Verdict from 69 user reviews

5 reasons to buy

  • According to many reviewers, the Endorphin MD4 is very comfortable. 
  • It is very light, hailed several purchasers.
  • The track running shoe has a secure fit, remarked a few users. 
  • A number of runners state that it improves speed.
  • Many testers are appreciative of its ample cushioning.

2 reasons not to buy

  • One buyer has expressed that the Saucony Endorphin MD4 has very little arch support. 
  • It is too tight that it constricts foot movements, commented a few customers.

Bottom line

A premier middle-distance spike from Saucony, the Endorphin MD4 is claimed to be among the lightest middle-range running spikes in the market. With this iteration, the design principle focuses on keeping the weight down as much as possible. This has been achieved by Saucony without sacrificing the superb function of the track and field running shoe. Its componentry boasts support and an unmatched grip.

Tip: see the best tracking shoes.

Good to know

Use -As suggested by the name, the composition of the Saucony MD4 allows it to yield maximum performance in mid-distance races. These track and field running meets can range from 800 meters to 5000 meters.

Spike Type - Just like most track running spikes, this track shoe is supplied with pyramid spikes. This type of spike pin is best suited for rubber tracks. These measure ¼ inch in length for lightweight, aggressive grip. 

Spike Plate - Equipped with a 6-pin Pebax® plate, the middle-distance spike is engineered for featherlight, superior traction. This spike plate is also responsible for accommodating the removable spike pins of the running spike.

With the Endorphin MD4, it has been Saucony's mission to introduce a much lighter version of the running shoe's predecessor. Although still carrying over some components from the previous model, the track running spike still sports some refinements. 

One of the enhancements made to the mid-range running shoe is its trimmed-down upper construction. It consists of ultra-light mesh, permitting breathable, lockdown security. 

To further the reduction of weight, midfoot and heel flex film overlays are thinned down. However, these are still fashioned to deliver the same amount of structural integrity and support. 

The trimming down of excess weight doesn't stop at embellishing thin, ultra-light overlays. The heel counter of the Endorphin MD 4 is also engineered to employ a lesser weight compared to the series' previous model.

The Saucony Endorphin MD4 is available in standard sizing scheme. It runs in both men's and women's sizes. Thus, users can purchase a pair using their usual size preference. However, it is advised that before making a purchase, one should consider the feedback of other customers or try on the fit of the shoe first. 

Several factors are affecting the fit of the fourth iteration of the Saucony Endorphin MD series. First, there's the mesh upper of the middle-distance spike. It conforms to the natural pattern of the foot for a secure fit. Both the flex film midfoot and the heel overlays bonded to the upper are targeted for support and reinforcement. Lastly, a traditional lace-up closure permits a dialed-in fit.

Just like most track and field shoes, the Saucony Endorphin MD4 consists of a Pebax® plate. It has a 6-pin configuration, housing the removable pyramid pins of the middle-distance running shoe for versatile grip. 

The spike plate is made out of thermoplastic elastomer. Its low-density quality allows for a whisper-light composition. The plate has a good ratio between rigidity and weight, addressing both propulsion and lightweight makeup. 

The engineering of the plate allows it to give cushioning to the foot. Thus, it is not entirely stiff but keeps a fair amount of softness. This quality from the spike plate allows it to generate shock-mitigating properties. 

Lastly, the Pebax® spike plate is a component that's also present in the Nike Zoom Victory Elite 2 and the Nike Zoom Matumbo 3.

Embedded on the midsole of the Saucony Endorphin MD4 is a thin foam made out of SSL EVA. It is a proprietary midsole innovation from Saucony. 

Although keeping a slim frame, the SSL EVA foam supplies a sufficient amount of cushioning to the foot. It also heightens the rebounding properties of the shoe. Because of these qualities, it is dubbed as a premium midsole material from Saucony. 

The same midsole element is featured in the well-known Saucony track and field shoes, such as the Saucony Ballista and the Saucony Endorphin 2.

Complementing the featherlight fashion of the fourth version of the Endorphin MD lineup is its mesh upper. Aside from being very light, this upper material flaunts breathability. It employs a number of perforations that let in the air into the foot chamber. 

Breathable characteristics are essential from a running spike. It helps promote a healthy foot environment by wicking away moisture. Through this, the growth of bacteria within the platform is prevented. This gives the wearer an odor-free track running spike. 

The mesh also enables foot conformity. Thus, providing a secure and lockdown fit. This is accompanied by the flex film overlays that are embellished to the upper. These overlays enhance the structural integrity of the track shoe. Moreover, these overlays are found in the medial side and the rear area of the running spike, keeping the foot in place. With such design, the unwanted removal of the running shoe is prevented— may it be in training or competition. 

For a dialed-in fit, a traditional lace-up fastening system is implemented on the upper. This allows the athlete to have an adjustable lockdown.