Saucony and Nordstrom Had the Audacity to Put Pony Hair on a Running Shoe

Saucony and Nordstrom are bringing an unexpected fashion flourish to a contemporary max-cushioned running shoe. 

The Nordstrom x Saucony Triumph 22 sees the daily runner dial back the clock, at least when it comes to the upper. Cow print pony hair replaces engineered mesh in white and brown, bringing a stark contrast to the tech that does remain. The model’s PwrRun PB foam midsole stills sits underfoot with a 37mm stack height and 10mm drop. The branding and eyestay panel is also rendered in a transparent TPU, which should bolster the structure while still allowing the texture and print to stand out. 

Saucony launched the Triumph 22 at the end of the spring as the first model in the franchise to make use of the PwrRun PB foam, which was also featured on the quicker Endorphin Speed Pro 4. The daily runner’s most recent redesign also features a wider platform for better stability and updated rocker geometry. For the outsole, full-length XT-900 rubber provides a durable grip. 

Designed by New York City-based creative director Alex Dymond, the pony hair variant could still technically be used for running because of the lack of changes underfoot. The material swap is more suited to lifestyle wear, though, and a quite comfy one at that. But if you want to freak it on your runs, there’s certainly nothing stopping you.

Engineered Garments also applied pony hair to three of their four Bondi L sneakers from 2021, including one in a can’t-miss leopard print. That model, however, was already more oriented toward lifestyle wear to begin with.

The Nordstrom x Saucony Triumph 22 will release October 11 through both parties’ websites, as well as the Nordstrom New York City flagship store. Pricing is set at $160.

About the Author:

Ian Servantes is a Senior News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.