These Running Shoes Helped Me Train for my First Half Marathon

Last year, one of my new year’s goals was to run my first half marathon. Not to brag, but I successfully completed my first 13.1 miles last May, and finding the right running shoes made all the difference.

After getting properly sized at my local sports shop, I landed on these colorful Saucony running shoes for training and race day. Whether you’re a beginner runner, intermediate level or need a supportive shoe for standing all day, here’s why I can’t stop recommending these comfortable shoes.

The Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 running shoes boast a medium width, round toe design and cushioned footbed, but what caught my eye was the winged crash pad and supportive midsole. I’ve racked up hundreds of miles in these running shoes, and I can confirm they strike the perfect balance of feeling light as air without ever feeling flat.

As for bulk, most training shoes tend to have more weight to them compared to traditional sneakers, but these aren’t excessively chunky by any means. There’s something special about the design that makes you feel really fast when you run (even if you average 12 minutes per mile like me).

While I’m far from a running expert, I’ve trained for multiple long races including 10ks, 10-milers and most recently, a half marathon. Plus, I’m a shopping expert, so I know what to look for when finding the right running shoes (longevity, breathable materials, footbed design — you name it). Out of all the running shoes I’ve trained in (there have been too many to count), this Saucony pair is the only one that has left me feeling pain-free and confident about tackling long runs.

When the sales associate who fit me for these running shoes confirmed he has ran multiple marathons in these sleek kicks, I was sold. But it wasn’t until I experienced the long-lasting comfort during training and race day that I knew I couldn’t gatekeep my favorite running shoes forever.

As one happy shopper puts it, “I have found the shoe that changed my personal connection with running for the better. With so many options available now, the Endorphin Speed 4 is an exceptional performer, moving me forward on my runs. Completely key to my 68-year-old efforts on the track and road.”

While some top-tier running shoes can cost well over $200, this pair strikes a perfect balance of being an investment without being totally outrageous. And making the investment now is well worth it for protecting your body against potentially injury and pain during your training period.

Choose from seven stylish colors (my fave is white/violet) and several sizes. You’ll be the speediest runner on the road this spring!

Get the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 Running Shoes for $170 at Zappos!