Saucony Endorphin Series: A complete guide to all models, key features, and who they are best for

Saucony Endorphin is a family of running shoes from Saucony first launched in 2020. This series is known for its SPEEDROLL™ underfoot curvature design, which helps propel you forward smoothly, combined with high-energy foam that provides a responsive feel. Today, the Endorphin lineup has expanded to cover everything from daily trainers to top-tier racing shoes. Let's look at how each model in the series—Pro, Speed, Elite, Trainer, and Azura—differs and who they are best suited for.

What models are in the Endorphin Series?

Saucony categorizes the Endorphin lineup based on usage as follows: Azura for plateless daily training, Trainer for long-distance training with a plate for durability, Speed for tempo workouts and race days requiring versatility, while Pro and Elite are the two models specifically for actual race days, differing in their responsiveness. All models in the series share SPEEDROLL technology, giving them a "family feel" despite differences in cushioning and support levels.

Saucony Endorphin Pro

Saucony Endorphin Pro is Saucony's flagship carbon-plated racing shoe. The latest model is the Endorphin Pro 5, which features a dual-layer midsole: a top layer of PWRRUN HG (Super Critical) foam and a bottom layer of PWRRUN PB. It is combined with a new "slotted" carbon fiber plate, which features grooves to enhance flexibility and integration with the foam. The outsole uses new PWRTRAC rubber for increased grip.

Key features of the Saucony Endorphin Pro

• Dual-layer midsole (PWRRUN HG + PWRRUN PB) paired with a slotted carbon plate.
• Wider fit, providing good support for heel strikers.
• Suitable for runners concerned about instability or those trying carbon plates for the first time.

Saucony Endorphin Speed

Saucony Endorphin Speed is the most popular "Super Trainer" in the family because it is the most versatile, suitable for everything from daily runs to race days. The latest model, Endorphin Speed 5, uses full-length PWRRUN PB foam paired with a nylon plate that is softer and more flexible than the carbon fiber plate in the Pro model.

Key features of the Saucony Endorphin Speed

• Full-length PWRRUN PB foam paired with a nylon plate that is softer than carbon.
• The most versatile "Super Trainer" in the family.
• Suitable for runners who want a single pair of shoes for both training and racing, or those just starting to try Super Shoes.

Saucony Endorphin Elite

Saucony Endorphin Elite is the top-tier racing shoe of the series, focusing on the highest energy return and responsiveness in the lineup. It uses PWRRUN HG foam (or IncrediRUN in the latest version), which provides extra softness and high energy return, combined with a full-length carbon fiber plate and maximum stack height permitted by World Athletics regulations.

Key features of the Saucony Endorphin Elite

• PWRRUN HG/IncrediRUN foam paired with a full-length carbon plate.
• Features the fastest bounce and responsiveness.
• Suitable for runners with good form who strike on their midfoot/forefoot and are accustomed to very soft foam.

Saucony Endorphin Trainer

Saucony Endorphin Trainer is a plated training shoe that focuses on a Maximalist level of softness more explicitly than the Speed model. It is positioned as a shoe for long-distance training that requires high durability and extra foot protection. It is suitable for runners who want a primary shoe for steady endurance training, featuring a plate that helps conserve energy with every step.

Key features of the Saucony Endorphin Trainer

• Features a plate that helps conserve energy in every step.
• Offers the softest cushioning and best protection among all plated models in the family.
• Suitable for high-mileage runners or those with a higher-than-average body weight who need extra soft cushioning to protect their joints.

Saucony Endorphin Azura

Saucony Endorphin Azura is the newest member of the family, launched in early 2026. Its highlight is being a plateless training shoe, yet it still uses the same level of PWRRUN PB foam found in the racing shoes, combined with the SPEEDROLL design.

Key features of the Saucony Endorphin Azura

• Can be used for anything from light jogs to tempo days, without relying on a plate like the Speed or Trainer models.
• Experience the feel of the Endorphin family at a more accessible price point than the plated models.
• Suitable for runners looking for a primary shoe for daily training.

See more details about the Saucony Endorphin Series here.

Summary Comparison of the Endorphin Series

Which model to choose depends on your running goals

In overview, the Saucony Endorphin family is designed to cover everyone from beginners who want to try premium trainers to competitive runners who need carbon-plated shoes to set personal bests. The common denominator of every model is the SPEEDROLL design, which provides a unique "always moving forward" sensation. The differences lie in the level of softness, the presence or absence of a plate, and the intended use.