Try leaving the bottom 1 or 2 rows of laces completely loose to allow the toe box to expand, only tighten the upper lace loops. Sometimes re-lacing the shoes and skipping the bottom row of lace loops also helps me when I’ve had toe rubbing.
Taking a shoe that you don't trust to a marathon is a BAD idea. 10k/Half sure, you can deal with it. But the marathon will make every minor problem magnified.
Sounds like NOT a fun ride when it is that uncomfortable.. that’s why I love the pro 3 so much. Fast and comfortable. Would love to pick up 50 pairs for the rest of my life 😁
same, love the EP3....I have 2 pairs that I run in right now, and a brand new pair in the closet...paid right at $200 for all 3, and only one pair was lightly used, other two were brand new. I also use the EP2 as well for shorter daily runs and track sessions.
probably try putting a plaster on your toe? I did that when wearing my novablast 4. Makes the shoe a bit snug in that area, but at least it prevent blisters.
At a guess, and it is a guess. Using a shoe tree to expand the areas correctly, soaking the area in boiling water to soften them, putting a plaster inside the shoe over the area to soften them…. Maybe these are worth a go, maybe not. It’ll be interesting to see if you manage to rectify them and if so, what works
I’ve had shoes that felt perfect like that except for one little hotspot that would only occasionally pop up. I hate that it sticks in your head. 😞 BUT…sometimes, if I’m able to make that shoe work with the proper application of body glide or a pre-applied band-aid or something in the usual hotspot, it takes care of the problem for me. So, it can be annoying to think of a “perfect” shoe that requires that extra level of prep (aka not perfect 🤷♂️), but it means you can use it. 👍
I'm currently testing this shoe, and even my tester has the same issue w/ the pinky toe area! I really hope they adjust this, its not a deal breaker for me, but the pinky thing needs fixing. I think I would still run in the shoe. Its just so good. Just did a half in them and it carried the team.
You sound like me with the Adios Pro 3. I finally gave up on it after making all kinds of adjustments to the shoes and blister tape. Maybe with this one though, go half size up to reduce the issue?
I totally get your struggle with the Adios Pro 3! Sometimes finding the perfect fit can feel like a full-time job. Going half a size up might just be the trick to keep those blisters at bay!
I have and had 4 Saucony shoes in total, never a blister in a 10k run, half marathon, marathon, only on ultras with a trail shoe. I do get blisters in my NB 960 if I go plus 10k with them. So blisters at such a short distance is really a no-no.
I was so gutted to put on the AlfaFly 3’s and instantly I knew they would tear the sole of my foot. Really can’t wait to try the elite 2 (I’ll just tape my little toes 🤣
Had the same toe issue with the Endorphin Pro 4 on the little toe, soaked in hot water and it softened the “hot” spot. Solved it, worth a try just boiling the kettle :)
I think you should do a marathon in them For anyone reading this, I want you to know that his review of the shoe is spot on. I also own a pair. I was one of the lucky few. The shoe is exceptionally bouncy and even softer. I think you can do it with the right socks, and maybe mole skin can help my only issue with the shoe is that it's very unstable if just standing or walking around but while moving shoe is great i did a 6:32 min mile on track with this pair of shoes and I'm 6’1 240lbs great shoe i actually put them down due to my concern of stability in the heel area taking corners
Thanks for sharing your experience! It sounds like you really know your stuff when it comes to these shoes. Stability is definitely key, but it’s awesome to hear how well they perform when you're on the move!
Given the toe rubbing issue, I would return the shoes. Failing that, I would write to Saucony Customer Service asking for a refund due to an apparent design flaw. Here in the USA, Saucony has graciously accommodated the few such requests I have made in the past. I certainly wouldn't recommend suffering through a marathon with this issue. Good luck!
I had the exact same issue with the adidas SL2. I love the feel but get a blister in the same toe every time. I definitely wouldn’t risk it on a marathon. Would going a half size up help? I have wide hobbit feet so struggle with the super shoes
I've had multiple plated racing shoes. Vaporfly 2 is still my favourite one. I'd never race a marathon in it and would even hasitate to do a half. It just rubs my achilles in such a way.
I had the same problem with the Hoka Rocket X. I still wear the shoes but I have to put plasters on my little toes (left foot) it is a pain having to do this but it does prevent blisters and if it's such a good shoe and I think it might be worth it! I'll still probably buy them.
Brother help me, im torn between endorphon pro 4 vs cielo x1? Which one should i get? I run in very hilly area and will do my first marathon next month. Im not a fast runner
If a shoe is bit comfortable - I don’t keep it. Returned the endorphin speed 4 because the laces were digging in my upper foot and the pain was unbearable. Returned the Superblast 2 because running in it caused me shin pains. So for me - if a shoe causes any sort of pain - it’s going back to where it came from 😂
@ These two shoes were really painful, way beyond uncomfortable. After running in them had to take 1-2 days break. But I must admit my feet are really narrow and bony and very sensitive.
The elastic laces that come with the Speed 4 are horrible. Can't get a proper lockdown, and if you do like you said they dig into your foot. Replaced the laces and it was the good old Speed again.
I find adidas shoes always rub first few runs before bedding in and the issue is gone. Pro 3 eyelet is a common one. Try stretching out and moving material in a wave motion to see if it gives a bit. A small amount could be the difference.
Thanks for sharing your experience! It's great to know that the rubbing issue fades after a few runs. Stretching the material sounds like a smart move!
If u love them so much maybe it might be worth sizing up half a size, I mean it might bring other problems but might be worth ago ……. I wear NW SC and I can wear size 5 and 5.5 …… the 5 gives me slight hotspots on the inside of my foot and the 5.5 just feels abit lose but hey I’m VERY FUSY !
Hype campaigns are a huge turn off, stopped investing in companies that do this kind of thing. Saucony especially, I believe, screwed themselves with this “hype drop” it’s about a whole year before the shoes actual release and we have moved on, I forget this shoe exists most of the time which means the marketing strategy has failed.
I tried using a shoe stretcher for my Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 and it didn’t work well at all 😢 The material will stretch but it goes back to it’s original shape very quickly
Chiropody felt - cut a square and then a smaller square out from that so it looks like a frame, guaranteed to take all the pressure from your toes and over time will stretch the shoe a tiny bit to remove the problem... I had bursitis in my heal a few years back and the felt and framing technique was a life saver
@@13lars The felt is sold in strips, cut a piece from the strip the size you need then cut a whole in that piece. It means the shoe rests against the felt but nothing touches your toe, heel etc. which makes it impossible to rub and cause blisters etc.
@@FordyRunsI had a similar problem with my Pro 3s. Did a few runs with thick socks on and a bit of shoving with the handle of a paintbrush from the inside. The spot loosened up nicely.
well I have 2x 10k races and 1x half in them plus some training miles... I like to keep my 'racing' shoes pretty fresh so not sure I want to do more in them tbh
That's a great question! It really depends on what you're looking for in a running shoe. Both have their unique features that cater to different needs!
YES IT IS AND I WANT IT NOW NOT AN ENTIRE YEAR OF HYPE. THIS IS WHY PEOPLE AREN'T EXCITED FOR SHOES ANYMORE. IT'S LIKE MOVIES BEING MARKETED AND PROMOTED 3+ YEARS AHEAD OF TIME. NOBODY CARES BY THE TIME IT COMES AROUND AND USUALLY FLOPS.
Maybe a bit of KT Tape on your toe. I would still wear them.... That being said, no way am I getting those. For the weight savings and my speed, I'll just skip the extra breakfast burrito and go with another shoe.
I totally get where you're coming from! Sometimes the extra weight just isn't worth it, even if it means skipping out on some tasty breakfast burritos.
That heel looks like early new balance 1080 and only you can decide whether you should run in them or not I tape my bunions and pinky toe up in the areas that rub
Skinny feet & lots of "Body Glide" gets me into all Saucony & Puma shoes. Oh.. and buy a half-size bigger. Worth it because they make great shoes..for people with weird feet.
Try leaving the bottom 1 or 2 rows of laces completely loose to allow the toe box to expand, only tighten the upper lace loops. Sometimes re-lacing the shoes and skipping the bottom row of lace loops also helps me when I’ve had toe rubbing.
No issues for me! Cracking shoe, run my Half PB and now saving them for London 25.
Congrats
Taking a shoe that you don't trust to a marathon is a BAD idea. 10k/Half sure, you can deal with it. But the marathon will make every minor problem magnified.
agreed which is why I kind of highlighted it
Preach
that's why he tried it at 10k first?
Not just bad. Incredibad.
Sounds amazing.. definitely something to wait for. As soon as its available in Australia i will snap up a pair
Maybe try all kinds of running socks? Would you pick the Elite 2 over the adios Pro 4?
Sounds like NOT a fun ride when it is that uncomfortable..
that’s why I love the pro 3 so much. Fast and comfortable. Would love to pick up 50 pairs for the rest of my life 😁
Ran my half marathon PB in the Pro 3 last Sunday (1:35:07). Never even thought about the shoes while I ran. Comfy and fast (for me).
OMG SAME!! Pro 3 is so underrated
same, love the EP3....I have 2 pairs that I run in right now, and a brand new pair in the closet...paid right at $200 for all 3, and only one pair was lightly used, other two were brand new. I also use the EP2 as well for shorter daily runs and track sessions.
Would love to see a comparison on these and the Adios Pro 4. 2025 shaping up to be a great year and lots of big updates.
probably try putting a plaster on your toe? I did that when wearing my novablast 4. Makes the shoe a bit snug in that area, but at least it prevent blisters.
At a guess, and it is a guess. Using a shoe tree to expand the areas correctly, soaking the area in boiling water to soften them, putting a plaster inside the shoe over the area to soften them…. Maybe these are worth a go, maybe not. It’ll be interesting to see if you manage to rectify them and if so, what works
glad no lad on a bike recording you mate ;-)
I record myself
@@FordyRuns proper legend!
Thanks for the top video 🙏🏾. I’m excited to try them out. They’ll have to be good to replace my AF3 which for me, work well. 🙌🏽😊
I'm glad you found the video helpful! I hope the new options work just as well for you. Happy experimenting!
Thanks for this review!! Hoping you can wear this for your marathon! Fun and fast!
I hope so too!
I’ve had shoes that felt perfect like that except for one little hotspot that would only occasionally pop up. I hate that it sticks in your head. 😞 BUT…sometimes, if I’m able to make that shoe work with the proper application of body glide or a pre-applied band-aid or something in the usual hotspot, it takes care of the problem for me. So, it can be annoying to think of a “perfect” shoe that requires that extra level of prep (aka not perfect 🤷♂️), but it means you can use it. 👍
I'm currently testing this shoe, and even my tester has the same issue w/ the pinky toe area! I really hope they adjust this, its not a deal breaker for me, but the pinky thing needs fixing. I think I would still run in the shoe. Its just so good. Just did a half in them and it carried the team.
Defo!
You sound like me with the Adios Pro 3. I finally gave up on it after making all kinds of adjustments to the shoes and blister tape. Maybe with this one though, go half size up to reduce the issue?
I totally get your struggle with the Adios Pro 3! Sometimes finding the perfect fit can feel like a full-time job. Going half a size up might just be the trick to keep those blisters at bay!
Maybe size up half a size when they are available on general release?
not sure I can gamble £280
I have and had 4 Saucony shoes in total, never a blister in a 10k run, half marathon, marathon, only on ultras with a trail shoe. I do get blisters in my NB 960 if I go plus 10k with them. So blisters at such a short distance is really a no-no.
I was so gutted to put on the AlfaFly 3’s and instantly I knew they would tear the sole of my foot. Really can’t wait to try the elite 2 (I’ll just tape my little toes 🤣
Had the same toe issue with the Endorphin Pro 4 on the little toe, soaked in hot water and it softened the “hot” spot. Solved it, worth a try just boiling the kettle :)
Thanks, the Pro 4 would be my new race shoe after the Pro 3 is done...
I think you might have to go up half size up.
Tried the sample size few weeks ago and felt the shoe seems a bit small
Good call
I think you should do a marathon in them For anyone reading this, I want you to know that his review of the shoe is spot on. I also own a pair. I was one of the lucky few. The shoe is exceptionally bouncy and even softer. I think you can do it with the right socks, and maybe mole skin can help my only issue with the shoe is that it's very unstable if just standing or walking around but while moving shoe is great i did a 6:32 min mile on track with this pair of shoes and I'm 6’1 240lbs great shoe i actually put them down due to my concern of stability in the heel area taking corners
Thanks for sharing your experience! It sounds like you really know your stuff when it comes to these shoes. Stability is definitely key, but it’s awesome to hear how well they perform when you're on the move!
@ thanks looking forward to see your marathon time on the elite 2’s
Given the toe rubbing issue, I would return the shoes. Failing that, I would write to Saucony Customer Service asking for a refund due to an apparent design flaw. Here in the USA, Saucony has graciously accommodated the few such requests I have made in the past. I certainly wouldn't recommend suffering through a marathon with this issue. Good luck!
I am unable too
I had the exact same issue with the adidas SL2. I love the feel but get a blister in the same toe every time. I definitely wouldn’t risk it on a marathon. Would going a half size up help? I have wide hobbit feet so struggle with the super shoes
I might do this
I've had multiple plated racing shoes. Vaporfly 2 is still my favourite one. I'd never race a marathon in it and would even hasitate to do a half. It just rubs my achilles in such a way.
It's interesting how shoes can feel so different for each runner! Finding the right fit is crucial, especially for longer races.
I had the same problem with the Hoka Rocket X. I still wear the shoes but I have to put plasters on my little toes (left foot) it is a pain having to do this but it does prevent blisters and if it's such a good shoe and I think it might be worth it! I'll still probably buy them.
Yeah it’s frustrating
Hi Chris, do you know if there will be an Endorphin Pro 5 next year? As it is missing from next years line up. Thanks
@@cameronandy84 No, just the Pro 4, Speed 5 and the Endorphin Trainer
New upper apparently but I have also seen nothing new.... we will find out next week
Interested to see if the mass production release has better quality control🤔. However £280 is a big no no even with Fordy’s discount.
I totally understand your concern about the price. Quality control is definitely something to keep an eye on with mass production releases!
Buy the small rubber things to put one the toe. Or a blister bandage? For me this works on "some" shoes i have had that problem with!
Those little rubber things and blister bandages can really save the day! Glad to hear they work for you!
How does this shoe compare to Hoka Ceilo X in terms of ride? Bounce?
easy the hoka is shit this is not
@@FordyRuns Thank You
When is it releasing? Sorry if you already answered that question.
Brother help me, im torn between endorphon pro 4 vs cielo x1? Which one should i get? I run in very hilly area and will do my first marathon next month. Im not a fast runner
If you run in the hills buy the lightest shoe.
Cut it open at the outer toe side or don't use it for a marathon. There are plenty of other great racing shoes.
Exact same issue for me in the alpha v1 😭 love the shoe but i get a horrible hot spot on the ball of my foot
Tape the little toes before the race maybe still a big risk I know. P.s shame they aren’t making the colour way in your thumbnail love that!
Taping those little toes might just be a game changer! And I totally agree, that colorway would be amazing if they made it!
Any tips on running in calorie deficit for fat loss ?
Iirc kofuzi got blisters in the first one too, he tinted one of the shoes red :D
Is the 2 as aggressive geometry wise as the 1? Outer sole a lot grippier than 1?
its just better than 1
If a shoe is bit comfortable - I don’t keep it. Returned the endorphin speed 4 because the laces were digging in my upper foot and the pain was unbearable. Returned the Superblast 2 because running in it caused me shin pains. So for me - if a shoe causes any sort of pain - it’s going back to where it came from 😂
Fair enough
Do you mean a bit uncomfortable?
@ These two shoes were really painful, way beyond uncomfortable. After running in them had to take 1-2 days break. But I must admit my feet are really narrow and bony and very sensitive.
Which foot u got shin pain at? Does it have high arch?
The elastic laces that come with the Speed 4 are horrible. Can't get a proper lockdown, and if you do like you said they dig into your foot. Replaced the laces and it was the good old Speed again.
MAYBE this will replacing my Prime X v1? Sounds soft and springy =)
It is
How does it compare to the original Elite 1 in terms of the ride and feel?
Soooooo much softer
@ im very intrigued and am looking forward to your in depth review and comparison of the shoe! 🙌
Are you a 2E? Or standard width? How's your fit in the Superblast 2?
SB2 fits tts
@ thanks!
I find adidas shoes always rub first few runs before bedding in and the issue is gone. Pro 3 eyelet is a common one.
Try stretching out and moving material in a wave motion to see if it gives a bit. A small amount could be the difference.
Thanks for sharing your experience! It's great to know that the rubbing issue fades after a few runs. Stretching the material sounds like a smart move!
If u love them so much maybe it might be worth sizing up half a size, I mean it might bring other problems but might be worth ago ……. I wear NW SC and I can wear size 5 and 5.5 …… the 5 gives me slight hotspots on the inside of my foot and the 5.5 just feels abit lose but hey I’m VERY FUSY !
A good information, Fordy. Like. Have a great day.
Thanks, you too!
Better than the new benchmark, Puma DNE3?
Yes
@ interesting! Although I’ll await a few more reviews as currently wouldn’t splash out on an extortionate amount of money for a shoe with an issue!
What about a Compeed for that spot and ready for the Marathon?
Yeah maybe
If I remember, these were mega expensive aswell? Try some tape or plaster maybe?
£280
Could maybe throw some body glide on the outside of your toe to help prevent the blistering?
maybe
Hype campaigns are a huge turn off, stopped investing in companies that do this kind of thing. Saucony especially, I believe, screwed themselves with this “hype drop” it’s about a whole year before the shoes actual release and we have moved on, I forget this shoe exists most of the time which means the marketing strategy has failed.
You need an old fashioned shoe tree. One that allows you to stretch shoes and has add ons to accommodate individual bumps and lumps. Works well.
Oh good shout I have one
I tried using a shoe stretcher for my Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 and it didn’t work well at all 😢 The material will stretch but it goes back to it’s original shape very quickly
Do you know something called a Band-aid?
That’s not something I like to run with on my feet
Chiropody felt - cut a square and then a smaller square out from that so it looks like a frame, guaranteed to take all the pressure from your toes and over time will stretch the shoe a tiny bit to remove the problem... I had bursitis in my heal a few years back and the felt and framing technique was a life saver
Thank you for sharing your experience! It’s amazing how such a simple technique can make such a big difference in comfort.
@@colinrogerson9572 i did not understand. What? Cut where?
@@13lars The felt is sold in strips, cut a piece from the strip the size you need then cut a whole in that piece. It means the shoe rests against the felt but nothing touches your toe, heel etc. which makes it impossible to rub and cause blisters etc.
I first thought u would cut a hole in the shoe 😱😱😅
@@FordyRunsI had a similar problem with my Pro 3s. Did a few runs with thick socks on and a bit of shoving with the handle of a paintbrush from the inside. The spot loosened up nicely.
I’d test it more mate, what a nightmare if that popped up in a marathon!
well I have 2x 10k races and 1x half in them plus some training miles... I like to keep my 'racing' shoes pretty fresh so not sure I want to do more in them tbh
Think you need to put it through some more long runs and you will know and then let us know!
I’ve run a half in them 2 x 10ks and a few training runs and it’s a race shoe so don’t really want too many more miles on them if gonna race them
I would try these!
That's awesome! Trying new things is always an adventure. Let me know which one you end up trying!
Are they better than the Nike Alphafly 3 ??
That's a great question! It really depends on what you're looking for in a running shoe. Both have their unique features that cater to different needs!
Get a silicone toe sleeve , and cut down to desired requirement . Much much better than a bandaid or plaster
Absolutely! Silicone toe sleeves are definitely a game changer for foot comfort. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
YES IT IS AND I WANT IT NOW NOT AN ENTIRE YEAR OF HYPE. THIS IS WHY PEOPLE AREN'T EXCITED FOR SHOES ANYMORE. IT'S LIKE MOVIES BEING MARKETED AND PROMOTED 3+ YEARS AHEAD OF TIME. NOBODY CARES BY THE TIME IT COMES AROUND AND USUALLY FLOPS.
ok cool
Running Warehouse is telling us that the foam is called IncrediRUN and is TPE based........
Spoke about it last night on the livestream th-cam.com/users/liveDhZ_Z4FGxfg?feature=share
They went from super hard to super soft... So what one was good?
i prefer these
i don't like the heel counter, i don't know why brands do that if most of the people don't like it. Or feel weird about it.
Maybe a bit of KT Tape on your toe. I would still wear them.... That being said, no way am I getting those. For the weight savings and my speed, I'll just skip the extra breakfast burrito and go with another shoe.
I totally get where you're coming from! Sometimes the extra weight just isn't worth it, even if it means skipping out on some tasty breakfast burritos.
Get yourself some CEP socks and see if it’s still an issue… the toe box has two layers around the toes
Thanks for the suggestion! Those CEP socks sound like they might just solve the issue. I'll definitely give them a try!
Body Glide and roll!
That heel looks like early new balance 1080 and only you can decide whether you should run in them or not I tape my bunions and pinky toe up in the areas that rub
Can you not use plasters or something
nah not really don't like them
🥇
I still don't think I get the difference between the Endorphin and Elite.. other than the extra £30
the foam
do you actually need your little toes ?😂
Anything for speed, amiright
Thinking I don’t
@@FordyRunsit’s only skin.
If it is for jumping worth so u can run faster with less power
Incredirun foam is the name
yeah we spoke about it on this week's livestream th-cam.com/users/liveDhZ_Z4FGxfg?si=UhJVLYXI8UFOnpnZ
Skinny feet & lots of "Body Glide" gets me into all Saucony & Puma shoes. Oh.. and buy a half-size bigger.
Worth it because they make great shoes..for people with weird feet.
If it's giving you blisters at 10k, hell no you shouldn't run a marathon in them!
Toe foam from Superdrug and/or twin skin socks
Can you tape your toe up, that may prevent the blustering
I could but not really into taping my feet I hate the feeling if you know what I mean... maybe not
Rather concerning for such an expensive shoe!
Cowboy Up! Put a plaster on your little toes and run a marathon in them.
I will have to listen to my own advise
Plaster on the toe Fordy?
i hate that sort of stuff but might have to
Don't risk it for the marathon! It's not worth the risk.
Thanks I’m kinda thinking your way
Make hole at that pinky side 🙃
"I toed you now"
always one
Don't run in it in a key race. Simple
Absolutely! It's always best to stay focused and not rush things, especially in a key race.
high heels
only at weekends
Tape the pinky toe
prefer not too
Remove your toes!!!
ok
Tape up the toe and keep using it.
both toes
That thing is HIDEOUS 🤮
Bandaid on your toe, problem solved. 🙂
Sometimes the simplest solutions are the best! Glad you found a quick fix!
Don't wear it.
Maybe adjust your socks or try moleskin?
Don't wear it. Save it for shorter races and workouts.
thats what I am thinking
Ktape your toe?
i dont like too but may have too