Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 vs. Nike Vaporfly Next% 2 (2023)
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
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| 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! | |
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9.5
9.5
9.5
9.5
9
9
9.5
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10
10
8.5
8.5
8.5
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10
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| Facts | ||
| Terrain | Road | Road |
| Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Heel stack height | 39.5 mm | 40 mm |
| Forefoot stack height | 31.5 mm | 32 mm |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 8 mm | 8 mm |
| Weight (men) | 204 g | 186 g |
| Weight (women) | 179 g | 168 g |
| Features | Carbon-fiber plate, Vegan, Recycled materials, Rocker | Carbon-fiber plate, Rocker |
| Athletes | ||
| Release year | 2022 | 2021 |
| Technologies | ||
| Outsole | XT-900, carbon rubber | |
| Midsole | PWRRUNPB, S-curve carbon-fiber plate, SPEEDROLL | |
| Upper | FORMFIT mesh technology | |
| Cushioning | ||
| Cushioning | Balanced | Soft |
| Responsiveness | High | High |
| Utilisation | ||
| Distance | Mid, Half marathon, Long, Marathon | Mid, Half marathon, Long, Marathon |
| Speed | Moderate, Fast | Fast |
| Workouts | Racing | Racing |
