The Saucony Endorphin Elite 3 and the Nike Alphafly 4 are each brand’s flagship for the marathon, the ones chasing records. Saucony keeps the Elite 2’s recipe: IncrediRUN foam, now in two layers, and a split carbon plate. Nike returns after almost three years with a more polished Alphafly, which sits on par with the Adidas Adios Pro 5.
On the scale, the Nike is a bit lighter (by about 15 g / 0.5 oz), with equal heel height and drop.
In motion, the Saucony is very plush underfoot, with strong propulsion and a hugely enjoyable ride, a feel some runners find too soft. The Alphafly 4 keeps a balanced, slightly plush feel. Its forward propulsion is very strong, and its roll stays smooth late in the race, when your stride fades.
The plush foam and max stack cost the Saucony some stability: some testers find it unstable at times in corners. The Alphafly 4 widened its base and plate, and its stability is now fully on par with the competition.
Up top, the Saucony’s ultralight mesh breathes very well and holds the foot securely, with one caveat: it runs a bit short and pinches the toes a little. The Nike’s Atomknit upper is just as thin, but the foot isn’t squeezed and the midfoot cables provide precise lockdown.
Underfoot, Saucony limits its PWRTRAC rubber to strategic zones: traction is very good, but grip on wet surfaces is worth watching. The Nike’s Fast Shot rubber offers excellent traction, even on wet surfaces.
The Saucony has the edge on durability: rubber and upper hold up well and the foam doesn’t seem to pack out, while the Alphafly 4’s foam shows wear quickly and its Air Zoom units remain a point to watch.
Endorphin Elite 3 vs Alphafly 4: Which Should You Choose?
For most runners, the Nike Alphafly 4: more stable and less demanding. The Saucony is also a bit pricier, about $10 more.
Pick the Endorphin Elite 3 if plushness underfoot and bounce come first, or if durability is central to your choice.
