Endorphin Speed 5

Saucony’s plated “do-everything” uptempo daily trainer. Same core recipe as v4—36/28 mm stack (8 mm drop) of PWRRUN PB (beaded PEBA) plus a nylon plate—now with a more breathable engineered-mesh upper, a tweaked winged plate (outer wing trimmed for smoother cornering), a subtly wider/stabler heel, and a touch more outsole rubber for durability.

Still classic Endorphin Speed: light, lively and controlled rather than ultra-squishy. The rocker (Speedroll) and nylon plate give a smooth, quick rollover with a snappy toe-off that urges you into faster paces, yet it backs off nicely for steady/easy days. Several testers felt the midsole is fractionally softer/more accommodating than v4, while others found it a hair firmer/pingier and more nimble—net-net, it tilts slightly faster without losing versatility. Protection is good, but there’s less forefoot plush than today’s higher-stack “super trainers,” so all-out long hard efforts may feel a bit more direct.

True to size for most. The new upper breathes better and adds a touch more forefoot volume/space than v4, with secure midfoot lockdown and a higher-rising heel collar that holds well without rubbing. Step-in is comfortable, tongue padding is “just enough,” though one reviewer still dislikes the tongue shape/length. Platform/heel feel a bit wider and a bit more inherently stable than v4, which some will appreciate. Wide-foot runners may still want to try on, but the added room helps.

• Exceptionally versatile: workouts, long runs, tempo, even race-day backup
• Snappy, smooth ride without the harshness that can come with carbon-plated shoes
• Upper is lighter and airier with better toe box room; lockdown remains rock-solid
• Subtle stability from heel/plate tweaks without feeling like a stability shoe
• More outsole rubber in key wear zones

• Not the bounciest/springiest option versus modern high-stack super trainers
• Forefoot protection is thinner than some rivals
• Tongue shape/length still divisive for some
• Midfoot groove/cutout can collect debris (minor)