Saucony
Endorphin Speed 5
Product Judgment
Strong
8.7
Category: Speed Trainer
Release year: 2025
Price Judgment
Buy
Common retail price: ~$175
Availability: Widely Available
Description
Fifth-generation super trainer blending speed and versatility. Retains signature snappy ride with incremental refinements. Highly regarded for its balance of performance and daily usability.
Delivers a firm, energetic ride with excellent turnover and control. Upper is notably breathable and secure, while the platform feels stable and responsive. Slightly increased rigidity and weight enhance support but reduce flexibility compared to earlier versions.
Ideal for runners seeking a single shoe for tempo runs, intervals, and race day. Performs well for daily training and moderate long runs, especially for those preferring a firmer, more structured feel. Less suited for recovery days or those prioritizing plush cushioning, but remains a top choice for versatile speed-focused training.
Performance Scores
Comfort
8Breathable mesh upper and wider toe box improve comfort, though ride is firm.
Energy Return
9PWRRUN PB foam and nylon plate deliver a snappy, efficient turnover.
Stability
8Increased torsional rigidity and heel counter boost support for faster efforts.
Durability
8Thicker outsole rubber and robust upper enhance durability over previous versions.
Fun to Ride
8Smooth, momentum-driven ride feels energetic and controlled at a range of paces.
Run Fitness
Daily
8Versatile enough for daily training with a responsive, stable platform.
Long
7Firm cushioning is protective but less plush for extended mileage.
Tempo
9Excels at tempo runs with snappy transitions and efficient turnover.
Race
8Lightweight and propulsive, suitable for racing up to the marathon.
Recovery
6Firm ride and structure make it less ideal for easy recovery runs.
Pros & Cons
- Snappy, efficient ride
- Improved upper breathability
- Enhanced outsole durability
- Secure, roomy fit
- Firmer than some prefer
- Slightly heavier than v4
Nylon plate and PWRRUN PB foam create a fast, energetic ride for speedwork and racing.
Engineered mesh upper with extensive ventilation holes keeps feet cool and comfortable.
Thicker outsole rubber and improved coverage increase durability for high-mileage use.
Wider, taller toe box and structured heel collar provide a secure, comfortable fit for most runners.
The ride is firmer and less plush than some competitors, which may not suit those seeking maximum softness.
Added upper padding and outsole rubber result in a modest weight increase compared to version 4.
Specifications
Best for paces
3:45-5:15 min/km
Drop
8 mm
Stack height
36 mm heel / 28 mm forefoot
Weight
237 g
Drop
8 mm
Stack height
36 mm heel / 28 mm forefoot
Weight
237 g
Pronation
N/A
Width
medium
Terrain
Road
Technologies
PWRRUN PB foam, Nylon winged plate, SPEEDROLL geometry
Plate
Composite
Best for paces
3:45-5:15 min/km
Comparable Models
Saucony Endorphin Pro 5 uses a carbon-plated race setup, while Endorphin Speed 5 is more flexible and training-friendly.
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Saucony Endorphin Azura is unplated and more daily-friendly, while Endorphin Speed 5 is firmer and more speed-focused.
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Saucony Kinvara 16 is lighter and more minimal, while Endorphin Speed 5 is more cushioned and more structured.
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Nike Zoom Fly 6 is firmer and more workout-focused, while Endorphin Speed 5 feels lighter and more flexible.
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ASICS Magic Speed 5 is stiffer and more race-leaning, while Endorphin Speed 5 remains more versatile for training.
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Hoka Mach X 3 is more cushioned and less nimble, while Endorphin Speed 5 is lighter and quicker underfoot.
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Adidas Adizero Boston 13 is heavier and more stable, while Endorphin Speed 5 feels livelier and easier to turn over.
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Brooks Hyperion Max 3 is firmer and more traditional, while Endorphin Speed 5 has a more plate-driven speed feel.
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