Upload / Capture
Full disclosure: I've been a huge fan of the Endorphin Speed since it came out a few years ago. In its latest iteration, it's probably a better shoe for most runners, but I like it a bit less.
The Endorpin Speed 3 is the rare shoe that can be as enjoyable on a recovery run as it is on a tempo run. You could even race with it if you don't have a dedicated race shoe. I typically use mine threshold work and long run days. I've found that the bounce and spring from the PWRRUN PB foam paired with the nylon plate makes me want to run a little faster than I should on easy days.
The biggest changes to the Endorphin Speed 3 made it a better shoe for most people. Unfortunately, as someone who prefers a pretty narrow toe box, I wasn't one of them. The wider fit of the Speed 3 has led to blisters on threshold workouts from my forefoot sliding around. If you prefer a snugger fit, the Endorphin 2 is a solid choice, as are a number of other shoes on the market.
On the other hand, with the wider fit came a more stable base for the shoe. In previous versions, the Endorphin Speed was a tippy shoe, with a soft heel and reasonably high midsole. With the Speed 3, I feel a lot less likely to roll an ankle when I dodge other pedestrians.
The Endorphin Speed 3 is a light shoe, weighing in around 8 ounces. For a light shoe, the upper is comfortable. I think the laces are a bit long, but that is likely due to my need to tighten the shoe for a narrower fit. My one complaint in this area is related to the heel cup. I've found that the high point that rests along my Achillies is slightly firmer than in the previous version, and is prone to rubbing that area of my foot raw. This is something other people have noted as well. My simple, low-cost solution is to wear taller socks.
Durability has been excellent on the Speed 3. My current pair has roughly 250 miles logged. They still feel fresh and have plenty of life left in them. There are no concerning areas of premature wear.
The Endorphin Speed 3 is the shoe I would recommend to most road runners. As I mentioned previously, it's versatile enough for every run. And it's fun. If you like a bit of responsiveness and pop from your shoes, this checks that box while providing a good amount of cushioning.
The Endorphin Speed 3 doesn't feel quite as fast as the last version, but I think that's deceptive. The accentuated roll of the previous version feels smoother now, and it seems every bit as quick. This isn't a super shoe, and the plate is nylon. You can race in it, but if you're looking for top-end speed, look elsewhere. The Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 is an extremely similar shoe, but has a carbon plate and is faster all around.
Like most higher-stack shoes, the Speed 3 doesn't thrive on the track. It's fine, but I find it a little tippy and awkward in faster turns. It isn't my first choice, but it's what I use 90% of the time anyways.
On the soggy roads and sidewalks of the PNW, I've found the Speed 3 to be an improvement from previous versions. It still doesn't grab the pavement well enough to give me confidence to take turns at full speed.
Overall, the Endorphin Speed 3 is a great shoe. This iteration made it better for most people, and while I wish it came in a narrower fit, I still enjoy it. Like I mentioned earlier, this is the shoe I'd recommend to most runners. It's fun, it's fast, and comfortable and it lasts well. It really is a shoe that can do it all.
Login to your account to leave a comment.
We Want to Give it to You!
