After logging over 100 miles in the latest iteration of Saucony’s beloved trainer, I’m ready to share my comprehensive Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 review. As someone who has run in all previous versions of the Endorphin Speed line, I’ve been eager to see how this update compares to its predecessors. Does the Speed 4 maintain its reputation as one of the most versatile super trainers on the market? Let’s dive into what makes this shoe tick and whether it deserves a spot in your rotation.
My First Impressions and Specifications
When I first unboxed the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, I was immediately struck by its eye-catching design and lightweight feel. The updated geometry and mesh upper suggest thoughtful evolution rather than revolution – a smart move for such a successful franchise.
Key Specifications:
- Weight: 8.2 oz (233g) for men’s size 9, 7.2 oz (206g) for women’s size 8
- Stack Height: 36mm heel, 28mm forefoot
- Drop: 8mm
- Midsole: PWRRUN PB foam (Pebax-based)
- Plate: Winged nylon plate (not carbon)
- Upper: Engineered mesh with significant ventilation
- Outsole: XT-900 rubber in strategic zones
- Price: $170
The Endorphin Speed 4 manages to pack significant technology into a surprisingly lightweight package. At 8.2 oz for a men’s 9, it’s slightly heavier than the v3 (by approximately 0.5 oz) but still feels remarkably light considering its cushioning and features.
Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 Review: Key Features
Now that we’ve covered the foundational specifications, it’s time to translate those numbers into real-world performance. From the moment I laced up the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, its promise of a versatile ride became evident. Let’s delve into each critical aspect of this shoe.
Upper and Fit
The Endorphin Speed 4 features a significantly revamped upper that strikes an excellent balance between breathability and structure. The engineered mesh incorporates large ventilation holes throughout, earning it top marks in breathability tests. This makes it an excellent choice for warm weather running, though you might want thicker socks for colder conditions.
The fit represents a meaningful evolution from previous models:
- Wider platform: The midfoot is 5mm wider than the Speed 3, providing enhanced stability
- More accommodating fit: The forefoot feels roomier than previous versions
- Secure lockdown: Despite the more generous fit, the gusseted tongue and thoughtful upper design provide excellent foot security
Many runners with wider feet who struggled with previous Endorphin Speed models report finding the Speed 4 much more comfortable. The shoe is generally true to size, though some report it running slightly small.
One minor critique involves the tongue, which some runners find has too much fabric and can bunch up if not carefully adjusted during lacing.
Midsole and Ride
The heart of the Endorphin Speed 4 remains the PWRRUN PB midsole, Saucony’s Pebax-based foam that offers an exceptional blend of lightweight cushioning and energy return. However, Saucony has made several key refinements:
- Firmer formulation: The midsole feels more responsive and less “mushy” than the Speed 3
- Enhanced nylon plate: The winged plate design now offers more torsional rigidity for stability while maintaining flexibility
- New super-responsive sockliner: Adds an additional layer of bounce and comfort
- Increased stack height: Measuring 36.2mm in the heel and 27.5mm in the forefoot (8.7mm drop)
The combination of these elements creates a ride that maintains the Speedroll geometry Saucony is known for, but with improved stability and responsiveness. The shoe excels at uptempo paces but handles easy days adequately as well.
Laboratory testing revealed that the PWRRUN PB foam maintains its properties exceptionally well in cold temperatures, showing only a 5.6% increase in firmness after freezing—making it a good choice for winter running.
Outsole and Traction
A standout improvement in the Speed 4 is its redesigned outsole. The new lattice pattern of XT-900 rubber provides significantly better grip than previous versions, particularly during toe-off. This translates to excellent traction on both dry and wet surfaces.
The outsole rubber is strategically placed to cover high-wear areas while still exposing some foam to reduce weight. Durability testing shows promising results, with minimal wear after extensive testing miles.
Performance Experience
The Endorphin Speed 4 truly shines as a versatile performer, though it leans slightly more toward tempo work than its predecessor. Here’s how it performs across different running scenarios:
- Easy/recovery runs: Comfortable enough, though it seems to prefer picking up the pace
- Daily training: Excellent blend of cushioning and responsiveness for everyday miles
- Tempo workouts: Where the shoe truly excels, offering a snappy, responsive ride
- Long runs: The additional cushioning and stability improvements make it better suited for distance than previous versions
- Racing: While not as propulsive as carbon-plated racers, it’s capable for distances up to half marathon for many runners
What makes the Speed 4 special is its ability to handle this entire spectrum competently. As one tester put it, “If I’m not reviewing other shoes, this is the one I keep reaching for again and again.”
Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 Review: Pros and Cons
Based on my extensive testing and lab data, here’s a concise summary:
Pros:
- Remains remarkably lightweight for its cushioning.
- Exceptional versatility, performing well at all paces (easy, tempo, intervals, long runs).
- Great for track workouts.
- More spacious and accommodating fit than previous versions (midfoot/forefoot width).
- Bouncy and enjoyable ride with enhanced responsiveness.
- Improved stability compared to the v3.
- Suitable for daily training as well as speedwork.
- Outstanding value for its performance level.
- Excellent breathability (5/5).
- Maintains performance in cold temperatures (minimal firmness change).
- Good outsole durability and grip.
- Reflective elements for safety.
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than its predecessor.
- Could be a bit firm for runners who prefer an ultra-soft midsole (though I found it balanced).
- Tapered toe box might not suit runners with wider feet who need more toe splay.
- Minimal tongue padding requires careful lacing to avoid lace bite on longer runs.
Who Should Buy the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4?
The Endorphin Speed 4 is ideal for:
- Runners seeking a versatile “do-it-all” training shoe that excels at tempo paces
- Those who found previous Endorphin Speed models too narrow or unstable
- Runners who want a high-performance trainer that can occasionally double as a race day option
- Athletes looking for a workout companion to their carbon-plated racers
- Fans of the Endorphin Speed line who preferred the firmer, more responsive feel of versions 1 and 2 over the softer Speed 3
At $170, the Endorphin Speed 4 represents excellent value in the super trainer category, especially considering its versatility and expected durability.
Who Should NOT Buy the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4?
This shoe might not be ideal for:
- Runners seeking maximum cushioning and plushness (consider the ASICS Superblast instead)
- Those who prefer completely plate-free trainers
- Runners with extremely wide feet (though it’s more accommodating than previous versions)
- Athletes looking for a dedicated race-day super shoe (consider the Endorphin Pro 4 or Elite)
Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 Comparisons
After thoroughly analyzing the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 on its own merits, it’s natural to wonder how it stacks up against its predecessors and key competitors in the market. Understanding these comparisons can often be the final piece of the puzzle when making your shoe selection. Let’s see how the Endorphin Speed 4 holds its own in a crowded field.
- Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 vs. Saucony Endorphin Speed 3: The ES4 offers a noticeably firmer, more responsive ride, moving away from the v3’s softer feel. It’s also slightly heavier, with increased stack height and width for enhanced cushioning and stability. The v4 feels more planted and versatile across paces.
- Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 vs. ASICS Superblast: The Superblast offers significantly more foam and a plush experience without a plate, making it a great option for those seeking maximal cushioning and a traditional feel. The ES4, with its nylon plate, provides a snappier, more propulsive ride better suited for tempo work while still being versatile for daily training.
- Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 vs. Nike Streakfly: The Streakfly is a much softer, lighter, and more minimal shoe designed specifically for short-distance tempo work or track workouts. The ES4 is more versatile, offering a higher stack and more structure for longer distances and a wider range of paces.
Real Runner Experience
I took the Speed 4’s out for a maiden run without a specific distance goal in mind, but ended up completing 10 miles at a comfortable 7:45/mile (4:50/km) pace. This speaks volumes about how well the shoe performs—it felt natural and encouraging throughout the entire run.
The improved stability in the heel was immediately noticeable compared to earlier versions. The PWRRUN PB midsole feels firmer and more responsive in the forefoot, which helps maintain the distinctive Speedroll geometry that propels you forward.
The outsole deserves special mention—the new lattice pattern provides significantly better grip during toe-off, which becomes particularly valuable when running at faster paces. This enhanced traction inspires confidence in a way that previous Endorphin Speed models never quite managed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 good for beginners?
Yes, the Endorphin Speed 4 can work well for beginners, especially those looking to improve their pace. The stability improvements make it more forgiving than previous versions, though absolute beginners might prefer a more traditional daily trainer to start.
Can I race in the Endorphin Speed 4?
Absolutely. While not specifically designed as a racing shoe, the Endorphin Speed 4 performs admirably for distances from 5K to marathon. Many runners will find it an excellent race day option, particularly for half and full marathons where the balance of cushioning and responsiveness shines.
How does the Endorphin Speed 4 fit compared to other Saucony models?
The Endorphin Speed 4 runs true to size but offers a more accommodating fit than previous Speed models. It’s similar to the Ride series in sizing but with a slightly more performance-oriented feel. If you’ve worn Saucony before, your usual size should work well.
How many miles can I expect from the Endorphin Speed 4?
Based on my testing and the shoe’s construction, most runners should expect 300-400 miles from the Endorphin Speed 4. The outsole durability is particularly impressive, while the PWRRUN PB foam maintains its responsiveness well over time.
Is the Endorphin Speed 4 suitable for heavier runners?
The improvements in stability and the firmer midsole make the Speed 4 more suitable for heavier runners than previous versions. The wider platform provides better support, though very heavy runners might still prefer a shoe with more structured stability features.
Final Thoughts on the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4
The Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 successfully builds upon the legacy of its predecessors, creating perhaps the most balanced version of this popular super trainer to date. By addressing stability concerns while maintaining the responsive, versatile character of the line, Saucony has created a true all-rounder that deserves a place in every runner’s rotation.
At $170, it represents excellent value in today’s premium running shoe market, offering technology and performance that rival more expensive models. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the Endorphin Speed series or considering your first pair, the Speed 4 delivers an exceptional running experience that spans from easy recovery days to race-pace efforts.
For detailed questions about sizing, availability, or personalized recommendations based on your running style, feel free to contact me directly through WhatsApp for assistance in finding your perfect running companion.
I look forward to assisting you in finding your next perfect pair!
