The Saucony Endorphin line is one of the most popular models of road running shoes available. With three different versions, the Shift, Speed, and Pro they offer a version for almost anyone. Today we’ll be focusing on the two most popular shoes in the line, the Saucony Endorphin Pro vs Speed.
There is no question Saucony is one of the highest regarded brands in road running. The company was founded in and has been making running shoes since 1979. Between the Saucony Endorphin Speed and Pro, one is the 2020 Runner’s World Editors Choice for best running shoe and the other is the improved version designed for the elite runners. The two shoes offer decades of experience in their design and it shows. So let’s take a look!
Saucony Endorphin Pro vs Speed
- The Saucony Endorphin Speed is the 2020 Runner’s World Editors Choice. The Speed is a highly regarded running shoe based on performance and price.
- The Saucony Pro is the upgraded version of the Speed. The addition of a carbon plate compared to the Speed’s nylon plate.
- Both shoes have a 8mm drop. This is a great drop that will work for a lot of people. And perform well from 5k to marathon race distances.
- The Saucony Pro is designed and priced for elite athletes. Featuring a carbon fiber “plate” to increase performance.
Saucony Endorphin Pro
MSRP Price: $200
Link:
Men’s – Click Here
Women’s – Click Here
Surface: Road Running
Weight Men’s: 7.5oz / 213g
Weight Woman’s: 6.3oz / 179g
Support: Speed
Drop: 8mm
Saucony Endorphin Speed
MSRP Price: $160
Amazon Link:
Men’s – Click Here
Women’s – Click Here
Surface: Road Running
Weight Men’s: 7.8oz / 221g
Weight Woman’s: 6.8oz / 198g
Support: Neutral
Drop: 8mm
Performance Summary
When comparing the Saucony Endorphin Pro vs Speed the first thing I will say after running in both of these shoes are winners. The Endorphin Speeds feel fast but are comfortable enough on your feet for your longer runs. They have a great balance of feeling the road and cushion. And I am a fan of the 8mm drop. The Speeds are a great choice for runners training for any distance and you should get a lot of miles out of these.
The Endorphin Pros offer everything you like about the Speeds, but are lighter and offer more rebound. A lot more. You almost can’t help but run fast in the Pros. I would love to have these on race day for anything from a 5k to marathon distance. The only issue with wanting to go fast all the time is that it throws off my slower paced training runs. Also I love how light these are. Although I do question how many miles they will hold up for compared to the Speeds.
Below are the two models side by side for comparison. They are very similar in design with only a few noticeable differences.
Endorphin Pro Outside Profile
Endorphin Speed Outside Profile
The inside view of both models.
Endorphin Pro Inside Profile
Endorphin Speed Inside Profile
Below are the soles from both shoes. As you can see, they are identical.
Saucony Endorphin Pro Sole
Saucony Endorphin Speed Sole
Conclusion
Comparing the Saucony Endorphin Pro vs Speed I have a good understanding of what the brand was going for with the designs of these shoes. The Endorphin Speeds are great shoes for any runner looking for a great neutral every day running shoe. Something you can train and race in. The Endorphin Pro is the same great shoe just designed for racing. And not meant to take the wear and tear of everyday training miles. But they are fast.
My recommendation for most runners is to start with the Speed. And if you love them and are thinking of getting shoes specifically for race day, then grab yourself a pair of the Pros.
