 maintains the core features of its predecessor, the Saucony Axon 2, while introducing a thicker outsole for improved grip and durability. The midsole cushioning remains highly praised, and the shoe's weight has been slightly reduced, enhancing its overall performance.

Comparable Shoes


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The New Balance FuelCell Propel v4 is often compared to the Saucony Axon 3 for its similar price point and performance as a daily trainer. While the Propel offers a slightly softer ride, the Axon 3 is noted for its superior grip and durability.

5 Saucony Axon 3 Pros & Cons


3 Pros

Offers excellent value for money as a versatile daily trainer.
Features a cushioned and responsive PWRRUN midsole.
Updated outsole provides improved grip and durability.

2 Cons

Upper may feel warm during hot weather runs.
Some runners may find the shoe too stiff for very relaxed runs.

In Depth


Upper

The Saucony Axon 3 features an engineered mesh upper that is designed to be breathable and flexible, adapting to the movement of the feet. The fit is true to size, with a wide toe box (provides extra space for the toes) that accommodates different foot shapes. While the upper provides a comfortable fit, some runners have noted that it can retain heat during warmer conditions.

Midsole

The midsole of the Saucony Axon 3 is equipped with PWRRUN cushioning, offering a balance between softness and responsiveness. This cushioning is highly praised for its ability to provide a comfortable ride without sacrificing the energy return needed for a dynamic run. The shoe's 4mm heel-to-toe drop (the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot) encourages a more natural running gait, particularly for midfoot and forefoot strikers (runners who land on the middle or front of their foot).

Outsole

An update from the previous model, the outsole of the Saucony Axon 3 now features a thicker carbon rubber material, which significantly enhances the shoe's grip and durability. This improvement has been well-received by runners, especially for its performance on wet surfaces, making the Axon 3 a reliable option in various weather conditions.

Size/fit

The Saucony Axon 3 is reported to have a true-to-size fit, with a secure hold in the midfoot and a comfortable heel collar. The toe box is spacious, providing ample room for toe splay (the ability of the toes to spread out). This accommodating fit makes the Axon 3 suitable for a broad range of runners, including those with wider feet.

Comfort

Comfort is a standout feature of the Saucony Axon 3, with its engineered mesh upper and PWRRUN cushioning combining to offer a plush and supportive experience. The shoe's design ensures comfort over both short and long distances, making it a versatile choice for everyday training.

Cushioning

The Saucony Axon 3 boasts a highly cushioned midsole, which is appreciated by runners for its soft and bouncy feel. The PWRRUN foam provides a balance of cushioning and responsiveness, making the shoe suitable for a variety of running workouts.

Breathability

While the engineered mesh upper of the Saucony Axon 3 is designed to be breathable, some runners have found that it can become warm during hot runs. However, the overall breathability is adequate for most conditions, contributing to the shoe's comfort.

Stability

The Saucony Axon 3 is not specifically designed for stability but offers a secure and balanced ride. The shoe's lower drop and cushioning provide a stable platform for neutral runners (those who do not overpronate or underpronate), making it a reliable choice for daily training.

Durability

Durability is a strong point for the Saucony Axon 3, with its updated outsole material providing excellent wear resistance. The shoe is built to withstand the rigors of regular running, ensuring a long-lasting performance.

Grip

The updated outsole of the Saucony Axon 3 delivers a strong grip on various surfaces, including wet roads and light trails. This improvement has been noted as a significant enhancement over the previous model, providing runners with confidence in the shoe's traction.

Who should buy the Saucony Axon 3?


The Saucony Axon 3 is well-suited for runners looking for a daily trainer that offers a blend of cushioning, responsiveness, and durability without breaking the bank. It's an excellent choice for those who appreciate a shoe that can handle a variety of workouts, from speed training to long-distance runs. The Axon 3 is also a smart pick for runners who prefer a lower heel-to-toe drop and a roomy toe box.

Who should not buy the Saucony Axon 3?


Runners who require a shoe with a higher heel-to-toe drop, particularly extreme heel strikers, may want to consider alternatives such as the Nike Winflo 10. Additionally, those with narrow feet might find the Saucony Axon 3's wider fit less suitable and may benefit from a narrower option like the Brooks Trace 2.

Saucony Axon 3: What's it good for?


The Saucony Axon 3 is a versatile shoe that excels in everyday training, offering a comfortable and responsive ride for a variety of running distances. Its updated outsole makes it good for runs in wet conditions, providing reliable traction. The shoe's cushioning and lower drop also make it suitable for runners who prefer a more natural foot strike.

4 Saucony Axon 3 FAQs


Is the Saucony Axon 3 suitable for long-distance running?

Yes, the Saucony Axon 3 is suitable for long-distance running, thanks to its cushioned PWRRUN midsole and comfortable fit.

Can the Saucony Axon 3 be used for speed training?

While the Saucony Axon 3 is primarily designed for daily training, its responsive cushioning makes it capable of handling speed workouts as well.

How does the Saucony Axon 3 perform in wet conditions?

The updated outsole of the Saucony Axon 3 provides excellent grip in wet conditions, making it a reliable choice for running in the rain.

What type of runner is the Saucony Axon 3 best suited for?

The Saucony Axon 3 is best suited for neutral runners (those who do not overpronate or underpronate) who value a shoe with a comfortable fit, responsive cushioning, and a lower heel-to-toe drop.

Saucony Axon 3 alternatives

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Saucony Axon 3
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Released
Feb 2023
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Weight
Weight
M: 241 g
W: 213 g
M: 269 g
W: 218 g
M: 261 g
W: 221 g
M: 215 g
W: 184 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
31 mm
31 mm
30 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
4 mm
6 mm
5 mm
Heel
Heel
35 mm
37 mm
35 mm
Brand
Brand
Saucony
New BalanceNikeNew BalanceBrooksASICS
Strike Type
Strike Type
Fore/Midfoot strike
Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strike
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
ComfortableLightweight
ComfortableMaximalist
ComfortableMaximalistComfortableComfortableLightweight
Breathable
Breathable
Rocker
Rocker
Carbon fiber plate
Carbon fiber plate
Techs
Techs
New Balance FuelCell
New Balance Fresh Foam
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Saucony Axon 3: what the experts say (1 review)

Saucony Axon 3: 2 Expert video reviews

Saucony Axon 3 characteristics and specifications

Specificationsvs Average
Model
3
Released
Feb 2023
Measurements
Weight
M: 241 g
W: 213 g
Heel to toe drop
4 mm
Heel
35 mm
Forefoot
31 mm

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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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