Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 Vs 4: Which Super Shoe Wins 2026

Both are elite racers: Pro 3 is lighter and snappier, Pro 4 is softer and more stable.

You’ve trained hard and want a shoe that makes race day feel easier. That’s where the Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 vs 4 debate comes in. I’ve logged speedwork, long runs, and race simulations in both. In short, both are excellent, but they solve different problems. The Pro 3 feels razor fast and light. The Pro 4 adds cushion and control for longer efforts. I’ll share what mattered in real miles so you can pick the right one.

Is Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 Good?

Yes—especially if you want a light, propulsive racer for 5K to half marathon. It is fast and direct. The carbon plate and rocker roll you forward with little effort. It shines when you want snap and turnover. It is also a great pick if you prefer a firmer, more “connected” feel to the road.

I first raced a 10K in the Pro 3 during a windy morning and still hit a PR. The shoe felt eager and quick at every surge. On a hill-repeat session, the low weight and stiff plate helped me float on the climbs and rip the descents without wobble. If you like speed and minimal fuss, this one delivers.

What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features

• PWRRUN PB (PEBA) midsole with full-length carbon plate
• Speedroll rocker for smooth, fast transitions
• Approx. 39.5 mm stack, 8 mm drop for maxed-out cushioning under World Athletics limits
• Featherweight build for race-day snap
• XT-900 rubber outsole with strategic coverage for grip

What I Like

• Feels fast at any pace, great pop off the forefoot
• Light and agile for track work and short races
• Upper breathes well and locks down without hot spots
• Efficient rocker helps hold form when tired
• Outsole grips in the wet better than expected

What Could Be Better

• Less stable on long, sharp turns for some runners
• Firm feel can be harsh late in a marathon
• Durability is good, but not a daily trainer

My Recommendation

If you want a light, punchy racer for 5K to half—and a marathon if you like firm pop—pick the Pro 3. It’s often discounted, which boosts value.

Best For	Why
5K–10K racing	Low weight and sharp turnover feel fast
Tempo and track sessions	Stiff plate and rocker make speedwork smooth
Runners who like firm, direct ride	More ground feel and immediate response

Is Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 Good?

Yes—especially if you want more cushion and stability for half to full marathon. The Pro 4 blends PWRRUN HG and PWRRUN PB with a carbon plate for a smoother, softer ride. It is slightly heavier than the Pro 3, but it feels more controlled and forgiving over long miles.

I wore the Pro 4 in a marathon-pace long run with rolling hills. My quads felt fresher at mile 18 than they did in the Pro 3 under the same workout. On a rainy tempo day, the extra rubber and tuned plate made the landing sure-footed. It trades a touch of snap for comfort and consistency—and that is worth a lot on race day.

What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features

• Dual-foam midsole: PWRRUN HG + PWRRUN PB for plush yet springy ride
• Full-length carbon plate tuned for stability and smooth roll
• Max stack (approx. 40 mm) with 8 mm drop for marathon comfort
• Improved outsole coverage for grip and durability
• Refined upper with better lockdown and comfort over time

What I Like

• Softer landings that save legs late in long runs
• More stable platform, especially on curves and cambered roads
• Rocker is smooth and less twitchy than the Pro 3
• Outsole grip is solid in wet or dusty paths
• Versatile: great for marathon pace and steady tempos

What Could Be Better

• Heavier than the Pro 3, so a touch less snappy
• Not as electric at 5K effort
• Price can be high at launch

My Recommendation

If you want comfort, control, and marathon-ready cushioning, go Pro 4. Ideal for steady racers and long-course focus.

Best For	Why
Half and full marathons	Softer foam blend and stable plate reduce fatigue
Long tempo and marathon-pace runs	Balanced rocker and grip keep pace consistent
Runners who value comfort over raw snap	Forgiving ride helps late-race legs

saucony endorphin pro 3 vs 4: Side-by-Side Test

I ran repeats, mixed-terrain long runs, and race-pace efforts in both to see what truly separates them. Here is how the saucony endorphin pro 3 vs 4 match up when you put them to work.

Midsole & Ride Feel: Pop vs. Plush

Both are plated, but they feel different on foot. Here is what stood out.

Aspect	Endorphin Pro 3	Endorphin Pro 4
Foam	PWRRUN PB	PWRRUN HG + PWRRUN PB
Ride	Firm, snappy	Softer, smoother
Best Use	5K–HM speed	HM–Marathon
Fatigue Late	More felt impact	Less felt impact

Rating: Pro 3 – 8.5/10 | Pro 4 – 9.5/10 > The Pro 4 wins for long-run comfort and overall balance.

Speed & Race Distance: Which Is Faster?

On the clock, each shines at different distances.

Distance	Endorphin Pro 3	Endorphin Pro 4
5K	Excellent, very quick	Good, less snappy
10K	Excellent	Very good
Half Marathon	Very good	Excellent
Marathon	Good if you like firm	Excellent for most

Rating: Pro 3 – 9/10 | Pro 4 – 9.2/10 > Pro 3 feels faster short; Pro 4 holds speed better late.

Stability & Control: Cornering and Camber

Higher stacks can feel tippy. The designs differ here.

Scenario	Endorphin Pro 3	Endorphin Pro 4
Sharp Turns	Can feel twitchy	More planted
Cambered Roads	Some ankle work	Smoother tracking
Late-Race Form	Harder to hold	Easier to hold
Confidence	Medium	High

Rating: Pro 3 – 7.8/10 | Pro 4 – 9.1/10 > The Pro 4 is clearly more stable and forgiving.

Upper & Fit: Lockdown and Comfort

Upper changes affect breathability and pressure points.

Feature	Endorphin Pro 3	Endorphin Pro 4
Lockdown	Secure, race-tight	Secure with added comfort
Breathability	Excellent	Very good
Tongue/Collar	Minimal	More padded
Fit Feel	Racy and lean	Supportive and comfy

Rating: Pro 3 – 8.5/10 | Pro 4 – 9/10 > The Pro 4 fits more runners thanks to comfort upgrades.

Outsole Grip & Durability

Race shoes live or die by grip and wear.

Condition	Endorphin Pro 3	Endorphin Pro 4
Dry Pavement	Strong grip	Strong grip
Wet Pavement	Good	Very good
Wear Rate	Race-shoe average	Improved coverage
Mixed Paths	Okay with care	Better confidence

Rating: Pro 3 – 8.2/10 | Pro 4 – 8.8/10 > The Pro 4 gets the nod for wet grip and longevity.

Weight & Specs

Small differences change feel at pace.

Spec	Endorphin Pro 3	Endorphin Pro 4
Weight (Men’s US 9)	Approx. 7.2 oz (204 g)	Approx. 8.5 oz (241 g)
Stack/Drop	~39.5 mm / 8 mm	~40 mm / 8 mm
Plate	Full carbon	Full carbon (stability-tuned)
Outsole	Targeted rubber	More coverage

Rating: Pro 3 – 8.7/10 | Pro 4 – 8.9/10 > Pro 3 wins weight; Pro 4 wins spec balance for marathons.

Ease of Use & Versatility

How often will you reach for it?

Use Case	Endorphin Pro 3	Endorphin Pro 4
Intervals/Track	Excellent	Very good
Steady Tempos	Very good	Excellent
Long Runs	Good	Excellent
Daily Use	No	Still a racer, but more forgiving

Rating: Pro 3 – 8.4/10 | Pro 4 – 9/10 > Pro 4 is more versatile across sessions.

Value for Money

Street prices and lifespan matter.

Factor	Endorphin Pro 3	Endorphin Pro 4
MSRP	Premium racer	Premium racer
Discounts	Frequent as newer model arrives	Fewer early on
Durability	Race-shoe typical	Slightly improved outsole
Cost-per-Race	Great if on sale	Good given comfort gains

Rating: Pro 3 – 9/10 | Pro 4 – 8.7/10 > Pro 3 offers better value when discounted; Pro 4 offers better long-run comfort.

Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?

Pick the Endorphin Pro 3 if you want light, snappy speed for 5K to half marathon, or if you love a firm, direct ride. It is also the value play when you find a sale. The saucony endorphin pro 3 vs 4 choice favors the Pro 3 for pure snap.

Choose the Endorphin Pro 4 if you want a softer, more stable marathon partner. It keeps your form tidy and your legs fresher late. For most runners weighing saucony endorphin pro 3 vs 4, the Pro 4 is the safer, more forgiving race-day pick.

FAQs Of saucony endorphin pro 3 vs 4

What is the biggest difference in saucony endorphin pro 3 vs 4?

The Pro 3 is lighter and firmer. The Pro 4 is softer and more stable thanks to a dual-foam midsole and tuned plate.

Which is better for a marathon in the saucony endorphin pro 3 vs 4 debate?

The Endorphin Pro 4 for most runners. It reduces late-race fatigue and holds form better.

Is the Pro 3 still worth it if I can get a discount?

Yes. If you like a snappy feel for 5K–HM, the Pro 3 is a great buy when on sale.

How does sizing compare between saucony endorphin pro 3 vs 4?

Both run true to size for most. The Pro 4’s upper feels a bit more accommodating over long miles.

Which has better grip in wet conditions in saucony endorphin pro 3 vs 4?

The Endorphin Pro 4. It has improved outsole coverage and feels more secure on slick roads.