on september 7, 2023, global high-performance running lifestyle brand saucony® launched triumph based on corn ingredients
rfg, midsole made from 55% susterra® propylene glycol. it’s saucony®’s most sustainable shoe to date, making a direct impact on reducing its environmental footprint.
new triumph rfg (run for good) shoe collaboration features corn-based pwrrun
bio+™ midsole, made from 55% bio-based susterra® propylene glycol. the launch is part of saucony®’s recent sustainability goals to have 90% of its products contain organic, recycled or renewable materials by 2025, and 100% by 2030.
the new triumph rfg will use vegetable dye uppers and 55% corn-based pwrrun
bio+™ midsole foam combines to help limit reliance on plastic, a major contributor to negative environmental impacts. midsole foam is made from susterra® propylene glycol, a 100% renewable dent corn-based 1,3-propanediol. the 80% natural rubber outsole is engineered to provide the same level of performance as synthetic soles. triumph
rfg is now available online and at select retailers worldwide.
heritage brands like saucony® are partnering with bio-based performance brands like susterra® propylene glycol to support the shared mission of reducing the industry’s dependence on fossil fuels.
john hurban, vice president of global marketing and sales for covationbio™ pdo, said: “with saucony® we have a great partnership with triumph.
the partnership on rfg was a natural one as we aim to build a more circular economy with a renewable footprint globally, particularly in the performance footwear brand category. we are the world’s largest producer of 100% bio-based 1,3-propanediol (pdo). susterra® propylene glycol is a 100% pdo derived from regeneratively grown dent corn. our collaborations with primient and truterra support these regenerative agriculture methods on farms across the american midwest. we convert plant-based ingredients into key raw materials designed to reduce the need for petroleum ingredients and improve product performance.
“we are proud to be part of saucony®’s sustainability mission and this marks a milestone for susterra® propylene glycol.
this is the first example we know of using this percentage of bio-based ingredients in a sneaker midsole. we believe runners and fitness enthusiasts will benefit from the increased flexibility, comfort and durability of a performance shoe. this shoe stands out from the competition and goes further in terms of environmental footprint. ”
triumph rfgperformance
● pwrrun bio+ midsole is made from 55% corn-based ingredients (made from susterra® propylene glycol), limiting reliance on plastics
● pwrrun bio+ insoles provide comfort
● durable rubber outsole made of 80% natural rubber
● cotton breathable mesh upper with vegetable dyes
● soft collar and padded tongue create a 360-degree fit
susterra®properties of propylene glycol
● 100% usda certified bio-based product derived from regeneratively grown dent corn
● bio-based 1,3 propylene glycol (pdo) is petroleum-free and provides high-performance, sustainable solutions for a wide range of polyurethane applications
● benefits include increased flexibility and tear strength, strong durability and adhesive properties, softness and clarity, and enhanced abrasion resistance
● produces 48% less greenhouse gas emissions from cradle-to-gate compared to common petrochemical alternative 1,4-butanediol (bdo)

