Saucony Endorphin Pro 4
Pros
- Durable upper and outsole
- Spacious upper fit
- Enhanced midsole comfort
- Great value at $225 for a supershoe
- Versatile across all paces
- Ideal for heel strikers
- More stable than ever
Cons
- Slightly heavier than v3
- Less suited for forefoot strikers
- Competitors may feel quicker
Key Features
- Maximum Race-Day Speed: The integration of SPEEDROLL technology and a full-length carbon fiber plate provides powerful propulsion and a smoother forward motion during runs.
- Super Responsive Dual-Foam Cushioning: The sneaker features the advanced PWRRUN HG + PWRRUN PB midsole, ensuring exceptional energy return and ultra-light cushioning for long-distance comfort.
- Lightweight & Breathable Design: An engineered mesh upper offers a secure, breathable fit that keeps your feet cool and supported even during intense workouts.
- Enhanced Stability: Optimized geometry improves balance, stride efficiency, and overall running economy, helping to reduce fatigue over extended distances.
- Durable Outsole: The high-grip rubber outsole ensures reliable traction and durability on both roads and tracks, making it ideal for competitive runners.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Mesh
- Inner Material: Nylon
The Endorphin Pro 4 is best suited for runners with a heel strike pattern who prioritize comfort and speed in their footwear.
In our test runs, the shoe features a plush midsole complemented by the carbon plate’s Speedroll technology, which delivers a smooth and energetic ride. With a weight of only 7.8 oz (220g), this light supershoe provides significant energy return thanks to its S-shaped carbon plate that creates an ultra-stiff core.
The lively midsole promotes effortless transitions while maintaining comfort. Its 38.1 mm heel is designed to absorb impact with a 9.5 mm drop that supports heel-striker strides, and it retains stability through a firmer 22.0 HA foam layer beneath the softer 18.5 HA top layer.
The durable outsole contributes to the shoe's longevity, able to withstand repetitive impacts in the rear area. Our durometer testing shows that the 2.1 mm thick XT-900 rubber has a hardness rating of 85.3 HC, indicating notable durability, and it surpasses average performance in our rigorous Dremel test.
However, it is worth noting that some elite racers may find other options more suited to achieving peak performance, as the EP4 emphasizes comfort over sheer speed.
Saucony Endorphin Speed 5
Pros
- Supershoe-like energy return
- Fantastic upper with top-notch ventilation
- Softer PWRRUN PB foam
- Endorphin Speed DNA still present
- Great lockdown
- Versatile for multiple paces
- Smooth SPEEDROLL rocker
- Roomier and taller toebox
- Can be used for racing too
- OG special colorway looks fantastic!
Cons
- Small price hike
- Less agile than predecessors
- Durability downgrade
Key Features
- PWRRUN PB foam that bounces back with each step, providing cushioning without sacrificing responsiveness.
- A winged nylon plate that offers torsional rigidity while maintaining flexibility in the forefoot, ensuring a snappy ride.
- SPEEDROLL technology designed for effortless speed and forward motion, perfect for daily use.
- Increased rubber coverage in the heel for added durability, extending further up the sides of the shoe.
- A full-length longitudinal groove for enhanced flexibility, promoting a smooth transition throughout your gait cycle.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Mesh
- Inner material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA)
The Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 is a versatile tempo running shoe designed for runners seeking comfort and agility at various paces and distances. Its lightweight and flexible design enhances overall performance, making it suitable for both casual jogs and more intense speed sessions.
Lab tests confirm the shoe's responsive and shock-absorbing midsole, which features SPEEDROLL geometry. This technology improves stride efficiency without introducing stiffness, allowing for smooth transitions with a notable degree of flexibility—15.1% more than average in our bend test.
During our energy test, the Endorphin Speed 5 demonstrated impressive results, achieving scores of 73.2% in the heel and 78.2% in the forefoot, facilitating effective toe-offs. Weighing in at just 8.5 oz (241g), this shoe excels in offering comfort across varying speeds.
For endurance runs, the midsole significantly reduces impact forces on muscles and joints, achieving excellent shock absorption ratings of 132/108 SA. This feature contributes to a more comfortable running experience over longer distances.
While the ES5 provides excellent ventilation, it may compromise durability. Runners seeking a sturdier upper construction might consider alternative options rather than this model.
Hoka Mach 6
Pros
- Really lightweight
- Fantastic outsole
- Exciting ride
- Highly cushioned
- Great for heel strikers
- Handles faster paces
- Superb lockdown
- Excellent value at $140
Cons
- Drop varies from stated
- Tapered toebox
- Thin tongue
Key Features
- Lightweight Design: The Mach 6 is Hoka's lightest model, allowing for swift movement during runs.
- Responsive Midsole: Equipped with a super critical foam midsole to enhance energy return.
- Durable Outsole: Features strategic rubber coverage to increase the lifespan of the shoe.
- Zonal Breathability: The creel jacquard upper promotes airflow to keep your feet cool.
- Comfort Fit: Internal gusset design provides a foot-hugging feel that enhances overall comfort.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Canvas
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Weight: Not specified but recognized as the lightest in its category.
The Hoka Mach 6 is a lightweight daily trainer, well-suited for runners seeking both responsiveness and comfort. Lab results confirm that the Mach 6 excels in providing a significant performance across various paces and distances, enhancing the overall running experience with its airy construction.
Weighing in at only 8.2 oz (232g), the Mach 6 is 12.5% lighter than average while maintaining a generous stack height. Its fluid midsole adapts to natural foot flexions, as evidenced by our 90-degree test, which shows it has 36.4% less resistance than typical models, thereby improving comfort during easy runs.
The midsole effectively balances responsiveness and comfort, with measurements of 36.0/26.4 mm and composed of a lightweight bouncy 20.4 HA foam that promotes quicker pacing. Additionally, the built-in rocker facilitates smooth forward transitions, contributing to sustained momentum throughout runs.
However, this focus on agility and weight reduction may lead to some compromise in midsole width. Runners with wider feet may want to consider alternative options for improved comfort during their runs.
Brooks Hyperion 2
Pros
- Insanely lightweight
- Awesome racing-flat vibes
- Perfect for tempo workouts
- Promotes feet strength
- Grippy outsole in wet and dry surfaces
- Reasonably priced
- Amazing airflow
- Can double for track workouts
Cons
- Limited versatility
- Not a stable ride
Key Features
- Nitrogen-infused DNA Flash v2 midsole for a lightweight and responsive feel.
- Increased stack height at the forefoot for improved cushioning and faster transitions.
- Lightweight and breathable upper for enhanced comfort during runs.
- RoadTack Rubber outsole made from recycled materials for durability and rebound.
- Versatile enough for various running styles and gym sessions.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Nylon
- Inner material: Nylon
The Brooks Hyperion 2 is designed for individuals seeking a lightweight option for various exercises and 1-km run segments, making it particularly suitable for HYROX events. Its construction delivers an exceptionally light experience, backed by lab tests showcasing maximum ventilation and flexibility that contribute to its weightless feel.
Weighing only 7.2 oz (203g), the shoe provides a notable 23.4% weight reduction compared to average running shoes, which effectively lessens leg fatigue during workouts. This lightweight design is complemented by a forgiving midsole that adapts to movements such as burpees and sled pushes.
The Hyperion 2 features a low 13.0N flexibility score in our bending test, indicating that it requires 13.9% less effort to bend than the average shoe. Comfort is further enhanced by a breathable upper that allows for free airflow, preventing heat and sweat accumulation, which resulted in a perfect 5/5 breathability score in our smoke test.
However, it is important to note that the Hyperion 2 may not provide a stable or controlled feel for all users. Those requiring additional support should consider alternatives, as this shoe demands proper form during use.
PUMA Velocity Nitro 4
Pros
- Impressive energy return
- Lightweight and agile underfoot
- Superior traction from PumaGrip outsole
- Handles tempo efforts with ease
- Flexible and comfortable for everyday use
- Accurate real drop
- Natural-feeling, non-rockered design
- Balanced cushioning with some ground feel
- Looks really cool
Cons
- Not ideal for long runs
- Fit leans toward the narrow side
- Midsole becomes firmer in cold conditions
- Slight price increase
Key Features
- Waterproof & Breathable: Equipped with a GTX Invisible Fit membrane that keeps your feet dry while allowing breathability.
- Nitrofoam Midsole: A full-length midsole provides excellent cushioning and energy return, making each stride comfortable.
- PUMAGRIP Outsole: Designed for superior traction, ensuring stability on varying surfaces.
- Regular Fit: Offers a standard fit for most foot shapes, accommodating different running styles.
- Rounded Toe Design: Promotes natural movement and better fit.
Specifications
- Origin: Made in USA and Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber, providing durability and grip.
- Outer Material: Mesh for breathability and lightweight feel.
- Closure Type: Lace-Up for a secure fit.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10.0mm for balanced foot positioning during runs.
The PUMA Velocity Nitro 4 is a plateless supertrainer well-suited for athletes seeking flexibility and responsiveness in their workouts. This shoe excels in providing significant cushioning and energy within a lightweight design, distinguishing it from the current trend of maximalist trainers. Its versatility also makes it an excellent choice for various exercises beyond running.
Weighing only 7.9 oz (224g), the Velocity Nitro 4 is 15.5% lighter than the average running shoe, contributing to its agility during runs and quick footwork activities. The pliable construction enhances movement freedom, making it effective for sled work and burpees. In our flex test, it demonstrated a malleability score that was 41.1% above average, facilitating easier maneuverability.
The shoe's low-profile design, measuring 33.7/24.0 mm, contributes to its feedback-rich ride while maintaining superior responsiveness and shock absorption despite minimal foam. The midsole provides a bouncy and energetic feel, which can improve performance during 1-km run segments. Our standardized tests indicated that the heel offers a notable 67.5% energy return, with the forefoot achieving an impressive 74.2% score, both surpassing lab averages.
Additionally, the solid shock absorption rating of 136 SA in the heel reduces impact forces during road running and repetitive jumps by 5.0% compared to the average. However, it's important to note that the toebox area feels snug, so individuals with broad or high-volume feet may want to explore more accommodating options.
ASICS Noosa Tri 16
Pros
- Lightweight
- Exceptional grip
- Attention-grabbing aesthetic
- Gusseted tongue
- Comfortable upper
- Great for triathlon
- Really versatile
- Fantastic price point
- Breathability
Cons
- Upper longevity
- Minimal tongue padding
- Still not enough energy return
Key Features
- FF BLAST PLUS cushioning: This is ASICS' softest and lightweight cushioning material that provides exceptional impact absorption, helping to reduce fatigue during your runs.
- GUIDESOLE technology: Designed to create smooth toe-offs, this technology aids in conserving energy, allowing you to run longer distances with less effort.
- Mesh upper: Enhances breathability, ensuring that your feet stay cool even during intense workouts.
- ASICSGRIP outsole rubber: This unique outsole provides excellent grip and traction across various terrains, giving you the confidence to tackle different running environments.
- Environmentally-friendly sockliner: Produced using a solution dyeing process, it reduces water usage by approximately 33% and carbon emissions by about 45% compared to conventional methods.
Specifications
- Fabric type: 100% Synthetic
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Polyester
The ASICS Noosa Tri 16 is ideal for runners seeking a tempo shoe that offers exceptional traction and performance. Its versatile outsole, responsive kick, and shock-absorbing cushioning make it suitable for speed training in various weather conditions.
A key feature of the ASICS Noosa Tri 16 is the ASICSGRIP rubber, which demonstrated reliability in wet conditions with a friction score of 0.79. This level of traction is significantly higher, at 68.1% grippier than average, ensuring confidence through sharp turns and slippery streets.
We measured the stack height at 32.8/26.9 mm, contributing to a lightweight design weighing just 7.7 oz (217g). Despite its low weight, the shoe remains comfortable for multi-hour runs, achieving solid shock absorption scores of 129/108 SA in the heel and forefoot, respectively.
Acceleration feels more efficient in this shoe, thanks to effective energy return. The forefoot recorded an energy return score of 60.5%, while heel strikers experienced a lower score of 53.9%. If energy return is critical for your running style, this may be a drawback when considering the ASICS Noosa Tri 16.