Saucony Endorphin Shift vs. Triumph (2022)

Saucony Endorphin Shift vs. Triumph

Very similar at first glance (high stack, daily trainers), these two Saucony flagship shoes have notable differences.

First of all, if the cushion of the Triumph is generous (33 mm heel height), the Shift 2 goes even beyond, with 39 mm! Also, the drop is lower (5 mm vs 8 mm for the Triumph), which gives a particularly well-padded forefoot.

However, although the Shift 2 has a higher stack, the underfoot feel is firmer than on the Triumph.

Furthermore, the sole configuration is different. Both shoes are ideal for daily runs, long runs, and recovery, but they offer a very different ride. The difference boils down to one word: SpeedRoll!

Simply put, the SpeedRoll design translates into a rocking motion that facilitates more efficient propulsion while running. The Triumph, on the other hand, has a traditional configuration (similar to a Nike Pegasus or NB 1080, for example). The result is a more responsive ride for the Speed 2, but let’s be clear, this may not appeal to all runners.

Finally, the weight is about the same on both shoes, 10.2 oz, which is definitely not the lightest out there.

Shift or Triumph: which one should you choose?

It’s really a personal choice depending on your preferences. If you prefer relatively soft cushioning then the Triumph is the way to go.

Conversely, if you prefer a firm, more responsive, and stable ride, the Shift 2 is a better choice for you.

If you have the budget, these are two interesting and complementary shoes to have in your rotation.

Side-by-side comparison

Bottom Line
Pros
Cons
Saucony Endorphin Shift 2 score
Saucony Endorphin Shift 2
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The Saucony Endorphin Shift 2 is a running shoe that combines comfort, max cushion, and stability for your long runs.
Very comfortable
Stable ride
Impressive ride with the SpeedRoll rocker
Excellent foot lockdown
Max cushion (for those who like)
A bit heavy for such a modern shoe
Little change from v1
Lack of versatility
Some doubts about the outsole durability
The Saucony Triumph 19 is a very good running shoe with soft and responsive cushioning for long-distance running.
Pronounced and relatively responsive cushioning for inimitable comfort
Lighter shoe (finally under 300g)
Ventilated and perfectly fitting upper
Fun and classy look
Recycled materials in the upper
Round and elastic laces, too soft and not always practical
High price even if the comfort and quality are there

Saucony Endorphin Shift 2

Saucony Triumph 19

Technical Specs

TerrainRoadRoad
Pronation typeNeutralNeutral
Drop4 mm8 mm
Heel stack height39 mm33 mm
Forefoot stack height35 mm25 mm
Weight (men) 286 g/10.1 oz290 g/10.2 oz
Weight (women) 263 g/9.3 oz259 g/9.1 oz
Release year20212021
Features Wide feet

Technologies

OutsoleXT-900Tri-Flex, XT-900
MidsolePWRRUN, SPEEDROLLPWRRUN+
UpperEngineered meshFORMFIT, Engineered mesh

Cushioning

Softness (1-5) 2 – Firm3 – Moderate
Bounce (1-5)4 – Bouncy3 – Moderate

Use

SpeedSlow, moderateSlow, moderate
DistanceMid, long, 10 km, half marathon, marathonMid, long, 10 km, half marathon, marathon
WorkoutDaily runs, recoveryDaily runs
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.