Saucony Mirage 4 Review

Last Updated on September 27, 2019 by Heather Hart, ACSM EP, CSCS

Spring is coming (right? It has to be on its way…RIGHT?) and as you can imagine, everyone is looking forward to emerging from the gym’s treadmills and hitting the pavement once again.  We’ve got a bunch of shoe reviews coming up over the next week for those of you getting ready to start your spring training.

Recently Saucony sent Geoff a pair of their newly released (Feb 2014) and updated Mirage 4 running shoes, and he was kind enough to review them in his own, uh, “charming” way.   Originally posted on his blog, I’ve added some specs and side notes when necessary to try and keep things slightly professional around here.   After all, variety is the spice of life…or something. 

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SPECS :
Heel to toe drop:  4mm
Weight: 8.9oz. / 252 g (Men’s size 9),  7.9oz. / 224 g (Women’s size 8)
MSRP: $110

What Saucony says:
Lightweight stability has never felt so natural. With a 4mm offset, the next generation Mirage 4 pairs a more durable mesh in the upper with FlexFilm™ technology redesigned to be more ergonomic and breathable. The lightweight FlexFilm, welded onto the seamless mesh upper, secures and stabilizes the foot, simultaneously reducing layers to the shoe while increasing flexibility. 

The updated Mirage 4 continues to be the solution for runners who want the benefits of a natural motion experience in a responsive ride with a touch of stability. A supportive TPU arc below the arch of the foot provides nominal stability, while the beveled, decoupled heel allows for a smooth, efficient transition.  A forefoot with deep, substantial flex grooves promotes a smooth and nimble ride.

What Geoff Says:
“It’s a drag I get these cool review shoes in the Winter. I hate Winter in Vermont. I don’t run outside when the temp is less than 40, and I won’t run outside when you can’t see the pavement or sidewalks due to snow. So basically it’s treadmill for me for 5 months a year here.

I’ve been trying to pile up the dreadmill mileage in these. (note: I’d estimate he has a good 30+ miles in these shoes thus far)I’ve also been using them for Leg Day at my gym. Before we had the mandatory switch to steel toed frankencloppers at work, I used them there too.  (Have I mentioned I can’t wait to move?)  I want to get outside and RUN in these! They fit like a dream. (Size 10 for this guy in Saucony sizes) They are light. They are very comfortable, right out of the box even. The Saucony Guide 7  took me while to break in, these didn’t.

There is a bit of cushion in these, a perfect amount for me so far ( I NEED PAVEMENT!) and they feel secure on my feet when I’m Squatting.  They feel pretty light, I’m going to chuck one at Heather later on and we can get her opinion.  (He’s kidding.  But yes, they are pretty lightweight  )

Here is Saucony’s blurb on the Mirage 4, but let me give you the run down in my own laymen terms: This shoe is going to make me faster. I know it.

There isn’t a ton of cushion or heel lift, but I don’t feel the impact of a barefoot shoe either.

At about 10oz (closer to 9 oz actually), they’re light enough but also sturdy enough to support my fat ass. I have yet to feel any unwanted lateral movements.

The upper is especially comfortable, there has been no chaffing at my ankles.

There’s a large built in reflector on the outer side of each shoe, that’s a pretty nice perk for us night runner types. (Please supplement with upper body reflective garments!!)

Now, I haven’t run long distances in them outside yet, so I cannot honestly confirm or deny the breathablity of the fabric on these. I can tell you however, that mine stink already. I don’t necessarily feel my feet sweating, but these shoes smell already. Could just be me, dunno.

These puppies retail for 110$. That’s a good chunk of coin. In a couple months when it’s nicer outside I’ll do a follow up review to see if 110 bones makes sense. Initial assessment says yes, but we’ll have to wait and see.”

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If you have any questions for Geoff regarding this shoe or review, please post in a comment below. 

*Disclosure* Saucony provided Geoff with the Mirage 4 free of charge, however all opinions stated are his own.