Do the Hyperion Max 4 and Endorphin Speed 4 have plates?

Yes. The Hyperion Max 4 uses Brooks' nylon SpeedVault plate, while the Endorphin Speed 4 uses a winged nylon plate. Neither uses the full carbon construction typical of dedicated racers.

Which shoe is lighter?

The Endorphin Speed 4 is substantially lighter in the current catalog: 8.2oz for men and 7.2oz for women, versus 10.1oz and 9.1oz for the Hyperion Max 4.

Which is better for long runs?

The Hyperion Max 4 offers more stack and a controlled roll; the Endorphin Speed 4 is much lighter and more agile. The better choice depends on whether protection or low mass matters more.

Brooks Hyperion vs Saucony Endorphin Speed: Super-Trainer Showdown

Compare the Brooks Hyperion Max 4 and Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 on plates, weight, cushioning, fit, workouts, long runs, and value.

The generic Hyperion-versus-Endorphin question now means a very different matchup than it did a few seasons ago. The current Hyperion Max 4 has become a towering plated trainer, while the Endorphin Speed 4 remains a relatively light nylon-plated all-rounder.

Quick Verdict

Choose the Brooks Hyperion Max 4 if you want substantial cushioning, a firm rolling transition, and a more controlled feel for workouts or long runs. Its 45/39mm platform is protective, but the 10.1oz men's catalog weight makes “Max” the operative word.

Choose the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 if you prioritize low weight, bounce, and broad workout-to-race versatility. Its PWRRUN PB foam and winged nylon plate deliver a more flexible plated experience at a lower catalog price.

Current Comparison Table

Specification	Brooks Hyperion Max 4	Saucony Endorphin Speed 4
Primary use	Speed / long runs	Speed / daily training
Support	Neutral	Neutral
Cushion level	Maximum	Moderate
Plate	Nylon SpeedVault	Winged nylon
Heel-to-toe drop	6mm	8mm
Stack height	45mm heel / 39mm forefoot	36mm heel / 28mm forefoot
Weight (men/women)	10.1oz / 9.1oz	8.2oz / 7.2oz
Widths	Standard	Standard
Catalog MSRP	MSRP: $200	MSRP: $170
Surface	Road	Road

Key Differences

The biggest difference is mass. The men's Endorphin is 1.9oz lighter, and the women's is also 1.9oz lighter. The Brooks counters with 9mm more heel stack, 11mm more forefoot stack, and a lower 6mm drop.

Their constructions also behave differently. Brooks combines DNA GOLD and DNA FLASH v2 foams with a nylon SpeedVault plate and RapidRoll geometry. Independent testing found a balanced, protected platform, but also found it heavy, warm, and less lively than its speed-oriented name suggests. Saucony's PWRRUN PB and winged nylon plate produce a bouncier, more flexible sensation; RunRepeat found it versatile and more stable than its predecessor, though somewhat firm for some runners.

Fit and Sizing

The Hyperion Max 4 is cataloged only in standard width. Independent lab measurements found a relatively narrow interior, while the upper also tested warm. Runners with broad feet or high ventilation needs should try it before committing.

The Endorphin Speed 4 is recorded in standard width. Independent testing found more room than in version 3, but that does not establish a separate wide model. Start true to size in both, then judge toe clearance, heel hold, and plate comfort at a brisk pace.

Ride and Intended Use

The Brooks is best understood as a high-stack long-workout shoe. Its plate and rocker create structure, while the deep platform provides abundant underfoot material. It can handle tempo work, but runners expecting an ultralight racing feel may be surprised.

The Saucony is easier to assign across intervals, tempos, progression runs, and occasional races. Its lower weight matters when turnover rises. For more workout-oriented choices, see our best 5K racing shoes; for protected training, see best long-run shoes.

Who Should Choose the Hyperion Max 4

Runners who want maximum stack in a nylon-plated workout shoe.
Those who prefer a firm, structured roll over a flexible bounce.
Long-run workouts where protection matters more than low weight.
Brooks loyalists seeking a plated step beyond a conventional daily trainer.

Who Should Choose the Endorphin Speed 4

Runners who want the much lighter option.
Athletes using one shoe for intervals, tempos, and occasional racing.
Shoppers who need a wide option or prefer an 8mm drop.
Anyone comparing non-carbon alternatives before visiting our best carbon-plate racers.

Tradeoffs

The Hyperion provides more stack and a distinct rolling chassis, but it costs MSRP: $30 more and carries much more weight. The Endorphin is lighter and more agile, yet its firmer plated feel is not ideal for every easy day. Neither should be chosen on the assumption that a plate automatically improves every runner's economy or comfort.

For dedicated carbon-race options, browse our best half-marathon shoes. For conventional Brooks mileage shoes, see Brooks Ghost vs Brooks Glycerin.

Final Takeaway

The Endorphin Speed 4 is the more versatile and agile choice for most runners shopping this category. The Hyperion Max 4 makes a narrower but defensible case for runners who want maximum-stack protection and a controlled nylon-plated roll.

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