Review comparing the Saucony ENDORPHIN PRO 4 and ENDORPHIN PRO 5 models

The Endorphin Pro racing shoe family is considered Saucony's competition-grade super shoe, specifically designed for speed. The hallmark of this series is the integration of SpeedRoll technology, a carbon fiber plate, and high-performance foam to help boost propulsion and make your running gait more fluid. Many runners choose this model for race day because it helps maintain speed and conserve energy effectively from the start to the end of a race, whether it’s a 5K, 10K, half marathon, or a full marathon. Both models are considered Saucony’s flagship racing shoes, engineered to help runners unleash their full potential on race day.

Rev reviews the ENDORPHIN PRO running shoes

Key highlights of the Endorphin Pro series

What sets the Endorphin Pro apart from standard running shoes is a design focused on "speed and performance." Every component is crafted to work in unison: the SpeedRoll Geometry helps the gait roll forward continuously, the carbon fiber plate increases bounce and propulsion, and the dual-layer foam works together to both absorb impact and return energy to the feet with every step. The result is a shoe that provides a "faster, lighter, and more fun" feeling from the very first step.

Get to know the ENDORPHIN PRO 4 running shoes

The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 is Saucony’s most popular racing shoe for competition and speed enthusiasts. It offers noticeable bounce, spring, and propulsion, suitable for distances from 5K to a full marathon. For runners who desire an "instant responsiveness" feeling for racing or speed work, these are perfect if you want unmatched bounce and energy return.

Technological highlights of the ENDORPHIN PRO 4 racing shoes

The Endorphin Pro 4 is built from a perfect fusion of three main elements: a light and breathable upper, a midsole that provides both softness and high energy return, and an outsole durable enough for both speed training and actual racing, making this an incredibly versatile shoe that doesn't need to be kept just for race day.

Upper: Engineered Mesh

• Single-layer mesh, lightweight and breathable
  
  
• Soft knit heel and tongue to reduce friction
  
  

Midsole: SpeedRoll + Full Carbon Plate

• SpeedRoll technology for a smooth and continuous gait transition
  
  
• Full-length carbon fiber plate for increased bounce and aggressiveness
  
  
• Dual-layer foam
  
  
• PWRRUN HG (Top layer): Closer to the foot, soft, bouncy, and highly responsive
  
  
• PWRRUN PB (Bottom layer): High energy return, absorbs impact for speed
  
  

Outsole: XT-900 Rubber

• Excellent road grip
  
  
• Durable for both speed training and race day
  
  

Get to know the ENDORPHIN PRO 5 running shoes

The Saucony Endorphin Pro 5 is the latest evolution in Saucony's Endorphin Pro line. It is an exciting model developed to be lighter (approximately 206 grams) with an updated carbon plate design for a "faster and more natural" ride. It retains the true racing shoe concept while adding more fluidity and fun to the run. The Saucony Endorphin Pro 5 delivers maximum value for race day.

Technological highlights of the ENDORPHIN PRO 5 running shoes

The ENDORPHIN Pro 5 elevates every component from its predecessor. The upper has been refined to be lighter and provide a better fit. The midsole uses the proven foam formula but pairs it with a new carbon plate shape that offers both flexibility and higher energy return. The new outsole pattern provides significantly better grip on wet surfaces, making the Pro 5 a shoe suitable for all weather conditions and every race course.

Upper: Updated Engineered Mesh

• Lightweight and breathable
  
  
• Soft heel and tongue to reduce pressure
  
  

Midsole: Dual-Layer + Slotted Carbon Plate

• SpeedRoll technology with increased toe-spring
  
  
• SLOTTED CARBON FIBER PLATE
  
  
• Increases flexibility during the landing phase
  
  
• Combines forces for high stiffness and propulsion
  
  
• Dual-layer foam
  
  
• PWRRUN HG (Top): Race-level bounce
  
  
• PWRRUN PB (Bottom): High energy return, the main engine of the shoe
  
  

Sockliner: Super Responsive

• Adds comfort and a secure fit from the first step
  
  

Outsole: PWRTRAC Rubber (New)

• 15% better grip on wet surfaces
  
  
• Increased confidence on rainy days or slippery tracks
  
  
• More durable for race day

WHAT'S NEW? In the Endorphin Pro 5

• SLOTTED CARBON FIBER PLATE

The slotted carbon plate increases flexibility as you step, but when combined, it provides stiffness and propulsive force to power your stride.

• NEW PLATE SHAPE

Experience more SPEEDROLL with increased curvature at the toe area of the plate.

• PWRTRAC RUBBER

15% better wet-surface grip and increased durability for race day.

Endorphin Pro 4 vs Endorphin Pro 5: Which one to choose for race day?

In summary, both the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 and Saucony Endorphin Pro 5 are racing shoes designed to help runners achieve great speed. The Endorphin Pro 4 provides a snappy and propulsive feel, perfect for runners who love an immediate, responsive stride. Meanwhile, the Endorphin Pro 5 has been refined to be lighter and more fluid, with a new carbon plate and improved outsole grip, making the run feel more natural and secure. Ultimately, the choice depends on your preferred running feel.

Comparison Table: Endorphin Pro 4 vs Endorphin Pro 5

Regardless of which model you choose, both are top-tier racing shoes ready to help you hit your speed goals on race day, ensuring a fun and confident experience with every step. Ultimately, the choice depends on your running style and preferred feel. For more information, please visit Rev.