Saucony Endorphin Azura vs Endorphin Speed 5

Endorphin Azura or Endorphin Speed 5? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.

The short answer

Want a snappy workout shoe without a plate? Get the Endorphin Azura.

Want a plated shoe for tempo days and race day? Get the Endorphin Speed 5.

Get the Endorphin Azura if

• You want the softer, more cushioned ride
• You want more foam underfoot (4mm more at the heel)
• You like a stiffer, rocker-style forefoot that rolls you forward

Get the Endorphin Speed 5 if

• You want a nylon plate for faster running
• You like a firmer, more stable feel
• You like a flexible, natural-feeling forefoot
• You need a wide width

On the run

Endorphin Azura: Fast and rockered, no plate. Firm but springy, with an aggressive rocker and lots of toe spring. It shines when you speed up. On slow days some runners find it harsh.

Endorphin Speed 5: The plated workout weapon. Firm-leaning and snappy, with a nylon plate and a rocker that roll you onto your toes. It comes alive at tempo and race pace and still handles a long run.

Specs side by side

Stack, drop and weight come from each brand’s own website. Numbers marked * aren’t published by the brand and come from other published specs. Weights are for the size each brand quotes. Expected life is our estimate.

Fit

Endorphin Azura. True to size with a slightly wide forefoot, though a few runners needed a half size up. No wide width.

Endorphin Speed 5. Runs slightly short and narrower than the 4. If you’re between sizes, go up a half. The stiff heel counter can bother sensitive heels.

Try them on

Come try on both at The Run House in Walpole, Needham or Falmouth. Gait analysis is always free.

Shop the Endorphin Azura · Shop the Endorphin Speed 5 · Compare other running shoes