Saucony Endorphin Trail

The upper of the Saucony Endorphin Trail is engineered to provide a secure and comfortable fit, with a sock-like construction that hugs the foot. However, some runners may find it challenging to put on due to its snug design. The upper is durable and offers protection against trail debris, but it sacrifices breathability, which can lead to overheating during runs. The attached tongue design is a highlight, preventing debris from entering the shoe and contributing to the overall snug fit.

The midsole of the Saucony Endorphin Trail features the acclaimed PWRRUN PB foam, which delivers a responsive and cushioned ride. This midsole technology, combined with the shoe's rockered design, allows for smooth transitions and a propulsive feel. However, the shoe's stiffness and high stack height may not be suitable for all runners, especially those who prefer a more natural ground feel.

The outsole of the Saucony Endorphin Trail is equipped with PWRTRAC lugging, providing excellent traction on a variety of surfaces, including steep rocks and wet mud. The 4.5mm lugs are aggressive and widely spaced, contributing to the shoe's impressive grip. While the outsole performs well in muddy conditions, it may not offer the same level of traction on loose sand or highly technical terrain.

The Saucony Endorphin Trail offers a true-to-size fit for most runners, with an accommodating toe box that allows for natural toe splay. The wider forefoot design aids in stabilizing landings on unpredictable surfaces. However, runners with very wide feet may find the fit a bit constrictive, particularly in the toe box area due to the protective mud guard.

Comfort in the Saucony Endorphin Trail is a mixed bag. The cushioned midsole provides a plush feel underfoot, and the sock-like upper ensures a secure lockdown. However, the shoe's weight and lack of breathability can lead to discomfort during longer runs or in warmer conditions.

The Saucony Endorphin Trail's cushioning is one of its standout features, thanks to the PWRRUN PB foam in the midsole. This material offers a soft and springy feel, which helps to reduce fatigue on long runs. The cushioning is well-protected by a durable mesh netting, ensuring longevity and consistent performance.

Breathability is a notable concern with the Saucony Endorphin Trail. The robust mesh upper, while durable and protective, does not allow for adequate airflow, leading to a warm and potentially sweaty experience for runners, especially in hot conditions.

The stability of the Saucony Endorphin Trail is enhanced by its wide platform and strategic lug placement. Despite its high stack height, the shoe provides a stable ride on most trail surfaces. However, the shoe's overall bulk may affect stability on highly uneven or technical terrain.

Durability is a strong point for the Saucony Endorphin Trail. The shoe features a hard and durable outsole, robust mesh upper, and protective overlays that can withstand the rigors of trail running. The additional mesh lamination on the midsole also contributes to the shoe's long-term durability.

The grip of the Saucony Endorphin Trail is exceptional, with PWRTRAC lugging that excels in muddy conditions and on steep inclines. The outsole's design allows the shoe to tackle challenging terrain confidently, though it may fall short on loose or sandy surfaces.

The Saucony Endorphin Trail features PWRRUN PB foam, which provides a soft and springy cushioning experience. This midsole foam is on the more responsive side compared to other trail shoes, offering a balance between comfort and energy return.

Yes, the Saucony Endorphin Trail is well-equipped for wet and muddy conditions. Its aggressive lugs and PWRTRAC outsole offer excellent traction and mud-shedding capabilities, making it a strong choice for such environments.

While the Saucony Endorphin Trail can handle short stretches on roads, it is primarily designed for trail running. Its aggressive lugs and trail-specific features are not optimized for road running and may wear down more quickly on pavement.

The Saucony Endorphin Trail offers a true-to-size fit with a sock-like upper that provides a secure lockdown. It may feel more snug in the toe box compared to other Saucony models due to the protective features designed for trail running.