At BlackToe Running, we know that when it comes to race-day shoes, every detail matters. The right combination of speed, cushioning, and fit can make the difference between hitting a PB and struggling through the final kilometres (ugh!). Enter the new Saucony Endorphin Elite 2—a performance shoe designed to take runners to the next level with exciting new updates that build on the success of version 1.
If you were a fan of the Saucony Endorphin Elite (V1), you’ll love what Saucony has done with this next iteration. While the first version was known for its aggressive rocker shape and forward propulsion, V2 brings a softer, bouncier feel without losing its race-day edge. The new IncrediRUN foam replaces the PWRRUN HG cushioning, giving the shoe a more energetic bounce while maintaining the lightweight feel. Combine that with an updated full-length slotted carbon fibre plate, a more breathable knit and mesh upper, and a sole designed for better traction on wet surfaces, and you have one of the fastest and most comfortable super shoes on the market.
But don’t just take our word for it—here’s what some of our community’s (and Canada’s!) top runners had to say after putting the Endorphin Elite 2 through its paces during the 2025 Chilly Half Marathon, where these women set a new course record and secured 2 shining new PB's.
The first thing our testers noticed when slipping into the Endorphin Elite 2 was the incredible fit—secure, breathable, and comfortable from the first step.
"The heel feels super locked in," said elite marathoner, Rachel Hannah. "Version 2, the upper is softer. It just feels so comfortable and fits really well."
Kathleen Lawrence described the shoe as feeling "like a sock—super easy to get on, and the foam felt really cushy even before I started running. The toe box is roomy enough but not too big, and once I laced up, I felt completely locked in."
Lisa Sanders echoed this sentiment: "It’s a very light shoe and super form-fitting. In Version 1, I had trouble with my heel staying in place, but this version just hugs my foot better and feels much more secure."
The verdict: The Endorphin Elite 2 hugs and supports the foot in all the right places, allowing freedom of movement while keeping you locked in place. (Note that many runners have been more comfortable going up a half-size from what they typically wear in this shoe.)
The Endorphin Elite 2 maintains the high-performance DNA of its predecessor while introducing a softer, bouncier feel. While V1 was praised for its aggressive forward roll, V2 feels more adaptable, with a firmer response at higher speeds.
"I wore Version 1 for multiple marathons, and it really helped rock me forward," said Rachel Hannah. "Version 2 feels softer and bouncier instead of having that strong rocker effect. At first, my strides felt soft, but as I started running harder, the shoe became firmer and more responsive. By the end of the race, when I was fatigued, it actually felt like it was giving me even more pop to keep surging."
Kathleen Lawrence was blown away by how effortless running felt in the Endorphin Elite 2, saying: "It felt like I was running on little trampolines—except instead of only feeling it in the forefoot, the bounce was there throughout the entire foot. It was like the shoe was doing half the work for me. I was running much faster than I expected, but it felt so easy and sustainable."
Lisa Sanders was surprised by how fresh her legs felt post-race, calling it a “muscle-saving shoe.” "I expected to pace with the 1:25 group, but I was easily hitting 4:00/km without even warming up. I kept checking my watch because I couldn’t believe how easy it felt. My legs weren’t the limiting factor—it was my lungs that got tired first. Even after the race, I felt great and ran an extra 10K, which I never do!"
The verdict: For runners looking to hold fast paces for longer durations, the Endorphin Elite 2 delivers a perfect blend of cushioning and responsiveness.
While some super shoes blur the line between training and racing (and we love to retire our racing shoes into our training rotation!), the Endorphin Elite 2 certainly stands out as a race-day shoe among our testers and other members of the community who have taken it for a spin.
"It’s definitely my favourite shoe I’ve ever worn," said Rachel Hannah. "I’ll probably reserve it for races, but I might start training in it too because it just feels so fast."
Kathleen Lawrence agreed: "I think it’ll be my go-to for a half-marathon and a 10K. I don’t race 5Ks often, but I’d wear it for that too. It just makes running fast feel easy, and I’m considering testing it out at Around the Bay as a marathon option."
Lisa Sanders has already chosen it as her Glass City Marathon shoe: "I’m so happy I wore them for the Chilly Half. They felt great straight out of the box, and I don’t feel like I need to break them in much before my next race."
The verdict: If you’re looking for a fast, responsive, and incredibly fun racing shoe, the Endorphin Elite 2 is an easy pick.
If you’re wondering what’s new after nearly two years of research and development, here are a few of the major changes between the OG Endorphin Elite and the latest iteration:
✓ IncrediRUN Foam: More bounce and softness compared to the firmer PWRRUN HG in V1, but still highly responsive at top speeds.
✓ Refined Carbon Plate Design: The full-length slotted carbon fibre plate provides a smoother transition while maintaining explosive propulsion.
✓ Better Upper Fit: More breathable and flexible, supportive “locked in” feeling from heel to toe, out-of-the-box comfort.
✓ Improved Traction: The updated outsole pattern gives a better grip on wet roads, offering more stability in various race conditions.
The Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 takes everything great about the original and makes it even better. It’s lighter, softer, bouncier, and more comfortable, all while maintaining elite-level race-day performance.
Rachel Hannah sums it up: "It's SUPER comfortable. It's SUPER fast. It's literally the fastest performance shoe I’ve ever run in. Definitely performed even better than expected. Love!"
If you're ready to crush your next PR, the Endorphin Elite 2 is the shoe to get you there. Get yours in-store or online at BlackToe Running, Toronto’s favourite run specialty store!
