Adidas running shoes have been at the top of the market for decades. Their models suit a variety of runners, and I believe everyone can find something to suit them in their range.
The innovative brand explains its technologies through a variety of terms; here they are so you can better understand what you’re looking at:
- Adizero – the most innovative line, featuring performance Adidas running shoes.
- Continental rubber – used in outsoles for traction and is mainly featured in premium race models.
- Ultraboost – debuted in 2013, this TPU foam was designed in 2013 and changed the game for their running shoes.
- Lightboost – the latest version of Ultraboost, this foam is 30% lighter and has a 10% lower carbon footprint.
- Lightstrike – used for cushioning in mid-range Adidas running shoes, this is an EVA-based foam.
- Lighstrike pro – a more premium version of Lighstrike, this is a Pebax-based foam, which is the bounciest midsole Adidas offers and is often used in Adizero models.
The 7 Best Adidas Running Shoes
- Best Adidas Cushioned Training Shoes: Adidas Ultraboost Light
↓ jump to review - Best Adidas Running Shoes for Support: Adidas Solarboost 5
↓ jump to review - Best Adidas Running Shoes For Faster-Paced Training: Adidas ADIZERO BOSTON 12
↓ jump to review - Best All Around Adidas Trail Running Shoe: Adidas Terrex Agravic Flow 2.0 Trail
↓ jump to review - Best Adidas Racing Shoe (Up To Half Marathon Distance): Adidas ADIZERO TAKUMI SEN 9
↓ jump to review - Best Adidas Running Shoes for Marathon Racing: Adidas ADIZERO ADIOS PRO 3
↓ jump to review - Best Cushioned Adidas Running Shoes: Adidas ADIZERO PRIME x 2.0 Strung
↓ jump to review
The 7 Best Adidas Running Shoes
#1. Best Adidas Cushioned Training Shoes:
Adidas Ultraboost Light
Weight: 262g; Drop: 10mm
| Pros | Cons |
| The deep stack cushioning offers superior comfort | Some may prefer a lighter shoe |
| Snug fit | |
| Versatile use |
The Ultraboost shoe is one of the best-known and longest-standing Adidas shoes, and this latest iteration is a perfect choice for those looking for a versatile shoe.
We love the cushioning in these shoes, it uses the Lightboost midsole, the original ‘energy return foam’, but in a lighter version. The shoe has a redesigned sole for a smoother transition.
The deep stack cushioning makes it ideal for runners who like that soft and bouncy feel and makes it perfect for a relaxed everyday run.
The shoe also features a lightweight primeknit upper with a snug fit and continental rubber for traction in a variety of conditions.
For a bonus point – the shoe looks great, too, we’d also pick it for casual wear.
#2. Best Adidas Running Shoes for Support:
Adidas Solarboost 5
Weight: 280 grams; Drop: 10 mm
| Pros | Cons |
| Durable and versatile | Ride on the firmer side |
| Wide toebox and comfortable fit | Style feels a bit dated for some |
| Good balance of cushioning and stability |
The Solarboost 5 is our favorite stability running shoe from Adidas. It features medial support to control pronation, and the light boost foam offers maximum cushioning and great energy return.
The shoe is part of the brand’s Primegreen collection, which uses a range of recycled premium materials, making it a great option for those caring about sustainability, too.
The LEP 2.0 system (short for Linear Energy Push) in the midsole, gives you an extra push, and the control platform at the heel increases stability.
The mesh upper is breathable and soft, and the continental rubber offers great traction for a variety of surfaces. The wider toe box offers more comfort and we love the sturdy construction and durability of these shoes.
We love this shoe for those who search for a do-it-all shoe – it can take you just as well through a 5k and a marathon.
#3. Best Adidas Running Shoes For Faster Paced Training:
Adidas ADIZERO BOSTON 12
Weight: 267g; Drop: 7mm
| Pros | Cons |
| Lighstrike cushioning super responsive | Upper could be more durable |
| Lighter than previous version | Previous version better for heel strikers |
| Grippy outsole |
There are many features that make the Adizero Boston 12 our favorite shoe from the brand for faster-paced training.
The shoe feels much softer than the previous two iterations, which is primarily the result of the lighter material in the heel section. The ride is still quite firm, but the bounce back is more than enough for your tempo training sessions.
The bounce-back and responsive feel come from the combination of the Lighstrike Pro and Lighstrike 2.0 EVA foams, which also give the shoe more durability.
The standout feature of these shoes is the fiberglass EnergyRods, which make the shoe more flexible and limit energy loss.
The upper is super breathable, but that does take some points off its durability.
#4. Best All Around Adidas Trail Running Shoe:
Adidas Terrex Agravic Flow 2.0 Trail
Weight: 11 oz; Drop: 8 mm
| Pros | Cons |
| Durable and protective upper | The fit feels a bit stiff for some |
| Superior traction with the outsole | |
| Light and soft Lightstrike foam for great cushioning |
Our favorite Adidas running shoes for trail runners are the Terrex Agravic Flow 2 shoes. We love them because they can take you through a variety of terrains of surfaces – whether you want to tackle rock or mud, it is up to the task.
The Lighstrike cushioning feels light and comfortable, and the studded pattern continental rubber sole is responsible for superior grip in wet and dry conditions. The shoe also features rock protection in the midsole, for a worry-free run in technical terrains.
The upper is durable and sustainable – containing at least 50% recycled plastic, sourced from initiatives that clean coasts and beaches to prevent ocean pollution. The other 50% of the high-performance yarn is made from recycled polyester.
For even more protection, you can opt for the Gore-TEX version.
The full-length Pro-Moderator foil adds protection and stability to the midsole, allowing you to tackle those mountain runs with more confidence.
#5. Best Adidas Racing Shoe (Up To Half Marathon Distance):
Adidas ADIZERO TAKUMI SEN 9
Weight: 181g; Drop: 6mm
| Pros | Cons |
| Great value for money | Some would prefer more cushioning |
| Lightweight and responsive | |
| Innovative EnergyRod technology minimizes energy loss |
If you’re looking for a lightweight racer, we recommend the Takumi Sen 9 shoe which is super light, weighing less than 200 grams.
A large part of this is thanks to the use of the Lighstrike Pro midsole, although the cushioning is more suited for half marathons – we think a higher stack is more suited for longer races.
The Glass-fibre-infused EnergyRod limits energy loss, and the breathable Celermesh upper adds to the agile and light feel.
Just like other shoes on this list, Takumi Sen 9 features the sticky Continental Rubber sole for traction.
With these features combined along with a great price, this is one of the best value shoes for tempo runs up to half marathon distances.
Note that the shoe runs a bit long, so if your feet are on the narrow side, you may want to size down.
#6. Best Adidas Running Shoes for Marathon Racing:
Adidas ADIZERO ADIOS PRO 3
Weight: 223g; Drop: 6.5mm
| Pros | Cons |
| Lighstrike Pro foam is responsive and light | Laces can feel tight |
| Carbon infused EnergyRods reduce energy loss | Some prefer a more bouncy shoe |
| Outsole offers great traction |
If you are looking for something for race day, no other shoe in Adidas lineup beats the Adios Pro. This shoe has taken many elites to the win, it is fast, responsive and simply, does the job.
Instead of the full-length carbon plate, this version of the shoe features five energy rods that mimic the shape of the foot.
They do a fantastic job in reducing energy loss, but also make the shoe lighter and give the stabilization to balance out the bounce from the ultralight Lighstrike foam in the midsole.
The high-stack foam itself is super bouncy, neither too firm nor too soft.
Continental rubber outsole is durable, and sticky and offers great traction in all conditions. The upper is light and breathable, though the lacing system takes some time to master.
Overall, this is the best Adidas shoe money can buy for your marathons, giving you the confidence and propulsion you need to do your best on race day.
#7. Best Adidas Running Shoes For Maximum Cushioning And Performance:
Adidas ADIZERO PRIME x 2.0 Strung
Weight: 308g; Drop: 7 mm
| Pros | Cons |
| Deep cushioning | Quite heavy |
| Innovative lightweight upper | |
| Twin carbon plates |
This shoe is illegal for elite racers but can give you a chance to push your limits when training.
What makes it illegal is the massive 50mm stack made with 3 layers of soft and lightweight Lighstrike Pro foam.
The upper is made with the innovative STRUNG fabric, which is lightweight and adapts to your foot. The semi-bootie upper gives a snug fit.
The performance-driven features continue with the twin carbon plates, springing you into your fastest runs. The outsole is continental rubber for traction.
The shoe is not ideal for those looking for the lightest racing experience though, and may be a better choice for shorter runs.
