The Saucony Endorphin Pro 5 and the Nike Alphafly 4 take different approaches to carbon racing. Saucony positions the Endorphin Pro as the more affordable, more versatile model in its carbon lineup, below the Elite. Nike makes the Alphafly 4 its flagship for the marathon, the one aiming for the number-one spot against the Adidas Adios Pro 5.
On the scale, the Nike is lighter, by just under 30 g / 1 oz, for almost the same heel height and the same drop.
Saucony slips a full-length split carbon plate between two foams, PWRRUN PB and PWRRUN HG, with the curved SPEEDROLL geometry. At Nike, a new, lighter ZoomX LT foam sits on top, above the ZoomX layer. The Flyplate is wider, and the two forefoot Air Zoom units have been redesigned.
The Endorphin Pro 5 feels well balanced and leans slightly plush, with a pronounced rocker and smooth transitions. Its responsiveness is very good but a step below the Alphafly 4. The Nike feels just as balanced, with very strong forward propulsion and major energy savings, especially when your stride fades late in a race.
With its fairly wide base and balanced ride, the Endorphin Pro 5 is rather stable for a racing shoe. The Alphafly 4’s base and plate have been widened, for stability on par with the competition, and the mechanical feel of its Air Zoom units lets you get the most out of it without an aggressive forefoot strike.
The Saucony’s stretch mesh upper has a second-skin feel, comfortable and breathable. One caveat though: the fit didn’t suit every tester, and the soft heel counter bothered some of them. The Nike’s Atomknit upper is very light, very breathable and doesn’t squeeze the foot, with cables that structure the midfoot.
On traction, the Saucony’s PWRTRAC rubber is reliable, including on wet surfaces, and the Nike’s Fast Shot rubber grips very well on wet roads.
Durability favors the Saucony, which outlasts most carbon models. Lifespan remains the Alphafly 4’s weak point: its foam shows wear quickly and its Air Zoom units are worth watching, so save it for race day.
Endorphin Pro 5 vs Alphafly 4: Which Should You Choose?
For a fast half or full marathon, the Nike Alphafly 4 is our pick.
The Endorphin Pro 5 is the pick if you want a more versatile model that also works for training, and one that lasts longer. Try the fit before you buy.
