The Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 is a carbon racing shoe designed for maximum efficiency over distances ranging from 10 kilometers to a marathon. This updated version features a new geometry, a lighter upper, and a new IncrediRUN foam that is said to provide more energy return with every step. Does it deliver? It’s hard to say, but the shoe feels truly powerful in terms of softness and comfort. The same goes for bounce, responsiveness, and dynamics.
Basic info
Tech specs
Purpose
The Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 is a top-of-the-line racing shoe designed for half marathons and marathons. The shoe provides exceptional cushioning for unparalleled comfort, even during long runs. It is also highly responsive, supporting dynamic foot roll and an effective push-off. This model is best suited for runners aiming for a pace of 4:20/km or faster — under these conditions, the shoe shows its full potential. Thus, it is mainly intended for advanced runners who can maximize its potential.
Pros
- smooth and soft cushioning,
- very dynamic and highly resilient,
- geometry improving the rolling of the shoe,
- safe for long starts,
- very lightweight,
- precise fit of the upper.
Cons
- lightweight upper may not suit those looking for more support
- may be slightly unstable, especially under the heel
What’s new in the latest edition
| SAUCONY ENDORPHIN ELITE | SAUCONY ENDORPHIN ELITE 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Stack height | 39.5/31.5mm | 39.5/31.5mm |
| Drop | 8mm | 8mm |
| Foam | PWRRUN HG (PEBA), harder, more responsive | IncrediRun (TPEE), much softer, very resilient and flexible |
| Geometry | Faster, stiffer, aggressive rocker, better transitions | Slower, softer, less aggressive rocker, greater comfort over longer distances |
| Carbon plate | More rigid, aggressive | More flexible, less aggressive |
| Upper | Very breathable, traditional, quite spacious | Half-sock construction, more fitted |
| Weight | 204g | 199g |
Saucony running shoes – lineup
Saucony’s lineup includes two racing rockets: the Endorphin Pro and the Endorphin Elite. Both are designed to break records, but they have different characteristics. The Endorphin Pro is a more versatile option: lightweight and fast, it’s ideal for 5K, 10K, and half marathons. The Elite is a half marathon and marathon specialist. It has more foam and stronger rebound and works best at a long, steady pace.
Those looking for something less aggressive but still dynamic should consider the Endorphin Speed, a great choice for fast training and races for intermediate runners. To see the full range of models from this brand, check out the Saucony shoe guide.
| RACING | TRAINING AND COMPETITION | |
|---|---|---|
| very high dynamics |  Endorphin Elite 2  Endorphin Pro 4 | |
| high dynamics |  Endorphin Speed 3 |  Kinvara Pro |
| mid dynamics |  Endorphin Shift 3 |  Kinvara 15 |
Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 alternatives
The Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 is a top racing model with a carbon plate that rivals constructions such as the Nike Alphafly and the adidas Adios Pro. With high cushioning, responsiveness, and a low weight, as well as an aggressive rocker, it’s the optimal choice for longer races, such as half marathons and marathons. Within Saucony’s lineup, the Endorphin Elite 2 serves a role similar to that of the Alphafly in Nike’s lineup — it’s a fast-paced shoe with more foam than its “lighter” counterpart. However, the two shoes offer completely different experiences. The running shoes differ in their approach to cushioning and geometry, so choosing the best one is difficult.
Looking for a broader comparison? Check out our carbon shoe guide.
| MODEL | STACK HEIGHT (mm) | DROP (mm) | WEIGHT MEN'S (grams) | WEIGHT WOMEN'S (grams) | REGULAR PRICE (€) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 | 39/33 | 6 | 138 | 138 | 500 |
| adidas Adios Pro 4 | 39/33 | 6 | 200 | 175 | 250 |
| Asics Metaspeed Sky+ | 39/34 | 5 | 205 | 205 | 250 |
| Brooks Hyperion Elite 3 | 35/27 | 8 | 230 | 230 | 250 |
| Diadora Gara Carbon 2 | 40/35 | 5 | 220 | 220 | 290 |
| Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 | 39/32 | 7 | 228 | 228 | 275 |
| Hoka Rocket X 2 | 36/31 | 5 | 236 | 236 | 250 |
| New Balance Fuelcell Supercomp Elite v4 | 40/36 | 4 | 237 | 188 | 280 |
| Nike Alphafly 3 | 40/32 | 8 | 218 | 218 | 310 |
| Nike Vaporfly 3 | 40/32 | 8 | 190 | 150 | 260 |
| On Cloudboom Echo 3 | 37/28 | 9 | 215 | 188 | 300 |
| Salomon S/Lab Phantasm | 37,5/28,5 | 9 | 219 | 219 | 260 |
| Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 | 39/31 | 8 | 204 | 176 | 250 |
| Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 | 39.5/31.5 | 8 | 199 | 183 | 300 |
Marathon cushioning
The Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 features IncrediRun (TPEE), a new generation of foam that replaces the previous PWRRUN HG material. This is a significant design change. IncrediRun is noticeably softer, more resilient, and more flexible. This translates to a completely different running experience. Compared to its predecessor, the Elite 2 provides greater comfort underfoot while maintaining an enjoyable energy return, which is especially noticeable during longer tempo runs.
The midsole geometry remains unchanged at 39.5 mm in the heel and 31.5 mm in the forefoot, almost reaching the maximum height permitted by World Athletics. This large amount of foam makes the shoe soft and cushioned and provides protection and safety over marathon distances. In terms of cushioning and softness, the Elite 2 is one of the best models designed for 42 km races. It is exceptionally soft and responsive, even compared to other top racing shoes.
Encouraging but gentle dynamics
The Endorphin Elite 2’s midsole features a carbon plate, a stiff, slightly curved element that is integral to the shoe’s dynamic performance. The plate provides structural rigidity to the entire construction and delivers a distinctive, springy feel. The plate acts like a lever, flexing slightly during landing and then “rebounding” the foot during the push-off phase. This increases the efficiency of each step and reduces energy loss. The result? A smooth, powerful roll that encourages you to speed up from the first few kilometers.
This mechanism is further supported by Speedroll Technology and a distinctive, boat-shaped midsole. It works with the geometry and stiffness of the carbon plate to help the foot roll naturally from heel to toe. In the second generation of the Elite, this profile is gentler than that of its predecessor—less aggressive but more predictable. While this makes the shoe feel slightly less “fast,” it offers better control and greater comfort during longer, marathon-paced runs.
The combination of resilient foam, a carbon plate, and Speedroll technology creates a platform that accelerates and supports running economy. The Elite 2 is optimized for fast, long runs — that’s where it shows its full potential.
Good grip despite flat outsole
The outsole of the Endorphin Elite 2 features PWRTRAC rubber, a material primarily found in Saucony’s trail models that is preferred for its high grip and durability. Despite its low profile, with a maximum depth of just 0.4 mm, the properties of the rubber compound provide the shoe with better grip than the first generation, particularly on dry, hard surfaces and when cornering at high speeds.
The layout of the rubber elements follows classic racing construction: greater coverage at the front provides better grip when pushing off, and less rubber at the heel reduces weight while protecting only the most exposed contact areas with the ground. This design helps keep the shoe’s overall weight low without compromising functionality where it is most needed. However, it’s worth noting that there’s a lot of rubber here, which positively affects the traction and durability of the midsole.
Half-sock minimalist upper
The upper of the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 has been designed as a flexible, one-piece, sock-like construction. It is made of an ultra-thin, open-mesh material that allows for high air permeability. It is designed to be as light and breathable as possible, and it succeeds. The material’s structure offers virtually no resistance to air circulation, resulting in highly effective heat and moisture wicking, even during intense exercise. Ventilation is excellent, and there are no complaints about thermal comfort.
The flexible upper makes the shoe fit like a second skin — it wraps around and hugs the foot. Importantly, the width of the shoe in the front is slightly smaller than standard (approx. 102.9 mm), which enhances the snug fit. This construction provides a secure hold, even with loose lacing.
The heel counter of the Endorphin Elite 2 is an extension of the sock-like upper. It is ultra-soft and lacks classic stiffeners. Instead, it relies on its anatomical shape and flexible fit to keep the heel in place. For runners with a neutral stride and good motor control, this construction is sufficient, especially at higher speeds when the front of the foot is heavily engaged and the rear is not.
In terms of comfort, the heel counter performs very well; it does not cause pressure or chafing, and feels very pleasant. However, its soft structure means limited lateral stability, like that of the entire upper. For those who overpronate, have ankle instability, or are heavier, it may not provide enough support. This solution is designed for lightweight, technical runners who land closer to the midfoot and do not require additional rearfoot support. Heavier runners who land heavily on their heels may experience reduced stability and control due to the lack of a rigid construction in this area.
Not only fast but also light
The Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 is an exceptionally lightweight racing shoe with a carbon plate. According to the manufacturer, the men’s standard size weighs 199 grams, while the women’s standard size weighs 183 grams. In a larger test size (US 12), the shoe weighs 232 grams, placing it among the 5% lightest models on the market.
For comparison, the average weight of shoes in the carbon starter segment is around 248 grams for a men’s size 12, meaning the Elite 2 is significantly lighter than average. Its low weight combined with the foam’s high responsiveness and the plate’s stiffness translates into a favorable weight-to-dynamic ratio. The Endorphin Elite 2 is fast and light, which improves running efficiency.
Summary
The Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 is an impressive racing shoe offering comfort, softness, and dynamics. It’s ideal for competitions and fast training sessions, particularly for runners seeking maximum performance and soft cushioning. However, it’s worth noting that it offers slightly less stability and a slightly less secure fit. People with wide feet or who prefer greater stability may not be satisfied with it. Everyone else? Advanced runners especially will feel like they’re wearing rockets!
