Of all of the Endorphin series running shoes, the Saucony Endorphin Shift 2 seems to get lost. In fact, I could make that argument in general for the original Endorphin Shift as well. I think it’s a lost shoe in Saucony’s line up and it seems silly to have it. Yet it must sell as Saucony made a second version.
Saucony Endorphin Shift 2 Quick Facts:
Weight: 9.2 oz
Heel to Toe Drop: 4 mm
Cost: $140
Saucony Endorphin Shift 2 Fit:
Just looking at the Saucony Endorphin Shift 2, you notice how big and bulky it is. If you didn’t know anything about the shoe, you would think it’s the most cushioned shoe out there. The sole is massive. Why because the heel-to-toe drop isn’t that big.
The Shift 2 uses Saucony’s FORMFIT, which fits like an upper should. I strongly believe if the upper disappears and I forget about it, it’s a good fitting shoe. The upper in the Saucony Endorphin Shift 2 uses a thin, lightweight upper for an airy feeling. It is a lot thinner than the previous version, which makes it stand out more. I also appreciate Saucony is using more recycled materials in their running shoes, including Shift 2.
This does just that. It does have a slightly different fit than the Speed and Pro. This is where I do believe the Saucony Shift 2 shines above most other Saucony shoes. The heel is higher, so it’s able to fit inserts or orthotics in.
The Shift 2 now has a stabilized heel construction which adds more support in the back. Saucony has always been known for their lower backs (which makes it nearly impossible to fit inserts or orthotics in); the Endorphin Shift 2 has one of the higher heels.
I appreciate the Shift 2 just looks cleaner and more streamlined. Of course, I know get a shoe based on feel, but it’s nice when a shoe looks decent as well.
The first version used a more sandwich mesh upper with additional padding. Now the Shift uses a sock liner, and the mesh is thinner with a perforated knit. This makes it more breathable and lighter.
Typically in running shoes, I wear between a size 10-11 wide. I’ve found most Saucony running shoes recently fit better at size 11, and this is no exception. For the most part, the Endorphin Shift 2 fits true to size, but I do think if you have a wider foot, you might enjoy a half size bigger.
Saucony Endorphin Shift 2 Ride:
As mentioned, the Endorphin Shift 2 is designed for The outsole of the Saucony Endorphin Shift 2. The Saucony Endorphin Shift 2 uses Saucony’s “SPEEDROLL” technology and “PWRRUN cushioning. What do I mean by this? The Endorphin Shift 2 is a responsive ride without the plate. It’s designed for easy run days. The thick stack height of the PWRRUN foam makes it softer than the Speed and Pro but not soft enough that your foot sinks into the abyss.
Durability and Traction: The outsole of the Shift 2 is made from “XT-900 blown rubber” and also has a reinforced high abrasion upper. There is plenty of traction. If you run in inclement weather, you’ll be fine, and I expect it to get the full 300+ miles.
I’ve taken the Saucony Endorphin Shift 2 on several different runs, including easy runs, long runs, and workouts. I find it the best for easy run days as Saucony intended. I will say I have more favorite shoes for easy run days, even from Saucony, but the Shift 2 is still a good shoe.
Saucony Endorphin Shift 2 Conclusion:
I think the Saucony Endorphin Shift 2 is a great easy-run shoe. But I think it struggles with finding its place in the Saucony lineup. Diehard Saucony Endorphin series fans will love it, but to me, other shoes are just as good if not better. The Triumph has more cushion and “only” $10 more, and the Saucony Ride is $20 cheaper and a great easy run shoe. I just see the Shift 2 as a lost shoe in Saucony’s rotation.
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Saucony Endorphin Shift 2, Brooks Aurora, Diadora Mythos Blushield Volo, New Balance 1080 v11, Hoka Bondi 7, Brooks Levitate 5
Speed Work: 361 Flame, Nike Tempo Next%, New Balance Fuelcell TC Shoe Review, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro,
Long Runs: Hoka Clifton Edge, Under Armour Sonic HOVR 3
Trail Running/Hiking: Hoka Torrent 2, Saucony Peregrine 11, North Face Flight VECTIV
Races: Asics Metaspeed Sky, Hoka One One Rocket X, adidas Adizero Pro, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Nike Next%, Saucony Endorphin Pro, New Balance fuelcell TC, Reebok Run fast Pro
You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.
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Questions for you:
Have you tried the Saucony Endorphin Shift 2?
What is your favorite running shoe?