Let’s kick this off with a really controversial statement. We didn’t love the Saucony Endorphin Pro 2 and while it was just a continuation of the original Pro model, which we didn’t love either, there was just something about the build of the shoe that bothered us. However, we loved the Endorphin Speed 2 and we love PWRRUN PB as a midsole tech, but there was something about the structure of the Pro and Pro 2 that bothered us. Apparently, we weren’t alone because the Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 is a pretty dramatic departure from the prior versions and this one is a rock star of a shoe, we LOVE this one. This pillow-y plated racing monster is so comfortable underfoot, that it almost feels like a fresh start and we are more than pleased and you should be too.
Quick Details, Specs, and Availability
- Fully revamped, ultra-cushioned, fast as anything, and super comfortable.
- Weight – 7.2oz or 204g for a US Men’s 9, 6.2oz or 176g for a US Women’s 7
- Cushion – 39.5mm of cushion and an 8mm heel/toe drop (Yes, they’re LEGAL!!)
- Pricing – $225.00 USD
- Colors – 4 options
Construction and Materials
- Upper – The upper uses a super lightweight breathable mesh upper built with the same FORMFIT design system they use on all other Saucony models and allows the upper to hug every part of your foot. it features a moderate heel counter (normal on race shoes) and a lacing system that seems to adapt to most foot shapes.
- Midsole – A huge amount of Saucony PWRRUN PB combined with their S-curb carbon plate and Saucony’s SPEEDROLL technology. At 39mm, they are legal for all competitive races.
- Outsole – The outsole uses targeted pieces of XT-900 rubber for a little extra grip and durability in key areas.
Performance Review
What we loved
Change starts at the top and with the Endorphin Pro 3 that is where we begin because top to bottom, this is all new. This fully redesigned mesh upper is so much better than the prior version both in terms of breathability as well as comfort. It feels roomier overall and while the Pro 1 and 2 felt narrow to us, this allows for a bit of movement, especially in the toe box. It still holds your foot well and provides enough structure during a race even when it feels (and looks) so minimal. The lacing system is highly adaptable and we never experienced any lace bite of any sort. The shoe just feels so much better up top and if you were racing on a hot day, they have amazing breathability.
As you get into that midsole, Saucony delivers the maximum amount of PWRRUN PB possible, coming in at 39mm just under the 40mm legal mark. This means you can run them competitively in races, but more importantly, it also means there’s just a ton of cushion under there but also a ton of balance to go with it. It’s like a marshmallow with springs bringing together both comfort and responsiveness throughout the stride. This also features the Saucony SPEEDROLL technology which is essentially the rocker design that really tries to move you through toe-off as fast as possible inevitably leading to improving turnover and resulting in better performance. It works well and you can feel it when you’re standing still. And then of course we have their S-curve carbon fiber plate which amplifies toes spring and helps conserve leg energy overall. This means you can run further and faster without your legs dying on you which is exactly what we all need. And these things are quick, even when not trying the time will drop and when you want to go… they respond well.
The outsole features a bit of the Saucony XT 900 rubber which is durable, but it’s used sparsely and only at those key points where traction is the most necessary. It is important on race shoes to keep that weight down and as we see on every other race model, the outsole is the first place to cut it. Saucony handled it well on here and unless you were racing on a terribly wet day, this will work just fine.
What we didn’t
We don’t have a lot of issues to report on this one, We are just really excited for the update. If you were someone who likes the older versions, then you’re out of luck because it feels totally different. So you may want to try the older versions if you can find them on sale. For our money, however, we will stick with the 3.
Overall Conclusion
We started this off by saying how much we disliked the prior Pro versions, but the Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 is a really really good shoe. That midsole is phenomenal, the additional cushion makes for an improved ride, but also feels more stable at the same time. The changes to the upper give you a more roomy feeling overall so that narrowness is gone. And they do their job, which is to go fast, and whether it is your half marathon or full marathon race day, or you just wanna see what it’s like to go fast the Endorphin Pro 3is a great choice. It can take on any other plated contenders without missing a beat so if you were tired of hearing about the Vaporfly or the Alphafly, then the Endorphin Pro 3 ranks right up there with the New Balance RC elite 2 as our favorite alternatives.
Learn more and buy now on the Saucony website
These shoes were provided by the manufacturer or its partners for the sole use of review. No implied or explicit guarantees were provided as it relates to the provision of these products and all editorial commentary is strictly the property of Running Northwest. In short, the fact they allowed us to test these shoes does not mean we are required to give it a favorable review… every product must earn it. We appreciate our manufacturer partnerships and if you have any questions, you can read our Disclosure Policy in further detail.
Check Out Other Reviewers Thoughts
As always, we gather together some of our favorite reviewers so you can get a well-rounded view of the shoe. Here are our favorites.
