Saucony Endorphin Trainer: In-Depth Analysis of Saucony’s Latest Running Shoe🏃‍♂️

The Saucony Endorphin Trainer is the latest addition to Saucony’s Endorphin lineup, designed to bridge the gap between daily training and performance running. With its dual-layer foam, carbon fiber plate, and high stack height, the Endorphin Trainer promises versatility for runners who want a shoe that can handle both easy miles and uptempo efforts. But does it live up to the hype? In this in-depth review, we’ll break down every aspect of the Saucony Endorphin Trainer, from its fit and performance to its durability and value for money.

🛠️ Key Specifications

Before diving into the details, let’s take a look at the key specifications of the Saucony Endorphin Trainer:

• Price: $180
• Weight: 286g (10.1 oz) for men’s size 9
• Stack Height: 42mm (heel) / 34mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 8mm
• Midsole: Dual-layer foam (IncrediRun top layer, PowerRun bottom layer) with a 3/4-length carbon fiber plate
• Upper: Engineered mesh for breathability and comfort
• Outsole: Minimal rubber coverage with exposed PowerRun foam

👟 Fit and Upper Design

🧦 True-to-Size Fit with a Roomy Toe Box

The Saucony Endorphin Trainer fits true to size for most runners, offering a snug yet comfortable fit. The toe box is slightly tapered but features a stretchy mesh that adapts to the shape of your foot over time. This makes it suitable for runners with normal to slightly wider feet. However, those with narrow feet may find the shoe a bit too roomy, leading to some slippage during runs.

The upper is made from a lightweight, engineered mesh that provides excellent breathability. This makes the shoe ideal for warmer weather, though it may feel a bit chilly during colder runs. The mesh also has a bit of stretch, allowing for a more accommodating fit.

🎽 Midfoot and Heel Lockdown

The midfoot features a gusseted tongue that helps secure the foot in place, reducing the need for excessive lace tightening. The heel counter is moderately stiff, providing decent support without being overly rigid. However, some runners have reported slight heel slippage, which can be mitigated by using a runner’s knot or lace-locking technique.

The inner liner is soft and comfortable, making the shoe suitable for sockless running. The toe guard is unobtrusive, adding to the overall comfort of the shoe.

🏋️‍♂️ Midsole Performance

🧁 Dual-Layer Foam with IncrediRun and PowerRun

The Saucony Endorphin Trainer features a dual-layer foam setup, with the top layer being Saucony’s new IncrediRun foam and the bottom layer consisting of PowerRun foam.

• IncrediRun Foam: This top layer is soft, plush, and highly responsive, providing excellent shock absorption and a cushioned ride. It’s designed to offer a bouncy, energetic feel, especially during faster paces.
• PowerRun Foam: The bottom layer is firmer and more stable, helping to balance out the softness of the IncrediRun foam. This combination aims to deliver a ride that’s both cushioned and responsive.

🏎️ 3/4-Length Carbon Fiber Plate

Sandwiched between the two foam layers is a 3/4-length carbon fiber plate. This plate is designed to add rigidity to the midsole, providing a snappy and propulsive feel during toe-off. While the plate isn’t as aggressive as those found in racing shoes, it does help with forward momentum, especially during uptempo efforts.

🏃‍♂️ Ride Experience

The ride of the Saucony Endorphin Trainer is best described as balanced and versatile. It excels at easy to moderate paces, offering a cushioned and comfortable experience. However, when pushed to faster paces, the shoe feels a bit clunky and sluggish, lacking the liveliness and energy return of more performance-oriented shoes.

The high stack height (42mm in the heel and 34mm in the forefoot) contributes to the shoe’s plush feel but also adds to its weight, making it less ideal for speedwork or racing. The 8mm drop provides a smooth transition from heel to toe, though some runners may find the heel bevel a bit clunky during initial contact.

🛡️ Stability and Durability

🏋️‍♂️ Stable Neutral Ride

The Saucony Endorphin Trainer is classified as a stable neutral shoe. While it doesn’t feature traditional stability elements like medial posts or guide rails, the wide base and large sole flare provide a centered and stable ride. The carbon fiber plate also adds rigidity to the midfoot and forefoot, further enhancing stability.

However, the shoe has a slight lateral bias, which may not suit runners with lateral stability issues or those who tend to land on the outside of their foot.

🏗️ Durability Concerns

The outsole of the Saucony Endorphin Trainer features minimal rubber coverage, with most of the midsole exposed. This design choice improves the shoe’s weight and flexibility but raises concerns about durability. After just 50km (31 miles) of running, some testers noticed early signs of wear on the lateral heel and midfoot areas.

The exposed PowerRun foam is also less grippy on wet surfaces, making the shoe less suitable for rainy or slippery conditions.

🏆 Pros and Cons

👍 Pros

• Versatile Ride: The shoe performs well at easy to moderate paces, making it a good option for daily training.
• Comfortable Upper: The engineered mesh upper is breathable and comfortable, with a roomy toe box.
• Cushioned Midsole: The IncrediRun foam provides excellent shock absorption and a plush ride.
• Stable Neutral Design: The wide base and carbon fiber plate offer a stable and centered ride.

👎 Cons

• Heavy and Clunky: At 286g (10.1 oz), the shoe feels too heavy for speedwork or racing.
• Durability Issues: The minimal rubber outsole shows early signs of wear, raising concerns about long-term durability.
• Lateral Bias: The shoe’s slight lateral bias may not suit all runners, especially those with lateral stability issues.
• Pricey: At $180, the shoe is on the expensive side, especially considering its durability concerns.

🏅 Who Is This Shoe For?

The Saucony Endorphin Trainer is best suited for runners who want a versatile shoe for daily training and occasional uptempo efforts. It’s ideal for those who prioritize comfort and cushioning over speed and responsiveness. However, if you’re looking for a shoe that excels at speedwork or racing, you may want to consider other options in Saucony’s Endorphin lineup, such as the Endorphin Speed or Endorphin Pro.

🏁 Final Verdict

The Saucony Endorphin Trainer is a solid addition to Saucony’s Endorphin lineup, offering a cushioned and stable ride for daily training. However, its heavy weight, durability concerns, and lack of responsiveness at faster paces make it a less compelling option for runners seeking a true super trainer.

While the shoe has its strengths, it falls short in delivering the versatility and performance that its price tag suggests. For $180, there are better options available that offer a more balanced and enjoyable running experience.

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