Ready for a showdown between two of Saucony’s finest? Today, we’re diving into the ultimate comparison between the Saucony Endorphin Speed vs. Pro, two-thirds of the legendary Endorphin lineup.
Is the Endorphin Pro 4 really worth the extra cash? How do they compare to each other, and how do they stack up against the competition? I’ve got all the answers for you.
After logging some serious miles in both, I’ve nailed down exactly where these shoes fit in my running shoe rotation—and where they could fit in yours.
Ready? Let’s jump right in!
Saucony Endorphin Speed vs. Pro
I’ve been a huge fan of both the Endorphin Speed and Pro ever since their debut a few years ago.
For this comparison, I’ll be comparing the latest models—Endorphin Speed 4 and Pro 4—to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your running style and need.
In the earlier days of the Endorphin series, it often felt like a choice between the two. They overlapped a lot in terms of racing, training, and everything in between. But with the Speed 3 and Pro 3, Saucony has shifted gears, designing these shoes to complement each other in your lineup rather than compete.
Let’s begin with a quick overview for those in a hurry…
Endorphin Speed vs. Pro – Quick Comparison
Endorphin Pro 4 | Endorphin Speed 4 | |
---|---|---|
Comfort | 8.0 | 7.0 |
Build quality | 8.3 | 7.0 |
Upper | 9.0 | 8.0 |
Midsole | 7.0 | 7.0 |
Landing | 8.0 | 7.0 |
Transition | 8.0 | 7.0 |
Toe-off | 7.0 | 7.0 |
Traction | 10 | 8.0 |
Durability | 9.0 | 7.0 |
Value | 9.0 | 6.0 |
Responsiveness | 9.0 | 8.0 |
Stability | 5.0 | 6.0 |
Weight | 8.3 | 7.1 |
These shoes may share a name, but they’ve definitely grown apart.
If you’re unfamiliar with the Endorphin line, the earlier Speeds were often a better pick than the Pros for most runners. The Speed offered more comfort while still being nice and poppy.
With the third generation, the shoes took different paths. The Endorphin Pro 3 got a major upgrade with a higher stack, lighter feel, more bounce, and a lot more comfort than its predecessors. Meanwhile, the Speed 3 moved toward being more of a daily trainer, with a slightly wider platform and softer heel.
Now, with the release of the Pro 4 and Speed 4, the gap has widened even more. The Pro 4 is faster, more aggressive, and snappier, while the Speed 4 sticks to the versatile, all-around approach that made it such a favorite. In fact, the Speed 4 might just be one of the best non-carbon plated shoes available right now.
The Speed 4 has a more relaxed feel than earlier models, which may disappoint those who preferred the racier vibes of the Speed 1 and 2. But for long, steady runs or easy days, it’s a fantastic option—and it can still handle hard workouts.
I’ve been very happy doing hard workouts in the Speed 4, but the sweet spot for the Speed 4 is long steady runs while it is a really nice option to cruise around through easy runs really well.
But when you’re aiming for pure speed, the Pro 4 has the edge. It’s got that pop to push your pace, thanks to the PWRRUN HG super foam that gives it an extra boost when you need it.
While you can still use the Pro 4 for some of your daily training, I think the Speed 4 certainly is a level up in terms of comfort and how it feels at relaxed paces as it really cruises through very nicely and ticks over even in recovery run pace.
When I pushed through harder, longer efforts in the Speed 4, I did notice a bit of discomfort in the forefoot. It’s nothing major—I’d still be happy to take it on long-distance runs—but the extra foam in the Pro 4, particularly in the forefoot, really adds a layer of protection and bounce for those longer efforts.
Overall, the Endorphin Pro 4 feels lighter, more nimble, and race-focused—everything you’d expect from a top racing shoe, which wasn’t always the case with earlier versions. If you want the pace of a racing shoe, I’d get the Endorphin Pro 4.
The Speed 4, on the other hand, leans into versatility. It’s got a relaxed, do-it-all edge that makes it a fantastic daily trainer, while still being capable of handling fast workouts.
If you need something to train in, but don’t necessarily plan to race in it, the Speed 4 is the better choice. But if you’re looking for something with more punch and aggression, the Pro 4 will deliver.
And one last thing—if you’re new to racing and want to try a carbon-plated shoe without going all-in with a super aggressive shoe like the Endorphin Elite or Alphafly, the Pro 4 is a great option to ease into that world.
Quick Specs
In terms of weight, the Pro 4 is the lighter of the two, coming in at 7.7 oz (218 grams) for a men’s size 9 and 6.5 oz (184 grams) for a women’s size 8. The Speed 4, on the other hand, weighs 8.3 oz (235 grams) for a men’s size 9 and 7.4 oz (209 grams) for a women’s size 8.
The Pro 4’s lighter build isn’t surprising since it’s designed for racing, but on foot, the weight difference between the two isn’t that noticeable.
Both shoes share an 8mm drop, but the Pro 4 has a higher stack height, with 39.5mm at the heel and 31.5mm at the forefoot. The Speed 4, by comparison, comes in at 36mm in the heel and 28mm in the forefoot.
Unlike the weight difference, I can definitely feel the difference in stack height, especially in the forefoot. For longer, harder efforts—like a 10-mile steady run or pushing beyond 20K—I find myself craving more foam up front in the Speed 4, and that’s where the Pro 4 excels.
That’s not to say the Speed 4 can’t handle those threshold or max-effort runs, but it’s just not where it feels most at home.
Midsole Clash
The midsole in the Pro 4 is a mix of three key layers of tech. At the bottom, you’ll find Saucony’s PWRRUN PB, a beaded PEBAX material that’s a staple in their high-end racing shoes and is also used in the Endorphin Speed 4.
Above that sits a full-length carbon fiber plate, and topping it off is Saucony’s PWRRUN HG core (Holy Grail), which first appeared in the Endorphin Elite. PWRRUN HG is Saucony’s latest, highly resilient foam, which offers even better energy return than PWRRUN PB.
The Speed 4, on the other hand, sticks with a full PWRRUN PB midsole, the same high-performance beaded PEBA foam found in the Pro 4.
Sandwiched between its two layers of foam is a winged nylon plate. The nylon plate adds stability while being a bit softer and less rigid than the Pro’s carbon plate, making it a more comfortable option for everyday runs.
Both shoes share Saucony’s SpeedRoll technology and geometry, which gives them a smooth toe-off without the sensation of tipping forward too quickly. It’s the kind of toe spring that helps you flow effortlessly through your stride.
The Endorphin Pro 4’s carbon fiber plate is much stiffer compared to the Speed 4’s nylon plate. This gives you not only the smooth roll forward from Saucony’s SpeedRoll tech but also a bit of extra snap from the Pro’s carbon plate—perfect for when you’re really pushing the pace.
Inside both shoes, you’ll find the new SRS sock liner, a material that offers a bit more bounce and comfort than the previous models. While these sock liners are designed to improve energy return, I didn’t really notice any major differences in how they felt underfoot compared to earlier versions.
Upper Clash
Both shoes come with a breathable, lightweight mesh upper, but the Endorphin Pro edges ahead with its lighter, more breathable build and that snug, bootie-style tongue fit.
Speed 4
The Speed 4’s upper is softer and stretchier than past versions. It’s now less focused on speed and more on comfort for daily training—almost to the point where it feels, dare I say, a little frumpy.
On the bright side, it’s got a gusseted tongue that stays in place and adds a touch of structure, so your foot feels a bit more secure, which is always a win.
Plus, there’s more padding around the tongue and collar compared to the Pro 4, which makes sense since the Speed 4 is aimed at training.
As for the heel cup, not much has changed since the Speed 3. It still offers minimal padding but enough structure with the rigid heel to keep your foot locked in.
BUT,
As much as I love Saucony’s uppers—they’re known for their comfy fit—the Speed 4’s upper left me wanting more. It feels like it belongs on a Saucony Ride or Guide, maybe even the Endorphin Shift, rather than a shoe built for speed.
When I think Endorphin Speed series, I want an upper that screams speed but is still comfortable for daily training. Instead, I feel like the Speed 4’s upper is giving me all the daily trainer benefits with none of that speed flair.
Don’t get me wrong, the Speed 4 is good for easy runs, and I know a lot of you will crush workouts and even marathons in it. But the upper? Yeah, it’s just not living up to the potential of the shoe, in my opinion.
Pro 4
The upper of the Pro 4 is pretty similar to what we saw with the Pro 3. The mesh still delivers that breathable feel, but this time, the holes are a bit bigger—great for those hot, sweaty runs.
The heel cup? Well, there’s not much new to report. A few subtle cosmetic tweaks here and there, but structurally, it’s basically the same as last year’s model. You’re still getting the same amount of padding, so if it worked for you in the Pro 3, you’re good to go.
Now, the real change is in the tongue. Remember the Pro 3’s funky three-hole cut design? Well, that’s gone! Saucony went all out in the opposite direction with the Pro 4 and opted for an integrated knit tongue that’s longer and way more functional.
Plus, it has this extra-long flap that you can fold down or leave up—perfect if you’re someone who deals with chafing at the top during long runs. It’s a small but thoughtful change.
To sum it up, while I’m not a huge fan of the Speed 4’s upper (it feels a bit cheap, honestly), both of these shoes are still really well-made. Saucony has clearly paid attention to detail, especially with the Pro 4’s tweaks.
Which Shoe Fits Better
Fit-wise, both the Endorphin Speed vs. Pro are pretty spot-on in length, so I’d say stick with your usual running shoe size. I haven’t experienced any heel rub with either, which is a win in my book!
The Speed 4 tends to feel a bit wider compared to the Pro 4. The Speed 3 was already a roomy shoe compared to the Speed 2, and I know some narrow-footed runners found the front a bit too spacious, which caused some heel slippage and made it tricky to lock in that secure fit.
Now, the Pro 4 pretty much mirrors the fit of the Pro 3, and I haven’t noticed any major changes there.
However, I will say that the upper doesn’t feel as reinforced or dialed-in as I’d expect from a racing shoe. It’s a little loose, which makes it hard to achieve that snug lockdown, especially when you’re trying to push the pace during fast workouts.
It’s not that the Pro 4 is massively roomy; it’s just that the upper feels a tad more flexible than it ideally should. Plus, the Pro 4’s laces are stretchy, so I found myself adjusting them to get the perfect fit. Once I got that sorted, they held my midfoot nicely!
So, to wrap it up, I’d recommend going true to size for both of these Saucony shoes!
Outsole Clash
When it comes to the outsoles of the Endorphin Speed 4 and Pro 4, they’re practically twins!
The Speed 4 features an updated rubber outsole pattern, with plenty of rubber in the forefoot and two rubber rings in the heel. This design carries over from last year, but the grid pattern? Totally fresh!
There’s more rubber coverage overall, and the design closely mirrors what you find on its big brother, the Endorphin Pro 4.
Speaking of the Pro 4, it has a large amount of rubber coverage on the outsole, but it also includes some exposed foam and a peek at the carbon fiber plate. Plus, there are a couple of rubber patches on either side of the heel to enhance traction.
Both shoes feature cutouts to shed weight, but the Pro 4 goes all out with a more extensive and deeper cutout since it’s aiming to be as light as possible for racing.
If you’re curious about measurements, the Speed 4 measures 11.5 centimeters at its widest point in the forefoot, 6.8 centimeters in the waist, and 9.8 centimeters in the heel.
For the Pro 4, we’re looking at 11.7 centimeters at the widest point in the forefoot, 7.4 centimeters in the midfoot, and 8.9 centimeters in the heel.
So, you can definitely feel that the Pro 4 has a bit more width, especially in the midfoot—there’s just more shoe to work with compared to the Speed 4. Meanwhile, the Speed 4 boasts a wider heel flare on both sides, which gives it a solid foundation.
Now, if you’re a heel striker or a midfoot striker, the Speed 4 feels really optimal. But let’s not sleep on the Pro 4—it performs exceptionally well too and might just be the best carbon-plated super shoe out there for heel and midfoot strikers alike!
At the end of the day, both shoes share the same lattice pattern and rubber compounds, so you’ll experience a similar feel on the ground. Just keep in mind, since the Pro 4 features a carbon plate, you won’t get quite as much ground feel as you do with the Speed 4’s more flexible nylon plate.
Now that we’ve talked about what the shoe is like on paper, let’s talk about what it’s like to run in these shoes.
How it feels to run in the Endorphin Speed & Pro
Speed 4
I got to tell you Saucony’s PEBA midsole is working its magic here. You’re getting some serious impact absorption and then that signature bounce of PWRRUN PB at easy paces.
But once you start pushing the pace, that PWRRUN PB really comes to life. The shoe seems to change the faster you go—the compression and decompression rate just adapts to your effort really nicely anytime you pick up the pace above an easy level of effort.
Strides are also super fun in the Speed 4 because it feels lightweight and ready to turn over quickly and marathon effort is effortless and lively. The forefoot mechanics of the Speed 4 definitely remind me very much of the Endorphin Pro 3.
I know the Endorphin Speed series has been a daily trainer of choice for a lot of runners, but the changes Saucony brought to the Speed 4 make it a little bit less good at that in my opinion. I feel like the flare in the heel has gotten even bigger, which adds some volume back there and makes it feel clunkier, especially at easier paces.
Plus, there’s that signature Saucony stability creeping in when I’m running with the Speed 4 at easy efforts—something that might be a feature for those of you who prefer a touch of control. Personally, I can live with it, but if you’re sensitive to stability, it might be a love-it-or-hate-it feature for you.
One more thing—the shoe’s gotten a bit thicker under the arch. If you’ve found previous versions to tip a bit too much, this will feel more stable. For me, though, it just adds to the clunkiness at slower speeds.
Pro 4
The way Saucony describes the Pro 4 as “snappy and responsive yet smooth and efficient” is spot on—it really captures how it feels on the run.
I wouldn’t say the Pro 4 has been improved from the Pro 3 because I think the 3 has some elements that are probably more applicable to some people than the 4.
Saucony describes the Pro 4 as “a snappy and responsive yet smooth and efficient shoe” and I think that’s a really good way of describing what I’m feeling in the shoe.
Even though I still have the same running shoe size in both the Pro 4 and 3, the Pro 4 feels just a little bit longer. I feel like that elongation of the shoe is what’s making the shoe feel like it’s rolling just a little bit more smoothly.
I’ve put the Pro 4 through some tough marathon training sessions, and let me tell you—there’s no bottoming out. It feels incredibly comfortable, and you still get that pop from the forefoot, thanks to the HG foam.
BUT,
While PWRRUN PB definitely delivers that delightful beaded PEBA squish and bounce we all love, honestly, I can’t help but wish for just a bit more pop and excitement in the experience.
I think part of the reason I’m feeling this way is due to a few factors: the shoe’s elongation, the extra width through the midfoot, and a slight decrease in the SpeedRoll angle. Plus, it seems like that top layer of PWRRUN HG is dampening the fun a bit!
Yes, you heard it right!
When I first heard they were introducing PWRRUN HG—a foam I absolutely adored in the Endorphin Elite—I was all in. My hopes were high for two things: making the shoe lighter and giving that PWRRUN PB a little extra bounce control.
Sure, PWRRUN HG does help keep the weight down, but I wasn’t blown away by how much it enhances the responsiveness. Instead, it feels like my foot hits the ground and a great amount of energy just fades away—like the PWRRUN HG foam is eating it up instead of bouncing it back.
That said, even if the Endorphin Pro 4 isn’t exactly living up to my nitpicky expectations, it’s still one of the most recommendable carbon-plated racing shoes on the market in 2024—no excess softness or wobbliness here
I find myself recommending the Pro 4 and Pro 3 to a wide range of runners—regardless of skill level or pace—because they just strike that perfect balance of approachability and performance.
Honestly, it’s a fantastic time to be a runner! I can nitpick these tiny details about the running experience in these shoes because there’s such a fantastic variety of excellent options available now.
Now, let’s see how you can integrate the Endorphin Speed 4 and Pro 4 into your running rotation for maximum benefit!
How to build a rotation around the Speed 4 and Pro 4
Speed 4
To build a solid rotation featuring the Endorphin Speed 4, you’ll want to include a couple of essential companions: a recovery/easy run shoe and a racing shoe. The Speed 4 is not just any daily trainer; it’s your daily trainer with a little extra flair for speed!
Again, the Speed 4 is a great tempo trainer, super trainer, fast trainer, you name it, but it’s the daily trainer+.
For those easy-paced recovery runs, look no further than the Saucony Triumph 22. This shoe offers ample cushioning and comfort, which makes it your go-to road warrior that’ll pamper your feet after tougher sessions. (Check out Saucony Triumph vs. Brooks Glycerin)
When it’s time to push your limits, elevate your game with the Endorphin Pro 4. With its carbon fiber plate and premium PWRRUN HG foam, this shoe is designed for speed and efficiency, ensuring you stay light on your feet during race prep.
The weight reduction you’ll experience here compared to the Speed 4 is noticeable and makes for an exhilarating ride.
The other race shoe that probably pairs the best with the Speed 4 is actually the Nike Vaporfly 3. Both shoes have a similar 38/30 stack height with an 8mm drop, but the Speed 4 brings that added flex that can enhance your tempo workouts. If you’re a fan of the Vaporfly experience and want a tempo shoe that fits that vibe, the Speed 4 could be your ideal match.
Make sure you check our comparison of the Endorphin Pro vs. Nike Vaporfly.
Pro 4
If you’re planning to use the Endorphin Pro 4 as your go-to race shoe, you’ll want to round out your rotation with some great companions—keeping it all in the Saucony family makes it easy and effective!
The Endorphin Speed 4 is your ideal training buddy for the Pro 4. This shoe is a blast to run in, thanks to its upper built to handle the wear and tear of daily training. This is the shoe that you can use for not only light workouts but also for a lot of easy daily training running as well.
For those days when you crave a little more comfort, consider the Triumph 22. This non-plated gem offers a tall stack height and plenty of cushioning, which makes it perfect for recovery runs or those longer, slower distances.
Think of the Triumph as the modern-day equivalent of the Endorphin Shift from Saucony’s lineup. (Make sure you check out Endorphin Speed vs. Endorphin Shift)
So, if you’re a runner looking to simplify your rotation with just Saucony shoes for the season, this trio will keep you set from spring to fall. With the durability of PWRRUN foam, you can trust that these shoes will stand the test of time through all your racing, training, and running adventures.
Now, if you’re looking to build a rotation around the Endorphin Pro 4 using shoes from other brands, let’s head over to Asics…
If you’ve enjoyed the Asics Superblast but wished it could use a little something extra? The Pro 4 gives you that sensation! the Endorphin Pro 4 feels like a Superblast with a plate in it.
It feels like there’s a lot of connection between these two shoes and frankly, this is a rotation that if you don’t want to buy a lot of shoes, you are pretty much covered at least for half and full marathon racing.
While the Superblast may not have a plate, it compensates with a stiffer feel compared to traditional daily trainers.
But, if you’re looking to add a daily trainer to your lineup, I’d suggest looking at the Hoka Mach 6. The Mach shares a similar feel with both the Pro 4 and Superblast, particularly in how it toes-off and how much cushioning it offers.
So, imagine this setup: the Endorphin Pro 4 for racing, the Superblast for your tempo runs, and the Mach 6 for your everyday runs. This combination gives you versatility and efficiency, ensuring you’re well-equipped for any distance.
Here’s our comparison of the Endorphin Speed vs. Hoka Mach.
Now, let’s check out some of the competition!
Shoes that compete against the Pro 4 and Speed 4
Speed 4
A couple of competitors come to mind right away. One standout is the Salomon S Lab Spectur. While I hesitate to fully recommend this shoe due to its steep price tag, it definitely ticks a lot of the same boxes as the Speed 4.
It’s designed for versatile performance—whether it’s for workouts, daily training, or even racing for some runners. It’s lightweight, fast, and responsive, but the price might make you think twice.
Another great contender that stacks up against the Speed 4 is the Puma Deviate Nitro. Puma brings something special to the table here with a dual-foam system: a race-ready foam up top and a soft Nitro foam in the heel.
Unlike the Speed 4, the Deviate Nitro comes with a carbon plate, which adds a bit more stiffness for race-day propulsion while still being cushioned enough for daily training. If you’re after a shoe that can handle both long miles and intense workouts, the Deviate Nitro offers a solid alternative.
The other shoe that I think really stands out as a close competitor to the Endorphin Speed 4 is the TYR Valkyrie Speedworks. Now, you might recognize TYR as a big name in swimming or gym gear, but they’ve made a serious move into the performance running market—and they’re crushing it. The Valkyrie Speedworks is probably the closest head-to-head comparison we’ll see against the Speed 4 in 2024.
Both shoes feature a daily training style upper, that signature beaded PEBA foam, and a nylon plate sandwiched between two foam layers. Honestly, the resemblance is uncanny, and at first glance, you might think they’re clones. But here’s where the Speedworks sets itself apart: it’s got a more neutral-feeling foam. If you prefer a less aggressive bounce, the Valkyrie Speedworks might be the shoe for you.
Of course, there are other super trainers on the market, like the Adidas Boston 12 and the Asics Magic Speed 3, but neither one offers quite the same level of versatility as the Speed 4. If you’re looking for a shoe that checks all the boxes—daily training, workouts, and racing—the Speed 4 and Valkyrie Speedworks are neck and neck in this category.
Pro 4
When it comes to carbon-plated racing shoes, the Endorphin Pro 4 faces some stiff competition—especially from its own predecessor, the Endorphin Pro 3. For many runners, including myself, the Pro 3 set the bar really high. It’s got that extra pop, and for shorter, sharper races and workouts, it’s just electric.
Plus, it’s a little narrower through the midfoot and doesn’t have the bulbous flare on the heel like the Pro 4, which makes it less stable. So if stability isn’t a top priority for you, the Pro 3 might still be the better option.
For me, that lack of extra stability isn’t an issue in a race-day shoe.
Another big advantage? Since the Pro 3 has been around for a while, you can now often find the Endorphin Pro 3 at discounted prices, which makes it a steal for what it offers.
If you’re not hung up on having the newest model, I’d easily recommend grabbing a pair of Pro 3s over the Endorphin Pro 4. However, the Pro 4 brings a smoother ride and extra comfort, especially over long distances
So, while I love the Pro 3 for its punchy feel, the Pro 4 definitely has its place in the marathon and long-distance world.
Another shoe that’s worth mentioning when talking about the Endorphin Pro 4 is the TYR Valkyrie Elite Carbon.
Now, this is an interesting shoe because it’s got that same beaded PEBAX foam we love, paired with a carbon fiber plate—much like the Pro 4.
But here’s where things get interesting: the Valkyrie surprised me because it’s really close to what I expected the Pro 4 to be.
It’s got that springy PEBAX feel, but with a footprint and geometry that remind me of the Endorphin Elite. It sits in this sweet spot between the Endorphin Pro 3 and the Elite, even though it doesn’t have Saucony’s fancy PWRRUN HG foam.
In a lot of ways, I feel like the TYR Valkyrie is doing a better job of bridging the gap between the Endorphin Pro 3 and the Elite than the Pro 4 does.
That being said, I’m not sure Saucony wanted the Pro 4 to bridge that gap at all. Maybe they want the Pro 4 to be its own distinct shoe—something that stands apart from the rest of the Endorphin line.
So, if you’re trying to figure out which one is right for you, it comes down to what you’re really looking for: do you want something more like the Pro 3 and Elite combined, or do you want a shoe that has its own identity?
On top of that, you’ve got the Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris, which is a lighter, punchier competitor. But overall, the Endorphin Pro 4 remains one of the most accessible carbon-plated shoes. It doesn’t go overboard with softness or an overly aggressive rocker.
And let’s not forget about the Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris—a lightweight, punchy race-day shoe that’s also in the mix. Ultimately, though, the Pro 4 stands out for being a more accessible option. It doesn’t go overboard with softness or an overly aggressive rocker, which makes it a great option for runners who prefer a more balanced, approachable shoe.
Final Thoughts
The Endorphin Speed 4 is one of those shoes that you can just throw on and take out for pretty much anything. It’s versatile enough for easy days, perfect for workouts, and even solid for marathon racing for some people.
While I’m not the biggest fan of the fit on the upper, it’s one of those shoes that just works. If you’re feeling good, you can pick up the pace. If you’re sluggish or a little bit slower that day, you can cruise through an easy run.
Now, the Endorphin Pro 4 is a great carbon-plated super shoe. It’s a bit more stable than some of its competitors, and although it caters well to forefoot strikers, it seems to shine even more for heel and midfoot strikers.
Unlike a lot of the ultra-aggressive super shoes out there, the Pro 4 feels more balanced. If you’re a heavier runner or someone who needs a little more support without going too soft, the Pro 4 is a solid choice.
It’s a great option for heavier runners or those with slightly wider feet, thanks to its accommodating upper—even though it’s not technically a wide shoe. The upper’s got enough room to feel accommodating, even if it’s not technically a wide shoe.
Honestly, the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 and the Endorphin Speed 4 complement (not compete against) each other perfectly, either paired together or mixed with other models.
Whether you’re looking for an all-Saucony rotation or just a couple of versatile shoes, you can’t go wrong with these shoes.
Together, these shoes form a powerful pair. You’ve got your race day needs covered with the Pro 4 and your daily training handled with the Speed 4. Honestly, it’s hard to go wrong with either of these.
That’s all I have for this Saucony Endorphin Speed vs. Pro. Now I want to hear from you! Have you tried either of these shoes yet? Or maybe you’ve got your eye on them? Drop a comment below and let me know your thoughts. Which one would you add to your rotation?
Thx for the considered article. I have the Speed 1, changing from Ride 13s, and I’m mainly a triathlete but do some 5ks and halves. My data says I gain about :30/mi pace for ~same effort, and my knees love the new cushion. I had to really improve my form to match these shoes (2 weeks of sore calves and inner thighs). I’m not a fast runner (races are 8-9 min/mi), and the stack, cushion and sole width do require stronger ankles. As model 1 is on closeout now (Speed and Pro), I’m trying to decide if I should double down on Speed or get the Pro and dedicate to racing. “Both,” is probably the right answer, but $$$. Your thoughts? I also have to size up for running due to high instep (~all brands), which puts my arch just fitting, sometimes heel can be loose. TY!
Dave,
Upgrading from the Ride to the Endorphin is a good move. I would suggest you go for the Speed as it can perform great for training and racing especially regarding your level of fitness. You’re now transitioning to a new philosophy and spending more time training and racing in a shoe makes sure you level up faster.
I have both shoes. I was trying to decided which one to use for the marathon of a Ironman. I like the feel of the speed better than the Pro. The Pro feels much stiffer and the Speed is more comfortable and seems to be better for tired feet after swimming and biking. Your review was excellent. Thank you very much!
You’re very lucky to have tried both of them. Your comment is very valuable. Thanks.
Yes. I bought the speed then someone told me to try the Pro and you know the results. Thanks again!
Thanks for the thorough review! I’ve used the Speed for 5k and 10k races and tempo runs in the past year and love it. I bought a pair of Pros for an upcoming marathon and tried them in a long training run at marathon pace last weekend, and they just didn’t feel good. The light weight and rolling motion did keep me moving along, but they felt too firm and made my ankles and quads sore. I’m thinking now I will use the Speed for the marathon. I’ve used Kinvaras in the past for marathons and they work pretty well, but are on the minimal side and I start to wish I had more cushioning under my feet after 15 or so miles.
Thanks very much for your valuable contribution to our comparison. Good luck with your training.
I have been training in the speeds and just bought a pair of pros for an upcoming marathon and… don’t love them. I WANT to love them, but I don’t. I’ve been doing MP work in the speeds on long runs and they feel like an extension of my foot and really roll. I notice the pros a lot more when I’m running and they just don’t quite fit with my stride as nicely – feels like I have to fight with them a bit more to get them rolling and popping in the right way. Just purchased a fresh new pair of speeds for race day.
Thanks so much for your article! I wish it was dated for perspective. I’ve been running in Brooks Ghost & on whim saw the Endorphin Pro (v1) discounted as they came out with Pro 2 and decided to try them. Maybe I’m clueless, but I don’t feel “stiffness.” I’m only wearing them for my speed workouts (and first time today for a tempo). Yes, they make me run faster… and I had to get used to “they MAKE me!” I felt like they forced me into a faster cadence, which is probably good. My concern, and my reason for thinking about the Speed, is that I’ve read that the traction isn’t great, and I’m training for Boston, where it sometimes rains… heavily. I have a somewhat wide forefoot, but even more significantly I have 4 long toes! (almost the same length) I’m wondering if the fit of the Speed and the Pro (versions 1) are similar. Anyone with any thoughts? Thanks so much!
Thank you so much for stopping by. I think both the Speed and Pro are pretty much comparable in terms of length and width.
Regarding the Speed traction – I really notice it when I am running on dry and then I hit a wet patch in the road – it introduces a lot of slip. But I did a half PB on a really wet and cold day and they were fine. As long as everything is wet, they don’t seem to have a traction problem.
I don’t have the Pro, reading comments to see if it is worth investing in a racing shoe, so far not convinced. But I’m on my second set of Speed and I’m about to order my 3rd. The improved my speed the day I put them on, and I’m hesitant to try anything else!
My first Saucony’s were the Triumph. I swore to never buy Saucony’s again. After reading reviews, I got the Saucony Pros. My favourite shoes ever. I do have a question about the upper. I hated the Triumphs as the upper was extremely hot. The Pros have a very thin upper. What’s the difference in the upper between the Speed and Pros?
Thank you David for the comment. The difference in terms of the upper is very minimal. The Speed is a smidge more padded through the upper because the Pro is supposed to deliver that little bit of extra lightweightness for race day.