Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 Review: Smooth, Snappy, and Surprisingly Versatile

Few shoes in the plated trainer category manage to balance comfort and performance as well as the Endorphin Speed series. The Speed 4 was popular for its bounce and comfort, but personally, I was more of a fan of the Speed 3. It had a slightly firmer, more responsive feel that worked better for my stride and pace. I’m happy to say the Speed 5 feels like a return to that.

In a running world full of ultra-soft, marshmallowy trainers, I appreciate that Saucony keeps things snappy. Their shoes tend to feel more responsive and structured, and the Speed 5 fits that identity perfectly.

First Impressions: Familiar but Polished

Opening the box, the Speed 5 feels sleek, modern, and purposeful. The upper is a single piece of lightweight engineered mesh that’s surprisingly breathable and comfy from step one. The tongue is gusseted, it stays put, and holds the foot snugly without feeling tight. The heel counter is firmer than before, with a subtle flare that adds hold and reduces irritation around the Achilles.

Fit and Forefoot Feel

That refined fit continues up front. The toe box has just enough extra wiggle room while still feeling tailored. On medium width feet, the upper disappears after a few miles, leaving no hotspots or pressure. According to Fleet Feet, the Speed 5 offers “a smooth, buoyant underfoot feel,” and I’d agree — it fits like a dialed-in update of the Speed 3, not a repeat of the softer, bouncier Speed 4.

Midsole and Drop: A Gentle Evolution

Saucony kept the full-length PWRRUN PB foam combined with the SPEEDROLL geometry and winged nylon plate. The result is soft, energetic cushioning without feeling too squishy. The heel drop stays at 8 mm with a 36/28 mm stack, but the ride feels more grounded and responsive. It’s not overly plush. It’s smooth, controlled, and lively — which is exactly what I like in a tempo-capable daily trainer.

Performance on the Run: Smooth and Snappy

The Speed 5 handles a wide range of runs. It feels relaxed on easy days, but it really comes alive when you start picking up the pace. During a few short intervals and progression miles, I noticed how well the shoe rolled forward without needing to force the effort. There’s a subtle pop to the toe-off, and it stays consistent no matter the pace.

It doesn’t feel like a carbon plated racer, and it shouldn’t. What it gives you is confidence — a smooth rhythm, good energy return, and that just-right balance between soft and firm.

Durability and Traction: Real World Road Use

Saucony added more outsole rubber than in previous versions, especially in high wear zones. That translates to better grip and better durability. On wet pavement and clean roads, I’ve had zero issues with slipping. After 40 miles, wear is minimal and traction still feels solid. If your routes stay mostly on road or smooth paths, you’ll have no problems.

Who It’s For: Universal Utility

If you want a versatile plated trainer that does it all — from easy mileage to speedwork — the Speed 5 fits the bill. It’s cushioned enough for daily runs and recovery days, but responsive enough to handle tempo work and even race day. For those who didn’t love the soft squish of newer trainers, this is a refreshing change of pace.

It’s also one of the rare plated shoes that works for a wide range of runners. Whether you’re clocking 6-minute miles or cruising at 10-minute pace, the Speed 5 moves with you, not against you.

Final Verdict

Saucony didn’t try to outdo themselves with something crazy. They refined the Speed 5 and brought it closer to what worked so well in the Speed 3 — a slightly firmer, more responsive ride that feels faster without giving up daily trainer comfort.

The Speed 5 is polished, smooth, and incredibly versatile. It has a secure fit, a stable base, and a consistent ride that delivers across all types of training. If you’re tired of shoes that feel too soft or unstable, this one might be exactly what you’re looking for.

Overall Rating

I’m giving the Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 a solid 8 out of 10. It’s a well-balanced, well-built super trainer that earns its place in the rotation.