The Endorphin Trainer is a new running shoe which replaces the Kinvara Pro of 2023. Both trainers have premium midsole foams and a carbon plate and they are designed for daily training. The Trainer has newer technology which gives it a slightly different ride to the Kinvara Pro. Both of them cost $180.
This comparison will tell you which version is better for you.
The Endorphin Trainer has a dual foam setup of IncrediRun and PWRRUN. IncrediRun is a very soft, squishy foam that provides energy return and comfort. PWRRUN is a firm foam that provides stability and durability. It has a balanced ride character.
The Kinvara Pro also has a dual foam setup but it has PWRRUN PB instead of IncrediRun. PWRRUN PB is a firmer foam that has less squish and energy return. It has a ride which is on the firm side.
Both shoes have 3/4 length carbon plates in their midsoles but the Kinvara Pro has a stiffer plate. This results in a more prominent forefoot rocker than the Trainer.
Both of them also have thick PWRRUN+ insoles that result in a plush feeling underfoot. The thick insoles provide more comfort and more cushioning.
The Kinvara Pro has a firmer, faster ride than the Endorphin Trainer. It’s better for short and fast runs compared to the plusher Trainer which has more long-distance comfort.
If you need stability, the Kinvara Pro is the better option. It has a firmer ride with less lean bias than the Trainer. The Kinvara feels more supportive.
The Trainer has outsole rubber on the outer lateral heel area as well as the toe-off area. The Kinvara Pro doesn’t have this rubber. The Trainer has better outsole durability and has better traction too.
The Endorphin Trainer has a thinner upper which is more breathable. It also has a softer mesh that conforms to your feet better. It has good foot lockdown and it fits true to size. It has a spacious, accommodating fit best suited to high volume or wide feet.
The Kinvara Pro has a snugger fit which is more suited to narrow or low-volume feet. It has a warmer upper which is better for cool climates and it also has very good foot lockdown. It fits true to size.
Both running shoes are versatile and can perform most runs well.
If you prefer a softer ride for longer runs, the Endorphin Trainer is the better option for you. It has a plusher ride with more long-distance comfort. It has the more accommodating fit and it has a more flexible midsole which feels natural at slow paces.
Get the Kinvara Pro if you need a trainer with better stability that feels faster. It’s better for shorter and faster runs due to its firmer ride. It’s also better for you if you have narrow, low-volume feet because of its snugger fit. It weighs less than the Trainer but its outsole isn’s as durable.
