Saucony Endorphin Pro 5

With the Saucony Endorphin Pro 5, the American brand consolidates its most versatile racer, designed for neutral runners looking for a super shoe that is as stable as possible without sacrificing speed and that lasts longer than a sigh. The new version keeps the commitment of Saucony to accessibility: 215 g (US 9 / EU 42.5) with a forked carbon plate and a dual layer of PWRRUN PB + PWRRUN HG that offers an interesting combination: impressive bounce with above-average stability. That approach sets it apart from rivals such as the Adidas Adizero Pro 4 or the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5, with a character geared more towards heel strikers and newcomers to super shoes. Among premium racers it is a competitive option, especially given its exceptional durability compared with other models that wear out just by looking at them. It is not the lightest super shoe on the market, but for marathons and long-distance races where stability comes first, it can be an interesting option.

Compared with its predecessor, the Endorphin Pro 4, the changes are moderate but significant. The structured mesh upper with a stretch knit tongue adds a pull tab that makes it easier to put on, although some runners may find the tongue slightly longer than usual. The forefoot keeps the snug fit typical of racers, although the midfoot is roomier than in direct rivals. The reinforced heel counter improves stability on heel landings without adding significant weight.

The midsole of the Endorphin Pro 5 stands out for its combination of PWRRUN PB (bottom layer) and PWRRUN HG (top layer), which offers noticeably more cushioning than the category average for carbon-plated shoes. The official 8 mm heel-to-toe drop ensures smooth transitions for heel and midfoot strikers. The full rubber outsole ensures exceptional durability with minimal wear, ahead of most super shoes, which put minimum weight first and can more or less be thrown away after the race. Ideal for marathons, half marathons, 10K and neutral runners looking for a stable and durable super shoe. A word of warning: its weight and stiffness make it less suitable for runners looking for maximum agility over short distances. Mind you, the "Speedroll rocker" is love it or hate it, with no middle ground.