I was so curious about the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2. When the first Endorphin Elite arrived, it stood out for its unique feel. It wasn’t just another “super shoe,” which is impressive considering Saucony already had the Endorphin Pro and the Endorphin Speed. Did they really need another speed shoe?
The firmer PWRRUN HG midsole gave it a responsive ride that could handle everything from 5Ks to marathons. The geometry was efficient, the transition smooth, and the platform surprisingly stable for a neutral racer.
The Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 is a big change. With a brand-new IncrediRUN foam midsole and redesigned upper, it’s not a small update. The second version is softer, bouncier, and more energetic, but also less inherently stable. Whether that’s an improvement depends entirely on what you value in a super shoe. To be clear, I do like the second version, it’s just different.
Before trying the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2, I had a few questions:
Is the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 good for marathon racing?
Yes. The Endorphin Elite 2 is built for long-distance racing, especially half-marathons and marathons. The new IncrediRUN foam delivers high energy return while keeping your legs fresh over long efforts. The soft, rockered design helps maintain momentum late into a race, making it one of the best Saucony options for runners with efficient form and stable mechanics.
What distances work best for the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2?
The Endorphin Elite 2 performs best from 10K up to the marathon. The ride feels too soft for short sprints or 5K races, where stiffness and ground feel may be better suited.
How does the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 fit?
The fit runs true to size but is snug from heel to toe, especially in the forefoot. You can probably get your usual racing shoe size unless you have wider feet…then go up at least half a size. The upper uses a light mesh and knit combo that holds the foot securely but can feel narrow for runners with wide feet.
What’s the difference between the Endorphin Elite 1 and 2?
So much! The first version used a firmer PWRRUN HG midsole, while the Endorphin Elite 2 swaps in Saucony’s new IncrediRUN foam. The change makes the ride noticeably softer, bouncier, and more cushioned.
Is the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 stable?
It’s a neutral racing shoe, so stability isn’t its strong point. The tall, soft midsole can feel wobbly for runners who overpronate or need extra structure. The forefoot feels the most stable, but the heel and midfoot can feel loose on uneven ground.
Can you train in the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2?
It’s designed for racing and quality workouts, not everyday miles. The foam is durable for a super shoe, but consistent training runs could wear it out faster. Why spend $290 for a shoe that will wear out in 100 miles?
How does the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 compare to the Nike Alphafly 3?
Both are high-stack marathon super shoes, but they feel very different. The Alphafly 3 is firmer with a more structured platform, while the Endorphin Elite 2 is softer, lighter, and more flexible. The Saucony has a smoother rocker, while the Nike feels more mechanical. Choosing between them depends on whether you prefer plush bounce (Saucony) or firmer propulsion (Nike).
How durable is the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2?
Durability is typical for a carbon-plated racer…around 100 miles depending on running form and surfaces. The outsole rubber helps protect key zones, but there is exposed rubber there.
Is the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 worth the price?
At around $290, it’s one of the most premium shoes in Saucony’s lineup and also among the most expensive carbon-plated racers. For runners who race frequently and want the softest, most energetic ride available, it’s worth it. For others, the Endorphin Pro 3 or Endorphin Speed 4 deliver similar performance at a lower cost.
Now, let’s get into an honest Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 shoe review.
Quick Facts
Price: $274.95
Weight: 7 oz (199 g)
Stack Height: 39.5 mm heel / 31.5 mm forefoot
Drop: 8 mm
Category: Super Racing Shoe / Carbon Plated
Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 Fit
The Endorphin Elite 2 fits mostly true to size but leans slightly snug, especially in the toe box. The new upper uses a combination of mesh and knit materials that are lightweight, breathable, and semi-transparent. While it looks sleek, the structure around the toe can feel firm at first. Saucony tends to run shallower in the toe box than other brands, so those with a higher instep might not feel as comfortable. The heel area is soft and flexible, with no firm counter, which makes it comfortable for runners who dislike rigid heel structures or experience heel irritation.
The best running shoe uppers disappear on your feet, and for the most part, I’ve found the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 to be fairly comfortable. I haven’t had any hot spots or blisters, and I like that the heel area is soft and flexible.
As far as sizing, I wear between a women’s 10–11 wide and have found the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 to fit best in size 11. Most people will prefer on their higher end, sizing wise, for running shoes.
Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 Ride
As mentioned, the Elite 2 got a big update and the defining feature of the Endorphin Elite 2 is the IncrediRUN midsole. It replaces Saucony’s PWRRUN HG and completely changes how the shoe feels underfoot. The foam is much softer and more compliant, with a trampoline-like rebound that’s noticeable from the first stride. I’m definitely impressed with how bouncy it feels.
On landing, the heel compresses deeply, almost giving the illusion of a lower drop than the listed 8 mm. To me, the Endorphin Elite and Pro have never looked like they have a high stack height. The geometry helps balance that out, thanks to a well-shaped heel bevel and aggressive rocker that push the runner forward smoothly.
Where does the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 fit into my rotation? Like any carbon-plated shoe, it performs best at faster paces. The foam rebounds energetically without feeling harsh, and the rocker makes turnover feel efficient. The sensation is distinctly different from the original model: less “snappy” but more “springy.”
The Endorphin Elite 2 is best suited for sustained, faster running…tempo sessions, long intervals, half-marathons, and marathons. It’s not ideal for short sprints or sharp turns. You’ll definitely notice how bouncy it is if you’ve been running in the first version.
The softer feel also reduces leg fatigue compared to firmer super shoes. Runners who prefer a firmer, more immediate response might miss the snappiness of the first version or the Endorphin Pro 3.
Overall, the Endorphin Elite 2 favors marathon and half-marathon paces, where efficiency and comfort matter more than sheer rigidity. It feels light, protective over long miles, and offers a lively bounce that makes it fun. This is definitely my favorite Saucony super shoe to date.
Outsole and Durability
The outsole uses rubber strategically placed in high-wear zones, while much of the midsole remains exposed. Saucony loves exposed midsoles and while it keeps weight low, it also makes the shoe less durable. I’ll never be a fan of exposed midsoles because I’d rather get longer life out of a shoe.
Compared to the first version, grip has improved slightly, particularly on damp pavement. Still, the shoe is a road-specific racer; it performs best on smooth surfaces like asphalt and track. I wouldn’t take it on trails, and I might be more hesitant in wet weather.
Durability expectations are average for a super shoe. I’ve used it for about 25 miles now and have noticed some wear (another reason to stop using carbon-plated footwear for everything). My guess is the exposed midsole will be the limiting factor here.
Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 Conclusion:
The Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 is one of the biggest updates in Saucony’s racing line. It’s a shoe built for runners who want to feel spring underfoot and enjoy a highly cushioned ride at faster paces.
Those needing more control or preferring a firmer, quicker turnover may find the platform too unstable for short races. In that case, the Endorphin Pro 4 remains a great option.
Who Should Buy the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2
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Marathon and half-marathon racers looking for a carbon-plated shoe.
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Those preferring a plush, fast ride.
Who Should Not Buy the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2
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Runners who need stability or pronation control since the soft IncrediRUN foam and narrow midfoot can feel unsteady.
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Wide-footed runners who may find the snug toe box and low-volume fit restrictive for long races.
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Runners who prefer a firmer, more responsive platform
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Salomon Aero Glide 3, Mizuno Neo Zen, Topo Magnifly 5, Antepes Muscle Runners, adidas Adizero Evo SL, Newton Gravity 12, ASICS Superblast 2
Long Runs: Topo Specter 2, 361 Degrees Eleos Shoe Review
Trail Running/Hiking: 361 Futura, Speedland SL: PDX, Hoka Tecton X 3
Races/Speedwork: Adidas adizero adios pro 4, 361 Degrees Furious Future 2.0, ASICS Metaspeed Edge Paris, Puma Fast-R Elite 3, Nike Streakfly 2, Nike Vaporfly 4
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Questions for you:
What is your favorite super shoe?
Have you tried the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2?