Specs and takeaways:

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Running a marathon – or any race for that matter – is like signing up for a 26.2-mile therapy session with your legs. You need a race-day shoe that’s got your back (or rather, your heels and forefeet). The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 steps into the ring as a contender in the super-shoe arena, promising to blend speed, cushion, and a carbon-fiber kick into a package that’s sleeker than your daily driver type of shoe. But how does this v4 iteration stack up against its predecessors like the Endorphin Pro 3 or rivals sporting badges not Saucony made? Spoiler: it’s got great fit, bounce, and a carbon plate that doesn’t mess around. Let’s break it down.

Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 Sole

The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 rocks an outsole with a fancy lattice design—because even rubber deserves a glow-up. It’s coated with durable rubber at the heel and forefoot for traction that sticks like your race bib on a sweaty chest. A central cut-out keeps the weight down, because why lug extra ounces when you’re chasing a PR at the Chicago Marathon? It’s built for pavement, not trails, so don’t expect it to tango with the Hoka Rocket X 2 off-road.

Here’s where the Endorphin Pro 4 flexes its tech creds. The midsole’s a dual-layer PWRRUN PB foam for that light, bouncy energy return, paired with the firmer, snappier PWRRUN HG foam—a first-of-its-kind combo from Saucony. Sandwiched between them? A full-length carbon plate that adds longitudinal stiffness and a snappy stride. Stack it up at 39.5mm (heel) and 31.5mm (forefoot) with an 8mm drop, and you’ve got a rocker feel thanks to Speedroll technology. It’s cushioned yet responsive, perfect for marathon majors or a quick 5K.

The outsole grips wet roads like a champ—ideal for those unpredictable race-day showers. Durability’s decent, though some runners moan about wear at slower paces past mile 20. The midsole? It’s a cushioned rocket. That layer of PWRRUN HG and PWRRUN PB delivers a transition from heel to toe that’s smooth yet propulsive, making it a great choice for midfoot and forefoot strikers. Compared to the Endorphin Elite v4 or New Balance SC Elite, it’s less pogo-stick bouncy but nails a natural, efficient ride.

Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 Upper

The Endorphin Pro 4 running shoes sport a breathable mesh upper with an integrated tongue and a heel counter so plush it could soothe an Achilles tantrum. Minimal padding keeps it light, while the lacing locks your foot in tighter than a banker’s vault. It’s all about speed, not spa-day vibes.

Slipping into this marathon shoe feels like a firm handshake—secure, comfy, and ready for long runs. The breathable upper keeps your feet from turning into a swamp, even at marathon pace. The heel counter is smooth as silk, but the snug toe box might irk wide-footed runners—think Adios Pro 3 levels of coziness, not ASICS Metaspeed Sky roominess. No major issues with the tongue here, and durability holds strong after pounding the pavement.

Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 Fit

The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 is true to size with a medium width. The heel and midfoot lock down like Fort Knox, while the forefoot stays snug—maybe too snug for wider feet. That integrated tongue and streamlined design keep everything cohesive from heel to toe.

This pair of running shoes fits like it’s custom-made for race-day performance. Comfort shines on long races, with no slippage or medieval torture vibes. It’s an excellent choice for runners who are looking for a stable ride, though wide-footed folks might eye the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 for a roomier alternative. For most, it’s a size and fit win—Goldilocks would approve.

Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 Ride

The Endorphin Pro 4 rides like a caffeinated cheetah—light at 7.7oz (men’s US 9), responsive, and built for pace. That carbon fiber plate and PWRRUN HG foam combo gives it a snappy kick, while the PWRRUN PB cushions the blow. The Speedroll technology rolls you from heel to forefoot with a stride that’s peppy without feeling like a super responsive sockliner overload. It’s not as wild as some other shoes being laced up, but it’s a race day shoe that thrives on the road, from 5Ks to half marathons to the full marathon grind.

Compared to the previous version, the Endorphin Pro 3, this v4 version of the shoe feels snappier and more refined, shedding a bit of weight and tweaking the foam for better energy return. Against the Endorphin Speed 4, it’s racier; versus the Endorphin Elite, it’s less extreme but more versatile. It’s a choice for runners who want speed and endurance without doesn’t feel clunky vibes.

Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 Overall

Priced at $225, the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 isn’t pocket change, but it’s a best shoe contender for runners chasing race day performance. It blends cushion, pace, and a carbon plate kick into a marathon shoe that’s snappy yet comfy—think legacy of performance meets a sly wink. Strengths? Killer energy return, a breathable upper, and a ride that’s great for long races. Weaknesses? The toe box might pinch, and it’s not the bounciest super shoe on the end of the spectrum (looking at you, New Balance).

So, who’s this for? Runners eyeing a PR at the Chicago Marathon, a speedy 5K, or just flexing on their slower-paced pals. Compared to other super shoes, it’s a top running pick that doesn’t sacrifice comfort for speed.

Got opinions? Drop ‘em below—tell us how this version of the shoe treated you, or if you’re still lusting after that pair of running shoes. For now, lace up; this Saucony-made gem’s ready to roll.

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