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I have always been a big Saucony fan. Besides the Kinvara, I’m particularly enthusiastic about the models from the Endorphin series.
Anzeige: The manufacturer provided me with the product for this test at my request. This had no influence on the content of my test report. The article is freely written and exclusively reflects my personal experiences.
Saucony Endorphin Speed 3
First Impression
The Endorphin Collection consists of three road models that form an overall training system: the Endorphin Shift is softly cushioned and intended for long runs, the Endorphin Speed for faster training sessions and competitions, and finally the Endorphin Pro for maximum performance on race day.
The Endorphin Speed already makes its speed claim clear through the cushioning used: Saucony has given it its best material “PWRRUNPB”.
In addition, a revised, S-shaped nylon plate is installed, which is supposed to provide better support and proper propulsion.
The outsole itself is not lush, but it is complete enough for a training shoe. In my experience, the material used by Saucony does not wear down quickly either.
Interestingly, the Endorphin Speed 3 has no tab to help you put it on. Nevertheless, it inherits the thin tongue of a competition shoe as well as sufficiently good padding in the heel area.
When it comes to weight, it’s the high-quality cushioning material that really pays off: 537 grams for both shoes in my size is awesome for a shoe like this! That’s lightweight – almost featherweight.
Running Experience
To give my verdict straight away: the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 is probably the best Saucony ever. It feels just as lightweight as a Kinvara, but offers noticeably more cushioning and support.
That’s why I’ve worn them for almost every training session in the last few weeks – not only for the fast sessions. I also found the cushioning very pleasant for everyday runs: not too soft and not too hard.
At the same time, it was really fun during tempo, threshold and interval runs! The spring effect of the nylon plate is quite noticeable, but not so strong that you have to worry about your Achilles tendon.
If I hadn’t had the even faster Saucony available for competitions, the Endorphin Speed would certainly have been used here too.