Saucony Endorphin Speed 5: Faster, Smoother, More Versatile

CL
By Clément Laborieux

Published on Tue, July 8, 2025

Updated on Thu, September 10, 2026

Saucony Endorphin Speed 5: Faster, Smoother, More Versatile
© Saucony

The Endorphin Speed series continues to rank among the most popular running shoes on the market. With its fifth iteration, Saucony takes the versatility and performance of its iconic model even further, creating a shoe built to handle everything from tempo runs to all-out sprints. It combines cutting-edge technology, comfort and plenty of snap in a design that remains impressively sharp. The Endorphin Speed 5 delivers on Saucony’s promise: run fast, run long and, above all, enjoy the ride.

More accessible and forgiving than carbon-plated models such as the Endorphin Pro and Endorphin Elite, the Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 has plenty to offer a wide range of runners. Built for everyday training thanks to its exceptional comfort, it can also serve as a genuine race-day shoe for many runners, thanks to its impressive responsiveness.

Here’s a closer look at the latest gem from the American brand.

A winning combination: the nylon plate and PWRRUN PB foam

At the heart of the new Endorphin Speed 5 is a semi-rigid “winged” nylon plate. It provides just enough structure to keep the shoe moving through each ground contact, without the extreme rigidity of a carbon plate. It sits between two layers of PWRRUN PB foam, Saucony’s lightest and most responsive compound, made with PEBA foam technology. The result is seriously impressive: a stride that feels both explosive and comfortable, with less muscle fatigue even on long runs.

Even smoother transitions with SPEEDROLL technology

As with previous versions, SPEEDROLL technology remains one of the range’s biggest strengths. It creates a natural forward roll, almost automatic, encouraging you to hold your pace without conscious effort. That smooth, flowing sensation is immediately noticeable from the first few strides, whether you’re running at a moderate pace or deep into an interval session.

The Endorphin Speed 5 is designed to support runners whatever their speed or distance. From explosive sprints to sustained moderate training, the Endorphin Speed 5 combines versatility and performance.
At the core of this new version is a full-length semi-rigid nylon plate, sandwiched between two layers of PWRRUN PB foam, Saucony’s most responsive compound. The result is an ideal balance of lively rebound and comfortable cushioning on every stride. SPEEDROLL technology enhances that smooth sensation by naturally driving the runner forward.

Saucony

A tougher outsole built to go the distance

The outsole has been updated with broader rubber reinforcements, particularly along the lateral edges and extending toward the heel. The change improves the shoe’s durability, a clear plus for runners who also use it for everyday training. A longitudinal groove helps maintain flexibility and better follows the foot’s natural movement.

Technical, breathable upper with a dialled-in fit

Up top, the lightweight engineered mesh does its job with confidence: breathable and well fitted, it holds the foot securely without squeezing it. The ergonomic shape is designed to follow your movements even at high intensity. At 229 g in the women’s version and 238 g in the men’s, the Endorphin Speed 5 remains light, even within the “versatile” or “training” category.

What is it for? From everyday runs to race day

This is where the Endorphin Speed 5 really shines: it adapts to almost anything. Track intervals, tempo sessions, fartlek, races, uptempo runs… This shoe can handle it all and excels at faster paces, right through to interval workouts. It is especially well suited to runners looking for a single pair that can replace two models (training and racing) without compromise. It works just as well for regular runners as it does for more ambitious athletes.

➜ Occasional runners looking for a performance-focused shoe.

➜ Runners who want to run fast and are looking for a less rigid option than carbon-plated shoes.

➜ Regular runners looking for a reliable shoe, with a balanced ride and the range to handle different intensities.

➜ Fans of the American brand and the Endorphin Speed range who want to continue enjoying a lively, comfortable ride. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

  • Recommended use: daily training, speed training, racing (from 5K to marathon)

  • Price: €200

  • Weight: 238 g (men’s) / 229 g (women’s)

  • Drop: 8 mm (36 mm/28 mm)

  • Foam: PWRRUN PB (PEBA)

  • Semi-rigid nylon plate

  • SPEEDROLL technology for a smooth, fast ride

  • Lightweight, breathable engineered mesh upper

  • Outsole: broader rubber reinforcements for greater durability

  • Gait: Neutral

  • Made with recycled materials

The Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 maintains the ideal balance of responsiveness, comfort and durability, while subtly updating the series’ key features. It is aimed at anyone looking for a responsive yet versatile shoe that can move smoothly from one type of session to the next without sacrificing comfort. A dependable option that could once again establish itself as one of the best shoes of the year.

✔ The Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 is available now from Saucony and the brand’s retail partners for €200.

✔ The Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 is available now from Saucony and the brand’s retail partners for €200.