Saucony is making waves in the 2021 season with their new Endorphin series. This collection features a range of powerful shoes designed for speed and tailored to meet the needs of every runner. From the Endorphin Shift to the Endorphin Pro 2, Saucony has created a lineup of fast and comfortable shoes that cater to both high mileage training and race day performance.
At the forefront of the Endorphin line is the Saucony Endorphin Speed 2. This shoe stands out as one of Saucony's best training shoes, offering a comfortable, responsive, and fast ride. What sets it apart is the use of a nylon plate, similar to the carbon plate found in the Endorphin Pro 2. This nylon plate provides a snappy and propelling feel, while keeping the cost of the shoe lower and increasing its durability.
The Endorphin Speed 2 is perfect for long runs, easy daily miles, and track workouts. It checks all the boxes for versatility, while maintaining its comfort and durability. With its lightweight design, this shoe allows for effortless movement and provides a high-energy return due to the innovative Saucony Speedroll technology.
The Saucony Endorphin Speed 2
The Endorphin Speed 2 - Details
The Endorphin Speed 2 sits just below the Saucony Endorphin Pro 2, making it ideal for daily training and speed workouts. The key difference between the two shoes lies in the nylon plate used in the Speed 2 compared to the carbon plate in the Pro 2 model. While the nylon plate mimics the feel of carbon, it also enhances the shoe's durability, making it an excellent choice for runners.
The Speed 2 features the PWRRUN PB cushioning, which keeps the shoe lightweight and responsive under the foot. The combination of the nylon plate and PWRRUN PB foam makes the Endorphin Speed 2 comfortable and long-lasting. With a weight of approximately 7.9 oz (224g) for men and 7.0 oz (198g) for women, an 8mm drop height, and stack heights ranging from 27.5mm to 35.5mm, this neutral running shoe is built to empower your runs.
One standout feature is the PWRRUN PB Foam, Saucony's secret weapon. This soft and cushioned foam provides a high energy return, allowing for faster runs and reducing fatigue on the body. The unique lattice structure of the foam beads enhances responsiveness, providing maximum energy return and durability. The Endorphin Speed 2 with PWRRUN PB foam has proven to withstand many miles, with some runners reaching 500 miles without any loss of performance.
The Cushioning
The Upper
The upper of the Endorphin Speed 2 boasts an engineered mono-mesh construction, offering flexibility and enhanced ventilation. It is lightweight, breathable, and perfect for varying weather conditions. The semi-gusseted tongue ensures a secure fit and improved lockdown, while the smooth and comfortable laces prevent any discomfort during your runs. The double-lined, lightly padded heel collar creates a secure fit, making it an excellent choice for runners with narrow heels.
Though the upper and heel cup may not have the plush luxury feel of some other models like the Glycerin 19, they still provide a secure and breathable feel that contributes to the fantastic design of the shoe.
The Upper
The Outsole
The Endorphin Speed 2 features an XT-900 outsole, ensuring increased durability and optimal traction. The strategically placed reinforced high-abrasion zones offer stability and durability without compromising the shoe's lightweight design. While the outsole performs well on greenways and roads, it's worth noting that as the shoe wears out, it becomes slicker. Overall, the outsole matches the quality of the rest of the shoe, delivering a smooth and responsive ride.
The Outsole
The Fit and Shape
The Endorphin Speed 2 follows Saucony's traditional "V" shape, with a wider forefoot and a more narrow heel. It offers a secure, locked-in feel reminiscent of racing shoes. While it may feel slightly tighter in the forefoot, it accommodates various foot shapes and sizes thanks to the 3D form fit. This shoe is comfortable for those with slightly wider feet, making it a versatile option.
The Fit and Shape
Saucony Endorphin Speed 2 - How It Runs
The Endorphin Speed 2 truly stands out as a standout trainer. With stellar reviews and personal experience, it has become one of my favorite training shoes. What makes it unique is the combination of the nylon plate, PWRRUN PB foam, and Speedroll technology. This trifecta creates a smooth and responsive ride, maximizing energy return and reducing fatigue. After hard runs, I have noticed a faster recovery time compared to traditional running shoes. This enables me to train at higher volumes, leading to improved performance.
The shoe feels lightweight, bouncy, and cushioned. You can feel the nylon plate propelling you forward, yet it remains comfortable and natural. The Speedroll geometry technology keeps your foot in the ideal forefoot striking position, making it perfect for speed workouts. However, even on slower, easier days, the shoe feels natural and allows for a normal gait and strike pattern. The Endorphin Speed 2 strikes the perfect balance between a trainer and a competition shoe.
Overall, this shoe is a winner in terms of versatility and feel.
Saucony Endorphin Speed 2 - Wrapping Up
The Saucony Endorphin Speed 2 is an exceptional daily trainer that provides the feel of a racing shoe while withstanding the rigors of training. Whether you're preparing for a 5k or a marathon, the Speed 2 is an ideal choice. It excels in tempo runs, speed workouts, long runs, and easy miles. Depending on your preferences, it may even serve as a less expensive race day shoe.
The Endorphin Speed 2's snappy, propelling yet cushioned feel allows for effortless and natural movement. The energy return is evident and the shoe significantly reduces fatigue, enabling faster recovery and more intense training sessions. While the price point is slightly higher compared to similar models, the nylon plate and cushioning are well worth the investment.
The upper of the Speed 2 offers breathability and a secure fit, with a gusseted tongue enhancing the lockdown feel. The outsole provides durability and a smooth ride underfoot. With its fantastic design, the Speed 2 proves to be a versatile fit for almost every runner.
If you're in search of your go-to running shoe, don't miss out on the Saucony Endorphin Speed 2!
The Saucony Endorphin Speed 2
