The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 has undergone big updates since earlier models. Most people don’t realize it, but Saucony transitioned to a two-year cycle, allowing more time for development. I’m not sure how I feel about that, to be honest. On one hand, yes you can have your favorite shoe for longer. On the other hand, I think we’ve seen so many changes to carbon plated shoes in two years, I wonder if it will set them back. I digress. The third iteration introduced major changes with a bouncier midsole, but it felt bulkier.
This year, with new geometry, a top layer of PWRRUN HG, and an upper with increased volume, the Endorphin Pro 4 redefines Saucony’s original super racing shoe. It feels like Saucony might be gearing this shoe more towards the everyday runner versus the high-end elite runner.
Before trying the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4, I had a few questions:
- Why don’t Saucony running shoes update every year? They transitioned many of their shoes to a two-year cycle.
- Is the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 different? Yes.
- What is the difference between the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 and the Saucony Endorphin Elite? The Endorphin Elite is lighter and, in my opinion, faster. The Endorphin Pro 4 is geared towards the everyday runner, while the Endorphin Elite is more for the elite runner.
With that, let’s get into an honest Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 shoe review.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 Quick Facts
Price: $224.95
Weight: 7.7 oz (men), 6.5 oz (women)
Stack Height: 40 mm / 32 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 Fit
The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 features an upper that fits truer to size in both length and volume compared to previous versions. Thank goodness…one issue Saucony racing shoes have had lately is that they run short.
The new upper offers more space, making it better for runners with slightly wider feet. The material is breathable, thin, and provides decent lockdown, though tightening the laces might cause the tongue to crease. The best running shoe uppers disappear off your feet, and for the most part, I’ve found that true of the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4. I haven’t had any hot spots, and I appreciate the extra space and more true-to-size design.
The heel area has minimal padding, with a thin heel collar that’s still secure enough to prevent slippage. If you’ve never tried Saucony running shoes, they typically fit a bit lower than most brands, and that’s true of the Endorphin Pro 4.
In running shoes, I wear between a women’s size 10-11 wide, and I’ve found the size 11 to fit the best. It’s more spacious than previous years, but I appreciate that, especially with marathon training.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 Ride
The midsole is where the magic happens, right? The PWRRUN PB midsole, combined with the new PWRRUN HG top layer, delivers a lively, bouncy ride with a touch of firmness that becomes especially noticeable at faster paces. The shoe responds well to tempo runs and long-distance efforts.
While the Endorphin Pro 4 can handle slower paces, it truly shines when picking up speed. Why even use a carbon-plated shoe for easy runs? That’s not the point of them, and they wear down quickly.
The forefoot rocker encourages a quick turnover, helping you glide through your stride, making it an excellent choice for longer races where you want a consistent rhythm. I also appreciate that Saucony racing shoes feel lower to the ground, not like you are suspended on a high stack height.
Where does the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 fit into my rotation? It’s a workout and racing shoe, of course. I’ve found its best use is in longer races and workouts. I prefer something with less shoe for track work and shorter races. It definitely feels like the firmest carbon-plated shoe I’ve tried—there is almost no flexibility to it. That’s not necessarily good or bad, just a fact of the shoe. I prefer some flexibility in my racing shoes.
Outsole
Saucony racing shoes have always been one of the more durable options. The outsole of the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 is built for durability, featuring a ton of rubber coverage across the bottom of the shoe.
This added coverage ensures good traction on paved roads, even in wet conditions, and enhances the shoe’s overall durability. However, the shoe is not ideal for trail running or uneven terrain, as the exposed foam and midfoot gap can easily collect rocks and debris.
I’ve used the Endorphin Pro 4 on light trails and in inclement weather with no issues. My only small complaint is the collection of a few small rocks and my shoe clink, clink, clinking away. It’s a good shoe for running in the rain, and the upper is one of the lightest options so it will dry quickly (although I do believe the Endorphin Elite is better for running in the rain).
As far as durability, I believe the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 will last like any other super shoe (around 100 miles/4 marathons). Sure, you can run more in it, but you won’t get as much of a boost from the carbon plate. I’ve already put about 40 miles on mine, and they feel about halfway done.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 Conclusion
The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 is a complete overhaul of Saucony’s super racing line. With a more comfortable fit and a bouncy yet firm midsole, it’s an excellent choice for those looking to race half marathons to marathons at fast paces.
The updates make it more accessible to a wider range of runners, though some may still prefer the feel of previous versions or other super shoes. If you’re looking for a durable and fast shoe that excels on paved roads, the Endorphin Pro 4 could be the perfect fit. I have to wonder if Saucony is now gearing this model more toward the everyday runner rather than the professional runner.
Who Should Buy the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4?
- There’s a few pros that make the Endorphin Pro 4 unique in the carbon plated world: it’s lower stack height and stability as well as it being inflexible and firm.
- Runners looking for a high-performance shoe for half marathons and marathons
- Those who prefer a bouncy but slightly firm ride
- Athletes with slightly wider feet who want a comfortable racing shoe
Who Should Not Buy the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4?
- Runners needing extra cushion for longer distances or slower-paced runs
- Those looking for a shoe with more flexibility
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Topo Magnifly 5, Antepes Muscle Runners, New Balance 1080v13 Shoe Review , Newton Gravity 12, , ASICS Superblast
Speed Work: 361 Degrees Furious Future 1.5 Shoe Review Nike Tempo Next%, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike ZoomX Streakfly, Nike Alphafly 3
Long Runs: Topo Specter 2, 361 Degrees Eleos Shoe Review
Trail Running/Hiking: 361 Futura, Hoka Tecton X2 Shoe Review Speedland SL: PDX,
Races: 361 Degrees Furious Future 1.5 Shoe Review Hoka Cielo X1, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Reebok Run fast Pro ,Nike Vaporfly 3 , ASICS Metaspeed Edge Paris
You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.
Looking to learn more about running shoes? In my ebook, I talk about why you need a good running shoe, a shoe’s anatomy, neutral vs. stable, and even myths of running shoes.
Questions for you:
What is your favorite carbon plated shoe?
Have you tried any of the Saucony Endorphin line?
Saucony should get an award for going from “kinda OK to looks” to simply stunning looking shoes over the past 7-8 years.