Saucony Endorphin Pro 2 vs. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2 (2022)
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 213 g/7.5 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 2 proposes a traditional ride but with very effective propulsion under the forefoot while running. The cushioning is also firm. In contrast, the Vaporfly Next 2 has a 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
Improved upper: slightly more spacious with better heel lockdown
Very responsive ride’s responsiveness
Good durability for this type of shoe
Shoe profile remains classic in terms of configuration
The upper is still a bit narrow
Impressive cushioning
More stable platform
New upper with a wider, more breathable forefoot
Better versatility
Hefty price considering the expected lifespan
Saucony Endorphin Pro 2
Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 2
Technical Specs
| Terrain | Road | Road |
| Pronation type | Neutral | Neutral |
| Drop | 8 mm | 8 mm |
| Heel stack height | 36 mm | 40 mm |
| Forefoot stack height | 28 mm | 32 mm |
| Features | Carbon plate, Rocker, Vegan | Carbon plate, Rocker |
| Weight (men) | 213 g/7.5 oz | 186 g/6.6 oz |
| Weight (women) | 179 g/6.3 oz | 168 g/5.9 oz |
| Release year | 2021 | 2021 |
| Athletes | Molly Seidel |
Technologies
| Outsole | Carbon rubber | Textured rubber |
| Midsole | Carbon plate, PWRRUN PB, SPEEDROLL | ZoomX |
| Upper | FORMFIT, engineered mesh | Engineered mesh |
Cushioning
| Softness (1-5) | 2 – Firm | 4 – Soft |
| Bounce (1-5) | 5 – Very bouncy | 5 – Very bouncy |
Use
| Speed | Moderate, fast | Moderate, fast |
| Distance | Short, mid, 5k, 10k, half marathon | Mid, long, 10k, marathon |
| Workout | Competition | Competition |
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.