Flow state for 42KTesting the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2

In episode 6 of Race Lab, we team up with running expert Eren Demirel to see how this shoe keeps you locked in from start to finish.

18 September 2025 · 2 min read

Training for a half or full marathon? Finding the right shoes to carry you to the finish line isn’t easy. With countless models on the market, the choice can feel overwhelming. Plenty of shoes promise top-tier performance — but when you’re running this kind of distance, every detail counts.

For runners chasing distance, the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 steps up. The brand’s most aggressive race-day runner, it delivers speed, cushioning and energy return. At just 199 g, it’s lightweight, athlete-tested and visually bold. In episode 6 of Race Lab, we’re testing if it can really go the distance.

Helping us put it through its paces is running expert Eren Demirel. No stranger to marathon mileage, Eren knows what he’s after: “I look for cushioning that can handle the distance without feeling heavy, and a responsive midsole that keeps me moving efficiently.”

So, is the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 the running shoe he’s been searching for?

The testing stations

Eren’s putting the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 through four custom-built testing stations to see if the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 really lives up to its marathon promise. He’ll be looking at cushioning, traction, responsiveness, and stability. Ready? Let’s go!

Bounce back

This is an extremely comfortable shoe. The midsole is made from IncrediRUN foam — marshmallow-soft and built for bounce, with high shock absorption and strong energy return. It’s paired with Saucony’s rocker-shaped geometry, known as SpeedRoll, which helps drive you forward with each stride. If plush cushioning that makes running feel (almost) effortless is what you’re after, this one’s hard to beat.

Ground control

The Endorphin Elite 2 delivers serious traction with PwrTrac rubber placed across the forefoot and heel, targeting high-wear zones. It’s thin, lightweight, durable — and, most importantly, sticky.

Power forward

When it comes to energy return, the Endorphin Elite 2 is the real deal. A full-length carbon plate sits between two layers of IncrediRUN foam, transforming the soft, springy material into a propulsive platform. It basically acts like a lever — further enhanced by the SpeedRoll rocker geometry — and launches you further as you run.

Steady strides

On long runs, a distraction-free, stable ride is essential — and the Endorphin Elite 2 delivers. Its unique toe shape is designed for natural movement, paired with a 3D-moulded heel counter that locks in security at the back.

White athletic shoes with yellow accents, worn with white crew socks, paired with a blue sleeveless shirt and black shorts.

Across the finish line

“They felt incredibly comfortable,” Eren says in his final verdict on the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2. “Even over longer distances, they stayed light and supportive. I didn’t need any break-in time, which is rare for a performance shoe.” Would he recommend them as a high-performance race-day runner? “Yes — especially if you want a comfortable, responsive shoe that can handle the challenge without weighing you down.”

From training to race day, the line-up is endless — but which pairs are really worth your stride? Stay tuned for the next episode of Race Lab, so your collection stays up to date with the best of the best running shoes.