The Endorphin family is considered one of Saucony's most highly anticipated releases among Thai runners. Now that it has reached the 4th generation, it continues to wow runners. At first glance, this model may not seem to have changed much, but there have been some very interesting changes under the hood.
In April, during one of Thailand's hottest months, the brand launched a pair of shoes just as hot as the weather (LOL): the Endorphin Pro 4 and Endorphin Speed 4 running shoes.
Let's take a look at the new technologies in both models, as well as my first impressions of the Endorphin Pro 4 and Endorphin Speed 4.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4: snappy and responsive yet smooth and efficient.
The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 is an agile, responsive, and efficient shoe that continues to provide a smooth ride with every stride. In this 4th generation, the brand has successfully combined PERRUN HG foam (found in the Saucony Endorphin Elite) and PWRRUN PB foam in the midsole—a first for the industry. This foam blend is positioned around a carbon plate, and of course, Speedroll technology is still included (I really love it; it makes running easier and smoother).
Details
Weight: Men's 212 g / Women's 185 g
Drop: 8 mm (39.5/31.5 mm)
What's new in the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4
1. Ridiculous rebound An industry first, combining the brand's two premium foams to deliver both bounce and impact protection in a single shoe. The result is highly efficient speed.
2. Serious step in comfort A seemingly small detail that makes a huge difference to comfort is the new insole, called the Super Responsive Sockliner (SRS).
3. Improved race-ready fit The integrated tongue and forefoot upper provide a perfect fit.
Reasons to love the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4
1. Snappy Speedroll technology An industry first, combining the brand's two premium foams, PWRRUN HG and PWRRUN PB, in a Speedroll design.
2. Full carbon plate A full-foot carbon fiber plate to enhance speed.
3. Race-ready fit Easy to put on, with a heel tab and integrated tongue for a comfortable, secure fit.
First impressions of the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4
The look of the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 feels a bit futuristic, but it still fits the character of a speed shoe. As for the foam, the brand says it uses two types: PWRRUN HG and PWRRUN PB. When I compared them, I found the foam to be much softer and more forgiving than before—it doesn't push you too hard, but the added softness doesn't make the shoe feel less bouncy. Instead, it just makes it easier to wear. The carbon plate feels less stiff, and more importantly, the shoe seems more stable, with a slightly wider midfoot that allows you to plant your foot more fully with each step. Although the upper looks a bit different from before, it still feels breathable and comfortable when worn. I also like the tongue, which is sewn into the shoe; it's neither too thick nor too thin and fits perfectly.
Overall, the Endorphin Pro 4 isn't shockingly amazing, but if you like this family, it's time to make the switch. The improvements, especially the added softness and stability, really do enhance your run.
The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 is ideal for: race day / speed training
Price: 7,990 baht (Available at: Saucony Endorphin Pro 4)
Saucony Endorphin Speed 4: provides the perfect balance of support, rebound, and forgiveness.
Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 is a versatile running shoe, whether for race day or training. It's gentler on the feet, easier to adapt to, and free from carbon plate stiffness because it uses a more flexible nylon plate (though it doesn't offer as much bounce as a carbon plate). This model also features a new design, including a redesigned insole.
Details
Weight: Men's 233 g / Women's 204 g
Drop: 8 mm (36/28 mm)
What's new in the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4
1. Re-Engineered winged nylon plate The winged nylon plate now features an added torsion support structure for increased stability while maintaining flexibility at the forefoot, making it easier to get off and run with agility.
2. Serious step in comfort A seemingly small detail that makes a huge difference to comfort is the new insole, called the Super Responsive Sockliner (SRS).
3. Improved race-ready fit The specially designed mesh upper provides excellent ventilation while being more durable, and the tongue helps keep the shoe comfortable and secure.
Reasons to love the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4
1. Smooth Speedroll technology Speedroll technology for a smooth forward ride.
2. Re-Engineered winged nylon plate The winged nylon plate in the midsole has been made stronger while maintaining flexibility at the forefoot.
3. PWRRUN PB foam PWRRUN PB foam is like the unicorn of the running shoe world, combining the best of impact protection and energy return. It offers a perfectly balanced feel—firm enough to deliver power but soft enough to absorb impact.
First impressions of the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4
The look of the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 feels a bit futuristic and slightly over-engineered. Personally, I prefer the simpler look of the 3, but what really impresses me about the 4 and makes it perfect for our weather is the lightweight upper with its very large ventilation holes. You can really feel the air flowing through when you lift your foot to run—it feels amazing. The shoe also feels more stable, allowing you to plant your foot more fully (whereas the Speed used to feel less stable). The tongue is thick and soft but doesn't feel restrictive because it's perforated with large, frequent holes, so the top of your foot won't get hot. The outsole also covers almost the entire foot, which is slightly different from the previous model, but I don't think this part will make much difference.
Overall, even though not much has changed, the improvements in ventilation and stability are what really impress me. If you already like the Endorphin Speed, this model is definitely worth having. And if you've never tried the Endorphin family before, I recommend starting with the Speed—you'll fall in love with this shoe immediately.
The Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 is ideal for: race day / training / everyday runs
Price: 6,290 baht (Available at: Saucony Endorphin Speed 4)
Review by: Admin Chin