Saucony Endorphin Trainer

A carbon-plated max-stack trainer built on IncrediRun foam that never figured out what it wants to be: too heavy for speedwork, too dense and blocky for recovery days. Reviewers found the plate purposeless and the ride bricky despite the bouncy top layer of foam. Only worth a look for runners who specifically like firm, dense plated trainers, especially at closeout prices.

Quick specs
CushionMaximum
SupportNeutral
Drop8 mm
Heel stack40 mm
Toe boxStandard
Foot strikeHeel, Midfoot
Who it's for

Reach for the Saucony Endorphin Trainer for everyday training miles and long runs. It's a neutral shoe, best for runners with an efficient stride who don't need pronation support. The tall, soft stack favors comfort over ground feel. That's great for high mileage and bigger runners, less so for racing snappiness.

Daily trainingLong runs
Pros
  • Comfortable, secure upper
  • Soft, bouncy IncrediRun top layer
  • Durable max-stack platform
Cons
  • Heavy and blocky for a plated trainer
  • Plate adds little; awkward in-between ride
  • Sparse outsole rubber and loud footstrike
Similar shoes to consider
ShoeCushionSupportPrice
Hoka Clifton 10MaximumNeutral$150Analyze
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v14MaximumNeutral$165Analyze
ASICS Novablast 5MaximumNeutral$150Analyze
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27MaximumNeutral$165Analyze
Skill profile
Support42
Cushion90
Durability74
Popularity56
Price60
Versatility52
Lightness65

Ratings compare the current lineup. Price favors lower cost.

Key stats
$180Price (MSRP)
40 mmStack height
8 mmDrop
10.7 ozMen's weight
9.3 ozWomen's weight
2025Release year
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