Saucony designed its Endorphin lineup to cover every runner’s needs with two or even three models depending on how you run.
In the case of the Endorphin Pro 5 and the Speed 5, the technologies are nearly the same and the configurations (stack height, drop and weight) are very similar.
The main difference comes from the foams and the plates.
The Pro uses Saucony’s latest foam, PWRRUN HG, also found on the Saucony Endorphin Elite. The Speed stays on the lineup’s historic Peba foam, though that may change with the release of the Speed 6 in August 2026.
Then there are the plates: the Pro relies on carbon while the Speed uses nylon. The nylon plate is more flexible, which makes it more forgiving and more comfortable for training. The Pro 5’s carbon plate is more demanding, but it translates into greater responsiveness for performance.
That said, the difference has faded, because the Elite is now the brand’s dedicated racing shoe while the Pro straddles fast workouts and official races. The Speed 5, meanwhile, has gained responsiveness and keeps closing in on the Pro.
On distance, note that the Speed can theoretically go up to the marathon, but the cushioning may fall short for some runners. For the Pro, the marathon is the main target.
Endorphin Pro vs Speed: Which Should You Choose?
The answer depends on your preferences and your goals.
Your goal is to race fast and you like the stiffness of a carbon plate? All without completely giving up versatility? Then the Saucony Endorphin Pro 5 should suit you perfectly. For an even faster shoe, look at the Elite 3.
If you want a more versatile model, comfortable for daily training and reliable in races, the Speed is for you!
