Both are excellent, but Speed 4 smooths the ride while Speed 3 feels snappier.
You want one shoe for speed days and daily miles. I’ve been there. The Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 and Speed 4 both promise fast fun without harshness. In my testing, both delivered, but in different ways. The saucony endorphin speed 3 vs 4 comes down to ride feel and fit: one is lively and springy, the other is smoother and more secure. I ran tempos, long runs, and track reps in both, and I’ll break it down so you can pick the right partner for your goals.
Is Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 Good?
Yes—for most runners, the Endorphin Speed 3 is a great choice. It shines as a do‑it‑all trainer with a fast edge. If you want one shoe for tempo runs, intervals, and even easy miles, it’s a strong pick. The ride feels lively with a touch of bounce and a smooth roll. It balances speed and comfort without beating you up, and it stays stable for a nylon-plated shoe.
On my Tuesday tempo loops, the Speed 3 helped me click into pace fast and stay there. During a mixed long run with late strides, it still felt light and responsive. The plate adds snap without feeling harsh. Lockdown was solid after a quick lace tweak, and the outsole gripped well on damp bike paths.
What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- PWRRUN PB foam for a light, bouncy, yet controlled ride
- Winged nylon plate for guidance and smooth propulsion
- SPEEDROLL rocker to keep turnover quick and efficient
- Breathable engineered mesh upper with secure midfoot wrap
- Durable rubber outsole with solid grip on dry and damp roads
What I Like
- Versatile for tempos, intervals, and steady daily runs
- Snappy feel without the stiffness of carbon plates
- Stable platform that keeps form tidy when I get tired
- Outsole holds well on wet bike paths
- Comfortable upper that disappears on foot
What Could Be Better
- Heel lockdown may need a runner’s loop for narrow heels
- Ride can feel a bit firm at very slow paces
- MSRP is premium, though discounts are now common
My Recommendation
If you want one fast trainer to cover most bases, the Endorphin Speed 3 is a safe, fun bet—especially if you find it on sale.
| Best For | Why |
|---|---|
| Tempo and threshold work | Snappy plate and quick rocker help lock in pace |
| Mixed weekly training | Comfortable and stable enough for daily miles |
| Value shoppers | Frequent discounts make it a smart buy |
Is Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 Good?
Yes—the Endorphin Speed 4 is excellent if you want a smoother, more secure version of the Speed formula. It keeps the light feel and nylon plate, but the ride is a touch softer and flows better from heel to toe. The upper locks in more confidently, and grip feels improved in the wet.
I used the Speed 4 for 400–800 m repeats and a marathon‑pace long run. On the track, it rolled fast without feeling unstable, and the turnover felt natural. During a rainy tempo, the shoe stayed planted, and the upper kept my midfoot secure with no sliding. It still feels fast, just a bit more refined, which many runners will prefer in the saucony endorphin speed 3 vs 4 debate.
What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- PWRRUN PB cushioning with a slightly smoother, more cushioned feel
- Refined nylon plate for efficient propulsion without harshness
- Updated SPEEDROLL geometry for easier transitions
- More confident upper lockdown and gusseted tongue
- Outsole coverage tuned for better durability and wet grip
What I Like
- Smoother ride that suits long tempos and steady runs
- Improved midfoot hold and heel security
- Excellent traction in the rain
- Lightweight feel that does not beat up my legs
- Works for both workouts and longer efforts
What Could Be Better
- Less “pop” than carbon supershoes for all‑out racing
- Price sits in premium territory at launch
- Toebox may feel snug for very wide feet
My Recommendation
If you value smooth transitions, better lockdown, and wet‑weather grip, pick the Endorphin Speed 4 for your training weeks.
| Best For | Why |
|---|---|
| Long tempos and MP runs | Smoother rocker and soft feel reduce fatigue |
| Speedwork in mixed weather | Improved traction and stable platform |
| Runners wanting secure fit | Upper holds foot firmly without hotspots |
saucony endorphin speed 3 vs 4: Side-by-Side Test
I ran back‑to‑back workouts and steady runs in both shoes to feel real differences. Below, I compare how each shoe performed where it matters most. This saucony endorphin speed 3 vs 4 breakdown focuses on ride, fit, stability, durability, weight, versatility, and value.
Ride & Responsiveness: Which Feels Faster?
Both are quick. The Speed 3 feels a bit springier, while the Speed 4 rolls smoother.
| Endorphin Speed 3 | Endorphin Speed 4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Ride Character | Lively, slightly bouncy | Smoother, more flowing |
| Best Paces | Tempo to interval | Marathon pace to tempo |
| Fatigue Over Long Runs | Low | Very low |
| Transition Feel | Quick and snappy | Quick and fluid |
Ratings: Speed 3 – 8.7/10 | Speed 4 – 9.0/10
In the saucony endorphin speed 3 vs 4 ride test, Speed 4 wins for smoother transitions over long efforts.
Fit & Upper Lockdown: Which Holds Better?
Upper updates define the Speed 4, giving more secure midfoot hold.
| Endorphin Speed 3 | Endorphin Speed 4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Midfoot Lockdown | Good, may need lace tweak | Excellent, secure out of box |
| Heel Security | Good with runner’s loop | Very good without tricks |
| Toebox | Moderate room | Slightly snug, structured |
| Tongue | Comfortable | Gusseted, more stable |
Ratings: Speed 3 – 8.3/10 | Speed 4 – 9.1/10
For fit in the saucony endorphin speed 3 vs 4 battle, Speed 4 takes it thanks to better lockdown.
Stability & Support: Which Feels More Guided?
Both are stable for plated trainers, with slight differences in feel.
| Endorphin Speed 3 | Endorphin Speed 4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Plate Tuning | Winged guidance feel | Refined, balanced guidance |
| Platform Confidence | Stable at tempo pace | Stable across more paces |
| Cornering | Secure | Very secure |
| Late-Run Form | Stays tidy | Stays very tidy |
Ratings: Speed 3 – 8.8/10 | Speed 4 – 8.9/10
Stability is close, but in saucony endorphin speed 3 vs 4, Speed 4 edges it for all‑pace control.
Durability & Outsole Grip: Which Lasts Longer?
Outsole coverage and rubber mixing matter here.
| Endorphin Speed 3 | Endorphin Speed 4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Rubber Coverage | Good forefoot/heel | Slightly more strategic |
| Wet Grip | Good | Very good |
| Wear Pattern | Even with mild forefoot wear | Even, improved in wet |
| Expected Lifespan | High for a fast trainer | High, possibly higher |
Ratings: Speed 3 – 8.4/10 | Speed 4 – 8.9/10
For durability and grip in saucony endorphin speed 3 vs 4, Speed 4 wins by a small margin.
Weight & Breathability: Which Feels Lighter?
They are close in weight; airflow differs slightly.
| Endorphin Speed 3 | Endorphin Speed 4 | |
|---|---|---|
| On-Foot Weight Feel | Very light | Very light |
| Breathability | Airy mesh | Airy with more structure |
| Heat Management | Stays cool | Stays cool for most |
| Sock Choice | Thin to medium | Thin to medium |
Ratings: Speed 3 – 8.8/10 | Speed 4 – 8.7/10
In the saucony endorphin speed 3 vs 4 weight/breathability check, Speed 3 is a hair breezier.
Versatility & Use Cases: One-Shoe Quiver?
Both cover a wide range; the flavor differs.
| Endorphin Speed 3 | Endorphin Speed 4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Training | Very capable | Excellent |
| Speed Sessions | Excellent | Excellent |
| Long Runs | Good | Very good |
| Race Day (non‑carbon) | Good for 5K–HM | Good for 10K–Marathon |
Ratings: Speed 3 – 9.0/10 | Speed 4 – 9.1/10
For all‑around use in saucony endorphin speed 3 vs 4, Speed 4 is slightly more adaptable.
Comfort Over Time: Which Saves Your Legs?
Small differences show up late in long runs.
| Endorphin Speed 3 | Endorphin Speed 4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Underfoot Softness | Moderate, lively | Moderate‑plus, smoother |
| Impact Protection | Strong for a fast trainer | Stronger on long efforts |
| Upper Comfort | Light and easy | More structured, secure |
| Post‑Run Feel | Fresh legs | Fresher legs |
Ratings: Speed 3 – 8.6/10 | Speed 4 – 9.0/10
In the saucony endorphin speed 3 vs 4 comfort test, Speed 4 keeps legs fresher on long days.
Value for Money: Which Is the Better Buy?
Retail is similar; discounts tell the story.
| Endorphin Speed 3 | Endorphin Speed 4 | |
|---|---|---|
| MSRP | Premium at launch | Premium at launch |
| Street Price | Often discounted | Holds price early |
| Cost‑to‑Miles | Excellent with sales | Very good |
| Who Should Buy | Budget‑savvy, versatile needs | Fit/lockdown and wet grip seekers |
Ratings: Speed 3 – 8.8/10 | Speed 4 – 8.6/10
For value in saucony endorphin speed 3 vs 4, Speed 3 wins due to frequent discounts.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
Pick the Endorphin Speed 3 if you want a lively, versatile fast trainer at a great price, especially if you catch it on sale. It’s snappy, stable, and fun for tempos, intervals, and mixed training weeks.
Choose the Endorphin Speed 4 if you prefer smoother transitions, better lockdown, and improved wet‑weather grip. For marathon‑pace work and longer efforts, it feels more refined. In the saucony endorphin speed 3 vs 4 matchup, most everyday trainers will prefer the Speed 4; value hunters should grab the Speed 3.
FAQs Of saucony endorphin speed 3 vs 4
What is the main difference in the saucony endorphin speed 3 vs 4?
Speed 3 feels a bit springier and light on foot. Speed 4 is smoother, more secure, and grips better in the wet. Both are fast and versatile.
Which is better for marathon‑pace runs in the saucony endorphin speed 3 vs 4?
Speed 4. The transitions feel easier and the upper holds better over long efforts, which reduces fatigue.
Which is better for short, sharp intervals?
Both work well. If you like a snappier feel, pick Speed 3. If you want smooth control at high turnover, pick Speed 4.
How do they fit compared to each other?
Both run true to size for most. Speed 4 has a slightly more secure midfoot and heel. Speed 3 feels a touch roomier up front.
Is the upgrade worth it in the saucony endorphin speed 3 vs 4?
If you want better lockdown, smoother roll, and improved wet grip, yes—Speed 4 is worth it. If price matters most, Speed 3 is the smarter buy.
Rubel Miah is the Senior Editor at MyStyleGrid.com, where he brings a sharp editorial eye and an unshakable love for fashion to everything he does. A true style addict, Rubel lives and breathes trends, from streetwear to high fashion, and has a knack for turning inspiration into impactful stories. With years of experience in fashion journalism and digital media, he curates content that empowers readers to express themselves through style. When he’s not editing features or forecasting the next big thing, you’ll find him hunting down vintage pieces or capturing street style moments around the city.
