Emil and I went to the track the other day to compare two of our favorite running shoes released this year. The shoes in question, are the Asics Magic Speed 2 and the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3. These are two incredibly fast shoes that can handle being a daily trainer as well. But what are the differences? And which shoe should you buy?
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If you compare the shoes, you see that there are a lot more similarities between the Asics Magic Speed 2 and the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3. They are lightweight, and fast, with plates inside the midsole, and with enough cushion for everyday use.
There is no hiding that both these shoes are great, but they are so similar that people tend to question which one they should go for. And by going to the track and trying out the shoes, Emil and I hope to help you if you have the same conundrum.
Asics Magic Speed 2
The Asics Magic Speed 2 has a more conventional stiffer upper that Emil found nice on his foot, once he learned how to tie the shoe. Sometimes an upper without a lot of elasticity needs a little bit of a break-in period, and the Magis Speed 2 did for Emil. But after that, it worked really well.
The midsole is the star of the Magic Speed 2. The first impression when you put your foot into it is that It is a bit firm, but once you get going and the faster you run, the more it softens up. Compared to the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3, the Asics Magic Speed 2 doesn’t have “super foam” in the midsole, but it has a carbon plate. This results in a very snappy ride, perfect for faster runs, without sacrificing the durability of the foam itself.
Saucony Endorphin Speed 3
The Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 on the other hand has that beaded “super foam” in the PWRRUN PB, a surprisingly bouncy and soft experience. But compared to the Asics Magic Speed 2, the Endorphin Speed 3 has a nylon plate with wings. This makes it a bit more flexible and not as stiff, which again can make the rocker sensation a bit less pronounced.
I really like the upper of the Endorphin Speed 3. It is also quite classical without too much stretch, but the airy holes made the fabric stretch a bit and adapt to my feet for an easier fit. It is very breathable and comfortable, and perfect for longer runs, though maybe a bit roomy in the toe box for some.
Which one should you choose?
Both the Magic Speed 2 and the Endorphin Speed 3 are built as tempo shoes that can work as daily trainers. Both have enough foam to support you, and both are so fast that they work well as budget race shoes as well. They are just versatile running marvels.
The main differences are in the midsole, and if you want a snappier feel, you should go for the Asics Magic Speed 2, while the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 has a more soft and bouncy feel. You can’t go wrong with either of these shoes, so choose your next training partner and have a great run!
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