Saucony Hurricane: Discontinuation, Alternatives, and Stability Shoe Guide

Did Saucony discontinue Hurricane?

Yes, Saucony has discontinued the Hurricane model, a long-standing premium stability running shoe. While no direct one-to-one replacement was immediately introduced under the same name, Saucony's current lineup, particularly the Guide series, offers stability solutions for runners who previously relied on the Hurricane.

The Evolution of Stability Footwear

The landscape of running shoe technology is constantly evolving, driven by advancements in material science, biomechanical understanding, and runner feedback. For decades, running shoe manufacturers have sought to address various foot mechanics, with a significant focus on pronation. Shoes designed for stability and motion control emerged as crucial tools for runners needing extra support to manage excessive inward rolling of the foot during the gait cycle. The Saucony Hurricane was a prominent player in this category, known for its robust support and plush cushioning.

Understanding Pronation and Stability Shoes

Pronation is the natural inward rolling motion of the foot that occurs during landing and push-off while walking or running. It's an essential shock-absorbing mechanism. However, overpronation (excessive inward rolling) can sometimes lead to inefficiencies in gait, increased stress on joints, and potential injuries.

Stability shoes, like the Hurricane, are specifically engineered to:

• Reduce Excessive Pronation: They incorporate features like firmer foam (often a "medial post") or guiding elements (e.g., Saucony's PWRRUN Frame or GuideRails in other brands) on the medial (inner) side of the shoe to resist the inward roll.
• Provide Support: They offer structured support to the arch and midfoot, helping to maintain better foot alignment throughout the stride.
• Offer Cushioning: While providing support, these shoes also aim to deliver adequate cushioning for comfort and impact absorption, especially for longer runs.

The Saucony Hurricane Legacy

The Saucony Hurricane series enjoyed a long and respected run as one of the brand's flagship stability shoes. It was consistently praised for its:

• Premium Cushioning: Often featuring Saucony's most advanced cushioning technologies like PWRRUN+ foam, providing a soft yet responsive ride.
• Robust Stability: Designed for runners needing moderate to high levels of pronation control, making it a go-to for those with overpronation.
• Comfortable Upper: Known for its accommodating fit and plush interior, contributing to a comfortable long-distance experience.

For many runners, the Hurricane was a reliable workhorse, offering the perfect blend of support and comfort for daily training and long runs. Its discontinuation marked a significant shift in Saucony's stability lineup.

The Shift: Why Brands Discontinue Models

The discontinuation of a popular model like the Hurricane is not uncommon in the highly competitive running shoe market. Several factors typically drive such decisions:

• Product Lifecycle Management: All products have a lifecycle. Brands constantly innovate, introducing new technologies, materials, and design philosophies. Older models may be retired to make way for these advancements.
• Market Trends: There has been a general trend towards lighter stability solutions or even neutral shoes that incorporate inherent stability through wider bases or unique geometries, reducing the reliance on traditional medial posts.
• Streamlining Product Lines: Brands may consolidate or simplify their offerings to avoid cannibalization between models and to focus resources on key franchises.
• Technological Advancements: New cushioning foams or support systems might render older construction methods less efficient or desirable, leading to a complete redesign under a new name.
• Sustainability Initiatives: Manufacturing processes and material choices are constantly being re-evaluated for environmental impact, which can also influence product lines.

Finding Your Next Stability Shoe: Alternatives and Considerations

For former Hurricane loyalists, finding a suitable replacement requires careful consideration of their individual needs.

Within the Saucony Lineup:

• Saucony Guide: This is Saucony's primary stability trainer and the most likely alternative for many Hurricane users. While it historically offered slightly less cushioning and a different level of support than the Hurricane, newer iterations of the Guide (e.g., Guide 16, 17) have evolved, often incorporating advanced cushioning and Saucony's "Center Path Technology" or similar guiding systems to provide stability. Runners seeking moderate stability will likely find the Guide to be a strong contender.

From Other Brands (Examples of Comparable Stability Shoes):

• Brooks Adrenaline GTS: A highly popular stability shoe known for its GuideRails support system, offering a balanced blend of cushioning and support.
• ASICS GT-2000 / GEL-Kayano: Both offer reliable stability, with the Kayano typically providing more premium cushioning and support, similar to the Hurricane's position.
• New Balance 860: Another long-standing stability model that offers consistent support and cushioning for daily training.
• Hoka Gaviota / Arahi: Hoka offers maximalist cushioning with stability features, which might appeal to Hurricane users who prioritized plushness.

When evaluating alternatives, focus on:

• Level of Stability: Do you need moderate or high stability?
• Cushioning Preference: Do you prefer a plush, soft ride or something firmer and more responsive?
• Fit and Feel: How does the shoe feel on your foot during a walk or short run?

Key Considerations When Choosing a Running Shoe

Regardless of your previous shoe choice, the process of selecting a new running shoe should always involve these critical steps:

• Understand Your Foot Type and Pronation Pattern: A professional gait analysis at a specialized running store can help determine your foot mechanics (neutral, overpronator, supinator) and arch height.
• Consider Your Running Goals and Terrain: Are you training for marathons, daily jogs, or trail running? Different shoes excel in different scenarios.
• Prioritize Comfort and Fit: The most important factor is how the shoe feels on your foot. There should be no pinching, rubbing, or excessive pressure points. Ensure adequate space in the toe box.
• Try Before You Buy: Walk and ideally run a short distance in the shoes to assess their feel and support.

Consulting with an Expert

For runners who have specific biomechanical concerns, a history of injuries, or difficulty finding a suitable shoe, consulting with a professional is highly recommended.

• Specialized Running Store Staff: These individuals are trained to perform gait analyses and recommend shoes based on your foot mechanics and preferences.
• Physical Therapist or Kinesiologist: For persistent pain or complex biomechanical issues, a healthcare professional can provide a comprehensive assessment and guidance on appropriate footwear and training modifications.

While the Saucony Hurricane may be gone, the market is rich with excellent stability running shoes. By understanding your needs and exploring the available options, you can find a new favorite that supports your running journey effectively.