Details
Brand
Saucony
Heel To Toe Drop
5 mm
Breathability
8/10
Latest Version
Saucony Cortana 4
Terrain
Road
Type
Neutral
Key Features
• PowerGrid technology• Sauc-Fit• EVA midsole• Medial posts• Updated upper construction• Arch shanks• IBR+ outsole• 4mm drop
Upper
The upper is where Saucony has put time and research into redesigning on this shoe. The Cortana 2’s upper is revitalized to provide a better experience, while also reducing the shoe’s weight. Saucony reduced the stitching and overlays on the shoe to make it lighter and more breathable. While the shoe still maintains its original feel, the open mesh upper and restructured heel are updated on the Cortana 2. The mesh upper uses nylon monofilament and thermoplastic urethane overlays to reduce the weight of the shoe by approximately one ounce, making this a much more efficient trainer for runners who already love the Saucony Cortana. The upper is more breathable, while also preventing blisters. The lighter mesh is said to still provide an adequate amount of support and protection, although some reviewers felt that the toe box was a little too narrow on this version. Overall, though, the upgraded elements combine to create an above average upper.
Midsole
Just like the outsole, the midsole is basically the same technology that was seen on the original Cortana. Saucony uses an EVA midsole and medials posts to create the cushioning runners expect from Saucony. While lightweight, the shoe still manages to provide optimal cushioning for trainers. Saucony also uses Super Rebound Cushioning (SRC) to prevent shock during impact, while aiding transitions. The PowerGrid technology also helps maintain balance and responsiveness, without sacrificing cushion. Runners felt like the cushioning was pillow-like and comfortable while enduring high mileage runs.
Outsole
The durability and strength of the outsole on the original Saucony Cortana remains that same on the Cortana 2. The shoe has an IBR+ outsole which is designed to provide durability without sacrificing the shoe’s lightness. With XT-900 carbon rubber used throughout the outsole of the Cortana 2, the combination of both the blown rubber and carbon rubber create a durable, yet responsive outsole. Overall, the Cortana 2 ranks high for the strength of the outsole.
Breathability
With the updates to the Saucony Cortana 2’s upper, the breathability on the shoe has been revitalized as well. By minimizing the stitching and overlays on the shoe, the upper has much more breathability. The lighter mesh also helps the foot stay cooler and drier. The upper uses nylon monofilament mesh and thermoplastic urethane overlays that helps wick away moisture, allowing the shoe to be more breathable, while also preventing blisters. The collar linings on the shoe also help wick away moisture. Overall, breathability on the Saucony Cortana 2 ranks above average.
Comfort
The Saucony Cortana 2 is just as comfortable, if not more, than the original version. Saucony prides itself on designing shoes that focused on the comfort for wearers. The Cortana 2 uses the Sauc-Fit technology to provide an optimal fit. The Sauc-Fit helps the shoe fit more comfortably without adding any points of pressure. The upper has been redesigned to help with the shoe’s comfort. By using a minimal amount of stitching and reduced overlays, the upper is much more breathable. The shoe’s cushioning also adds to the comfort as it makes impact feel softer. While the Cortana has many features that boost its comfortability, some reviewers did have an issue with the fit of the shoe and its narrowness. This can be avoided for the most part by ordering the correct size. Overall, Saucony does well by maintaining its comfort on the Cortana 2.
Style
While Saucony only provides two color options for the Cortana 2, it is still a stylish option. While bold colors are the preference right now, Saucony does a good job of creating a stylish yet traditional look. Saucony uses similar elements from the original Cortana to keep the typical Saucony purchasers happy. Most reviewers felt that the shoe was a stylish, yet comfortable option.
Durability
The Saucony Cortana 2 is designed to hold up just like the original version. Saucony created an outsole that uses a combination and carbon and blown rubber, creating a strong outsole that can stand up to tough surfaces. The upper, while lighter, is still designed to hold up and support the foot. While minimal stitching is used, the shoe is created for durability. The midsole uses cushioning that creates a soft landing, while still holding up to road debris. One reviewer described the Cortana 2 as being very durable after running heavy mileage. However, another reviewer mentioned that with every pair they have purchased, the shoe has frayed apart around the laces by the ankle bone. Overall, though, most reviews surrounding the shoe’s durability are strong.
Protection
While the Cortana 2 is a neutral shoe, it still has many elements of protection built into it. The outsole that is made of carbon and blown rubber help protect the foot from tough surfaces. The EVA cushioning used on the midsole also protects the foot from road debris, allowing the impact to feel softer. Saucony also uses the PowerGrid technology combines a strong amount of protection with responsiveness, making the shoe more efficient as a trainer. The upper unit is also designed to protect the foot and keep it in place, even with the minimal stitching and overlays. Saucony ranks average on protection for the Cortana 2.
Responsiveness
The Saucony Cortana 2’s upgraded features are designed to improve responsiveness from the original version. To start with, the PowerGrid technology is designed to add more spring to each step, so that the foot can move more naturally. The 4mm drop is also designed to provide better responsiveness. Saucony also uses EVA cushioning on the midsole to ensure smoother transitions. The midsole also has SRC (Super Rebound Cushioning), which is meant to prevent shock during impact and helps provide better responsiveness. Overall, reviewers were pleased with the updates that were made to the shoe in terms of responsiveness, and felt that the upgrades provide smoother transitions.
Support
Saucony has included several features that help support the foot throughout running. The shoe’s Sauc-Fit is a key part of the support. The Sauc-Fit keeps the midfoot on the platform, which provides a feeling of security. The shoe also uses carbon and blown rubber on the outsole that supports and protects the foot during impact. In addition, the EVA midsole provides pillowy cushioning that supports the foot while running on tough surfaces, making transitions feel smoother. Reviewers said that even though the shoe is lightweight, it still provides a strong amount of support. Overall, the support of the Cortana 2 is average.
Terrain
The Saucony Cortana 2 is designed to be used on the road or track. The outsole uses carbon and blown rubber that combine to provide strong, traction. While the shoe would not do well on trail surfaces, it still provides a strong about of traction when dealing with road debris. Reviewers thought that the grip on the shoe worked well in wet or dry conditions on the road.
Price
Saucony priced the Cortana 2 at $150. This is a bit on the expensive side but is a typical price for Saucony shoes. The technology and durability behind the shoe support the more expensive price. Most runners who wear Saucony shoes or similar trainers want a shoe that will hold up for many miles and are willing to pay the prices for a better, longer-lasting shoe. One reviewer said that the Cortana 2 was the best shoe for running, they just wanted the price to be a bit more affordable.
Drop
The Saucony Cortana 2 has a 4mm midsole drop. This is a lower drop and would be better for a more seasoned runner. The cushioning becomes more spread out with a lower drop, as there is less in the heel. The 4mm drop helps with the shoe’s responsiveness by providing a more balanced running experience, and a better stride.
Stability
As a neutral shoe, the Saucony Cortana 2 still offers a strong amount of stability. Reviewers like the upgrades that were made to the upper. Even with the minimal stitching and overlays, the shoe still holds the foot in place and provides a strong amount of stability. The shoe also has the Sauc-fit that holds the foot in place, allowing the foot to still move naturally while staying stable. The Cortana 2 also uses EVA cushioning and medial posts to provide stability with soft cushioning. There are also arch shanks that provide stability to help with some overpronation. Overall, the Cortana 2 ranks high for stability.
Flexibility
The original Saucony Cortana received many reviews about just how flexible the shoe was. The same can be said for the Cortana 2. While the shoe has many of the same technologies as the original, the redesigned upper helps make the shoe feel even more flexible while still adding support and stability where needed. The EVA cushioning also adds to the shoe’s flexibility while protecting the foot during impact, but still moving naturally with the foot. The lightweight shoe uses Sauc-Fit to keep the foot in place, but still maintains enough flexibility so that the foot can move naturally. Overall, the flexibility is above average on the Cortana 2.
Traction
The Saucony Cortana 2 has an outsole that uses blown and carbon rubber to provide optimal traction for running on the road. While the traction would not hold up well on trail surfaces, the traction is ideal for dealing with road debris and the abrasive surfaces that road runners encounter. Reviewers felt that the traction held up well on wet and dry conditions. Overall, the traction on the Cortana 2 is average.
Bottom Line
The Saucony Cortana 2 is a neutral shoe designed for everyday runners. With comfort and responsiveness in mind, Saucony has recreated the original version only lighter and better. Saucony took the time to research what would make the Cortana a better option for runners. So, Saucony took some of the better features from the original Cortana, including the carbon and blown rubber outsole, the EVA midsole, and the Sauc-Fit, and went on to update the upper and responsiveness to make the show more lightweight. The shoe is a supportive, flexible and stable option for runners who are using the shoe for low or high mileage training. The shoe uses Sauc-Fit technology that creates the comfortable fit most Saucony wearers are accustomed too. While the shoe is on the expensive side at $150, Saucony has created a high quality, durable shoe with a low profile, sleek design that appeals to runners who are looking for a natural feel.
