Craft Endurance 2 Review: Ready to Go the Distance

Looking for a new everyday running shoe that can handle some serious mileage? The Craft Endurance 2 might just be the ticket. This sleek and versatile shoe promises to deliver on both durability and performance, making it suitable for a variety of training runs. Let’s dive into the specifics to see if this shoe lives up to its claims.

Technical Specs

Weight – 8.6oz or 244g for a US Men’s 9, 7.4oz or 210g for a US Women’s 7
Cushion – 36mm of cushion and a 9mm heel/toe drop
Pricing – $144.99 USD
Colors – 3 colors

First Impressions

For those of us who care about how our gear looks as much as how it performs, the Craft Endurance 2 is a stunner right out of the box. With its clean white upper and a color gradient midsole, this shoe practically begs to hit the pavement. Of course, the pristine appearance doesn’t last long, especially after those first few muddy runs, but who doesn’t love a well-loved, well-worn shoe?

Upper

The upper is crafted from engineered mesh, providing a roomy yet secure fit. Thanks to the internal gusset, no one’s midfoot will feel strangled, even if it’s slightly on the wider side. However, the upper does have a bit too much room for our liking, which might make some of us anxious about taking tight corners at high speeds. It’s not unstable by any means, but one might need that extra security during fast workouts. The tongue also requires some fussing during lace-up as it tends to bunch up, but once it’s adjusted, it stays put.

Midsole

Now, let’s talk about what really matters: the midsole. The Craft Endurance 2 features a Px Foam midsole, which is a supercritical, beaded TPU foam. It’s neither too soft nor too firm, striking a perfect balance that offers just the right bounce for tempo runs. The feeling underfoot is responsive yet cushioned, making it ideal for various types of workouts. Whether it’s a ten-mile run straight out of the box or a series of sprints, the midsole adapts well, promising a comfortable and versatile ride.

Outsole

One of the standout features of this shoe is its outsole. The nearly full rubber coverage ensures incredible grip on both wet and dry surfaces, which translates into confidence on various terrains. Initially, there might be some concern that such a tacky rubber compound might wear out quickly. After putting in significant mileage, it becomes clear that durability is not sacrificed for grip. This means the Endurance 2 can go the distance without losing its edge.

Performance

When it comes to actual performance, the Craft Endurance 2 doesn’t disappoint. The rocker shape of the midsole keeps us moving forward effortlessly during slower paces, while it remains responsive as speed picks up. This versatility makes it a great option for everything from easy runs and long workouts to tempo runs and even speed intervals. The shoe truly adapts to the demands of different workouts, making it a reliable workhorse in our running lineup.

Minor Quibbles

Of course, no shoe is perfect, and the Craft Endurance 2 has some areas that could be improved. The 9 mm drop might feel a bit unconventional for runners used to more standard drop heights. Though not a deal-breaker, it is worth mentioning. Additionally, while the rubber outsole is excellent for grip, the slightly baggy upper might limit confidence during sharp turns at high speeds. Minor issues with the tongue bunching up can be a bit annoying but are manageable with some adjustments.

Conclusion

In a market flooded with high-performance but often delicate running shoes, the Craft Endurance 2 emerges as a refreshing option that combines durability with versatility. Whether looking for a shoe that can handle long, easy miles or a reliable partner for tempo workouts, this model has something to offer. With a retail price of $175, it’s a solid investment for those wanting a shoe that can go the distance without compromising on performance. Give the Craft Endurance 2 a try, and who knows, it might just become our new go-to trainer.

Learn more on the Craft website

Buy them now and read more on Running Warehouse

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.