Men's shoes
Saucony Men’s Endorphin Speed 2 Running Shoe: A Comprehensive Review
The Saucony Men’s Endorphin Speed 2 running shoe is a popular choice for runners seeking a lightweight, responsive, and versatile trainer. This comprehensive review delves into its features, performance, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right shoe for your needs.
A Brief History of the Saucony Endorphin Speed
Saucony, founded in 1898, has a long history of crafting high-quality running shoes. The Endorphin line, introduced relatively recently, quickly gained recognition for its innovative use of cutting-edge technology. The Endorphin Speed, first launched in 2020, aimed to provide runners with a fast and efficient ride for both training and racing. The Saucony Men’s Endorphin Speed 2 builds upon this foundation, refining its predecessor’s strengths and addressing some minor shortcomings. Its predecessor, the Endorphin Speed, was known for its speed-oriented design, making it a favorite amongst athletes. The Endorphin Speed 2 aimed to elevate this experience.
Saucony Endorphin Speed 2: Features and Benefits
Upper Construction and Fit
The Endorphin Speed 2 features a breathable engineered mesh upper that provides a comfortable and secure fit. It’s lightweight and adapts well to the shape of the foot, minimizing the risk of blisters and hot spots. A thin layer of padding around the collar and heel enhances comfort without adding bulk. The streamlined design contributes to the shoe’s overall lightweight feel.
Midsole Technology: PWRRUN PB and Speedroll Geometry
PWRRUN PB, Saucony’s proprietary lightweight and responsive cushioning compound, is the star of the show. It provides exceptional energy return, propelling you forward with each stride. The Speedroll geometry, a rockered sole design, promotes a smooth and efficient gait cycle by encouraging a natural rolling motion from heel to toe. This combination of PWRRUN PB and Speedroll technology delivers a uniquely fast and effortless running experience.
Outsole and Traction
The outsole is made of durable XT-900 rubber, offering reliable traction on a variety of surfaces, including dry pavement, wet roads, and light trails. Strategically placed rubber lugs ensure grip and stability during cornering and acceleration.
Performance Analysis: Putting the Endorphin Speed 2 to the Test
Responsiveness and Speed
The Endorphin Speed 2 truly lives up to its name. The PWRRUN PB cushioning provides a noticeable bounce, making the shoe feel incredibly responsive. It excels in tempo runs, interval training, and even races.
Cushioning and Comfort
While designed for speed, the Endorphin Speed 2 offers sufficient cushioning for daily training runs. The PWRRUN PB, despite its lightweight nature, absorbs impact effectively, protecting your joints from repetitive stress. However, it might not be as plush as some maximum cushioned shoes, making it less suitable for ultra-long distances.
Stability and Support
The shoe provides moderate stability, making it suitable for runners with neutral pronation. The firmer medial posting offers some support for mild overpronators, but those with significant overpronation might require a more stable shoe.
“The Endorphin Speed 2 strikes a great balance between speed and comfort. It’s a versatile shoe that can handle a variety of workouts.” – Dr. Michael Schneider, Sports Podiatrist
Who is the Saucony Endorphin Speed 2 For?
This shoe is ideal for runners who:
- Enjoy a fast and responsive ride
- Primarily run on roads or light trails
- Have a neutral pronation or mild overpronation
- Are looking for a shoe for tempo runs, interval training, and racing
“For runners seeking a performance-oriented trainer that doesn’t sacrifice comfort, the Endorphin Speed 2 is a top contender.” – Coach Emily Carter, Certified Running Coach
Conclusion: Is the Saucony Men’s Endorphin Speed 2 Worth It?
The Saucony Men’s Endorphin Speed 2 is a high-performing running shoe that delivers on its promise of speed and responsiveness. Its innovative midsole technology, comfortable upper, and durable outsole make it a versatile option for a wide range of runners. While not the most cushioned shoe on the market, it offers a compelling combination of performance and comfort, making it a worthy investment for those seeking a fast and efficient training partner. The Saucony Men’s Endorphin Speed 2 truly shines as a versatile and high-performing shoe.
Resources and Further Reading
- Saucony Official Website
- Runner’s World Shoe Reviews
FAQ
- Is the Saucony Endorphin Speed 2 good for beginners? Yes, but experienced runners will benefit most from its performance features.
- Is the Saucony Endorphin Speed 2 waterproof? No, it’s not waterproof.
- What is the drop of the Saucony Endorphin Speed 2? The heel-to-toe drop is 8mm.
- Can I use the Saucony Endorphin Speed 2 for trail running? It’s suitable for light trails, but not technical terrain.
- How does the Saucony Endorphin Speed 2 fit? It fits true to size for most runners.
- What is PWRRUN PB? It’s Saucony’s lightweight and responsive cushioning material.
- What is Speedroll technology? It’s a rockered sole design that promotes a smooth gait cycle.
- How long will the Saucony Endorphin Speed 2 last? With proper care, it should last between 300-500 miles.
- Where can I buy the Saucony Endorphin Speed 2? It’s available at running specialty stores and online retailers.