The Saucony Endorphin Speed has earned its place as a favorite among runners for its perfect balance of performance, comfort, and lightweight construction. However, with growing popularity comes the unfortunate rise of counterfeit products. Fake running shoes not only underperform—they can cause discomfort, injury, and waste your money.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to spot fake Saucony Endorphin Speed shoes using key authenticity tips. Whether you’re shopping online or in-store, these checks will help ensure you’re getting the real deal.
1. Check the Retail Packaging
Genuine Saucony shoes come in a high-quality, sturdy box with proper branding, sizing labels, and model information. Look for:
- Crisp printing with correct fonts and logos
- Accurate model names like “Endorphin Speed 3” or “Speed 2”
- No spelling errors or misalignments on the box
Fake pairs often come in plain boxes, low-resolution packaging, or have mismatched details.
2. Examine the Logo and Branding
One of the easiest giveaways of a counterfeit is inaccurate logos. On real Saucony Endorphin Speed shoes:
- The Saucony “river” logo should be clean, smooth, and symmetrical
- All text should be clear and correctly spelled (e.g., “PWRRUN PB,” “Speedroll”)
- Look for precise placement of logos on the tongue, side, insole, and outsole
Fakes often have off-center logos, missing details, or low-quality prints.
3. Inspect the Upper Material and Stitching
The Endorphin Speed uses engineered mesh that’s lightweight, breathable, and tightly woven. Authentic pairs will have:
- Even stitching with no loose threads
- No glue overflow around the sole
- A precise and seamless construction around overlays and mesh panels
Counterfeits typically use cheaper materials, which feel stiff, plasticky, or overly glossy.
4. Look at the Sole Technology
Saucony’s Endorphin Speed is known for:
- PWRRUN PB midsole (usually labeled on the side)
- Visible foam texture that’s smooth, not overly shiny
- A nylon plate that adds structure—but isn’t visible like a carbon plate
- Outsole tread with specific grooves and rubber placements for traction
Fake models may skip these performance details or use generic-looking soles that don’t reflect Saucony’s design.
5. Check the Insole Branding and Cushioning
Remove the insole if possible and examine:
- Saucony branding on the heel or arch
- A contoured footbed that aligns with the shoe’s performance build
- Clean printing with no fading or bubbling
Fakes often cut corners here, using cheap foam with printed labels that peel off easily.
6. Review the Shoe Tongue Label
Authentic Endorphin Speed shoes will have a label sewn inside the tongue that includes:
- Model name (e.g., “Endorphin Speed 3”)
- Size in multiple units (US, UK, EU, CM)
- Style code (e.g., S20688-10) that matches Saucony’s listings
- A QR code or barcode for verification
If the label is missing, blurry, or shows mismatched info, it’s a red flag.
7. Compare the Price and Seller Credibility
If the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Authentic Endorphin Speed shoes typically retail between $150–$180. Be wary of:
- Deep discounts on unfamiliar websites
- Sellers without verified reviews
- No return policy or contact information
Always buy from authorized retailers, Saucony’s official site, or trusted platforms like Zappos, Running Warehouse, or REI.
8. Use Online Verification Tools
Some official Saucony shoes come with QR codes or serial numbers. You can:
- Scan the QR code with your phone’s camera to check authenticity
- Google the product style code to compare photos and specs
- Cross-check with Saucony’s official product listings
If anything feels off, trust your instincts.
Final Thoughts: Buy Smart, Run Smart
The Saucony Endorphin Speed is a performance running shoe worth investing in—but only if you’re getting the real thing. Fake versions may look similar at a glance, but they can’t deliver the support, cushioning, and durability of authentic pairs.
Use this checklist when purchasing, especially from third-party sellers. When in doubt, stick to well-known retailers and compare your purchase with verified product images. A little extra caution goes a long way toward keeping your feet—and wallet—safe.
