already has a lightning-fast marathon shoe. It's called . We tested Elite in the lab, and it was 5% faster than an average running shoe. So, what could Saucony possibly do with to make it a viable alternative?
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Perfect midsole mix - Endorphin Pro 4
I ran a marathon in Endorphin Elite last year. It's fast, has a great roll, incredibly light upper, and is on the firm, responsive side. Despite how well it served me through all 42 km, I'm convinced it's not for everyone. Why? Though fast, its firmness might not suit all tastes.
That's where Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 comes in. A softer marathon racer, more responsive than its predecessor. The reason is an all-new midsole. Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 was known for its softness and bounce with a full PWRRUN PB midsole, but with the addition of new PWRRUN HG foam (first introduced in Endorphin Elite) as a top layer on the new model, you get a blend of Pro 3's softness and Elite's responsiveness.
This mix of bounce and high energy return ensures a comfortable and fast shoe, making it pleasant to accelerate to higher speeds. Between these impressive foam layers, there's still a carbon plate steering the heel-to-toe transition, making the shoe stiff enough to provide the right 'pop' at take-off. Saucony has embraced new tech while differentiating, creating two distinct marathon experiences.
Speed equals responsiveness! - Endorphin Pro 4
With these two foams in place, the shoe feels very soft when you first put it on. It has a very soft heel, and the forward roll is noticeable, but not overdone. At a slower pace, it doesn't quite feel like a super shoe because it's so comfy. But when you speed up, PWRRUN HG foam starts working wonders.
At higher speeds, Endorphin Pro 4 feels comfortable and bouncy, making it effortless to maintain a higher cadence. It's as if speed and midsole force make it react even more powerfully, thanks to the extremely high energy return from PWRRUN HG.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 achieves a perfect balance between comfort and performance at the right speed. It's comfy, bouncy, and fast.
Stretchy and narrow upper - Endorphin Pro 4
To stand out from the minimalist and light Endorphin Elite upper, Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 features a sock-like upper with a flexible tongue. Flexibility in the tongue can sometimes be controversial, as these upper types don't always guarantee a secure fit. But in this case, I believe Saucony achieved a comfy upper that still securely wraps the foot.
It's very comfortable, but due to the stretchy tongue, the shoe ends up a bit narrower, resulting in less toe space. I still have enough room for a long run, and there's more space for a higher midfoot, but it's on the verge of being called a narrow shoe, and I must ensure it's suitable for longer runs before choosing it for a marathon.
All its own - Endorphin Pro 4
Saucony has once again succeeded in creating a shoe that's not only fun and fast but also stands alone as a formidable alternative to Endorphin Elite. It leveraged the unique properties of the ultra-responsive PWRRUN HG and transformed into an element that promotes speed, contributing to a more enjoyable run.
If you find Endorphin Elite a bit too much, Endorphin Pro 4 will be a good alternative. This diversity from Saucony makes it easier to guide our customers to the right shoe.
Choose Saucony Endorphin Elite if you prefer a more stable shoe and want a firmer upper with more space and a larger toe box. Instead, choose Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 if you want a softer shoe with a more comfortable upper and a narrower fit.
Regardless of your choice, you'll have world-class on your feet, and it's up to you if you set a new PR or not.
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