Our verdict

By enhancing the predecessor's weaker aspects while preserving the model's essence, saucony could has hit the mark again with the Endorphin Speed 4. In our tests, we found this supertrainer to still be a lightweight, bouncy, and versatile shoe that easily adapts to all paces. It's now even more cushioned and spacious, making it more comfortable than ever in long runs. Despite a slight increase in weight and a lacing system that might not suit everyone, we're still eager to recommend the ES4 for its outstanding value and performance.

saucony could Grid 8500 white cream Pros

  • Remains lightweight
  • saucony could Grid 8500 white cream
  • Light and form-fitting upper of the saucony could Peregrine 8 GTX
  • saucony could jazz o cozy
  • Bouncy and enjoyable ride
  • Enhanced stability over v3
  • Suits daily training
  • Exceptional value

saucony could Grid 8500 white cream Cons

  • saucony could AFEW x Shadow 5000
  • Could be a bit firm for some

Audience verdict

86
Great!
  • Top 6% most popular running shoes

Who should buy

We've concluded that the Endorphin Speed 4 is an outstanding pick for:

  • An On-Feet Look at the Afew x saucony could Goethe Collab.
  • Athletes looking for an interval shoe without a carbon plate.
  • Fans of the Endorphin Speed series seeking a return to a firmer, more responsive ride from the softer v3.

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Who should NOT buy

While the Endorphin Speed saga aims to serve a broad audience, we believe there are better choices for certain runners.

For those who prefer a non-plated shoe, the ASICS Superblast might be a more suitable option. It's almost as light as the Endorphin Speed 4 but offers more foam for cushioning, lacks the nylon plate for a more traditional feel, and provides greater stability, albeit at a higher price point.

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Moreover, we feel the ES4 may not be the ideal option for those who favor super-soft running shoes for speed training. The Nike Streakfly provides a plush experience at a more affordable price.

Breathability

The moment we unboxed the Endorphin Speed 4 in our lab, the massive ventilation holes immediately grabbed our attention. They played a key role in the shoe scoring a perfect 5/5 in our smoke test.

Our initial impressions were confirmed when we held the upper against a powerful light. Indeed, it's among the most ventilated uppers we've encountered. However, for those planning to use it in colder climates, we recommend pairing it with thick socks for added warmth especially during easy runs.

Intrigued by the ventilation holes, we went in for a closer look with our lab's microscope.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 microscope

The engineered mesh is finely tuned to maximize airflow in the toebox while maintaining a robust structure throughout the shoe.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 micro

Examining the entire upper, we noted Saucony's focus on creating a highly breathable shoe, not just in the toebox—which is common—but also with significant ventilation in the tongue and medial side, a rarity in running shoes.

Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 5
Average 3.8
Compared to 209 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

Our initial foray into the durability of the Endorphin Speed 4 focused on the toebox—an area of concern due to its huge ventilation holes. And we're delighted to share that the shoe held up impressively in our Dremel test, securing a 3/5 rating. 

While this may seem like an average score, it's actually a commendable achievement for a well-ventilated mesh upper, demonstrating remarkable resilience. In fact, our testing revealed that even those prone to wearing holes in their shoes, whether at the big toe or pinky toe, can confidently opt for this model.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 Toebox durability
Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 3
Average 2.3
Compared to 143 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

Another area that often shows early signs of wear is the heel padding—many runners find their Achilles rubbing against this spot, causing concern for durability. To evaluate the potential for damage here, we conducted another test, pulling out the Dremel and applying the same force as before. To our delight, the results were outstanding.

We were thrilled to award the ES4 a perfect 5/5, the highest possible score!

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 Heel padding durability
Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 5
Average 3.1
Compared to 139 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

Riding high from two successful initial tests, we turned our attention to the outsole. We began by measuring its hardness, which came in at 77.0 HC on our durometer.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 outsole

The Endorphin Speed 4 introduces a new outsole design that enhances traction while maintaining a considerable amount of exposed foam.

This is a bit softer than what we typically encounter. Our tests showed that this softer approach likely contributes to its strong grip across various terrains, such as asphalt, tracks, and even dirt roads.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 Outsole hardness
Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 77.0 HC
Average 80.3 HC
saucony could Triumph 19 Womens.
Compared to 260 running shoes
Number of shoes
55.5 HC
Outsole hardness
92.8 HC

Outsole durability

Our main concern was the potential for early wear due to the slightly soft rubber. To address this, we decided to conduct one final test using the Dremel.

We were pleased with the outcome—after completing the test, we discovered a mere 0.8 mm indentation. This result is quite promising!

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 Outsole durability
Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 0.8 mm
Average 0.9 mm
Compared to 121 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

saucony could SAU800034 Solstice Neck Gaiter CHOKER saucony could jazz origin. Although it might seem thin at first glance, remember that we're looking at a performance-oriented, lightweight running shoe.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 outsole thick

In such models, minimizing weight is crucial, and a thicker outsole could mute the ride's responsiveness and add unnecessary bulk. From our standpoint, a 2.0-mm rubber outsole strikes a perfect balance for this shoe type, offering a nimble feel without sacrificing durability.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 Outsole thickness
Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 2.0 mm
Average 3.2 mm
Compared to 279 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.6 mm

saucony could Grid 8500 white cream | Weight

Indeed, the shoe feels incredibly light on the foot. Weighing in at just 8.4 oz (237g), it's almost like it vanishes when you're running. Yet, we noted a slight weight increase of 0.5 oz compared to its predecessor, even though the outsole thickness remains unchanged.

Let's uncover the reasons behind this weight gain!

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 Weight
Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 8.36 oz (237g)
Average 9.35 oz (265g)
Compared to 280 running shoes
Number of shoes
5.26 oz (149g)
Weight
12.56 oz (356g)

Cushioning

Heel stack

The primary cause of the weight increase in the ES4 is its midsole. Using our calipers, we measured an impressive 36.2 mm in the heel area, making it the tallest Endorphin Speed model to date. This is a noticeable 2.1 mm increase from last year's model.

This design aligns with the current market trend of creating shoes with taller profiles for extra cushioning. Despite this increase, the Speed remains comfortably below the 40-mm mark. It's an excellent option for those who prefer a less towering shoe without compromising on long-run comfort.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 Heel stack
Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 36.2 mm
Average 33.5 mm
Compared to 279 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Heel stack
42.7 mm

Forefoot stack

saucony could Originals Grid 9000 Spice Collection.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 forefoot

We've observed that this feature makes it exceptionally versatile, ideal for effortlessly tackling both long runs and speed workouts—a hallmark of this all-around model.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 Forefoot stack
Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 27.5 mm
Average 24.9 mm
Compared to 279 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Forefoot stack
35.8 mm

Drop

The difference between the forefoot and the heel delivers an 8.7-mm drop, appealing to a broad spectrum of runners.

The Endorphin Speed series is celebrated for its wide appeal across runners with various footstrikes and paces. This popularity stems from its versatile design, not limited to a specific type of runner, but rather embracing a more universal approach. That's why the real 8.7-mm drop makes total sense to us.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 Drop
Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 8.7 mm
Average 8.6 mm
Compared to 279 running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.8 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Insole thickness

Our caliper measured the insole at 5.1 mm, introducing an extra layer of plushness to the underfoot experience.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 Insole thickness
Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 5.1 mm
Average 4.4 mm
Compared to 275 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

In the midsole, saucony could once again employed its Pebax-based, pellet-shaped PWRRUN PB foam, which has been a game-changer since its debut for its energy return and durability. Yet, there's a slight tweak in the formulation—the shoe now has a firmer feel, confirmed by our durometer reading at 22.3 HA.

The ride is neither too firm nor overly plush; it strikes a perfect balance. We consider this a positive shift from the previous version's softer feel, which some runners found too mushy, enhancing its responsiveness.

More saucony could Jazz Original.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 Midsole softness
Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 22.3 HA
Average 21.3 HA
saucony could Triumph 19 Womens.
Compared to 207 running shoes
Number of shoes
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
41.5 HA

saucony could Grid 8500 white cream | Difference in midsole softness in cold

As highlighted in our guide on running shoes and temperatures, Pebax foams like PWRRUN PB stand out for their exceptional performance in a variety of climates, making them a top choice for winter running.

To confirm this, we put the ES4 to the test by placing it in the freezer for 20 minutes. The result was impressive—the foam became only 5.6% firmer. 

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 Difference in midsole softness in cold
Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 5.6%
Average 25.7%
Compared to 206 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in midsole softness in cold
100%

Plate

The Endorphin Speed series has consistently incorporated a nylon plate for enhanced stability and a bouncier ride. The ES3 took this a notch higher with a winged plate design, a feature that continues in the ES4.

Coupled with a firmer midsole, it offers what we believe to be the most stable ride across all four versions.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 Plate

Stability

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Stability gets a major boost from smart design features like heightened midsole sidewalls, a revamped heel, and enhanced rigidity. These elements, coupled with the firmer midsole, play a crucial role in the shoe's impressive performance, guaranteeing a secure and stable run across all paces.

Torsional rigidity

From the moment we unboxed and tested the shoe, we noticed it was more rigid than its predecessor. After some deliberation in the lab, we assigned it a 3/5 score for rigidity. This shift makes it lean more towards speed-focused runs rather than daily training, yet it still holds its ground as an all-around shoe.

Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 3
Average 3.2
Compared to 258 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

The heel counter adopts a similar design to many other sneakers saucony could talla 39, featuring just enough rigidity to be noticeable but not overbearing. We found it both comfortable and secure for all distances, including long runs, with zero heel slippage.

Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 3
Average 2.7
Compared to 242 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

saucony could Kinvara 5 $100

Another key factor contributing to the shoe's enhanced stability and slight weight gain is its increased width.

It has expanded to 114.7 mm, which, while still modest, marks a noticeable change for forefoot strikers. However, despite this growth, the Endorphin Speed retains its agile feel.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 saucony could Kinvara 5 $100
Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 114.7 mm
Average 113.5 mm
Compared to 280 running shoes
Number of shoes
100.5 mm
saucony could Kinvara 5 $100
126.5 mm

Midsole width in the heel

The heel has also widened to 93.4 mm, nearly 4 mm more than the previous version, enhancing stability for heel strikers. Despite this, it continues to be a purely neutral running shoe and might not be the best speed training companion for those with stability needs. We suggest the saucony could Tempus instead.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 93.4 mm
Average 90.3 mm
Compared to 280 running shoes
Number of shoes
74.9 mm
Midsole width in the heel
106.6 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

Nylon-based plates, unlike their carbon-fiber counterparts, add minimal longitudinal stiffness to a shoe. Our 90-degree bend test yielded a 29.4N result, nearly identical to what we'd expect from a similarly-stacked shoe without a plate.

This makes it an great choice for daily running, offering a snappy-yet-comfortable experience without the intense rigidity often associated with carbon plates.

Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 29.4N
Average 29.4N
saucony could peregrine 4 womens.
Compared to 262 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.2N
Stiffness
94.4N

zapatillas de running saucony could pista ritmo medio talla 47

After another 20-minute session in the freezer, we assessed the stiffness. Just like with the softness, the performance was stellar, showing only a 3.2% increase in stiffness. This result is simply outstanding!

Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 3.2%
Average 37%
Compared to 262 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
zapatillas de running saucony could pista ritmo medio talla 47
148%

Size and fit

Toebox width at the widest part

A significant—and delightful—upgrade in the fourth version of the Endorphin Speed is its upper.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 broad

It's now more spacious than ever, comfortably fitting runners with slightly wide feet. We measured its widest part at 101.7 mm, a change that enhances its inclusivity.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 101.7 mm
Average 98.3 mm
Compared to 280 running shoes
Number of shoes
89.5 mm
Toebox width at the widest part
109.1 mm

in the Feature x saucony could G9 Shadow 5 The Pumpkin

The upper's widest part enjoyed the overall increase in the shoe's width, but the toe cap area stayed at a comfortable average of 77.5 mm, which suits most feet just fine.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 in the Feature x saucony could G9 Shadow 5 The Pumpkin
Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 77.5 mm
Average 78.1 mm
Compared to 154 running shoes
Number of shoes
60.4 mm
in the Feature x saucony could G9 Shadow 5 The Pumpkin
92.5 mm

zapatillas de running saucony could neutro constitución media talla 43 naranjas entre 60 y 100

saucony could chose the semi-gusseted tongue again, an ideal feature for a lightweight shoe designed for fast paces that require a secure lockdown—and the ES4 delivers just that!

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 zapatillas de running saucony could neutro constitución media talla 43 naranjas entre 60 y 100
Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 Both sides (semi)

Comfort

Tongue padding

The tongue padding is athletic to a minimal 2.0 mm, part of the effort to maintain a low weight.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 tongue

Therefore, we advise caution when tightening the laces, particularly for longer runs, to prevent any lace bite.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 Tongue padding
Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 2.0 mm
Average 5.6 mm
Compared to 277 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Heel tab

In line with recent saucony could design trends, we didn't anticipate a heel tab, and indeed, there wasn't one to be found.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 Heel tab
Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 None

Removable insole

The insole is removable and features a very standard shape, allowing for easy insertion of third-party sockliners without any issues. Also, for runners with larger feet, opting for a thinner insole can also increase the shoe's overall internal volume.

zapatillas de running saucony could media maratón más de 100 Removable insole
Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 Yes

Misc

Reflective elements

We're always impressed when brands prioritize runner safety. Thus, discovering reflective elements on the Endorphin Speed 4 was a fantastic highlight, enhancing visibility and protection.

Test results
Endorphin Speed 4 Yes