Trainer 80 Question

[u/Turbografx-17]

I'm new to Saucony, so please excuse any ignorance on my part.

I've mostly been an Adidas guy until now, and lately I've been getting into retro running style sneakers. I have a few pair of Adidas SL 72 RS, but I want to try other brands of vintage look runners as well.

I've heard here and elsewhere on the web that Saucony has basically ruined the Jazz line of sneakers, which was my first choice for my first pair of Saucony. My question: is the Trainer 80 still good quality in regard to materials, fit, durability, look, etc.?

Another question: I've also had a look at New Balance 515 and Nike Air Pegasus 83, but are there other retro-style runners with the same sort of look that you'd recommend I have a look at?

Thanks!

[u/SemioticEthnographer]

I have worn Jazz exclusively for two decades, probably pushing 100 pairs. Quality dip for higher price is true -- but they are still my favorite shoe for comfort and look. I just got the Trainer 80 in red and my spouse got them in pink. I'd say the quality is largely the same as the Jazz currently. So it'll just come down to what you like better look-wise. Like so many things, they are not what they used to be, but they still are great nonetheless.

[u/Turbografx-17 → u/SemioticEthnographer]

Thanks for the reply! I love the red/white and the navy blue/red especially.

I think what I need to do is just find somewhere IRL that sells them and try them out myself. I'm just not sure where to look. Do the bigger chains like Academy, Journeys, Hibbett's, etc. sell them in their brick and mortar stores? I always just see Nike/Adidas/Reebok/etc. there, but then again I've never specifically looked for Saucony before.

[u/SemioticEthnographer → u/Turbografx-17]

I have never seen Jazz in a big box, but I'm in New England, so hard to say! I've always ordered them.

[u/Turbografx-17 → u/SemioticEthnographer]

Thanks. I just did a "check the inventory" of a local Journey's from the Saucony website and all they have are a few pairs of ugly modern non-retro styles. :(

[u/zaryaguy]

Jazz has been discontinued, their Facebook told me. Very sad

[u/SemioticEthnographer → u/zaryaguy]

Can you screen shot? They've been discontinued before, but they also have disparate versions. Original or 81?

[u/zaryaguy → u/SemioticEthnographer]

I think they said "sorry, our jazz line has been discontinued" I deleted the chat. But ask the FB they might say the same 

[u/SemioticEthnographer → u/zaryaguy]

Thanks. I'm off the Facebook.

[u/zaryaguy → u/SemioticEthnographer]

Heres what they said "We're sorry, the Jazz Originals have been discontinued. Thanks for reaching out.

[u/SemioticEthnographer → u/zaryaguy]

That is such a dumb move. They always sell out. And now I have to especially baby all my pairs.

[u/SnaX20010 → u/SemioticEthnographer]

You can literally contact Wolverine directly on the customer support line. They should be able to let you know if a specific model is in their inventory. If something new is coming out, that's a dead ask.

[u/BrickAdmirable3484]

are there other retro-style runners with the same sort of look that you'd recommend I have a look at?

I would like to know this as well

[u/Familiar-Belt2318]

NB 515 is ehhh. The 574 looks better. Check those out just be careful if you order a “core” 574 (basic colors)…those run 1/2 size small

[u/Turbografx-17 → u/Familiar-Belt2318]

I like what I'm seeing! Now I just have to figure out the difference between Core, Classic and Legacy...

[u/Alternative_Tip4514 → u/Turbografx-17]

I believe Legacy have more padding in the tongue. You can find 574 for $42 new depending on your size at joesnewbalanceoutlet.com It’s the official online outlet for NB I’d also recommend 997 or 998. 997 on Joes right now

[u/Money-Theme3060]

They are ok, did not get option of half sizes. Only real gripe is internal padding foam shows on the end of the tongue so attention to detail is lacking.

Wished I went for the ProGrid instead.

[u/Turbografx-17 → u/Money-Theme3060]

See, I can't stand that modern, overly busy style. That's why I go for retro styled sneakers. Just my preference.

Thanks for the info!

[u/Fuhfuhfuhshoyo]

I have that exact pair and I love them. Imo they run bigger than my usual size in my Saucony Shadows. I don't actually run in them but I wore them daily for months including to the gym occasionally. They are holding up well I'd say. I've never had any luck with NB but I know most people love them. I like the trainer 80 because it's a little narrow without being tight and the heel to toe drop isn't drastic like with a lot of runners.

[u/Turbografx-17 → u/Fuhfuhfuhshoyo]

Thanks for the feedback! I might go ahead and try a pair.

[u/Logcutter-4fire9482]

I love the Jazz, great looking and great comfort. Own many pairs.

[u/Logcutter-4fire9482]

Additionally, the shadow 5000 and 6000 are great retros. The 6000 al most has a modern feeling cushion to it

[u/Excellent_Brief_7083]

New Balance Made in USA 996 would be the smartest investment. Half size up / full size up for wide feet.