Saucony Endorphin Speed 6 Delivers a Faster Feel

Saucony’s Endorphin Speed 6 is designed for runners who want one shoe for regular training and faster sessions. It joins the Endorphin Pro 5 and Endorphin Elite 3 as a less aggressive option, using a nylon plate that bends more readily than carbon fiber. The shoe costs $180, below the Pro 5 at $240 and the Elite 3 at $290.

The updated design combines Pwrrun PBX, a lighter and softer beaded PEBA foam, with 2 mm more height and a steeper rocker. Testers found the result lively and forward-driving, especially during tempo runs, speed workouts, and shorter easy runs. Kristen Wagner, Jeff Dengate, and Ashley Tysiac each reported different experiences, but the shoe’s flexible plate made faster running feel approachable, including for Wagner, who had not previously used a plated shoe.

The main concern was rubbing from the upper around the toe area and, for one tester, the sole of the right foot. A 12-mile run led to tenderness by mile 4 and blisters by mile 8, while Wagner found that switching from thicker socks to thin ones reduced the problem. Dengate had no hot spots, and Tysiac had no blisters despite finding the shoe small. The roomier forefoot was otherwise welcomed, particularly by testers who had experienced pressure or numbness in earlier Saucony toe boxes.