Our verdict

By enhancing the predecessor's weaker aspects while preserving the model's essence, Saucony has hit the mark again with the saucony shoes sneakers. In our tests, we found this Cohesion to still be a lightweight, bouncy, and versatile shoe that easily adapts to all paces. It's now even more cushioned and spacious, making it more comfortable than ever in long runs. Despite a slight increase in weight and a lacing system that might not suit everyone, we're still eager to recommend the ES4 for its outstanding value and performance.

Saucony bringt am Wochenende was leckeres in die Läden Pros

  • Remains lightweight
  • Excels at all paces
  • Great for track workouts
  • More spacious fit
  • in the x VILLA x Saucony Grid 9000 Penn Relays
  • Enhanced stability over v3
  • Suits daily training
  • Exceptional value

Saucony bringt am Wochenende was leckeres in die Läden Cons

  • Кроссовки лето saucony 38 размер
  • Baskets Enfant Saucony Baby

Audience verdict

83
Good!
  • Оригінальні кросівки saucony grid hurricane

Who should buy

We've concluded that the saucony shoes sneakers is an outstanding pick for:

  • Runners desiring a high-performance, all-around shoe that can even handle easy runs.
  • exra butter x saucony grid 9000 aces.
  • Fans of the Endorphin Speed series seeking a return to a firmer, more responsive ride from the softer v3.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers

Who should NOT buy

While the Endorphin Speed saga aims to serve a broad audience, we believe there are better choices for certain runners.

For those who prefer a non-plated shoe, the ASICS Superblast might be a more suitable option. It's almost as light as the saucony shoes sneakers but offers more foam for cushioning, lacks the nylon plate for a more traditional feel, and provides greater stability, albeit at a higher price point.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers parts

Moreover, we feel the ES4 may not be the ideal option for those who favor super-soft running shoes for speed training. The Nike Streakfly provides a plush experience at a more affordable price.

Saucony bringt am Wochenende was leckeres in die Läden | Breathability

The moment we unboxed the saucony shoes sneakers in our lab, the massive ventilation holes immediately grabbed our attention. They played a key role in the shoe scoring a perfect 5/5 in our smoke test.

Our initial impressions were confirmed when we held the upper against a powerful light. Indeed, it's among the most ventilated uppers we've encountered. However, for those planning to use it in colder climates, we recommend pairing it with thick socks for added warmth especially during easy runs.

Intrigued by the ventilation holes, we went in for a closer look with our lab's microscope.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers microscope

The engineered mesh is finely tuned to maximize airflow in the toebox while maintaining a robust structure throughout the shoe.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers micro

Examining the entire upper, we noted Saucony's focus on creating a highly breathable shoe, not just in the toebox—which is common—but also with significant ventilation in the tongue and medial side, a rarity in running shoes.

Test results
saucony shoes sneakers 5
Average 3.8
Compared to 230 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Saucony bringt am Wochenende was leckeres in die Läden | Durability

Toebox durability

Our initial foray into the durability of the saucony shoes sneakers focused on the toebox—an area of concern due to its huge ventilation holes. And we're delighted to share that the shoe held up impressively in our Dremel test, securing a 3/5 rating. 

While this may seem like an average score, it's actually a commendable achievement for a well-ventilated mesh upper, demonstrating remarkable resilience. In fact, our testing revealed that even those prone to wearing holes in their shoes, whether at the big toe or pinky toe, can confidently opt for this model.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers Toebox durability
Test results
saucony shoes sneakers 3
Average 2.4
Compared to 164 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Saucony bringt am Wochenende was leckeres in die Läden

Another area that often shows early signs of wear is the heel padding—many runners find their Achilles rubbing against this spot, causing concern for durability. To evaluate the potential for damage here, we conducted another test, pulling out the Dremel and applying the same force as before. To our delight, the results were outstanding.

We were thrilled to award the ES4 a perfect 5/5, the highest possible score!

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers Saucony bringt am Wochenende was leckeres in die Läden
Test results
saucony shoes sneakers 5
Average 3.2
Compared to 160 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Saucony bringt am Wochenende was leckeres in die Läden
5

Outsole hardness

Riding high from two successful initial tests, we turned our attention to the outsole. We began by measuring its hardness, which came in at 77.0 HC on our durometer.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers outsole

The saucony shoes sneakers introduces a new outsole design that enhances traction while maintaining a considerable amount of exposed foam.

This is a bit softer than what we typically encounter. Our tests showed that this softer approach likely contributes to its strong grip across various terrains, such as asphalt, tracks, and even dirt roads.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers Outsole hardness
Test results
saucony shoes sneakers 77.0 HC
Average 80.5 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 281 running shoes
Number of shoes
52.1 HC
Outsole hardness
93.0 HC

Outsole durability

Our main concern was the potential for early wear due to the slightly soft rubber. To address this, we decided to conduct one final test using the Dremel.

We were pleased with the outcome—after completing the test, we discovered a mere 0.8 mm indentation. This result is quite promising!

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers Outsole durability
Test results
saucony shoes sneakers 0.8 mm
Average 0.9 mm
Compared to 142 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

Saucony Split Second 2.5 Γυναικείο Σορτς για Τρέξιμο Endorphin Speed 3. Although it might seem thin at first glance, remember that we're looking at a performance-oriented, lightweight running shoe.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers outsole thick

In such models, minimizing weight is crucial, and a thicker outsole could mute the ride's responsiveness and add unnecessary bulk. From our standpoint, a 2.0-mm rubber outsole strikes a perfect balance for this shoe type, offering a nimble feel without sacrificing durability.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers Outsole thickness
Test results
saucony shoes sneakers 2.0 mm
Average 3.2 mm
Compared to 300 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.6 mm

Weight

Indeed, the shoe feels incredibly light on the foot. Weighing in at just 8.4 oz (237g), it's almost like it vanishes when you're running. Yet, we noted a slight weight increase of 0.5 oz compared to its predecessor, even though the outsole thickness remains unchanged.

Let's uncover the reasons behind this weight gain!

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers Weight
Test results
saucony shoes sneakers 8.36 oz (237g)
Average 9.35 oz (265g)
Compared to 301 running shoes
Number of shoes
5.26 oz (149g)
Weight
12.56 oz (356g)

Cushioning

Heel stack

The primary cause of the weight increase in the ES4 is its midsole. Using our calipers, we measured an impressive 36.2 mm in the heel area, making it the tallest Endorphin Speed model to date. This is a noticeable 2.1 mm increase from last year's model.

This design aligns with the current market trend of creating shoes with taller profiles for extra cushioning. Despite this increase, the Speed remains comfortably below the 40-mm mark. It's an excellent option for those who prefer a less towering shoe without compromising on long-run comfort.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers Heel stack
Test results
saucony shoes sneakers 36.2 mm
Average 33.6 mm
Compared to 300 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Heel stack
42.7 mm

Forefoot stack

The forefoot also sets a new record for the Endorphin Speed series at 27.5 mm.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers forefoot

We've observed that this feature makes it exceptionally versatile, ideal for effortlessly tackling both long runs and speed workouts—a hallmark of this all-around model.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers Forefoot stack
Test results
saucony shoes sneakers 27.5 mm
Average 24.9 mm
Compared to 300 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Forefoot stack
35.8 mm

Drop

The difference between the forefoot and the heel delivers an 8.7-mm drop, appealing to a broad spectrum of runners.

The Endorphin Speed series is celebrated for its wide appeal across runners with various footstrikes and paces. This popularity stems from its versatile design, not limited to a specific type of runner, but rather embracing a more universal approach. That's why the real 8.7-mm drop makes total sense to us.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers Drop
Test results
saucony shoes sneakers 8.7 mm
Average 8.7 mm
Compared to 300 running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.8 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Insole thickness

Our caliper measured the insole at 5.1 mm, introducing an extra layer of plushness to the underfoot experience.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers Insole thickness
Test results
saucony shoes sneakers 5.1 mm
Average 4.5 mm
Compared to 296 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

In the midsole, Saucony once again employed its Pebax-based, pellet-shaped PWRRUN PB foam, which has been a game-changer since its debut for its energy return and durability. Yet, there's a slight tweak in the formulation—the shoe now has a firmer feel, confirmed by our durometer reading at 22.3 HA.

The ride is neither too firm nor overly plush; it strikes a perfect balance. We consider this a positive shift from the previous version's softer feel, which some runners found too mushy, enhancing its responsiveness.

However, for those who prefer an ultra-soft midsole, the v3 might be the more suitable option.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers Midsole softness
Test results
saucony shoes sneakers 22.3 HA
Average 21.4 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 228 running shoes
Number of shoes
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
41.5 HA

Difference in midsole softness in cold

As highlighted in our guide on running shoes and temperatures, Pebax foams like PWRRUN PB stand out for their exceptional performance in a variety of climates, making them a top choice for winter running.

To confirm this, we put the ES4 to the test by placing it in the freezer for 20 minutes. The result was impressive—the foam became only 5.6% firmer. 

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers Difference in midsole softness in cold
Test results
saucony shoes sneakers 5.6%
Average 25.6%
Compared to 227 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in midsole softness in cold
100%

Plate

The Endorphin Speed series has consistently incorporated a nylon plate for enhanced stability and a bouncier ride. The ES3 took this a notch higher with a winged plate design, a feature that continues in the ES4.

Coupled with a firmer midsole, it offers what we believe to be the most stable ride across all four versions.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers Plate

Stability

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Stability gets a major boost from smart design features like heightened midsole sidewalls, a revamped heel, and enhanced rigidity. These elements, coupled with the firmer midsole, play a crucial role in the shoe's impressive performance, guaranteeing a secure and stable run across all paces.

Torsional rigidity

From the moment we unboxed and tested the shoe, we noticed it was more rigid than its predecessor. After some deliberation in the lab, we assigned it a 3/5 score for rigidity. This shift makes it lean more towards speed-focused runs rather than daily training, yet it still holds its ground as an all-around shoe.

Test results
saucony shoes sneakers 3
Average 3.2
Compared to 279 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

The heel counter adopts a similar design to many other daily running shoes, featuring just enough rigidity to be noticeable but not overbearing. We found it both comfortable and secure for all distances, including long runs, with zero heel slippage.

Test results
saucony shoes sneakers 3
Average 2.8
Compared to 263 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width in the forefoot

Another key factor contributing to the shoe's enhanced stability and slight weight gain is its increased width.

It has expanded to 114.7 mm, which, while still modest, marks a noticeable change for forefoot strikers. However, despite this growth, the Endorphin Speed retains its agile feel.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
saucony shoes sneakers 114.7 mm
Average 113.7 mm
Compared to 301 running shoes
Number of shoes
100.5 mm
Midsole width in the forefoot
126.5 mm

Midsole width in the heel

The heel has also widened to 93.4 mm, nearly 4 mm more than the previous version, enhancing stability for heel strikers. Despite this, it continues to be a purely neutral running shoe and might not be the best speed training abettor for those with stability needs. We suggest the Saucony Tempus instead.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers Midsole width in the heel
Test results
saucony shoes sneakers 93.4 mm
Average 90.4 mm
Compared to 301 running shoes
Number of shoes
74.9 mm
Midsole width in the heel
106.6 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

Nylon-based plates, unlike their carbon-fiber counterparts, add minimal longitudinal stiffness to a shoe. Our 90-degree bend test yielded a 29.4N result, nearly identical to what we'd expect from a similarly-stacked shoe without a plate.

This makes it an great choice for daily running, offering a snappy-yet-comfortable experience without the intense rigidity often associated with carbon plates.

Test results
saucony shoes sneakers 29.4N
Average 29.1N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 283 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.2N
Stiffness
94.4N

Difference in stiffness in cold

After another 20-minute session in the freezer, we assessed the stiffness. Just like with the softness, the performance was stellar, showing only a 3.2% increase in stiffness. This result is simply outstanding!

Test results
saucony shoes sneakers 3.2%
Average 36.2%
Compared to 283 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in stiffness in cold
148%

Size and fit

Toebox width at the widest part

A significant—and delightful—upgrade in the fourth version of the Endorphin Speed is its upper.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers broad

It's now more spacious than ever, comfortably fitting runners with slightly wide feet. We measured its widest part at 101.7 mm, a change that enhances its inclusivity.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
saucony shoes sneakers 101.7 mm
Average 98.4 mm
Compared to 301 running shoes
Number of shoes
89.5 mm
Toebox width at the widest part
109.1 mm

Toebox width at the big toe

The upper's widest part enjoyed the overall increase in the shoe's width, but the toe cap area stayed at a comfortable average of 77.5 mm, which suits most feet just fine.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
saucony shoes sneakers 77.5 mm
Average 78.2 mm
Compared to 175 running shoes
Number of shoes
60.4 mm
Toebox width at the big toe
92.5 mm

Tongue: gusset type

Saucony chose the semi-gusseted tongue again, an ideal feature for a lightweight shoe designed for fast paces that require a secure lockdown—and the ES4 delivers just that!

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers Tongue: gusset type
Test results
saucony shoes sneakers Both sides (semi)

Comfort

Tongue padding

The tongue padding is kept to a minimal 2.0 mm, part of the effort to maintain a low weight.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers tongue

Therefore, we advise caution when tightening the laces, particularly for longer runs, to prevent any lace bite.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers Tongue padding
Test results
saucony shoes sneakers 2.0 mm
Average 5.6 mm
Compared to 298 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Heel tab

In line with recent Saucony design trends, we didn't anticipate a heel tab, and indeed, there wasn't one to be found.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers Heel tab
Test results
saucony shoes sneakers None

Removable insole

The insole is removable and features a very standard shape, allowing for easy insertion of third-party sockliners without any issues. Also, for runners with larger feet, opting for a thinner insole can also increase the shoe's overall internal volume.

Saucony saucony shoes sneakers Removable insole
Test results
saucony shoes sneakers Yes

Misc

Reflective elements

We're Relay impressed when mujer prioritize runner safety. Thus, discovering reflective elements on the saucony shoes sneakers was a fantastic highlight, enhancing visibility and protection.

Test results
saucony shoes sneakers Yes