I use a Stryd pod to capture my runs metrics such as: cadence, leg spring stiffness, ground contact time, vertical oscillation, and others. When comparing the numbers from the Endorphin Elite 2 to the Puma Fast R NE3, On Cloudboom Strike, or the Mizuno Wave Rebellion on similar workouts, these numbers are worse than the other three for my biomechanics. I land midfoot and am a cadence runner. For the marathon distance, the Puma Fast R had the best numbers.
What’s your PR and what shoes are you wearing OP? That’s important to the suggestions you will get. There’s years of research now that still shows a good benefit all the way to 8min/mile. From there to 9min its still close to 1% benefit (so, way less than the 4+% for 5min pace) but specifically research has shown either an insignificant benefit or sometimes a negative effect at 9:40 pace and slower.
There are more firm and stable super shoes out there you could try if you’re in the range where you’re still going to see a good benefit. Honestly a good option is just ordering old model super shoes off StockX, the OG pairs are way more stable and firm than the pillows of today.
FWIW, the two fastest shoes I have, Puma R3 and Saucony EE2 cause me separate issues. Pumas make my calf and Achilles really, really tight and sore after, without fail, and Saucony makes the balls of my foot start to go numb 20min in. But, I run very fast in them and it’s just a trade off I accept. I think as they get faster and faster it’s similar to road cycling where bikes have gotten insanely light and serious crashes have increased. There’s ultimately a trade off between high end speed and injury risk. Have to determine how worth it those extra seconds to minutes are for you!
I'd get the Puma Fast R-3. I don't think I'd use them for a marathon, but for a 10k/5k they would probably be the fastest shoe for me (ran 16:59 5k this year).
I am a similar speed as you. I picked a pair up on clearance and was surprised with how narrow and unstable the heel is. Somehow even the tiny heel of the Fast R works better than this shoes heel for me.
If I had paid full price for these I’d have been disappointed. As it is, they go with my vaporfly 4s into the category of “good workout shoes”.
The Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 is actually my go-to marathon shoe. I usually rotate between these and the Puma Fast-R for half marathons, though I prefer the Fast-R for shorter distances as I find it a bit more aggressive.
I recently did a half marathon in the Elites on a route with some gravel sections; they felt a bit slippery there, but on the road, they’re fantastic.
The recovery is incredibly fast even after a full marathon, and the energy return is great. My only concern is the upcoming Elite 3—I’m worried it won't be as responsive as this version. If that’s the case, I might just switch to Puma for the full marathon distance as well.
bigasiannd
