Hey runners, the excitement is palpable as Saucony prepares to launch its latest marvel – the Endorphin Pro 4.
As the release date draws near, I’m thrilled to share not only the eagerly awaited date but also an exclusive sneak peek into the features and advancements that might just redefine your running experience.
Without further ado, let’s dive right into it…
Related:
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 Release Date & Preview
The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 finally hit the market on the 1st of February 2024. You may have caught a glimpse of leaked pictures of the Endorphin Pro 4 circulating the internet. The initial design we’ve seen was the real deal.
Keep yourself in the loop by regularly consulting our running shoe release date calendar for the latest updates on upcoming releases.
Building on Success: The Legacy of Endorphin Pro 3
Before we dive into the Pro 4, let’s take a moment to appreciate the legacy of the Endorphin Pro 3. Loved by many for its stability and wider profile, the Pro 3 became a go-to choice for runners aiming for that three to four-hour marathon range.
With a max stack of 40mm in the heel, 32mm in the forefoot, and a feather-light weight of 7.2 ounces, the Pro 3 was a game-changer in the world of marathon racing shoes.
What’s New in the Pro 4: A Closer Look
Now, let’s shift our focus to the Pro 4. The first noticeable change is in the design system, with a revamped midsole contour and an added aggressive, spike-like effect. The Pro 4 aims to build on the success of its predecessor while introducing subtle yet impactful changes.
Midsole Magic: A Departure from the Classic Look
The midsole of the Pro 4 introduces new contouring in the heel, departing from the smoothed-out design of the Pro 3. While there are indications of PWRRUN HG in the midsole, the exact details are still under wraps. The beloved rocker characteristic of the Endorphin series remains, ensuring a smooth roll along every stride.
With a stack height of approximately 39.5mm in the heel and 31.5mm in the forefoot, the Pro 4 maintains the familiar 8mm drop, providing a balance between performance and comfort.
Upper Evolution: Lightweight and Breathable
The Pro 3’s super-lightweight and stiff-yet-comfortable upper set a high standard. Expect the Pro 4 to continue this legacy with a lightweight, breathable mesh upper.
The new lacing system introduces external loops, a trend seen in recent shoe designs, enhancing flexibility for those seeking a precise fit.
Outsole Excellence: Staying True to Form
While the outsole is expected to retain the reliable XT900 rubber seen in the Pro 3, delivering durability for race-day performance, there might be subtle enhancements to look forward to.
Who’s the Pro 4 For?
Wondering if the Pro 4 is your perfect match? If you’re a first-time marathoner or transitioning from other Saucony models, the Pro 4 promises to be an excellent choice. With a slightly less aggressive feel than some competitors, it strikes a balance between stability and responsiveness.
In my view, the Pro 4 is ideal for those seeking a dependable race-day shoe with a touch of everyday training comfort. If you crave a bit more aggression, Saucony’s got the Endorphin Elite waiting in the wings.
And there you have it – my take on the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4. As the release date approaches, get ready to experience a new era of running excellence. Lace up, hit the road, and let the Pro 4 redefine your personal bests!
Who is the Pro 4 going to be for?
In terms of who the Pro 4 is going to be best for, this is a really good option for a first-time marathoner who wants a carbon-plated shoe or if you’re coming from any of the other Saucony shoes and are looking for that race-day shoe, the Pro 4 is going to be a great choice.
As I mentioned, the Pro 3 has a less aggressive feel than the Nike shoes and it’s also a bit more stable and controlled with the way that the midsole is contoured than we’re going to see from the Vaporfly or the Alpha Fly.
One potential knock of the design that we see in the Pro 3 and I think the same thing will carry on to the Pro 4 is that while it is smooth and responsive, bouncy, and fun, it isn’t going to be as aggressive as the Vaporfly.
So, if you are a super-fast efficient runner, you might want something that’s a bit more get up and go and that’s why Saucony has the Endorphin Elite.
I personally love the Endorphin series as a training shoe, but I do like a bit more aggression in my racing shoes. So, I go for things that are a bit firmer than we see in the Pro 3.
Maybe the addition of that PWRRUN HG on the Pro 4 will change the ride a little bit and make it a bit less soft and compliant, but I’m guessing it’s not going to be overly harsh or overly fast and aggressive because that’s the Endorphin Elite’s place in the lineup.
There you have it. Those are my thoughts on the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4.
