Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 Review: Elevate Your Running Experience
The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 stands out as a premier choice for both speed training and race-day scenarios. It showcases the brand’s advanced technology, featuring PWRRUN HG foam for enhanced cushioning and a carbon-fiber plate designed for optimal propulsion, making it a formidable contender among the best racing shoes available.
Performance in Action
To assess the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4, I participated in the Hastings Half Marathon, known for its significant elevation changes, which serves as a great preparatory event for the Boston Marathon. To maximize my endurance ahead of Boston, I completed a five-mile warm-up prior to the race.
Despite the additional mileage before the race, I found the Endorphin Pro 4 propelled me forward, allowing me to navigate both uphill and flat sections with ease. My goal was to complete the race in 1:25 to build confidence for a sub-3-hour marathon in Boston. Ultimately, I finished the Hastings Half Marathon in 1:24:04, securing third place in my age group, thanks in part to the shoes’ performance.
Comparison with the Elite Model
While I was satisfied with the Endorphin Pro 4, I was keen to explore the Elite model for potential benefits in speed, especially with the Boston Marathon approaching quickly. Just days before Boston, I participated in a 10K race at Regents Park, which also coincided with my birthday.
Starting at the front, I quickly positioned myself in third place. Despite limited speedwork leading up to the event, the shoes provided the necessary responsiveness for maintaining an impressive pace. I managed to retain my position, clinching a spot on the podium—a successful outcome for my birthday celebration.
Racing in the Saucony Endorphin Elite
With prior successes in marathons and a goal to achieve a sub-3-hour finish at Boston, I opted for the Saucony Endorphin Elite during the event. Even in challenging weather conditions, I crossed the finish line at 2:59:32. While it may not have been my best race, the footwear significantly contributed to my goal achievement, and I later learned I ranked third in my age group among British runners.
Final Review of the Pro 4
The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 features a neutral build with an 8mm drop and weighs 210 grams (7.4 ounces). Though it offers slightly less cushioning than its Elite counterpart, it still provides a comfortable experience thanks to the PWRRUN HG foam, which enhances weight reduction and responsiveness. The shoe’s rocker profile ensures effective energy return, making it suitable for various distances.
For those accustomed to Saucony’s carbon-plate technology, the Endorphin Pro 4 will not disappoint. While the Elite is lighter (204g / 7.2oz) and provides a firmer ride for increased speed, the Pro 4 maintains an excellent balance of comfort and performance, making it a very competitive option in the current market.
Considering Carbon Plate Shoes
It is essential to understand that carbon plate racing shoes may not be suitable for everyone. After over four decades of road racing, I have only recently incorporated carbon-plate technology, prioritizing competitive performance. For those focused primarily on improving race times, investing in a dedicated pair of carbon plates can be beneficial, offering potential improvements of ten seconds or more per mile.
However, for novice marathon runners, it is advisable to choose well-cushioned trainers that prioritize comfort over speed. Models like the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 and Hoka Clifton 9 are highly recommended for runners aiming to complete their first marathon while enjoying the journey.
Technical Specifications of the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4
| Material | Full carbon plate, PWRRUN PB/HG foam |
|---|---|
| Colors | Black and white, Vizi-orange |
| Sizes | 6-14 |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 8mm (39.5mm / 31.5mm) |
| Weight | 7.5 oz / 212 g |
Shoe Testing Methodology
In our evaluation process, each shoe undergoes rigorous testing over various distances and paces to assess performance, stability, and comfort. Testers log significant miles to gauge wear and performance over time, ensuring comprehensive and reliable reviews to assist runners in selecting the best footwear for their needs.
Steve Wright is a seasoned road racer with over 40 years of experience. He recently set personal bests in the London and Berlin Marathons, demonstrating the effectiveness of his training and choice of footwear.