If you’ve spent any time in the Endorphin Speed 4, this new version is going to feel instantly familiar—in a good way.
Saucony didn’t reinvent the wheel here, but they did make a handful of thoughtful updates that clean up the fit, improve durability, and slightly boost comfort.
I’ve put this shoe through its paces across fast sessions, tempo runs, and longer efforts, and here’s my take.
Key specifications
- Price: $170 at Saucony.com / Sportsshoes.com (For UK Readers)
- Weight: 8.6 oz (244g) for US Men’s size 9
- Drop: 8mm
- Stack height: 36mm heel / 28mm forefoot
- Upper: Lightweight engineered mesh
- Midsole: PWRRUN PB foam + winged nylon plate + SPEEDROLL geometry
- Outsole: Rubber coverage focused at heel and perimeter with exposed midfoot foam
- Extra attributes: Full-length longitudinal groove for smooth transitions; vegan-friendly; includes recycled materials
Sizing and fit
The upper now has less overall volume, which means no more of that folded tongue fabric that I noticed with the Endorphin Speed 4.
On my medium-width feet, the fit feels more refined—secure but not restrictive.
The new squared-off toe box still gives just enough extra room up front, which makes longer and hotter runs feel a little more forgiving.
Alastair Dixon
I didn’t have to size up or adjust anything; true to size worked perfectly.
Performance review
The Speed 5 sticks with what worked: the combo of PWRRUN PB foam and SPEEDROLL geometry still delivers that light, energetic ride I came to love with version 4.
This shoe wants to move, and the responsiveness underfoot is spot on for speed sessions, intervals, and tempo runs.
The winged nylon plate is still flexible compared to a carbon plate, and it gives just enough torsional rigidity for stability and pop on toe-off.
That flexibility also means the shoe doesn’t feel awkward at slower paces—something I appreciate when warming up or mixing effort levels during a longer session.
The midsole has that signature Speed-series bounce, and transitions feel smoother thanks to the full-length groove along the bottom which keeps the midsole flexible.
I noticed that flexibility most on rolling terrain or turns, where the shoe could adapt better to the ground beneath me.
Breathability is another win — the new mesh upper lets heat escape more efficiently, which makes a difference when the pace picks up or the temperatures rise.
Breathability was already fantastic in the previous version, however.
And the heel update? The articulated heel counter wraps the rearfoot nicely—just a more dialed-in, comfortable fit overall that still provides great heel lock.
Durability on the outsole seems improved too.
The rubber coverage now extends further at the heel and edges, which is a smart move.
That said, there’s still a fair bit of exposed foam underfoot, so I’ll be keeping an eye on how it holds up after 150–200 miles.
Is the new version better?
Yes, but in subtle ways. It doesn’t try to fix what wasn’t broken, which I’m glad about.
Alastair Dixon
The changes are all about refinement: a better fitting upper, a more breathable mesh, a more secure heel, and slightly better outsole durability.
It’s still very much the Endorphin Speed you know—just tuned up slightly for a more polished ride. It's a worthy upgrade, for sure.
My verdict
The Endorphin Speed 5 continues to be one of the most versatile speed-day shoes I’ve tested.
It handles everything from intervals to longer moderate efforts with ease, and the updates make it more comfortable and durable without messing with the core ride feel.
If you liked the Speed 4, you’ll love this one too. And at $170, it still feels like great value for a fast training and racing shoe.
You'll be able to pick up a pair on June 15, 2025 for $170 at the following stores:
Saucony.com / Sportsshoes.com (For UK Readers)
