Saucony
Endorphin Elite 2
Product Judgment
Elite
9.1
Category: Race
Release year: 2025
Price Judgment
Reasonable
Common retail price: ~$290
Availability: Widely Available
Description
Saucony's flagship carbon-plated marathon racer. Prioritizes ultra-soft cushioning and explosive rebound. Universally praised for energy return and fun ride, with fit and stability as main caveats.
Ride feels exceptionally soft, springy, and lively, encouraging fast turnover and smooth transitions. Deep cushioning absorbs impact yet rebounds instantly, making long races feel forgiving. Instability from the plush foam requires confident form, and the narrow toe box may limit comfort for some.
Best suited for marathon and half marathon racing at fast paces, especially for runners seeking maximum energy return and a forgiving ride. Excels for midfoot and forefoot strikers, and those who value a soft, bouncy feel. Less ideal for daily training, wide feet, or those needing extra stability, but stands out as a top-tier choice for race day performance.
Performance Scores
Comfort
8Ultra-soft foam and breathable upper provide plush comfort, but narrow toe box limits fit.
Energy Return
10IncrediRUN foam and carbon plate deliver class-leading, explosive energy return.
Stability
5Extremely soft midsole creates a wobbly platform requiring excellent running form.
Durability
8Durable upper and outsole rubber show strong resistance to wear in testing.
Fun to Ride
10Exceptionally lively, bouncy, and springy ride makes running feel exciting and fast.
Run Fitness
Daily
5Softness and instability limit suitability for daily mileage or easy runs.
Long
9Deep cushioning and forgiving ride excel in long-distance racing.
Tempo
9Explosive rebound and smooth transitions support fast-paced workouts.
Race
10Elite energy return and propulsion make it outstanding for marathon racing.
Recovery
4Instability and race-tuned fit make it unsuitable for relaxed recovery runs.
Pros & Cons
- Exceptional energy return
- Ultra-soft, bouncy cushioning
- Highly breathable upper
- Fun, lively ride
- Durable for a super shoe
- Narrow, stiff toe box
- Limited stability
- Fit issues for wide feet
IncrediRUN foam and carbon plate deliver best-in-class energy return for racing.
Ultra-soft midsole provides a uniquely plush and bouncy feel underfoot.
Engineered mesh upper offers outstanding breathability for hot race conditions.
Ride is explosively lively and encourages fast, efficient running.
Upper and outsole show strong durability compared to other racing shoes.
Moderately narrow and stiff toe box can cause discomfort or pinching, especially on long runs.
Ultra-soft foam creates a wobbly platform, demanding excellent form and limiting stability.
Runners with wider feet or bunions may struggle to achieve a comfortable fit.
Specifications
Best for paces
2:45-4:30 min/km
Drop
8 mm
Stack height
39.9 mm heel / 32.4 mm forefoot
Weight
199 g
Drop
8 mm
Stack height
39.9 mm heel / 32.4 mm forefoot
Weight
199 g
Pronation
N/A
Width
medium
Terrain
Road
Technologies
IncrediRUN foam, Full-length carbon plate, Engineered mesh upper
Plate
Carbon
Best for paces
2:45-4:30 min/km