The running shoe market is a constant race for innovation, and Saucony has consistently been a frontrunner in delivering performance-driven footwear. Among their most anticipated releases, the Endorphin Pro series has garnered a loyal following, celebrated for its blend of speed and endurance. Now, the spotlight shines brightly on the latest iteration: the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4. This highly anticipated update promises to redefine the racing experience, boasting significant changes in its midsole technology and overall fit. Runners everywhere are buzzing about its potential to be a steadfast companion for long distances, especially for those grueling marathon efforts. Let's dive deep into what makes this new model a noteworthy addition to Saucony's elite racing lineup, exploring the new PWRRUN HG foam and crucial fit adjustments.
What's New Under the Hood? The Midsole & Geometry Evolution
The journey of the Saucony Endorphin Pro series has been one of continuous evolution, with each version striving to push the boundaries of performance. After a two-year development cycle—a testament to Saucony's commitment to thorough innovation—the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 arrives as a complete overhaul from its predecessor, version 3. While version 3 was praised for finally bringing a truly bouncy midsole to the series, the Pro 4 introduces an entirely new dynamic that balances energetic propulsion with enhanced long-distance comfort.
A Dual-Density Midsole: PWRRUN HG & PWRRUN PB Synergy
One of the most significant advancements in the Endorphin Pro 4 lies within its redesigned midsole. Saucony has opted for a sophisticated dual-density setup, combining two of its most celebrated foam compounds:
- PWRRUN HG Topsole: This is the star of the show, a new top layer of PWRRUN HG foam positioned directly underfoot. Previously seen in Saucony's premium Endorphin Elite, PWRRUN HG is known for its incredibly high energy return and responsive feel. In the Pro 4, it provides that immediate, bouncy sensation right from footstrike, contributing to a lively and propulsive ride.
- PWRRUN PB Midsole: Beneath the PWRRUN HG, the familiar PWRRUN PB foam forms the main body of the midsole. While still incredibly bouncy and lightweight, in the Pro 4 it's described as offering a "pinch of firmness" in conjunction with the HG layer. This combination aims to deliver a ride that is both incredibly energetic and stable enough to maintain form over extended efforts.
This strategic layering creates a unique feel. Compared to its predecessor, the Endorphin Pro 4 offers a noticeably softer ride overall. While some might miss the more aggressive "oomph" or extreme snap of previous iterations, this softer approach is a deliberate choice to prioritize long-distance comfort. The shoe still features a very stiff carbon plate embedded within the midsole, providing the necessary rigidity and propulsion to maintain speed. However, the updated geometry, particularly a less aggressive forefoot rocker, contributes to a smoother transition that feels more forgiving over 26.2 miles.
This nuanced balance means the Endorphin Pro 4 might not claim the absolute top spot for sheer, unadulterated speed in every runner's book, especially compared to some ultra-aggressive competitors. However, its strength lies in its ability to deliver consistent, comfortable propulsion for hours on end, making it an excellent candidate for your next marathon or half-marathon attempt. The two-year development cycle has clearly allowed Saucony to fine-tune these elements, creating a shoe that feels both new and familiar, pushing the boundaries of what a super racer can offer in terms of balanced performance.
Fit & Feel: A More Accessible Upper for the Endorphin Pro 4
Beyond the midsole, the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 introduces equally impactful changes to its upper and overall fit, addressing feedback from previous versions and aiming for greater accessibility. This is a critical factor for any racing shoe, as a secure yet comfortable fit can make or break a race performance.
Higher Volume and Wider for Broader Appeal
One of the most notable changes in the Pro 4 is its entirely new upper, designed with a higher volume and a wider fit than previous versions. While earlier Endorphin Pro models were often lauded for their snug, race-ready fit, some runners with slightly wider feet found them restrictive. The Pro 4 directly tackles this, making it a more inclusive option for a broader range of foot types. This enhanced volume ensures that more runners can experience the benefits of Saucony's super shoe technology without compromising on comfort.
For those accustomed to the series, this means the shoe will likely feel more accommodating. While some might find themselves needing to cinch down the laces more than before to achieve a secure lockdown, the increased volume prevents the feeling of constriction often associated with aggressive racing shoes. Our observations suggest that the forefoot fits normally in width but with a little extra volume, which can make the shoe feel almost "long" despite being true to size. The midfoot also benefits from this slightly wider approach.
When discussing these significant fit adjustments, it’s worth noting that the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4: A Softer, Wider Marathon Racer truly lives up to its name by prioritizing a more forgiving and comfortable experience.
Upper Construction and Practical Considerations
The Pro 4 features a light, breathable mesh upper throughout the length of the shoe. This design promotes excellent airflow, which is crucial for comfort during long, hot races. However, a crucial piece of feedback from initial reviews highlights that the inner aspect of the upper can feel somewhat "scratchy." This makes wearing socks highly recommended; going sockless is definitely not advised to avoid potential discomfort or blisters.
The shoe also incorporates a gusseted, stretchy, and thin one-piece tongue. While this contributes to a seamless feel, some testers noted that they had to tighten the laces considerably to achieve a secure fit, which occasionally caused the tongue to fold on itself. Fortunately, this minor folding did not typically lead to problems or hot spots during runs.
At the heel, the fit is described as normal, featuring a thin heel collar on the sides and a more cushioned area at the posterior. A thin, flexible heel counter is present at the very back, which provides sufficient structure without causing any irritation, even for those with sensitive heels. Once the laces are properly locked down, the overall security of the shoe is decent, instilling confidence during fast-paced segments.
The Endorphin Pro 4 fits true to size for most runners, though individuals who often size up in the Endorphin line (like Andrea in our reference context, who goes up a half-size) might find that the Pro 4's added length in the fit might still warrant their usual sizing approach. It's always advisable to try on the shoe to confirm your ideal fit.
Performance on the Road: Who is the Endorphin Pro 4 For?
With its blend of new technologies and revised fit, the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 is clearly positioned as a premium racing option. But who will truly benefit most from this £230.00/250,00€ investment?
Marathon Maestro or Versatile Racer?
The consensus is clear: the Endorphin Pro 4 excels as a marathon racing shoe. Its soft, stable ride, combined with the energetic PWRRUN HG and PB midsole, provides the ideal platform for maintaining pace and comfort over 26.2 miles. The less aggressive forefoot rocker, while perhaps reducing the extreme "oomph" for short, explosive efforts, significantly enhances its long-distance credentials by promoting a smoother, less fatiguing stride. This shoe is built to deliver consistent performance when you need it most, from mile 1 to the finish line.
Runners seeking a shoe that offers a forgiving yet propulsive experience for longer training runs or half-marathons will also find a lot to love here. It strikes a compelling balance between bounce and stability, making it a reliable choice for those pushing their endurance limits.
Finding Its Place in the Super Shoe Landscape
While the Pro 4 boasts a highly capable carbon plate and advanced foams, some reviews suggest it doesn't quite reach the "top tier" of racing shoes in terms of raw, all-out aggression or maximal propulsion. This isn't necessarily a drawback; rather, it highlights the shoe's focus. It prioritizes comfort and accessibility for long distances, potentially making it a more suitable and enjoyable option for a broader range of runners, especially those who found other super shoes too unstable, too aggressive, or too narrow.
If you're a runner who values a race day shoe that offers:
- Exceptional comfort for marathon distances
- A stable yet dynamic ride
- A more accommodating and less restrictive fit than typical racing shoes
- High energy return without feeling overly harsh
Conclusion: The Verdict on Saucony's Latest Marathon Contender
The release of the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 marks a significant chapter in the evolution of Saucony's super shoe line. With its innovative PWRRUN HG topsole, revised PWRRUN PB midsole, and a more accommodating upper, it delivers a softer, more stable, and ultimately more accessible ride designed for the demands of marathon racing. While it may not be the most aggressively "bouncy" shoe on the market for every runner, its strengths lie in its unparalleled long-distance comfort, energetic yet forgiving ride, and wider fit. This shoe is a strong contender for runners prioritizing sustained performance and comfort over many miles, making it an excellent choice for anyone aiming to conquer their next marathon with confidence and a smile.