Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 vs. Nike Vaporfly Next% 2 (2024)

Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 vs Nike Vaporfly 2

These two carbon plate shoes have similar configurations but with different results.

They both have a high stack (maximal cushioning), a carbon plate (of course), and a Pebax-based foam.

They are also lightweight shoes, even if the Endorphin Pro is heavier with 204 g/7.2 oz compared to 186 g/6.6 oz for the Vaporfly Next 2 (men’s model).

However, the ride and the underfoot feel are opposed: the Endorphin Pro 3 proposes a traditional ride (relatively speaking), but with very effective propulsion under the forefoot while running. The cushioning is also firm. In contrast, the Vaporfly Next 2 has soft, more bouncy cushioning.

Endorphin Pro vs. Vaporfly: which one to choose?

It’s one of those cases where we have to answer: it depends on you and your preferences.

Runners who like firm cushioning will opt for the Endorphin Pro, while those who favor a soft underfoot feel will choose the Vaporfly.

Overall, the former is better suited for short and medium runs (up to half marathons), while the latter is more comfortable for longer distances like marathons with its softer cushioning.

However, there’s still an objective criterion: durability. The outsole of the Endorphin Pro 2 features more rubber and is therefore much more resistant.

Side-by-side comparison

9.4
Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 Check Prices
9.6
Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 2 Check Prices
Overview
Description The Endorphin Pro 3 are Saucony's carbon plated super shoes. This new version is more stable and versatile while retaining its edge for the half marathon!
Comfort
9.5
Responsiveness
9.5
Foot lockdown
9.5
Stability
9.5
Durability
9
Value
9
Design
9.5
Comfort
10
Responsiveness
10
Foot lockdown
8.5
Stability
8.5
Durability
8.5
Value
9.5
Design
10
Facts
TerrainRoadRoad
Support NeutralNeutral
Heel stack height39.5 mm40 mm
Forefoot stack height31.5 mm32 mm
Heel-to-toe drop8 mm8 mm
Weight (men)204 g186 g
Weight (women) 179 g168 g
Features Carbon-fiber plate, Vegan, Recycled materials, RockerCarbon-fiber plate, Rocker
Athletes
Release year20222021
Technologies
Outsole XT-900, carbon rubber
Midsole PWRRUNPB, S-curve carbon-fiber plate, SPEEDROLL
UpperFORMFIT mesh technology
Cushioning
Cushioning Balanced Soft
ResponsivenessHigh High
Use
DistanceMid, Half marathon, Long, Marathon Mid, Half marathon, Long, Marathon
Speed Moderate, Fast Fast
WorkoutsRacing Racing
Kevin Le Gall

Kevin Le Gall

Kevin is the founder and editor of Runner's Lab. He started running in 2015 and completed his first marathon in Rotterdam in 2016. He's also worked for Under Armour from 2016 to 2018 and helped launch their running collection in Europe (in particular the HOVR shoes). In addition, Kevin is a 300-hour certified yoga teacher (Sivananda) and uses this experience to run more mindfully with a focus on well-being over performance.

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