
Saucony's Endorphin series, which debuted in 2020, is a trio of versatile road shoes designed primarily for high-performance running. The series has already made a name for itself among runners, despite being a recent entry. But hey, we are not talking about Speed 3 here (watch out for our review soon), and not about Pro 3 either. The latter from the Endorphin series was Saucony’s super shoe until recently. A fourth sibling, the Endorphin Elite, was released which now takes the crown as the flagship. Also, let’s not forget the trail-running sibling, the Edge. 

This review is of the Endorphin Shift, the first shoe in the series. The name "Shift" seems to be aptly chosen as it reflects the shift from the daily trainer series to the performance-related series. Right out of the box, the Shift 3 is a maximalist shoe. It looks imposing and reminds me of the Hoka Clifton series. It packs the PWRRUN foam in the midsole, paired with Saucony’s Speed Roll technology. Despite its high stack, the Shift 3 maintains a low 4mm offset, making it a versatile option. The Shift is conceptually a daily trainer, but in my experience, it never hesitated to pick up the pace when demanded. 

Disclosure: This pair of Saucony Shift 3 was sent to us by Saucony India for review purposes. Please rest assured that this is a neutral review. This is neither a sponsored post nor does Saucony India have any say in this review.

<ShoeCard shoeCode="006002003M"></ShoeCard>

##### What makes up Saucony Endorphin Shift 3?

This is a maximal shoe, as I mentioned earlier. Shift 3 looks huge and one would expect it to be on the heavier side. The Shift 3 has a stack height of 39mm in the heel, pretty close to breaking the World Athletics legal limit of 40mm for road racers, but we are living in times where brands are not reluctant to push even higher (Hello Asics Superblast!).  Shift has 35mm height in the forefoot, resulting in an offset of 4mm, making it most suited to forefoot and midfoot runners.  But the heel bevel helps heel strikers too. Despite the stack height, Shift 3 is surprisingly light for the stack, weighing 266 grams for UK 8.  It is much lighter compared to its previous editions, and it also matches up to the other high-stacked daily trainers in the competition. 

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Priced at ₹13,990, the Shift 3 looks expensive, especially when a lot of neutral daily trainers are priced below this mark, including the likes of Nike Pegasus 39, Brooks Ghost 15 and even Saucony’s own Ride 15. But what justifies Shift 3's price? The maximal nature, packed with a performance-oriented yet stable ride is its selling point and needless to say the shoe aces in it. Stability is one element where Shift 3 stands out from the competition, amidst all the foam underneath. The closest competition available in India is the Asics Glideride which is also priced at the same level.
 
**Midsole**

The Shift 3 midsole looks visually similar to its predecessor, but it boasts two significant changes. First, the stack height has been increased by 2mm on both the heel and forefoot, with measurements now at 39 mm and 3 5mm respectively. Second, despite the increased stack height, the midsole is now even lighter and softer than before. Like the previous two iterations, Shift 3 continues to pack PWRRUN foam underneath, which is made from TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) compound that is much bouncier than traditional EVA foam. 


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PWRRUN used in Shift 3 is tuned to be way softer, and the durometer score of 25 confirms the midsole softness. Another shoe from Saucony's stable, the Kinvara 13, measures 35 mm.  It is softer than most neutral trainers out there. The sock liner, which is thick and cushy (durometer score of 15), further adds to the shoe's overall comfort level. 

Rocker midsole geometry of Saucony Shift 3 uses the Speed Roll technology. This means that the forefoot is rockered to help the runner propel forward. The rigidity of the midsole packed with rocker makes it ideal for uptempo paces. The noticeable heel bevel aids in the heel-to-toe transition and also helps reduce impact on the knee. There’s a lot going on in the midsole and is not done yet. It adds some stability features, a more noticeable one being the TPU heel cup, which provides stability to the shoe by adding structure and support to the rearfoot.

**Upper**

The upper of this shoe features perforated engineered mesh that provides excellent breathability and ventilation to keep your feet cool and dry during intense workouts. The design of the upper is particularly well-structured around the toe area, which provides a comfortable fit and protects your toes from impact and friction. The asymmetrically shaped tongue is gusseted, which helps to hold your foot in place and prevent it from slipping around inside the shoe. Thankfully, the colour variant I have features standard flat laces. However, if you're considering the ViziPro variant, keep in mind that it features rounded laces which may not be to everyone’s liking.

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**Heel**

The heel counter in Shift 3 isn't as tall as it looks. Instead, it only runs until the pull tag and is cushioned material that hugs my heel comfortably. As someone with Haglund deformity, I appreciate that these shoes don't irritate my Achilles. However, I don't find the elastic pull tag to be very useful in my experience.
 
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**Outsole**

There’s nothing exciting on the outsole here. The design is largely unchanged from previous editions. XT-900 carbon rubber outsole material is used, as with many of its other shoes. The rubber runs thick along the edges of the midsole, with a thin strip in the middle, providing ample protection and durability. The rubber is also robust enough, on par with the durable rubber used in other popular trainers such as the Nike Pegasus. The midsole foam has a pattern underneath to offer some additional traction.

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##### Why should one consider this shoe?

If you're a runner looking for a shoe that offers comfort, versatility, and support, then the Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 is definitely worth considering. Not only is it an excellent example of the #OneShoeCanDoAll philosophy, but it's also an excellent choice for making long runs more enjoyable. As someone who loves to mix things up during my runs, whether it's with progressive pacing or throwing in some tempo paced efforts during the long run, I find that the Shift 3 is the perfect shoe for the job.

##### Ride In Shift 3

I received the Saucony Shift 3 about 6-7 weeks before my marathon debut at the Tata Mumbai Marathon, during a phase when I was looking to add some intensity to my endurance training. At the time, I was also testing out the Brooks Ghost 15 (review) and trying to determine if the Nike Zoomfly 4 was the right option for both training and racing. However, the Zoomfly tended to irritate my Achilles, so I replaced it with the Shift 3 for tempo runs and speed intervals thereafter. 

During my very first run in Shift 3, which included 800-meter repetitions, I was impressed by the shoe's performance. Putting it on feels initially strange when you suddenly feel unnaturally tall. However, the break-in period is quick, usually taking just 3-4 runs.

Since then, I have logged over 120 kilometres in Shift 3. These runs have primarily consisted of speed intervals, tempo workouts, and marathon-paced long runs. Following the marathon, I also used them for all my easy runs and long runs. Surprisingly, Shift 3 performed exceptionally well for all these workouts. The shoe overall feels stable and firm, and I’m not complaining. This rigidity helps when picking up tempo paces.  

The rocker geometry makes it easier to glide and stride. The rocker is subtle and not aggressive, which is just right for a daily trainer. The heel bevel makes sure the transition from heel to toe works really smoothly and also ensure the impact on the knee is minimal.

In almost all my runs, I found myself landing on my forefoot, likely due to the low drop. The easier runs felt soft, and I believe this is due to the sock liner playing a role. I also chose to wear them for my easy runs since I like to close them with strides, and Shift 3 does a great job of accommodating this.


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**Fit & Comfort**

The shoe fits true to size in my men's UK 7. Its wider counterpart is surprisingly not available in India which might be a deal-breaker for some. Putting on the shoe can be a bit of a challenge, and this hasn't changed even after several runs. Once on, the shoe feels snug, and I have not experienced any heel slippage despite the heel counter not being well-covered. While the fit in the heel and the toe box is just right, the forefoot is a bit tight, and I'm not complaining here, though this would be a personal preference. Such a snug fit gives me confidence while picking up some intense paces. A layer of gusseted tongue runs beneath the perforated design, and this provides a comfortable fit for the forefoot. During my long runs over the past few weeks in the onset of Mumbai's summers, I initially had concerns about the shoe's breathability. That surprisingly ain't the case even with the decent amount of padding that's present on the heel and the midfoot. 

**Stability**

The design of Shift 3 screams support. The shoe's TPU heel counter adds stability by helping to anchor the heel, reducing movement and providing support. The support is massively aided by sidewalls on both the medial and lateral sides. Makes an excellent choice for those with low foot arches and over-pronators looking for support. A well- structured lockdown from the heel to the toe makes sure your foot isn’t wobbling around. This is aided by a fully gussetted tongue. Cornering especially during uptempo paces feels really confident. 

Though the upper runs narrow in the regular width variant, the outsole is wider both in the heel and in the forefoot. This provides more support since it provides a broad base for the foot to land on. I’ll put Shift 3 in the neutral stable category, where the stability is taken care of without compromising its weight. 

**Durability & Road Grip** 

The Saucony Endorphin Shift 3's outsole uses the durable XT-900 rubber compound in the typical hotspots, similar to the approach taken in the Kinvara where only the heel area is covered with rubber. This limited coverage raises questions about the shoe's overall durability compared to other neutral trainers that have more extensive rubber coverage. The larger responsibility here shifts to the midsole, which is known to be durable and resilient. I would be willing to retire this one early and take a cautious approach after 600-odd kilometres. Offering traction is another area where the outsole struggles, which will make me avoid Shift and rather opt for the Nike Pegasus or the Brooks Ghost during my occasional off-roads or rainy days. 

**Aesthetics**

The Shift 3 is not the most exciting shoe out there, but it looks aesthetically pleasing and cleaner than its previous editions. Unfortunately, in India, only the Black and ViziPro colourways are available, which may be a deal-breaker for those looking for a clean white look. Personally, it is my favourite among the colorways.

##### Review Summary

<ReviewSummaryCard shoeCode="006002003M"></ReviewSummaryCard>

<ProsCard
  title="PROS"
  pros={[
    "Highly versatile daily trainer",
    "True to size fit",
    "It has best in class stability",
    "Upper is highly breathable",
    "Priced competitively in the category",
    "Lighter even with all the stack",
  ]}
/>

<ConsCard
  title="CONS"
  cons={[
    "Traction is not up to the mark",
    "Rocker design may not be for everyone", 
  ]}
/>

<InfoCard title="RECOMMENDATION">

Saucony’s Endorphin Shift 3 is a one-shoe-do-all kind of trainer. It's a training shoe that can handle various workouts. The shoe is pretty light, feels comfortable, runs stable, and performs well when one at faster paces. Even with all the stack underneath, the ride is very stable, especially during speed intervals and tempo workouts. If there’s one workout which this shoe aces, it will be the marathon-paced long run. Considering the upcoming summer, Shift 3 stands at a better place. The only area where the shoe struggles is the outsole durability and traction. To conclude, if I had to pick just one shoe for all my training, Shift 3 is my top choice. 

</InfoCard>

Saucony’s fast & high-stacked daily trainer with a stability bent

Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 Review


The Adidas Adizero line is known for speed and designed for elite endurance athletes. Some of the well known shoes in the Adizero line are, [Adios Pro](https://shoegeeks.in/review/adidas-adizeroadiospro3-001013003/) which is the premium racer, Takumi Sen which is racer for shorter distances, and the popular daily trainer [Boston](https://shoegeeks.in/review/adidas-adizeroboston10-001009010/).

Adizero SL is the newest addition to this iconic line. Adidas has launched Adizero SL in India simultaneously with the global launch. The first edition of Adizero SL is positioned as an entry-level shoe with premium build. SL suffix stands for "Super Light". It aims to be a daily trainer with a bent towards speed training. 

_So how does it work as a daily trainer cum speed trainer?_

_Does it live-up to what one expect from Adizero?_

_So how does it compare to similar shoes from other brands such as [Asics Novablast 3](https://shoegeeks.in/shoe/asics-novablast3-004006003/), [Pume Deviate Nitro 2](https://shoegeeks.in/review/puma-deviatenitro2-005001002/), [Saucony Endorphin Speed 3](https://shoegeeks.in/shoe/saucony-endorphinspeed3-006012003/), and Nike Zoom Fly 5?  Btw, All of these are priced higher than Adizero SL, but often are on sale at a price cheaper or same as Adizero SL price.?_ 

Read on.

<ShoeCard shoeCode="001014001M"></ShoeCard>

##### What makes up Adizero SL?

The Adizero SL has a traditional design (not a rocker with a high toe-drop or no extended heel bevel). The shoe has a stack height of 35mm, which is on the upper end of the spectrum, but inline with most premium daily trainers. Despite the suffix SL (Super Light), it weighs 244 grams for size UK 8, which is on the lower end, but not exactly the lightest. Here is a comparative view of popular daily trainers and their weights. 

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**Midsole**

The midsole features Lightstrike Pro foam embedded within a Lightstrike (EVA) cage.  This is similar to Nike ZoomFly 5’s construction, where the ZoomX foam is inside the React carrier.  Decathlon’s Kiprun KD 500 2 also has a similar construction.  So the goal is to have the best of the both worlds, the bounce of Lightstrike Pro foam and a durable Lightstrike foam. 

The shoe has a heel-to-toe drop of 10mm, so is best suited mid-foot and heel strikers. Based on the information available, the Lightstrike Pro foam is placed under the forefoot, which probably benefits forefoot/midfoot strikers better. That is the confusing part of the shoe design.  So what type of foot strike is it targeted for?   

**Upper**

The upper is a engineered mesh with good breathability features.  It is well built and feels very durable.  It is padded decently for comfort. 

**Heel**

The heel is wider than the other shoes in the Adizero Line such as Takumi Sen, but is a bit narrow when compared to the majority of daily trainers.  The heel is well-padded and offers excellent support. 

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**Bottomsole**

The bottom sole resembles the one we find in Boston 10 and Boston 11.  But surprisingly it is not made of Continental rubber. That said, it looks and feels the same in terms of quality. A cut-out in the bottom sole, gives a peek into the LightStrike Pro foam layer.

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##### Why did I buy it?

I was intrigued about the Adizero SL when it was announced during the [Annual Running Event](https://www.therunningevent.com/) in December 2022.  Having run in other shoes in the Adizero line such as Adios Pro and Takumi Sen, I liked the idea of an affordable entry level Adizero shoe. Kudos to Adidas for launching the shoe in India simultaneously with global launch. However, the price of Rs. 11,999 was a disappointment, and is not exactly affordable.  

##### Ride Experience 

I have run about 100 kilometers so far.  I am currently in the first half of my marathon training block, and I have used the shoes for a variety of runs, including long runs (up to half-marathon distance), tempo runs, easy runs, and strides. First thing I noticed about the shoe is the snug fit it offers. There is no break-in. The shoe feels good on the feet, snug and nimble, and wants you to move fast.  

Speed and Tempo runs was my primary reason for buying the shoe. The shoe has a decent bounce. The lighter weight does help for the tempo runs.  However, the ride is not as fun when compared to other speed focused daily trainers such as Deviate Nitro / Endorphin Speed. Is it that lack of plate in Adizero SL?

For easy runs, the shoe works very well.  It feels comfortable and doesn’t come in your way.  

The shoe is not as comfortable for long runs. I have ran two runs that are longer than half-marathon distance in this shoe. The firmness in cushioning is very evident after about 15kms. So this shoe is definitely not my first choice for long runs, and I wouldn’t recommend it, especially if you are not very efficient with your stride.     

The Lightstrike foam is placed under the forefoot, works best if you are a forefoot striker.  I am not a forefoot striker, rather a midfoot striker and shift towards heel strike as I go longer. This probably the reason I couldn’t get the LightStrike foam advantage. I have had better experience with dual layer designs in Deviate Nitro (softer foam above the harder foam).

<InfoCard title="Run Mechanics" size="S" color="#EDDBC7">
<small>
As runners, the time between training cycles is the best time to reflect on the achievements of the past season and manifest our goals for the coming season. This is also the best time to work on strength, stability, and mobility. A visit to RunMechanics by GeeksOnFeet can help you with identifying kinks in your running form, building awareness of your running gait, and the issues in strength, stability & mobility which may be hindering your running.
</small> 
<br/> 
<br/> 
<small>
RunMechanics offers the most comprehensive running form analysis with recommendations. Over 150 runners have taken our services, including beginners to the sub-3 marathoners.

You can visit <a href='https://runmechanics.in/'>our website </a> to book an appointment for in-studio analysis or share videos of your running for online analysis. 
</small>
</InfoCard>

**Fit and Comfort**

The shoe is a bit smaller for standard size UK 10. There is not much room in the toe-box when compared to other Adizero shoes that I ran in. I feel my big toe is crushed. If you prefer more room in the toe-box, this is not the shoe to go with. Forefoot is wide enough and is accommodating. 

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Engineered mesh upper, doesn’t match those of the rest of the Adizero line. While it is comfortable and breathable, it does feel a bit warm, and I wouldn’t prefer to use it on hotter days. 

The tongue is not gusseted, but given how snug the shoe fits, it doesn’t move around much. The tongue is also very well padded and adds to the comfort. The padding in the heel locks the foot very well, and I have no complaints here.

**Stability** 

The shoe is a neutral trainer, and feels stable during the runs.  When compared to racers in the Adizero Line such as Takumi Sen and Adios Pro, Adizero SL has the best stability.

**Road Grip**

The grip is decent on tarred roads, and have no problems finding the grip on corners. That said, I did have some trouble in finding the grip on roads with construction debris and sand, which is quite common in Bangalore. 

**Aesthetics & Ergonomics**

I got my Adizero shoes in an all black colorway, and I love the way they look. The shoes can easily be dressed up as casual sneakers, making them perfect for everyday wear. I use them as my travel companion, wearing them to work while on the go, while doubling up as my running shoes. Although the all-black design tends to attract dust quickly, cleaning it is not too hard. 

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##### Review Summary

<ReviewSummaryCard shoeCode="001014001M"></ReviewSummaryCard>

<ProsCard
  title="PROS"
  pros={[
    "A daily trainer which can be used for faster running",
    "Feels comfortable and premium",
    "If you like snug and a firmer ride, this shoe offers one",
    "Light weight daily trainer"
  ]}
/>

<ConsCard
  title="CONS"
  cons={[
    "Though it is most affordable in the Adizero line of shoes, it is not cheap when compared to equivalent daily trainers", 
    "Tighter when compared to other shoes",
    "Lightstrike Pro in Lightstrike foam, didn't have the intended effect",
    "Though the shoe is called SL, but it is not super light"
  ]}
/>

<InfoCard title="RECOMMENDATION">
As a daily trainer with a focus on speed training, the Adizero shoe offers a premium feel, similar to other Adizero shoes. Its firmness and lighter weight make it a great companion for Adizero Boston for fast-paced workouts. If you're in the market for an affordable shoe in the Adizero line, this is the one to consider. However, if you're looking for better value for your money, there are plenty of other options available. With the frequent sales in the Indian market, you could find a better shoe at a price more affordable than Adizero SL.
</InfoCard>


Reviews

Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 Review

Adidas Adizero SL