Saucony Uses a Corn-Based Midsole for Its Most Sustainable Sneaker Ever

Saucony is launching its most sustainable sneaker yet with today’s release of the Triumph RFG, which stands for “Running for Good.” The runner boasts a corn-based midsole and utilizes plant-based dyes for its upper. It arrives as part of Saucony’s pledge to feature organic, recycled, or renewable materials in 90 percent of its products in 2025 and 100 percent by 2030.

To create the PWRRun Bio+ midsole, Saucony enlisted CovationBio and its 100 percent bio-based Susterra propanediol. The corn-derived product constitutes 55 percent of the midsole and reduces the need for petroleum-based components. It’s also touted for being soft, flexible, and durable.

“We are proud to be a part of Saucony’s sustainable mission, and this marks a milestone for Susterra propanediol,” John Hurban, vice president of global marketing and sales for CovationBio, said in a press release. “It’s the first example we’re aware of where this percentage of bio-based content is used in the midsole of an athletic shoe. We believe runners and fitness enthusiasts will benefit from increased high-performance shoe flexibility, comfortability, and durability.”

The Triumph RFG’s cotton mesh upper is available in three color variants, two shades of grey and one in blue, all of which use plant-based dye. A gum outsole that appears on each version also makes use of 80 percent natural rubber.

On the spec front, the Triumph features a 10mm drop from heel to toe. The men’s weight comes in at 10.4 ounces and the women’s at 9.07 ounces.

The Saucony Triumph RFG is out now through the brand’s website as well as select retailers. Pricing for both men’s and women’s pairs is set at $160.