Saucony Endorphin Speed 5: Quick Thoughts on a Familiar Favorite

Introduction

The Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 is a refreshingly conservative update. For runners who have loved this shoe over the years, the good news is that not too much has changed. The core formula is intact: PWRRUN PB foam under the foot, a nylon plate, and a ride clearly aimed at tempo days and faster sessions.

The most noticeable change is a new upper, which is comfortable and notably breathable, a welcome trait in hot weather. It fits true to size, and it remains a good-looking shoe with nice rubber outsole detailing.

Who This Shoe Is For

This is a shoe for runners who want a versatile tempo trainer with some genuine pop. The nylon plate gives the Endorphin Speed 5 a lot of flexion, which makes the ride feel lively and fun rather than stiff or harsh.

While it is intended for tempo and faster days, it handled an easy run comfortably too, which speaks to its versatility. If you want one shoe that can cover workouts and recoveries without feeling out of place in either, this fits that role well.

Main Strengths

The combination of PWRRUN PB foam and a flexible nylon plate remains the heart of this shoe. It is poppy, fun, and still very much feels like an Endorphin Speed. The ride has character without being aggressive.

The new upper is the other clear win. It is comfortable, breathable, and well suited to warmer temperatures, which makes the shoe easier to live with through a full training cycle.

Things to Consider Before Buying

The price is the main sticking point. At $175, it feels a little steep, especially as running shoe prices keep climbing across the market. If you already own an Endorphin Speed you love, there is not much new here beyond the upper and some styling changes.

If you are on the fence about whether this update is worth replacing a previous pair, waiting may be the more sensible move.

Buying Advice

Buy the Endorphin Speed 5 if you are new to the line or upgrading from an older pair and want a proven tempo shoe with a lively nylon-plated ride and a breathable new upper. Think twice if you are hunting for big changes, because this is an iterative update, not a redesign.

At $175 and available now, it competes in a crowded premium tempo category, so it is worth comparing with what you already own before committing.

Conclusion

The Endorphin Speed 5 does not reinvent anything, and that is largely a good thing. A comfortable, breathable new upper, the same poppy foam-and-plate ride, and true-to-size fit make it an easy recommendation for tempo-day runners, with the $175 price as the main reason to pause.