The Saucony Endorphin Speed has quickly become a favorite among runners and athletes seeking a blend of speed, comfort, and innovative technology. Touted as one of the best performance running shoes available, it promises to deliver both responsive energy return and long-lasting durability. But does it truly live up to the hype? In this detailed review, we break down the features, performance, and value of the Saucony Endorphin Speed to help you decide if it’s the ultimate running shoe for you.
Overview of the Saucony Endorphin Speed
The Endorphin Speed is part of Saucony’s high-performance Endorphin lineup designed for runners who want to improve their pace without sacrificing comfort. It combines a lightweight frame with advanced cushioning technology to help maximize speed and efficiency.
Key Features
SPEEDROLL Technology
At the heart of the Endorphin Speed is Saucony’s patented SPEEDROLL technology. This design feature includes a curved plate embedded in the midsole that propels your foot forward, promoting a smooth, fast toe-off with minimal effort.
PWRRUN PB Midsole
The shoe uses a PWRRUN PB foam midsole, which is incredibly light yet responsive. It delivers excellent energy return, cushioning, and shock absorption without adding bulk.
Engineered Mesh Upper
The breathable engineered mesh upper offers a snug, sock-like fit that adapts to your foot’s shape, providing ventilation and flexibility during runs.
Lightweight Design
Weighing in at around 7.8 ounces (men’s size 9), the Endorphin Speed is designed to feel like an extension of your foot, helping reduce fatigue on long runs and races.
Performance Review
Speed and Responsiveness
Thanks to the SPEEDROLL plate and PWRRUN PB foam, the Endorphin Speed offers exceptional responsiveness. Runners notice a natural forward propulsion, which makes maintaining faster paces easier and less tiring.
Comfort and Fit
The shoe provides a comfortable fit with adequate toe room and secure heel lockdown. The engineered mesh upper prevents overheating, and the plush tongue and collar reduce irritation.
Versatility
While primarily built for speed workouts and races, many runners find the Endorphin Speed versatile enough for daily training, tempo runs, and even longer distances thanks to its balanced cushioning.
Durability
Despite its lightweight design, the outsole uses durable rubber in high-wear areas, ensuring the shoe holds up well over time. However, some users note that the PWRRUN PB foam may compress faster with heavy mileage.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent energy return and propulsion
- Lightweight and breathable design
- Comfortable sock-like fit
- Versatile for speed workouts and daily runs
Cons:
- Price point is on the higher side
- Foam durability could be better for very high mileage runners
- Some may find the toe box slightly narrow
Who Should Buy the Saucony Endorphin Speed?
This shoe is ideal for runners who:
- Want to improve their race times or speed workouts
- Prefer a lightweight, responsive shoe with good cushioning
- Appreciate advanced running tech like SPEEDROLL for efficiency
- Are willing to invest in a premium performance shoe
If you’re a beginner or primarily a casual runner, you might find more comfort in Saucony’s other models with a bit more cushioning and stability.
Final Verdict: Is It the Ultimate Running Shoe?
The Saucony Endorphin Speed strikes an impressive balance between speed, comfort, and innovative design. For serious runners chasing personal bests and those who value a lightweight yet cushioned ride, it’s one of the top contenders on the market. While it may not be perfect for every runner or every type of run, its technology and performance features make it a worthy investment.
If you’re looking to elevate your running game with a shoe that delivers a smooth, efficient ride, the Saucony Endorphin Speed just might be the ultimate running shoe you’ve been waiting for.
