Carbon duel: Saucony Endorphin PRO 2 vs. Asics Metaracer

Shoes for speed and new personal bests! The development of high-end competition shoes is no longer just about reducing weight! Instead, the carbon sole technology makes the hearts of runners (and triathletes anyway - there's carbon in it!) beat faster. The core feature of these models is an unprecedented energy recovery with every step, which consistently catapults the runner forward and thus achieves previously unsurpassed running dynamics with less effort.

That's why today we're also talking about the new competition models from Saucony and Asics, who are presenting their current carbon shoes with the Endorphin Pro 2 and Metaracer models.

similarities

Both the Endorphin PRO 2 and the Metaracer feature a curved sole design with a carbon plate in the midsole. As a result, as much energy as possible is invested back into the forward movement on impact. High speeds can be maintained with less effort and the pace feels more comfortable!

Purpose: Both shoes are specially developed competition models! It's about maximum speed development, about best performance on the day of the competition. The technology enables the shoes to develop their full potential, especially at high speeds, ie the faster you run, the greater the effect. These models are not suitable for relaxed after-work laps or comfortable basic runs.

Walking behavior: Endorphin PRO 2 and Metaracer are designed as neutral shoes and, thanks to their construction, primarily promote the attachment of the middle and forefoot. This supports the forward "rebound effect". So for heel/rearfoot runners, the shoes definitely mean a change. In both models, the ground contact initially feels unusually "soft" during the first steps, but with increased speed and shorter ground contact times, the foot attachment becomes more and more reactive, and the runner system experiences greater acceleration.

In detail: Saucony Endorphin PRO 2

The focus is on the so-called SPEEDROLL technology, the combination of the S-shaped carbon plate in the midsole and the PWRRUN cushioning technology. This special connection ensures both moderate damping properties and further strengthens the forward momentum of the carbon plate.

Compared to the predecessor Endorphin PRO, the fit and wearing comfort have been revised. Heel support and upper have been improved and the lacing updated to help you reach the new best time comfortably and without distraction.

Technical specifications

Drop: 8 mm (35.5 mm / 27.5 mm)

Weight: Men 213g, Women 179g

Pronation: Neutral (no support or foot position correction)

Colors:

In detail: Asics Metaracer

The Metaracer also comes packed with its own technology! The heart of the propulsion is the curved "Guidesole" construction in connection with the carbon plate, which primarily unfolds its effect in the forefoot area of ​​the shoe. This Guidesole technology includes different layers of damping material, which initially have damping and then accelerating properties (Flytefoam Propel) in the rolling behavior.

The thin mesh upper material enables very good air circulation and also has drainage openings to drain off any water that may get into the shoe.

Technical specifications

Drop: 9 mm

Weight: 190g

Pronation: Neutral (no support or foot position correction)

Colors:

Conclusion

High-speed carbon shoes with marginal differences in performance. Both impressively keep their promise of performance through permanent forward drive. When it comes to weight and ventilation, the Metaracer has a slight advantage, when it comes to running dynamics, the Endorphin PRO 2 feels a touch ahead.