SAUCONY ENDORPHIN PRO 4 Running Shoe Review

Saucony raised the bar high with the Endorphin Pro 3, earning well-deserved accolades for its responsive design, forward momentum, and exceptional comfort. As enthusiastic runners, we’ve enjoyed every step in the Pro 3, and the anticipation for the Endorphin Pro 4 has been immense. In this review, we explore whether the latest version lives up to its own legacy, and is still an exceptional choice as a racing shoe, or even for everyday use. Join us in this Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 Running Shoe Review as we reveal whether this new trainer should be on your feet, or left on the store shelf.

Quick Look.

In the evolving landscape of running footwear, the Saucony Endorphin Pro series has recently set benchmarks for innovation, comfort, and performance. The release of the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 has been met with a mix of excitement and curiosity. How does it compare to the revered Endorphin Pro 3?

This quick overview teases out key elements from our in-depth analysis and review, providing a snapshot of what runners can expect from the latest iteration.

• Innovative Design and Features: The Endorphin Pro 4 continues Saucony’s tradition of pushing the envelope in running shoe technology, but does its innovative new midsole, and other design features, elevate it beyond the celebrated Po 3? In some cases, yes, we think so, however, the new midsole combination of foams doesn’t seem as snappy as the Pro 3.
• Performance on the Road: We take the Pro 4 through its paces. From speed work to long distance runs, how does it stack up against the exceptional performance standards set by its predecessor? We have found the Pro 4 to be as every bit as comfortable on long-distance hit-outs, and is an accomplished performer.
• Comfort and Fit: Saucony shoes are known for their comfortable fit right out of the box. Does the Pro 4 maintain this legacy with its new upper and midsole, or are there adjustments returning runners will need to get accustomed to? The new upper and tongue will take some getting used to, but as always with Saucony trainers, they are super comfortable from the get-go.
• Durability and Value: High-performance shoes are an investment. We discuss the Pro 4’s longevity prospects and whether it offers the same, better, or diminished value over time compared to the Pro 3. I expect no issues in terms of durability with the Pro 4’s, Saucony products always perform well in this regard. Since we haven’t seen a price rise from the Pro 3’s, I would say they represent good value for money for a high-end running shoe.
• Pros and Cons: A straightforward list that breaks down the strengths and potential drawbacks of the Endorphin Pro 4, offering clear insights at a glance.

While the Endorphin Pro 3 undoubtably set a high bar, (see our comprehensive review here), the question lingers: Does the Endorphin Pro 4 rise to the occasion, or does it falter in the shadow of its own legacy?

Dive into our comprehensive review, grounded in real-world experience and our straightforward, unbiased perspective. We purchased these shoes with our own money (we are not sponsored), and we’ll share what they are really like, pinpoint who they are ideally suited for, and evaluate if it’s worthy of your running dollars.

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Disclaimer – I purchased this these shoes with my own money and have not been paid by anyone to make this review. This is my honest, independent opinion.

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Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 Snapshot.

Following in the footsteps of the highly successful Endorphin Pro 3, this new version is building on the DNA and performance focus of this line of elite Saucony trainers.

My impression is that Saucony have strategically positioned the Pro 4 in the endurance or long-distance running niche, perhaps leaving the new Endorphin Speed 4 models to target shorter distances and speed work,

The Pro 4 features a new midsole, incorporating Saucony’s very impressive PWRRUN PB foam, which I preferred to Nike’s much lauded ZoomX foam in our Endorphin Pro 3 vs Vaporfly 3 comparison, and a layer of PWRRUN HG foam from the Endorphin Elite. As we will expand on in our full analysis of the midsole later in this article, this innovative foam combination promises a trifecta of benefits: enhanced comfort, exceptional responsiveness, and improved stability,

The Endorphin Pro 4 incorporates a Carbon Fibre Plate to boost energy return, coupled with Saucony’s SPEEDROLL technology, which facilitates a smooth, forward-propelling motion.

Here are the Features and Specs of the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4:

• Shoe Category – Neutral
• Surface – Road and well-formed tracks
• Run Type – Everyday, long-distance, racing
• Cushioning – Max
• Width – Medium
• Offset – 8mm
• Arch Type – Average to high
• Weight – Slightly heavier than the Pro 3, 413g for a pair of men’s size 8, compared to 388g.
• Plate – Yes, carbon fibre
• Midsole – PWRRUN PB and PWRRUN HG, PEBA foam layers.
• Upper – Breathable mesh
• Sustainability – Vegan and contains recycled materials
• Price – $339.99AUD

The Endorphin Pro 4 on the Saucony website here.

First Impressions of the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4.

I ordered the Pro 4’s directly from Saucony here in Australia. They arrived in a fully recyclable cardboard box, and all the packaging was paper. The only plastic was the outer postal envelope.

Pulling the shoes out of the box, I was once again struck by how light these running shoes have become. Although slightly heavier than the previous model, they still feel impressively light.

During my initial walk around the room in the Pro 4s, they offered a sense of luxury with their plushness, complemented by a reassuring stability and a feeling of being securely grounded. The springy feeling of the pro 3 when walking appears to be a little reduced this time around, but the cushioning is immediately very comfortable.

A notable departure from the Pro 3 is evident right away in the design of the upper when putting these shoes on for the first time. The tongue and laces are quite elastic, necessitating extra attention to achieve the right fit. However, once you’ve fine-tuned the fitting, they offer a satisfying embrace around the foot, balancing flexibility with a secure lockdown.

The initial moment of slipping into these shoes didn’t quite deliver the ‘wow’ factor I experienced with the Pro 3, so throughout this article, I’ll draw comparisons between the two, using the highly acclaimed Pro 3’s as a benchmark. This should help us determine whether Saucony has truly advanced the Pro series with this latest model.

Now, let’s delve into the key design elements of these new trainers before putting them to the test on their inaugural run. This will bridge my initial impressions with their true purpose… running.

Design Elements Of The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4.

Saucony has introduced noteworthy updates in the Endorphin Pro 4, touching on everything from the core of any running shoe — the midsole — to the insole and upper, critical for comfortably accommodating your feet. I’ll skip the minutiae in favour of real-world insights, focusing this review on how the practical design features and technological improvements impact each stride you take.

Midsole and Carbon Fibre Plate.

This time around, Saucony has opted to craft the Pro 4’s midsole using both of their top-tier foams: PWRRUN PB from the Pro 3, and PWRRUN HG from the Endorphin Elite.

Unlike the Pro 3, which exclusively utilised PWRRUN PB for its midsole—a foam celebrated for its lightweight nature and vibrant bounce, without excessive squishiness—the Pro 4 also integrates PWRRUN HG. This slightly firmer foam caters to runners seeking a racing shoe that doesn’t prioritise ultra-plush cushioning, but is focused more on performance.

A generous layer of PWRRUN PB forms the base of the midsole, partially exposed to the ground in certain areas and sealed with the outsole rubber in high-wear areas. Positioned above this layer is the same carbon-fibre plate from the Pro 3, followed by a slimmer layer of PWRRUN HG, which is then finished with the insole.

This structured layering merges the lively responsiveness of PWRRUN PB, the dynamic energy return provided by the carbon-fibre plate, and the reactive bounce of PWRRUN HG, into a cohesive running experience.

This innovative midsole design provides a finely tuned running experience, balancing lively performance with an appropriate amount of cushioning that delivers both support and stability without delivering a mushy ride with compromised energy return and balance. I also found the new Pro 4 midsole cushioning particularly effective on long-distance runs where it provided a protective barrier against the relentless impact of my feet hitting the ground, I finished these runs with my feet still feeling relatively fresh.

Although slightly less bouncy than the Pro 3, the performance potential does not appear to be muted in any way. I have recorded similar or slightly better times on my long weekend runs in these shoes, compared with the Pro 3’s and the Nike Vaporfly 3.

The enhanced stability compared to the Pro 3 stands out as a welcome upgrade, likely due to the inclusion of the somewhat firmer PWRRUN HG foam in the midsole and the slightly flared design around the heel area. This added stability is particularly appreciated on uneven terrain. Furthermore, the foam shows no signs of compression, even over extended distances.

Saucony has once again incorporated their impressive SPEEDROLL technology into the Pro 4, which has become one of my favourite features of the Endorphin series of racing shoes. This technology propels you forward, as you roll through each step. SPEEDROLL has been a game changer for Saucony in my experience, providing their shoes with that extra urge forward as you run.

Insole and Outsole.

Insole.

Saucony has rolled out a new insole for the Pro 4, dubbed the SRS or Super Responsive Sockliner. Crafted from a unique foam, Saucony touts this insole for its added cushioning and enhanced bounce.

Embedded securely within the shoe, this insole boasts a very comfortable feel, topped with a fine mesh-like material.

While it’s a little difficult to ascertain the extent of added bounce from the sockliner alone, particularly as it is unremovable, my experience suggests it serves excellently as a supportive layer between the shoe and foot. It offers comfort, aids in support, and conforms seamlessly to the foot’s shape, effectively minimising any unwanted movement inside the shoe.

Outsole.

The Endorphin Pro 4’s underside is mostly covered in Saucony’s excellent XT-900 rubber, the same material they used in the Pro 3. After running marathons and lots of training in my two pairs of Pro 3s, I’ve seen how tough this material is – revealing barely any wear, and certainly no excessive wear.

This time, Saucony have switched to a lattice tread pattern on the Pro 4, aiming to boost grip and water displacement. This tweak means the high wear areas of the outside are well protected, offering top-notch grip without feeling too hard, or making that annoying slapping sound on the pavement that I have experienced in other shoes using a harder rubber compound.

From the pics, you’ll notice some areas of exposed PWRRUN foam, but as in the Pro 3, I don’t expect this to wear down much, except for a bit of light feathering here and there.

The big cut-out in the middle shows off the carbon-fibre plate and helps shave off some weight.

From my testing runs in the Pro 4, the grip’s been effective, even on wet surfaces, stopping and changing direction suddenly has not presented any issues.

Upper, Tongue and Lacing.

Tongue.

I’m really impressed with the new upper on the Pro 4; it sports a fresh design that integrates the tongue seamlessly into the upper, ditching the traditional approach of attaching it as a separate piece with gussets into the shoe’s strobel layer.

Here, the tongue is crafted from a thin, airy, and super flexible knit material stitched right into the upper beneath where the lacing loops are located. It’s a cool, innovative twist on the typical tongue design, breaking away from the usual format seen in the Pro 3 and most other running shoes.

As I mentioned before, the tongue is made from a flexible material that might need a bit of tweaking to get it fitting perfectly at first. It’s designed to offer a snug, yet comfortable lockdown over the top of your foot with the laces tied up. The only hitch I’ve noticed is that the tongue material can sometimes bunch up or crease, which means it might need further adjustment to get it just right.

Saucony have thought of this and provided a pull-up tab at the top of the tongue, which you can use to stretch the tongue over your instep as you lace up. This cool little tab can even be folded back over, or even under, the lace knot.

Upper.

While the tongue offers the flexibility needed to achieve a perfect fit, the material used in the upper is robust and structured, providing very little stretch — which is actually beneficial. This lack of stretchability ensures your feet are securely positioned inside the shoe, preventing any unwanted movement that could lead to a sloppy feel or, worse, rubbing that causes blisters or chafing.

The upper is made from a lightweight, breathable mesh, with stitching that forms pentagon-shaped holes about 5mm in diameter, each backed by a finer mesh to keep out debris. This mesh is robust enough to suggest it will hold up well over time.

The Saucony logos add a stylish touch, embossed directly onto the upper rather than merely painted on. I chose the Visiorange colourway, and it’s safe to say these shoes look fantastic. Their striking design and colour really stand out.

Lacing.

Saucony has continued the flexible, stretchy design of the tongue into the laces themselves. These laces provide a slight stretch that, when combined with the tongue and the sturdier mesh upper, allows you to dial in the perfect fit.

The laces are long enough to use the rearmost eyelets for extra lockdown or to tie a double knot if needed. Throughout my testing, I haven’t had any issues with the laces loosening or coming undone from using a single knot.

Heel and Collar.

I’ve always appreciated a heel collar design that incorporates just a modest amount of padding, this arrangement generally delivers the comfort and effective heel lockdown we expect in a high-end trainer such as the Pro 4. Minimalist running shoes that forgo any padding at all, or those with excessive plushness, often lead to problems such as rubbing, too much heel movement, or simply added weight with little benefit.

The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4, following in the footsteps of the Pro 3, strikes the right balance with just the right amount of padding.

This design not only ensures comfort, but also secures the heel in place to prevent any slippage. The heel counter is firm yet not too rigid, working in harmony with a slight amount of inbuilt padding, to comfortably cradle your heel. Additionally, the innovative SRS insole and the dual foam midsole work together to provide excellent shock absorption under the heel, further enhancing the comfort of these shoes during long runs.

Toe Box and Mid-foot.

Saucony rates the Pro 4 as medium width, which seems accurate, and comfortably fits runners with narrow to medium feet.

The toe box offers ample room, ensuring that my feet didn’t feel cramped, even during longer runs when feet tend to splay out more. The length feels right too, with no issues of my toes pressing against the front of the toe box or bumping into the tip, which can cause discomfort or pain. This is often the cause of toenail injuries among runners during longer races like marathons.

The design includes reinforced walls around the toe area, which help prevent any downward pressure from the upper. Although my feet are moderately narrow, I didn’t experience any side-to-side movement within the shoe. The insole conforms well to the underside of the feet, aiding in keeping them securely in place without any shifting.

I couldn’t find any wide versions of the shoe on Saucony’s website.

First Run in the Endorphin Pro 4.

One of the common pitfalls runners sometimes make is to lace up a brand-new pair of running shoes and dive straight into a long run without first giving them a shorter test run. This mistake often leads to rubbing, chafing, or even blisters.

In what could have easily turned into a disaster, and considering my advice above, my first run in the new Pro 4’s unexpectedly turned into a much too long first run of 21k when I got lost exploring a route I was unfamiliar with in another town.

Fortunately, for me, these new Sauconys performed remarkably well throughout the entire run. There was no hint of rubbing or chafing, nor did any manufacturing defects manifest. Impressively, I didn’t even need to readjust the fit or the lacing mid-run. Despite this more demanding first outing than planned, the shoes exceeded my expectations in terms of fit and comfort.

Even though my body wasn’t yet accustomed to the new and different engineering and technical design aspects of these new trainers, I was able to run the entire distance comfortably and effectively. The shoes seemed to disappear on my feet, becoming an extension of my body, and I appreciated their light weight. There was nothing to acclimate to, no need for adjustments in my running style, they complemented my natural gait perfectly, without any hindrance.

Significantly, I didn’t suffer any soreness or pain in the days following my run, suggesting that there are no inherent flaws or poor design elements in the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4.

My first hit-out in the Pro 4’s was a great success, given the ‘thrown off the deep end’ workout it turned out to be.

Performance of the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4.

I’ve now done many runs in the new Saucony Endorphin Pro 4, and I’ve had the opportunity to thoroughly test these new trainers across various terrains and during different types of workouts. Here’s a breakdown of their performance:

• Slightly Less Pop: Initially, my feeling was that the Pro 4 seemed to have a bit less of the spring and bounce I loved in the Pro 3. This observation holds true after multiple runs, although the difference is subtle.
• Persistent Spring-Forward Motion: Despite the slight reduction in the midsole pop, the shoes maintain a robust roll-forward momentum thanks to Saucony’s excellent Speedroll geometry, and the same energy-returning carbon-fibre plate, which propels you from foot-strike to toe-off.
• Enhanced Stability: The addition of PWRRUN HG foam in the midsole offers improved stability compared to the Pro 3. This foam is slightly firmer than the PWRRUN PB used exclusively in the Pro 3, contributing to the shoe feeling more sure-footed. The shoes also feature a slightly wider spread in the rear midsole/outsole, offering a broader area across the outsole for enhanced stability, which is particularly beneficial for heel strikers.
• Comfort and Cushioning: The Pro 4 continues to offer excellent cushioning, enhanced by the new foam insole. The shoes feel plush, but in a non-squishy controlled way, and provide impressive comfort and support on very long runs.
• Versatility: While the Endorphin Pro 4 excels on long workouts and is primarily designed for road use, it also performs well on well-maintained tracks and trails. Its increased stability makes navigating uneven terrain a little more sure-footed. The Pro 4 also performs well as an everyday running shoe, suitable for regular use.

The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 is crafted as a performance or racing shoe and fulfils its role effectively. It excels particularly in long-distance running, or events such as the marathon, showcasing its capabilities where endurance is key.

Quality, Durability and Value for Money.

Quality.

Saucony running shoes have consistently been synonymous with quality–using high-grade materials and with decades of manufacturing expertise.

I’ve never encountered any quality issues with Saucony shoes over the many years I’ve run in them, in fact, I’ve never had to return a pair of Saucony shoes due to a manufacturing fault. In contrast, my tests with other brands have sometimes shown a lack of such attention to quality.

In my experience, details like logos on Saucony shoes stay intact and continue to look great throughout the life of the shoe.

So far in my testing, the Pro 4 upholds this tradition–no manufacturing defects have surfaced, and there have been no breakages, or signs of excessive wear.

Durability.

Given that the typical lifespan of running shoes is around 800 kilometres, trainers should ideally maintain their condition for that distance. Premature deterioration not only represents poor value but can also increase the risk of injury due to reduced grip, compression of the midsole foam, or structural deformities.

Over the years, my experience with Saucony shoes has been consistently positive in terms of durability. Often, they’ve lasted well beyond their running life, allowing me to repurpose them for daily wear while still in very good condition.

Importantly, I’ve observed that the outsoles do not wear out prematurely or excessively, which goes a long way to preventing slips and falls.

In my initial testing phase with the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4, I’ve noticed no premature wear on any part of the shoe. The upper and the outsole, in particular, seem quite robust and well-equipped to handle extended use.

Value For Money.

Here at RMWA, we consistently emphasise the benefits and importance of investing in a high-quality pair of running shoes that are specifically suited to your running style and are properly fitted.

Opting for a cheap pair of running shoes often leads to discomfort, such as aches, pains, and irritation, and can even result in injuries. Additionally, inferior shoes can negatively affect your performance and typically wear out faster, necessitating more frequent replacements.

The true value of premium running shoes lies in considering them an investment in your health, fitness, and overall well-being.

Their worth isn’t measured solely by the price tag, but by how they enhance your progress as a runner–helping you advance your fitness and strength, especially if you are training for an event.

The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 comes with a hefty price tag of $339.99 AUD, which is a fairly typical price-point for premium running shoes these days.

However, considering their superior quality, use of high-grade materials, and design focused on performance and durability, I believe they offer good value-for-money.

It’s also commendable that Saucony launched the Pro 4 without any price increase from the Pro 3, promoting affordability in their new release.

Pros and Cons of the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4.

Final Verdict.

The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 introduces quite a few significant changes from the highly acclaimed Pro 3, in several key areas. Perhaps the most significant alteration is the inclusion of a layer of Saucony’s PWRRUN HG premium foam from the Endorphin Elite series in the midsole. This new midsole configuration provides the Pro 4 with an impressive balance of performance, comfort, and stability.

The new Upper with an integrated knitted tongue is also a substantial change, and while it takes a moment to get the fit right when putting the shoes on, it has given the Pro 4 a locked-down feel that is comfortable and yet allows for the natural flex of your feet as you run.

I have extensively tested the Pro 4 across a wide range of running scenarios, from speed workouts to long runs up to 22 kilometres, and across diverse terrains. Here’s a summary of my findings from this comprehensive testing:

• Stability and Comfort: The enhanced stability of the Pro 4 is a notable improvement that runners, especially those who tackle long distances, will greatly appreciate. This characteristic boosts confidence by providing more reliable ground contact during workouts. The cushioning in the Pro 4 is exceptionally effective. Saucony has successfully balanced a plush feel without any destabilising mushiness, resulting in feet that still feel relatively fresh, even after a long-distance run. With a re-engineered upper, including an integrated tongue, the Pro 4 ensures the feet remain well-positioned, secure, and with a snug fit, devoid of any unwanted movement, contributing significantly to overall comfort.
• Performance: While it may offer slightly less ‘pop’ compared to the Pro 3, the Pro 4 still delivers excellent performance, suitable for both competitive road racing and particularly long-distance efforts including marathons. Its SPEEDROLL technology and carbon-fibre plate provide a responsive ride, propelling runners forward efficiently.
• Durability and Value: Built with high-quality materials and robust construction, the Pro 4 is designed to last. I have not noticed any premature wear, or any other defect, over the many runs I have now done in the shoe. I have never had any durability issues with any Saucony product I have ever owned, and expect that the Pro 4 will uphold this tradition. Given the premium positioning and high-performance potential of this new trainer, I would say they offer great value for the investment, especially considering it maintains the same price point as its predecessor without sacrificing any features.

In summary, I would recommend the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 for runners looking for a reliable, versatile shoe that excels in training and competition across various distances and terrains. Its blend of stability, comfort, and sustained performance makes it a worthy successor in most situations to the Pro 3.

So, do I prefer the Pro 4 over the Pro 3? Over very long distances, I would say yes, however, I do still love the slightly extra pop and bounce of the Pro 3’s when there is an element of speed work involved as well.

Looking ahead to the Pro 5, if Saucony can combine the slightly extra bounce forward of the Pro3 with the stability and comfort of the Pro 4, they will be on a massive winner.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this comprehensive look at the impressive new Saucony Endorphin Pro 4, have you purchased them, what are your views, please let us know your thoughts and experiences in the comments.

We rate the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 as –

Happy Running

Steve

FAQ’s Of The New Saucony Endorphin Pro 4.

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