The official ball for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has arrived, and Adidas may have just created the smartest football ever used in a professional match.

Called the Trionda, the new ball will be used throughout next year's tournament across the US, Canada and Mexico. But while the design is eye-catching enough, it's the technology hidden inside that makes this one stand out.

At the heart of the ball is a 500Hz motion sensor that tracks movement and contact in real time. Every touch, deflection and strike generates data that can be sent directly to match officials and VAR systems.

Connected-ball technology isn't entirely new. FIFA first used it at the 2022 World Cup. But Adidas has pushed things further with the Trionda, combining the sensor with a redesigned construction that uses just four panels – reportedly the fewest ever used on an official World Cup ball.

That data helps officials make faster decisions on offsides, handballs and disputed touches. In theory, it should mean fewer delays and more accurate calls. Whether that also means fewer arguments is another matter entirely.

Adidas has also focused on performance. The company says the panel layout improves flight consistency, while a textured surface aims to offer better grip and control in different conditions.

The design itself pays tribute to the three host nations. Red, green and blue graphics represent Canada, Mexico and the US, while the name combines "tri" for the three countries and "onda", meaning wave.

For most fans, the technology inside the ball will remain invisible. But when the World Cup kicks off next summer, there's a good chance some of the tournament's biggest decisions will depend on the tiny sensor hidden beneath the surface.

There was a time when a racing flat meant a pair of zero-drop, thin-soled running shoes. I remember running the Windsor Half Marathon in an ASICS Type A9, very much a low-stack trainer that, at the time, was the norm, and my calves were sore for a week afterwards.

Back then, we thought that was the only way; we accepted that running any distance would require our legs to put in a tremendous amount of work. Cushioning was minimal; rebound was moderate at best.

Running culture was much less hype-driven, and while "niche" isn’t the right word to describe it, the sport was certainly less popular than it is today. Runners are nerdy to this day, but back then, I can’t say it was cool to call yourself one.

The birth of the super shoe

That all changed about a decade ago with the advent of high-stack trainers. Running shoes all of a sudden because these ultralight, tall monsters could propel you forward with ease, all the while preserving your legs. It was magic.

While Nike certainly wasn’t the only company putting out high-stack shoes – Hoka’s (then Hoka One One, a much smaller brand) Carbon X was a really good model – the sport giant’s Vaporfly 4%, and its successor, the Vaporfly NEXT%, is the shoe that many associate with a new era in running.

Built around Nike's ZoomX foam, a Pebax-derived material with roots in aerospace applications, the Vaporfly 4% was designed to improve running economy by around 4% compared with conventional racing shoes.

That might not sound like much, but over a marathon distance, it means you can run the race without completely ruining your legs.

All of a sudden, you started seeing people wearing Nikes everywhere at the start lines. And as the shoes became more abundant, it seemed that all PBs were broken left, right, centre. The shoes were elevated to mystical heights, and any self-respecting runner wanted to get hold of a pair.

The limits of speed

Of course, manufacturers wanted to push the idea further. If one still (carbon) plate embedded in a soft foam could help runners this much, how about adding more? Maybe taller foams would help preserve the legs even more? The sky was the limit... until it wasn’t.

People – presumably those who didn’t have a pair of Vaporflys – started complaining about the ‘unfair advantage’ the shoes provided. Putting on a non-high-stack, non-plated shoe for a race meant losing to those who had them. Some went as far as to call the Vaporfly ‘mechanical doping’.

Professional bodies took notice, too, including the World Athletics (WA), which quite literally drew the line at the Vaporfly, declaring that any shoes with a maximum stack height of 40 mm and more than one plate would be banned from official races, quickly curbing the enthusiasm of both manufacturers and runners.

This felt like a punch in the face for many; after all, we were so close to breaking the two-hour marathon barrier. Runners have come painfully close to running the full 26.2 miles in under two hours, but even the fastest runners could only chip away a few seconds at a time.

Chasing 1:59

Needless to say, seeing the success of the Vaporfly (and the Alphafly) and other similar shoes, all companies started producing their own versions of the concept, eventually evening the playing field. Adidas, New Balance, Saucony and ASICS (even On) all had a super shoe in their stables, offering high rebound and maximum cushioning in an extremely low-weight package.

Yet, due to the limitations imposed by WA, progress was slow, though not for lack of trying. Before the INEOS 1:59 project, a highly orchestrated event that saw marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge break the two-hour barrier under ‘unofficial’ circumstances, Adidas attempted to do the same; there is even a book about it (Ed Caesar – Two Hours: The Quest to Run the Impossible Marathon).

Over the years, a surprising number of runners came incredibly close to the coveted 1:59 marathon time, including Eliud Kipchoge (2:01:09) and the late Kelvin Kiptum (2:00:35), but something always got in the way. The sub-2-hour marathon seemed just as elusive as always, despite the efforts of some incredible athletes and amazing innovations along the way.

Herzogenaurach strikes back

Over this period, Nike, the company that created the disruptive Vaporfly, seems to have slowed down its innovation efforts. To this day, all Nike racing shoes use the same ZoomX foam as the original Vaporfly, albeit with tweaks to slightly change running dynamics.

And while Nikes are still fast, if you want truly innovative running shoes, you might want to look elsewhere. One of the brands that has been pushing the envelope is Adidas, the biggest rival of the Portland-based sports giant.

I wouldn’t say Adidas has been struggling, but the brand has certainly had some issues establishing itself as a running-focused sportswear manufacturer. The company had huge success with football and lifestyle products, letting the running shoe side of things go a bit astray.

That’s not to say there weren’t any good running shoes coming from Herzogeanauch; on the contrary. The Adizero line featured some incredible models, including the Adios Pro 4, which I ran in at the Loch Ness Marathon. Thoroughly enjoyed those shoes (and the Bostons).

That said, Adidas thought this wasn’t enough, and searched for ways to innovate within the confines set by the 40mm-stack-height-plus-one-stiff-plate rule. In 2024, the company launched the Pro Evo 1, its lightest super shoe to date.

The Pro Evo 1 became infamous not just for its incredibly lightweight construction, but also for its reported one-marathon lifespan, meaning its performance wasn’t guaranteed beyond 26.2 miles.

The shoes didn’t fall apart after one race, but they wouldn’t provide maximum benefits, either. In a world where sustainability matters more and more, Adidas chose to go the other way, optimising its pinnacle racer for performance only.

Three records, one shoe

Despite the out-of-the-box thinking, the Pro Evo 1 didn’t break the two-hour barrier. Sure, the shoes were light and agile, but evidently not significantly faster than the competition. Marathon times stayed in the 2:01 area, for now.

The second iteration didn't come a lot closer, either. Then, in 2026, just before the London Marathon, Adidas announced the third iteration of the shoes. The shoes are now even lighter – sub-100g in some sizes – and claimed 1.6% improvement in running economy.

The announcement followed the usual cadence: the Pro Evo 3 were announced just before the race, when the brand released a very limited batch for sale to signal they were available to the public, and the sponsored elites ran the race in the shoes.

However, something has changed this time in a big way. Instead of running the marathon in just over two hours, Sabastian Sawe and Yomif Kejelcha came in under two hours. Better still, Tigist Assefa also won the race with a women’s only WR of 2:15:41. The common thread was that all these athletes wore the new Pro Evo 3.

Now, I would like to emphasise that, despite advancements in shoe innovation and refinements in training methods, nothing detracts from the incredible athletic performance of these athletes. The speed with which they completed the race is astonishing, to say the least. No shoes will make you an hour faster over a marathon distance.

That said, at the level these athletes operate, every tweak that provides any improvement counts. 0.1% improvement over 26.2 miles can shave off seconds, let alone 1.6%. To run anywhere near as fast as these people, you’ll have to tap into every possible improvement you can find.

Seemingly, until the Pro Evo 3, these enhancements didn’t yield a sub-2-hour marathon time. Add the shoes and not one, not two, but three athletes run marvellous times, which, to me at least, settles the debate on ‘mechanical doping’.

To clarify, I don’t mean that any of them are actually doping, but the shoes did seemingly provide enough of an advantage to push through previously insurmountable marathon times.

The fact that two athletes broke the two-hour barrier in the same race is incredible and a testament not just to their training but also to the innovation machines working behind the scenes.

What comes after sub-two?

As Nike said in its social media post after the race, the clock has indeed been reset. I don’t think we’ll see hordes of runners running sub-two marathons all of a sudden, something people said would happen, referencing Sir Roger Bannister’s sub-4-minute mile in the 50s.

Not to belittle Sir Roger’s incredible achievement, running training in those days was a lot less optimised than today. The fastest long-distance runners have to dedicate all their time to their craft in 2026, and the 2-hour marathon time is already pushing the limits of human physiology. We won’t be seeing 1:55 times any time soon, or ever.

That said, Adidas has opened the door to a world where sub-two-hour times are achievable, and I wouldn’t be surprised if we saw more shoes from other brands, enabling more runners to run much faster than before.

Best of all, this all happened at a time when running as a sport was incredibly popular. Will you or I ever run a sub-two-hour marathon? Unlikely, but we can run faster than before, thanks to these amazing shoes, and that’s enough for me.

Adidas has unveiled the Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3, a radical update to its flagship supershoe that focuses on one thing above all else: weight.

The new model comes in at an average of just 97 grams (UK 8.5), making it the brand’s first sub-100g racing shoe and around 30% lighter than its predecessor.

The Evo 3 introduces a full rethink of how its midsole and propulsion systems work together, resulting in a claimed 1.6% improvement in running economy, a meaningful gain at the elite end of marathon racing.

“Our goal was two digits on the scale, with better performance than we’ve ever had,” said Stephan Scholten, VP Product at Adidas.

The top-tier running shoes use the next-generation version of adidas’ Lightstrike Pro Evo foam.

The new compound is nearly 50% lighter than previous iterations while still delivering high levels of energy return and cushioning, the brand claims.

The shoe retains a high-stack geometry, with a 39mm heel and 36mm forefoot, keeping it within World Athletics limits while maximising propulsion.

A different way to deliver speed

Complementing the foam is an all-new carbon system called EnergyRim.

A departure from the EnergyRod system seen in previous Adidas supershoes (see also my Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 review), the EnergyRim forgoes the multiple stiff-rod setup in favour of a plate that runs around the edge of the shoe.

Adidas says this carbon-integrated structure is designed to tune stiffness and increase the amount of foam underfoot.

... And then it gets even lighter

Up top, the shoe features an ultra-minimal upper engineered to feel almost weightless on foot.

Adidas says the design draws inspiration from kitesurfing sail materials, with every component, from stitching to laces, stripped back and refined to contribute to performance gains.

Underfoot, the outsole has also been optimised, with Continental rubber placed only in the forefoot to provide grip at speed while keeping overall weight to a minimum.

The Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3 is the result of a three-year development process, with multiple iterations tested in both lab conditions and high-altitude training environments.

It will debut on the roads in London and launch in limited quantities from 25 April 2026, with a wider release planned for the autumn marathon season.

Pricing is set at $500 / €500. Head over to Adidas Running for more info.

Adidas has teamed up with Sydney-based label Song for the Mute for a new running collaboration that shifts the focus away from performance metrics and towards everyday movement.

The First Breath marks Song for the Mute’s first step into performance running, reworking Adidas Running staples through a more emotional and design-led lens.

Rather than centring on race-day results or elite athletes, the collection aims to highlight routine, consistency, and the simple act of getting out the door, with Adidas framing the sport as more accessible and personal.

A familiar daily trainer, reworked

The collaboration's hero product is the Adidas Supernova Rise 3, a comfort-focused daily trainer built around adidas’ soft Dreamstrike+ midsole, designed to deliver a smooth, cushioned ride for easy and steady miles.

The shoes feature the Support Rods system that adds subtle stability underfoot, while the breathable engineered mesh upper and durable outsole reinforce its role as a reliable, high-mileage option.

Here, the Supernova Rise 3 has been updated with a more muted, earthy palette, alongside hand-drawn graphic elements across the midsole, giving the otherwise technical silhouette a more human feel.

The finish is intentionally imperfect, with sketch-like details that contrast with the precision of the underlying performance tooling.

Alongside the footwear, the collection introduces a focused range of Adi365 apparel, including tanks, T-shirts and shorts across men’s, women’s and unisex fits.

The same design language carries through, with soft neutral tones and hand-drawn detailing applied across seams and logos.

Each piece is built within adidas’ existing performance frameworks but designed to transition easily into everyday wear, blurring the line between run kit and casual clothing.

The Song for the Mute Supernova Rise 3 retails for €150 / £130 (~$173 / AU$251), with the full SS26 collection available from 2 April 2026 via Adidas, Song for the Mute, and selected retail partners.

Adidas may be on the verge of another technological leap in running shoes.

Speaking during the company’s full-year 2025 results presentation, CEO Bjørn Gulden revealed that the brand is “very, very close” to bringing a new type of running footwear to market, performance shoes made using additive manufacturing.

“We are very, very close to actually launching performance shoes that are printed.”

While Gulden did not reveal specific details about the upcoming models, the comment hints at Adidas exploring advanced production methods that could reshape how performance footwear is made.

The company has already experimented with 3D-printed midsoles through projects such as Futurecraft, but this appears to signal something closer to large-scale performance releases.

The announcement follows On’s recent expansion of its LightSpray production in Busan, South Korea, where a second factory has added dozens of robots and significantly increased global capacity.

Meanwhile, Adidas’ running category is enjoying a significant resurgence.

According to the company’s results, running was one of Adidas’ fastest-growing categories in 2025, with revenue growth approaching 30%.

Gulden said the brand has spent the last few years rebuilding credibility in performance running by signing athletes and investing heavily in shoe innovation.

According to the brand, Adidas athletes claimed more than half of the major marathon wins last year, and the brand says it achieved podium finishes across all six World Marathon Majors.

Much of the momentum comes from the Adizero franchise, which has become Adidas’ flagship performance running lineup.

Shoes such as the Adios Pro Evo 2 and Adios Pro 4 have secured multiple marathon victories, while everyday models like the Adizero SL and Supernova have helped broaden the brand’s appeal among recreational runners.

The Adizero SL in particular has been a major commercial success. Gulden said the shoe’s sales volume is approaching 10 million pairs globally, making it one of the most widely worn running shoes on the market.

Adidas is also expanding its technology platform beyond racing models, including the Adidas Hyperboost Edge, featuring the new Hyperboost Pro, a new midsole foam designed to deliver the comfort of the original Boost cushioning at a significantly lighter weight.

Additionally, the company highlighted progress on sustainability, noting that 60% of the materials used in its products and packaging are now recycled or sustainably sourced.

Adidas added that it has cut its carbon intensity by 9% since 2022 as it continues to overhaul its supply chain.

Combined with experimental manufacturing methods and continued development of its Adizero racing lineup, Adidas appears determined to strengthen its position in one of the most competitive categories in sports footwear.

Adidas has announced the Hyperboost Edge, a new lightweight “super-trainer” designed to bring high levels of cushioning and energy return to everyday running.

Positioned as the brand’s first lightweight non-plated super-trainer, the running shoe combines a high-stack midsole with a stripped-back construction intended to create a naturally responsive ride without relying on stiffening elements or carbon plates.

The high-stack trainer introduces Hyperboost Pro foam, described as a new high-performance midsole foam designed to deliver maximum cushioning and high energy return for daily training.

It sits inside a bold 45mm rearfoot stack with a 6mm drop, delivering maximum cushioning while keeping the overall weight down to just 255 grams.

According to Adidas, the new material was developed through laboratory testing and consumer research conducted with the University of Cologne.

In a study involving 60 runners, the Hyperboost Edge outperformed participants’ current footwear across several metrics, with 73% preferring its energy return and 77% reporting softer cushioning.

A super-trainer built for daily miles

While the midsole provides the headline innovation, the rest of the shoe has been designed to support high-mileage training.

The PRIMEWEAVE upper, found in shoes such as the Adidas 4DFWD 2, uses a lightweight woven construction to deliver soft comfort and secure lockdown, while integrated heel pods add extra cushioning and stability around the rearfoot.

Underfoot, the shoe uses a newly developed LIGHTTRAXION outsole inspired by Adidas’ race shoes, including the Adizero Adios Pro 4.

The full-length traction layer sits on a thinner base to reduce weight while still offering grip and durability across varied road conditions.

The Hyperboost Edge also introduces a new visual identity for Adidas running footwear.

The design also places Adidas’ iconic three stripes directly on the stacked midsole, drawing attention to the Hyperboost Pro technology underfoot

Patrick Nava, general manager of Adidas Running, described the shoe as the start of a broader shift for the brand’s performance lineup.

“Hyperboost Edge is where the power of three comes to life: cushioning, energy and lightness combined seamlessly in one shoe,” he said.

“By harnessing these elements without compromise, we’ve created a super-trainer that feels light on foot, responsive through every stride and cushioned under impact.”

The Adidas Hyperboost Edge launches globally on 17 March 2026 in a red colourway at Adidas Running, with additional colourways arriving from 1 May, and pricing is set at €200 / $200 (~£173 / AU$330).

Running is performance, but it also provides community and, in some cases, identity.

Now, with the SS26 Adidas x Labrum Adizero collection, running is also a cultural expression.

The sports giant has teamed up with London-based brand Labrum to remix its Adizero franchise with storytelling pulled from founder Foday Dumbuya’s West African heritage, creating a capsule that resonates both on and off the run.

Performance first, storytelling layered in

The range is centred around the fan-favourite Adizero Evo SL, reimagined through Labrum’s visual language and cultural motifs.

The silhouette, already known for its lightweight construction and speed-oriented engineering, now carries graphic references inspired by cowrie shells and West African architectural ventilation patterns, turning performance footwear into something deeply personal.

Alongside the running shoes, the capsule includes ultra-light running jackets, shorts, singlets, crop tops and accessories that lean into the same aesthetic language.

Textiles and prints nod to symbolic elements such as journey, protection and community, bringing an expressive spin to the everyday training kit.

From the runway to race season

"This collaboration is for the runners who carry culture on their backs, stories in their steps, and freedom in their stride," Labrum Founder and Creative Director Foday Dumbuya said about the collection.

"I hope this collection goes beyond running - connecting people to their own journeys and reminding them that movement itself can be a powerful form of expression."

The partnership was first teased on the runway during LABRUM’s Autumn/Winter 2026 London Fashion Week show, where the brand’s overarching theme of Freedom of Movement was on full display.

With this release, Adidas is leaning into the idea that what we wear while pushing our physical boundaries can also speak to who we are, where we come from, and where we’re going, an idea that resonates with many runners.

The Adidas x LABRUM SS26 Adizero collection drops on 3 March 2026 via Adidas UK, Labrum London and selected retailers, with prices from £7 (~$9 / €8 / AU$13).

Adidas has unveiled the Adizero Dropset Elite, a new workout shoe designed specifically for the fast-growing hybrid fitness scene.

Released a little over a month after the strength training-focused Dropset 4, the shoe marks the first time the brand has merged its speed-focused Adizero lineage with the stability-centric Dropset platform.

The company says that with the launch, it aims to create a single option for athletes tackling events that blend running with functional strength work.

No more choosing between speed and stability

The launch reflects the rapid rise of hybrid racing formats such as HYROX, where competitors move between high-intensity runs and strength stations.

According to the brand, the new model is intended to remove the long-standing compromise athletes have faced when choosing between cushioned running shoes and flat, stable trainers.

The shoes are built on the Lightstrike Pro foam, borrowed from the brand’s elite racing line (see also: Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4), delivering a lightweight feel and high energy return.

Surrounding this is a new Energy Rim structure that wraps the midsole to help guide foot motion and provide extra rear-foot stability during movements such as wall balls and sled pushes.

Grip has also been tailored to the demands of indoor competition. A Continental rubber outsole with a diamond pattern is designed to maintain traction across varied surfaces, including carpeted race floors.

An engineered geometry with an aggressive 12mm drop aims to encourage a more efficient body position during both running and functional stations.

The shoe also features the Footadapt sockliner, first seen in the Dropset 4, to enhance proprioception and control.

The Adizero Dropset Elite has already seen race action, with HYROX athlete Tim Wenisch wearing it to victory in Melbourne late last year.

Adidas says the model will be worn by several elite hybrid athletes throughout the 2026 season as the brand deepens its involvement in the category, including its partnership with fitness competition organiser ATHX.

The adidas Adizero Dropset Elite goes on sale on 18 March, priced at €275 (~£239 / $324 / AU$457) via Adidas.

Running gear has never been better than now in 2026. Super shoes are lighter than a smartphone, foams are bouncier and more responsive, fabrics breathe, wick and regulate body temperature in ways that would have seemed impossible a few decades ago.

And yet, for all that progress, running these days can feel strangely… complicated. As someone who reviews running gear for a living, lately I keep thinking about how nice and, more importantly, simple late-80s and early-90s running fashion was.

I picked up running in my teenage years in the late 90s, and my earliest running memories feature people jogging in ridiculously short, colourful shorts, stripy tank tops, and, sometimes, headbands. You knew what running gear looked like, and, deep down, you knew you didn’t need to understand it.

A pair of short-shorts or loose joggers, a sweatshirt or vest depending on the weather, proper sports socks, and a pair of trainers that you ran in until they were finished. Maybe a headband or wristband if things got sweaty. That was it. Can we bring back these simpler times?

Back to the past

My longing for what I perceive as simpler times didn't happen in a vacuum, of course. Like millions of other people, I subscribed to the whole Stranger Things phenomenon, and let 80s nostalgia sweep all over me in recent months (team Steve all the way).

Even before then, I noticed that I gravitate towards bold colours and classic 80s and 90s silhouettes when browsing clothes. I recently went on a bit of clothes buying binge when I discovered Abercrombie & Fitch's Archive Collection, full of throwback models.

I also rekindled my love for Denim, thanks to Levi's January Sale, which included a Toy Story-themed pair of jeans, my favourite animated movie from the 90s. Since then, I bought some Carpenter Denim Trousers from Vans (still available at Route One), and a denim sherpa jacket from Levi's, just like my dad had (well, as close as it gets).

Nike helped me push this all into running with its excellent Structure Plus trainers, which I have been using loads in the last couple of months. It's a classic example of modern running shoes made look retro, and I love them.

When running gear was obvious

Late-80s and early-90s running fashion was unapologetically visible. Colours were bold (purples, red, greens, oranges), logos were loud (remember those Reebok Vectors on windbreakers and track tops?), and silhouettes were relaxed, almost boxy. You looked like you were going for a run, and that was the whole point.

Brands like Nike, Adidas and Reebok dominated both the track and the street, while performance-focused names like ASICS, New Balance and Saucony built credibility with runners who cared more about miles than marketing. (Some of the latter are still trying to get out of that box, now that running and fashion are ever so entwined.)

Footwear was where technology lived, and even then, it was easy to understand. The Nike Air Max 90 made cushioning visible, while Adidas’ ZX series introduced the Torsion System without asking runners to decode it. ASICS GEL Lyte, which was introduced in 1987, did exactly what it said on the tin: making your runs softer and more comfortable.

The shoes designed for running in the 80s and 90s are now returning as lifestyle products. The tech doesn't quite hold up to modern performance trainers, even though at the time it represented cutting-edge innovation. Again, times were simpler.

I keep remembering what Nike’s Chief Design Officer, Martin Lotti, said when I interviewed a year and a half ago. Pointing out the shoes on display (the ever-so-wonderful Volt series), he said they were the pinnacle of design at the time, and they thought they couldn't create anything faster. Then came the Vaporfly and Alphafly series, shattering everything that came before them.

The sweet spot before everything became “technical”

The late 80s/early 90s era matters because it sits right on the edge of modern performance gear. Moisture-wicking fabrics were emerging, but hadn’t yet taken over. Cotton sweatshirts and nylon shells were still common, and yes, they weren’t great at regulating temperature. They soaked up sweat, trapped heat, and occasionally felt like running in a crisp packet.

Nobody pretended their kit was optimised. Well, maybe some did, but only to a much lower percentage than it is today. Shaving 3 grams from one trainer iteration to the other didn't quite make headlines, nor did an addition of a sweat-wicking fabric that improves ventilation by 7 per cent.

Today, apparel has become a system of micro-choices. Do you want compression, bonded seams, mapped ventilation, or weather-specific layering strategies? None of this is inherently bad, but it creates unnecessary complexity. It can feel like you need to live and breathe running culture to belong.

The nostalgia problem (and why that’s okay)

I'll be the first one to admit that some of this affection is for a version of running many of us never actually experienced. Running in cotton isn’t fun, and plastic-heavy synthetics don't breathe. Since the late 80s/early 90s, injury prevention and comfort have improved massively, and nobody is seriously arguing we should abandon modern materials.

But the nostalgia I feel isn't about accuracy. I don't want to feel sweaty and gross after a run. Late-80s and early-90s running feels appealing to me because it didn’t demand expertise. No one logged their runs on a training platform or used 'drop' or 'GPS accuracy' when they were asked about their latest session.

Very importantly, it was all about looking good. None of this minimalist nonsense that's been going on for way too long. Running in those days felt like a bit of rebellion, doing something that wasn't massively popular. Seeing another runner was a genuine (and nice) surprise, and not common. And you could spot a runner from miles away, thanks to their swanky outfits.

Why the silhouettes deserve a comeback

Lucky for us, some brands are working on providing new gear that looks old but feels fresh. Labels like Tracksmith, albeit a bit understated, lean into retro silhouettes with modern merino blends.

One of my fave running companies, Bandit Running, borrows heavily from early-90s track aesthetics while quietly delivering top-tier performance. British heritage brands, such as Ronhill and Reebok, also list running shoe models with origins dating back.

Even big brands are revisiting looser shorts, boxier tops, visible socks and throwback colour blocking. Just look at Adidas' Santigo Track Top or Nike's LD-1000 trainers.

Late-80s and early-90s running fashion reminds us that you don’t need to know everything to be a runner. Sometimes, the best gear is the stuff that lets you forget about it entirely. Maybe we don’t need to bring back the materials, but the mindset, the silhouettes, and the simplicity? That’s worth running with.

Adidas has never shied away from pushing the boundaries of performance, and its latest launch suggests there is still plenty of innovation left to explore for the Herzogenaurach-based sportswear giant.

The new piece of elite performance technology is designed to maintain muscle temperature in the minutes between warm-up and the start line, one of winter sports’ most overlooked challenges.

Called the CLIMAWARM SYSTEM, the technology takes the form of a pre-race jacket and trousers equipped with an integrated heating system, engineered specifically for sub-zero competition environments.

The garments are designed to be worn during warm-ups and waiting periods, then removed at the start line, allowing athletes to preserve heat without disrupting established race-day routines.

The timing is no coincidence, with the Olympic Winter Games getting underway later this week in Italy’s picturesque Milano Cortina region.

A similar approach was seen from Nike, which debuted its Hyperice-powered Hyperboots in the lead-up to the 2024 Olympic Games before releasing them more widely a year later, a rollout strategy that Adidas will likely follow with the CLIMAWARM SYSTEM.

Solving the pre-race “cold gap”

The system is based around the ultra-thin Clim8 heating pads, integrated directly into the garments and positioned over major power muscle groups.

The pads provide targeted temperature support during periods of inactivity, the point at which heat generated during an active warm-up is most likely to be lost, yet explosive power is still required moments later.

The CLIMAWARM SYSTEM features Eco and Boost modes and adapts to both movement and ambient conditions, delivering warmth only when needed.

The company says a built-in safety mechanism prevents overheating, while the low-bulk construction ensures the jacket and trousers do not restrict movement during dynamic pre-start routines such as sprinting, gliding or pushing.

The garments themselves are made from performance-tuned fabrics designed to move naturally with the body, supporting a wide range of winter sports warm-ups.

Development took place alongside elite winter sport programmes, with athlete testing and feedback drawn from disciplines such as cross-country skiing, bobsleigh, and skeleton.

While the CLIMAWARM SYSTEM is debuting at the highest level of winter sport, the concept reflects a broader shift towards active, body-ready technology in performance apparel.

More information about price and availability is expected to appear in the coming months.

Adidas Terrex has expanded its trail running shoes lineup with the launch of the Agravic TT, a new model designed specifically for fast running on highly technical terrain.

Positioned below the recently unveiled Agravic Speed Ultra 2, the Agravic TT appears to target runners who want race-day speed without the uncompromising feel (or price) of a top-tier trail super shoe.

At £160, it undercuts the Speed Ultra 2 by £40 while shifting the focus toward stability, security, and protection.

According to Adidas, the Agravic TT is built for “super technical terrain,” with an emphasis on confidence and control across rocky trails, steep descents, and unpredictable terrain.

Compared to the Speed Ultra 2, the shoe is described as more stable, more secure, and more protective, while still delivering a fast, race-ready ride.

Built for the rough stuff

Key to that approach is a wider base, which is designed to improve stability on uneven ground, particularly during descents and sharp direction changes.

The midsole uses a dual-layer construction combining Lightstrike Pro and Lightstrike+, the same foam propelling the Adidas' road running shoes, aiming to balance cushioning, durability, and stability during demanding trail races.

Protection is provided by a rock plate underfoot, while the upper is described as more durable and supportive than that of Adidas’s most aggressive trail racers.

Underneath, a multi-directional lug pattern is intended to provide reliable traction on loose, wet, and technical surfaces.

The Agravic TT offers a less extreme, more approachable option for technical trail racing than the top-of-the-line Agravic Speed Ultra 2, where stability and confidence can matter as much as outright speed.

The Agravic TT is available now at Adidas Terrex, priced at £160.

Adidas is dipping back into its deep running archive for Spring/Summer 2026, bringing back the Adistar Control 5 as part of a wider push to reframe performance heritage for everyday wear.

The trainers return not as a modern running shoe, but as a street-ready reinterpretation of a silhouette that once sat firmly in the performance camp.

It’s a familiar play for sportswear brands. While legacy running technology has long been surpassed by modern performance platforms, the shapes and design language of those shoes remain popular, particularly among enthusiasts drawn to technical aesthetics over outright performance.

It’s also a move that mirrors the brand's broader strategy of mining its late-90s and Y2K catalogue for styles that feel technical, nostalgic and fashion-forward in equal measure.

From long runs to long-term relevance

The wider Adistar line dates back to the late 1970s, evolving over decades to support marathoners and long-distance runners.

By 2008, the Adistar Control 5 had emerged as a recognisable Y2K performance model, built around stability, cushioning and long-run comfort.

This year, Adidas aims to reshape that identity rather than rewrite the rulebook entirely.

The revived Adistar Control 5 keeps its functional DNA intact, featuring a FORMOTION heel unit for stability, ADIPRENE+ cushioning underfoot and a torsion bar designed to support smoother transitions.

Visually, the emphasis shifts firmly towards lifestyle appeal, with an open-mesh upper that improves breathability, while overlays lean into the era’s unmistakable tech-runner aesthetic.

Rather than positioning the shoe as a performance comeback, the company frames the Adistar Control 5 as a bridge between past and present: a piece of running tech heritage adapted for modern streetwear rotations.

In that sense, its return feels less about nostalgia alone and more about timing, as archive running silhouettes continue to dominate both fashion weeks and footwear drops.

The Adistar Control 5 is available to buy now in a range of colours at Adidas UK for a recommended price of £90, with more expected to drop soon.

Adidas’ Dropset workout shoe line has always lived in an awkward middle ground. Too stable for runners, too flexible for purists, and not quite loud enough to dominate the CrossFit conversation the way Nike’s Metcon series has done for a decade.

With the Dropset 4, adidas isn’t trying to reinvent that identity. Instead, it’s trying to make peace with it.

At first glance, the Dropset 4 feels almost identical to its predecessor, the highly-rated Adidas Dropset 3. The profile is flat, the base is wide, and the shoe immediately communicates stability rather than speed. But the brand has quietly shifted its messaging this time around.

The Dropset 4 is no longer framed purely as a strength shoe. Now, it’s pitched as a functional training all-rounder that can take you from heavy deadlifts to box jumps and even short runs of up to 800 metres. Do the new features help the shoes achieve their goals?

The comfort of a wide foundation

The first thing I noticed when stepping into the Dropset 4 was the platform. The midsole feels reassuringly flat, and the base is wide enough to make you forget about balance when you’re under a barbell. For deadlifts, squats and other compound lifts, the shoe behaves grounded, predictable and confidence-inspiring.

It doesn’t clamp your foot down as tightly as the Nike Metcon 10, but I never felt insecure either. It strikes a more forgiving balance, which makes it easier to move between exercises without feeling like you’re wearing specialist lifting shoes.

The roomy toe box deserves special mention. I’ve learned to size up in adidas trainers, and in my case, a UK11 finally delivered that elusive Goldilocks fit: not too long, not too tight, and with enough space for my wide feet to breathe. (For reference, I’m a UK10 in Nike, 10.5 in New Balance, and 11 in adidas and Hoka.)

Repetitor, rods and reality

Adidas’ full-length Repetitor foam is the backbone of the Dropset 4. It provides consistent firmness underfoot without feeling dead, which is exactly what you want in a training shoe. There’s no squishy compression under heavy load, but enough forgiveness to keep impact work comfortable.

Running is technically possible, and Adidas isn’t lying about that. The foam, combined with the internal Energyrods, gives you a controlled, slightly propulsive ride. Those rods add stiffness through the midfoot and forefoot, helping with transitions and stabilising each step.

That said, I wouldn’t choose the Dropset 4 for any meaningful distance. Short sprints at the end of a session are fine. A quick 400–800m warm-up jog is just about tolerable. Anything longer starts to feel taxing on the calves, and you quickly realise this is still a training shoe pretending to be a runner, not the other way around.

Foot bumps and muscle memory

Adidas doesn’t call this a Hyrox shoe, and it’s right not to. Hyrox athletes gravitate toward bouncier, more energetic platforms like the Puma Deviate Nitro 3 for a reason. When cardio dominates the session, you want rebound, not restraint.

One of the more interesting features is the FOOTADAPT sockliner. Adidas says it improves foot awareness and balance control. Visually, it looks like something akin to those massaging clogs that were everywhere in the 80s and 90s.

I’m sure barefoot purists would argue about its effectiveness, but subjectively, I enjoyed the sensation. It adds a subtle layer of feedback underfoot, which makes the shoe feel more connected to your movement. Whether that translates into measurable performance gains is up for debate, but in daily training, it simply feels good.

A better generalist than it admits

Compared to the On Cloudpulse Pro, the Dropset 4 feels more open, more adaptable and more relaxed. On’s shoe is narrower and more locked-in, with an elevated heel that’s excellent for squatting. The Adidas, by contrast, feels like a better generalist: not quite as specialised, but far more versatile.

That versatility is exactly what adidas is selling with its “All You Need” campaign, and for once, the slogan doesn’t feel entirely hollow.

At £110 / $145 / €130, the Dropset 4 is keenly priced. In a world where running shoes regularly flirt with £200, it’s refreshing to see a genuinely versatile training shoe remain grounded in reality.

Verdict

The Adidas Dropset 4 is not the most exciting training shoe you can buy, and that’s exactly why it works. It’s stable without being rigid, versatile without being vague, and comfortable without being soft.

It doesn’t try to be revolutionary. It doesn’t pretend to replace three different pairs of shoes. What it does offer is a stable, comfortable, durable and surprisingly enjoyable platform for the kind of workouts most people actually do.

If your training lives somewhere between heavy lifts, circuits and the occasional sprint, the Dropset 4 makes a strong case for being exactly what adidas claims: all you really need.

The Dropset 4 is available now at Adidas UK, Adidas US and Adidas EU for the recommended retail price of £110 / $145 / €130 (~AU$226).

Adidas has just unveiled the Dropset 4, its latest functional training shoe that’s trying to solve a very real gym problem - that most of us are wearing the wrong footwear for the job.

As part of its launch campaign, Adidas is claiming 7 in 10 gym-goers train in incorrect shoes, and to be fair, I see it all the time, people squatting in soft, marshmallowy runners and wondering why they feel wobbly.

T3’s review of the shoes' predecessor, the Dropset 3, earned the trainers a Platinum Award for exactly the opposite reason. It was absurdly stable - so grippy, that Active editor Matt Kollat joked it made his garage floor feel like Super Glue, making it a brilliant option for big lifts. The trade-off, however, was versatility - it was a strength-first shoe, not something you’d pick for hybrid workouts.

That’s where the all-new Dropset 4 comes in, with a massive focus on “runnability” - a not-so-subtle nod to the Hyrox-style training hype we're seeing right now. To add to this, Adidas claims its new shoe can take you from heavy deadlifts to box jumps and even short sprints (up to 800m) without feeling like you’re clomping around in clogs.

Built for hybrids

Adidas says the Dropset 4 mixes what the range is known for - controlled stability - with a bit more pop and versatility, which is what a lot of functional training looks like these days.

Underfoot, it uses the brand's Repetitor foam along the entire length of the trainer, which is designed to keep things stable while giving you consistent energy return when you’re moving faster.

There are also Energyrods inside, which are meant to balance stiffness and flexibility, supporting the heel in heavy lifts while giving the forefoot a more propulsive feel for more high-impact moves like jumps and skipping.

On the outsole, adidas has blended Continental rubber with Adiwear in a bid to give the shoe more traction and durability during loaded moves like sled pushes and weighted lunges.

The Footadapt sockliner is there, too, to improve “foot awareness” and balance, Adidas says - and the upper has a 3D haptic print layer to help with abrasion resistance while keeping your feet breathing so they don't turn into a sweaty swamp mid-session.

For the launch, adidas has gone all-out, backing the shoes with an ‘All You Need’ campaign that features a bunch of lifestyle influencers as well as competitive athlete Laura Horvath, who apparently wore the Dropset 4 to a major victory in Aberdeen in October last year.

The Dropset 4 functional training shoe goes on sale from today and can be bagged on Adidas' official store and selected retailers.

Most running shoe nerds obsess over speed, propulsion, carbon plates and podium times, but Adidas took a different approach with its latest footwear.

A new global study commissioned by the brand shows 70% of runners agree the best part of a run is simply finishing it.

That insight sparked the creation of the success of the Supernova Rise 2 and Supernova Glide, two everyday trainers engineered to make running feel better from the very first step instead of just the last one.

The Rise 3 arrives as the latest evolution of one of the company's most-loved cushioned trainers.

It introduces a full-length Dreamstrike+ midsole that’s 5% lighter, 20% softer, and packed with 16% more foam than before, creating a bouncier, smoother feel for easy runs, long-mile days and everything in between.

It’s topped with a new Primeweave upper that, according to Adidas, adapts to the foot and reduces weight, backed by a LIGHTTRAXION outsole that uses anatomical, rod-like sculpting to smooth transitions and improve grip over changing surfaces.

Strange anatomy lessons

Adidas says it tested the shoe with gender parity, resulting in a women-specific last with a refined heel bevel, adjusted arch position and a sockliner with extra foam under the arch.

The Supernova Glide lands as the softer, more straightforward all-rounder model of the two.

It uses a dual-foam midsole with Dreamstrike Glow for a plush step-in feel, paired with an engineered mesh upper and a clear full-length rubber outsole for stability and grip.

Adidas positions the Glide as the dependable everyday trainer for runs up to 21km.

Both shoes launch globally on 4 December in a Lucid Coral and Clear Orange colourway for men and women, with more colours coming in early 2026. Prices are €150 / $140 (~£131 / AU$265) for the Supernova Rise 3 and €130 / $130 (~£114 / AU$230) for the Supernova Glide.

Adidas has expanded its record-chasing Adizero family with a new all-terrain twist: the Adizero Evo SL ATR.

The brand describes it as an evolution of the famously lightweight Evo SL, now engineered to stay fast and stable when the forecast turns grim.

The running shoe lands globally on 4 December, giving winter runners a fresh option that blends race-day energy with off-season practicality.

The philosophy behind the ATR edition is disarmingly simple. As the brand puts it, runners shouldn’t feel like their favourite trainer becomes unusable just because the weather deteriorates.

To fix that, designers added subtle yet high-impact changes: water-repellent protection, improved traction, and enhanced stability, all while preserving the Evo SL's signature lightness and sleek silhouette.

Global Category Director Simon Lockett says the goal was to create a version that “meets the demands of mixed terrain and all seasons.”

A shift in the surface story

The biggest functional change arrives underfoot. The Evo SL ATR features a Continental rubber outsole with 1.5mm lugs, providing runners with reliable bite on damp pavements, park paths, and light off-road detours.

It’s traction designed for the daily unknowns, the slush, the drizzle, the leaf-slick pavements, without veering into hardcore trail-shoe territory.

To protect against the worst of winter, the shoe features a woven ripstop mesh upper with built-in water repellency, plus shield tabs, reflective accents, and tactile mudguard textures for extra durability and visibility.

Cushioning comes from a full-length Lightstrike Pro midsole for a smooth, dynamic feel that mirrors the nicely propulsive ride of the road-focused Evo SL.

The result is a versatile hybrid: a fast, lightweight daily trainer that doesn’t need to be shelved until spring.

For runners chasing consistency through the cold months, that alone might be the biggest upgrade of all.

The Adizero Evo SL ATR will be available globally from 4 December, priced at €160 / $160 / £140 (~AU$244) via adidas UK and the adidas app.

The Agravic Speed Ultra was already one of adidas TERREX’s most impressive trail running shoes.

I reviewed the first iteration and found it to be a rare mix of efficiency, stability and aggressive propulsion, especially on undulating terrain.

Now adidas has officially unveiled its successor, the Agravic Speed Ultra 2, and it’s shaping up to be an even more formidable long-distance option.

Dropping on 2 December, the Agravic Speed Ultra 2 is purpose-built for ultra-distance trail racing and has been refined with input from some of the world’s quickest off-road athletes.

It retains the familiar silhouette of the original but packs in upgrades across cushioning, grip and stability.

A shoe built to go further (and faster)

Adidas has switched to a softer formulation of Lightstrike Pro, creating a more cushioned feel without sacrificing the snappy ride that made the first version so effective.

Combined with the exaggerated rocker and embedded energy rods, the new foam should offer a smoother transition and better energy return over hours of running.

The Continental outsole now uses deeper 3mm and 4mm lugs to deliver improved traction across loose, rocky or dusty trails.

Adidas TERREX says the new design delivers a snugger, more supportive fit with improved stability, which should help keep runners locked in and confident when fatigue sets in and foot placement becomes less precise.

The shoe will make its racing debut this weekend at the UTCT races in Cape Town, where adidas TERREX athletes, including Robbie Simpson, who claimed a podium spot in the 55km race last year in the original model, are expected to toe the line in the updated version.

It’s not on sale yet, but excitement is already building. The Agravic Speed Ultra 2 will go on sale on 2 December 2025 for the recommended retail price of £200 / $225 (~€195 / AU$349).

For more info, visit Adidas TERREX today.

Adidas has unveiled the Adizero Prime X Evo, a limited-run running shoe designed for one thing only: going impossibly fast over absurdly long distances.

The successor of the Adizero Adios Pro Evo, the new model helped South African ultrarunner Sibusiso Kubheka smash the six-hour barrier for 100 km earlier this year, clocking a historic 5:59:20 at the adidas Chasing 100 event. And now it’s finally going on sale.

According to the brand, the Prime X Evo was engineered in close collaboration with the five athletes involved in Chasing 100, using months of testing and iterative prototypes.

The shoe sits outside World Athletics’ regulations by design, giving the brand freedom to build a platform that pushes height, cushioning and geometry well beyond the limits allowed in official races.

The result is a towering 50 mm heel stack and an eye-catching profile that looks more like a concept shoe than something you’d expect to see on a public road.

Geometry at the adge of reason

Underfoot is a next-generation version of Lightstrike Pro foam, supported by an aggressively sculpted architecture intended to maximise forward propulsion over ultramarathon distances.

The upper is stripped back to the essentials, helping the shoe reach an astonishing weight of just 146 g in a men’s US 8.5, lighter than many elite marathon shoes that sit 20–30 mm lower to the ground.

Adidas positions the Prime X Evo as a showcase of “race-dominating Adizero technology” rather than a shoe for the masses.

It’s aimed squarely at runners looking to test the absolute cutting edge of foam, geometry and energy return.

The brand says it is recommended only for road use and for athletes chasing personal bests over ultra-distance efforts.

The Adizero Prime X Evo will be available in extremely limited quantities from 20 November 2025, priced at $500 / €500 / £450 (AU$770). Visit Adidas for more info.

Adidas has done it again! The Supernova Rise 2, the latest addition to the brand’s comfort-focused running shoe franchise, has officially landed – and it’s bringing some serious upgrades to the table.

Following in the footsteps of its award-winning predecessor, the Supernova Rise 2 trims the weight and ramps up comfort, making it a must-consider for runners looking to elevate their daily mileage.

The reimagined runner is 4% lighter than the original, thanks to an updated breathable upper and a streamlined heel construction. But the changes aren’t just about weight.

Adidas has also introduced a refined foam collar that boosts both comfort and stability, ensuring the shoe stays secure during transitions from heel to toe.

The breathable, engineered design is said to hug your foot without feeling restrictive, keeping you cool and secure as the miles roll by. Better still, the streamlined heel pillow reduces bulk while enhancing support.

Underfoot, Adidas keeps things familiar with the Dreamstrike+ midsole, inspired by the record-breaking Adizero franchise. Maximum stack height is 35.5mm with a 10mm drop.

Paired with the tried-and-tested Support Rod system, this setup ensures a smooth transition from heel to toe while offering stability when it’s most needed.

Add to that an ADIWEAR outsole for grippy, durable traction, and you’ve got a shoe ready to tackle everything from morning jogs to long weekend runs.

JT Newcomb, Adidas Running Footwear’s Category Director, sums it up best: “We wanted to bring everything our running community loved about its predecessor while adding new features that double down on the franchise’s comfort-driven goal. The revamped upper and reduced weight make the Supernova Rise 2 the perfect choice for daily runs, mile after mile.”

Runners can grab the Supernova Rise 2 in the Orbit Grey colourway for men or the Wonder Quartz colourway for women, priced at €150 / $140. It will be available online at Adidas and in select stores starting 3 December 2024, with even more colourways rolling out in 2025.

Get ready, sneakerheads, because adidas and Como 1907 have released what might be the most exclusive footwear you’ll never get your hands on.

Dropping today, 19 October 2024, this ultra-limited edition sneaker will be the first in a series of custom collaborations between the iconic sportswear brand and Italy’s beloved Serie A club.

So, what's all the fuss about? Well, besides the fact that only a tiny batch is available, the design of this sneaker is inspired by the serene elegance of Lake Como.

These kicks don’t just look good; they also bring a bit of the Italian lakeside right to your feet. Think sleek lines, lake-inspired prints, and enough sophistication to make you feel like you’re strolling the Como promenade (even if you're just walking to the store).

Leading the charge for this drop is Como 1907 midfielder Yannik Engelhardt, who’ll be repping the sneakers both on and off the pitch.

We're not saying that wearing these will improve your football skills, but Yannik does look pretty slick in them, so who knows?

This release celebrates more than just cool footwear; it’s a nod to Como 1907’s incredible journey back to Serie A after 21 years, with the iconic lake print marking that achievement.

Available both at the adidas x Como store and online, you’ll want to act fast. Trust us, these sneakers will be gone quicker than you can say "ultra-limited."

Now the real question is: Will you be one of the few lucky enough to score a pair? Probably not – but hey, it’s always fun to dream. Better start camping out now, or those lake-inspired beauties will be but a distant memory!

Adidas’ Adizero franchise gave birth to many iconic running shoes, the most coveted of which is the Adios Pro line of racing shoes. Now in its fourth iteration, the latest Adizero Adios Pro 4 is a force to be reckoned with, as I learned during my first run in the shoes.

That first run was the Loch Ness Marathon, one of the best foot races I’ve ever had, not least because I ran it in these shoes. I was practically flying (well, considering my tempo, anyway) and finished the race in just over three and a half hours.

Modelled after the unique Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1, the Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 is lightweight, streamlined and incredibly fast. It introduces many new technologies and further enhances what makes the franchise one of the most sought-after on the market today.

Just how good is the Adios Pro 4, and how does it compare to its predecessor, the ultra-popular Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3? Should it be considered among the best running shoes right now? And really, just how good is it? Read on to find out.

Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 review

Price and availability

The Adizero Adios Pro 4 will launch globally in January 2025, priced at €250/ $250/ £220 – AU price TBC. Currently, it comes in one colourway only: Cloud White / Core Black / Silver Metallic. (I’m sure it’ll come in all colours of the rainbow once it’s launched properly.) Available sizes TBC. For more info, visit Adidas UK, Adidas US and Adidas AU.

Specifications

• Best for: Racing/Speed runs/Tempo training
• Offset/drop: 6mm
• Stack height: 39mm (heel), 33mm (forefoot)
• Weight: Men’s 7.9oz. (224g), Women’s 6.6oz (188g)
• Tested weight: 221g/ 7.75oz (men's UK 10.5/ US 11)
• Fit: True to size but narrow toe box

Design and materials

The Adizero Adios Pro 4 has a completely redesigned forefoot rocker point geometry. The rocker point, positioned 60% along the shoe’s length, is said to help runners transition smoother than before. I’m not sure about the percentage for the Pro 3, but the rocker point was closer to the tip of the shoes.

Having a rocker point closer to the midfoot area maximises the propulsive effect of the carbon plate or, in this case, the ENERGYRODS 2.0 system. This single structure was introduced in the Pro 3 and has a "harmonious stiffness" compared to the original ENERGYRODS, which were separate sticks embedded in the midsole.

Speaking of midsoles, the Adizero Pro 4 uses the same Lightstrike Pro as its predecessor, albeit a refined version. The central groove under the heel is deeper, and the cutaway section under the little toa is also more subtle, which is excellent, as I didn’t like that on the Pro 3 at all.

One big difference is the new Lighttraxion outsole, which has been designed based on extensive studies of athlete strike patterns. The design differs from the Continental rubber outsole used on the Pro 3 and covers all areas that touch the ground for exceptional traction (more on this below).

But wait, there is more! The upper has also been revamped: the Lightlock upper provides a snug fit through a one-way stretch woven mesh construction. It’s still a bit pointy but feels lots more comfortable than the Pro 3’s narrow toebox. The tongue is now shorter and runs only to the top of the lace cage.

The drop has been reduced once again from 6.5mm to 6mm (the Adizero Pro 2 had a 10mm drop), which is due to the maximum stack height being ‘only’ 39mm instead of 39.5mm. The stack height under the forefoot remained the same at 33mm.

Even though I went half size up compared to the Pro 3 – I'm starting to learn that I need to size up with Adidas – the Adios Pro 4 is much lighter than its predecessor at 221g/ 7.75oz. I am not entirely sure where the extra weight savings come from, but it's a welcome improvement, for sure.

Performance and comfort

My first run in the Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 was when I ran the Loch Ness Marathon in Inverness. It’s a lovely course with a few ups and downs. The weather was perfect, allowing me to focus on the running experience and, of course, the shoes.

If you’ve ever run a marathon, you know that your legs will not have a great time by the time you drag yourself through the finish line. That 26.2 miles is a long distance for the body to perform at a higher level, which takes its toll on the joints and muscles.

That said, I felt like a million dollars in the Adios Pro 4. The traction was sublime – it felt like I had suction pads on my soles – and the updated midsole geometry worked wonders. My legs felt fresh even towards the end, so much so that my fastest mile was the last (sprint finish, anyone?).

The upper felt good, too, although, as I mentioned above, I wish Adidas had returned to the Pro 2's more rounded toebox. The Adios Pro 4 certainly didn’t help me retain my toenails by the end of the race, but at least I didn't want to rip the shoes off my feet as soon as I crossed the finish line, which is a big win for me.

The new rocker felt beautiful underfoot, and even larger hills didn’t significantly affect my stride. I was brimming with confidence as I ran past others, struggling to even walk up hills that I managed to run up.

Shallow rockers are often an issue with super shoes, as they don't allow the plate to do its magic. Stiffer midsole materials can also be problematic for the same reason. The Adios Pro 4 suffers from neither of these; instead, the new geometry breathes new life into both the Lightstrike Pro foam and the ENERGYRODS 2.0 system.

Who’s the Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 for?

The Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 is for those who want to run their fastest half-marathon or full-marathon. The shoes won’t do the work for you, but they will enable you to run as fast as you can. The energy return is impressive, and the upper is not terribly uncomfortable, either. Needless to say, the shoes are for road racing only; pick trail running shoes, like the brilliant Hoka Tecton X 3, for off-road challenges.

Should you buy the Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4?

The shoes aren’t available to buy yet, as Adidas only released them in small quantities, so the pros can use them at the Berlin Marathon. The Adizero Adios Pro 4 is cheaper than some of its rivals, including the Nike Alphafly 3 and the Saucony Endorphin Elite, and performs just as well as those. If you need fast racing shoes, you should consider the Adidas.

Verdict

It seems Adidas hit the nail on the head with the Adizero Adios Pro 4. All parts of the shoe work together in perfect harmony, and even though it’s not an entirely ‘new’ shoe (the Lightstrike Pro midsole and the ENERGYRODS 2.0 were present in the Pro 3), the way the components are combined makes the shoes entirely different from their predecessor.

The only area where I would still like to see some improvement is the shape of the toe box. I find it too narrow, and I know I'm not alone. If the upper at the front was a little bit more accommodating, the shoes would be the perfect marathon racers.

That said, the Adizero Adios Pro 4 is an exciting running shoe, and I can’t wait to put even more miles into it. The energy return is sublime as long as you can handle the bounce. Recommended for more experienced runners and definitely those who like to travel at speed.

Also consider

Saucony Endorphin Speed 4: This versatile shoe offers a similar propulsive feel with its nylon plate at a lower price than many carbon-plated racers.

Nike Alphafly NEXT% 3: Known for its elite-level performance, it’s one of the fastest marathon shoes on the market with outstanding cushioning and energy return, but comes with a premium price.

Asics Metaspeed Sky+: With its FlyteFoam Blast Turbo midsole, the Metaspeed Sky+ is built to maximise stride efficiency and energy return, making it a top choice for speed-focused runners.

New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v3: A highly cushioned carbon-plated racer that combines speed with comfort, making it a great choice for those looking to go the distance without sacrificing feel.

Hoka Rocket X 2: Lightweight and built for speed, the Rocket X 2 is ideal for runners who want a race-day shoe that can handle training sessions as well as marathons.

I have always been a fan of Adidas’ Ultraboost franchise. The first one I tried was the Ultraboost 19, and I’m pretty sure I've run in all of the shoe’s successors since then. The Adidas Ultraboost 5 is said to be the biggest update since the franchise was created in 2015, so I was curious to see how the running experience evolved with new changes.

Most of the marketing material about the shoes focused on how the Ultraboost 5 provides the highest energy return of any Ultraboost shoes to date, which gave me the impression that the Ultraboost 5 will change its sneaker-style running shoe approach.

This is certainly not the case; the new iteration provides a very similar experience to older Ultraboosts but with a modern twist. It might not be the best running shoe, but if you need a good-looking, energetic trainer, the Adidas Ultraboost 5 is an excellent option. Read my full review below for more information.

Adidas Ultraboost 5 review

Price and availability

The Adidas Ultraboost 5 is available in-store and online directly from Adidas for €180 from 18 July 2024, with Early Access for members of the adidas adiClub from 11 July 2024. It launches for both men and women in a white and grey base with ‘Spark Orange’ and ‘Lucid Pink’ colours.

Specifications

• Best for: daily training, jogging, walking
• Stack height: 39mm (forefoot), 29mm (heel)
• Offset/drop: 10mm
• Support: neutral 
• Tested weight: 323g/ 10.4oz (UK10)
• Fit: True to size

Design and materials

The silhouette of the Ultraboost 5 reminds me of the Ultraboost Light 1, one of my favourite entries in the franchise. It has a ton of foam underfoot; in fact, Adidas says the re-engineered Light Boost midsole is packed with 9mm more foam under the heel and forefoot compared to Ultraboost Light 1.

Between you and me, I’m not sure where the extra 9mm is, as the Ultraboost 5 isn’t that much taller than the Ultraboost Light 1. Both shoes are supposed to have a maximum stack height of 39mm, but the drop is different (Ultraboost 5: 10mm, Ultraboost Light 1: 31mm)

More interestingly, the new shoes are lighter (my men’s UK 10 weighs 323g/ 10.4oz) and have 2% more forefoot energy than the Light 1 while looking very similar to the Ultraboost Light 1. This isn’t a bad thing, though; I liked those shoes and like the way the Ultraboost 5 looks and feels, too.

The Ultraboost 5 features Adidas’ Torsion System technology, which adds a bit of rotational stiffness to the midsole. It’s not as stiff as a carbon plate and is also placed differently – sandwiched between the Continental outsole and the Light Boost midsole – but it helps you control your stride better, which otherwise might be difficult, given the softness of the foam.

Performance and comfort

One thing I haven’t mentioned above is the Primeknit upper, which is very similar to (I’d say) most Ultaboost shoes in the past. However, I found the section just above the toes a little less roomy compared to the Ultraboost Light 1. I was wondering if I should size up, based on my recent experience with the Adidas Dropset 3, but apart from the toe vertical space issue, the shoes fit well.

The Ultraboost 5 isn’t about chasing PBs and going fast and hard. It’s a bouncy, fluffy trainer that’s aimed at yonder runners wanting to have a good time. It helps you move forward just fine and looks dapper on the feet. The white Primeknit upper got dirty straight away, needless to say, so be careful if you like your trainers to look box-fresh.

As for the 2% better forefoot energy return, that’s as impossible to verify as you can imagine. The Ultraboost 5 certainly doesn’t feel much faster than other Ultraboosts I’ve tried, but at the same time, I didn’t expect it to replace my Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 or Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10.

One thing that prevented me from running faster in the shoes was the looser heel construction. The lack of solidity in this area is perfect for keeping things comfortable, but you can definitely feel the rear of your foot travelling in and out slightly as you run.

That said, I often reach for the Ultraboost when I go out for walking or jogging or just don’t feel like punishing myself with my running sessions. The Ultraboost 5 continues the good tradition of providing a comfortable experience when out and about. If that’s the sort of thing you need, boy, have I got a running shoe recommendation for you!

Verdict

The Ultraboost 5 by Adidas echoes the design of the Ultraboost Light 1, featuring a re-engineered Light Boost midsole with 9mm more foam for added comfort. This shoe isn't designed for setting personal bests but excels as a bouncy, comfortable trainer ideal for casual runs and walks. For those seeking a stylish and comfy running shoe, the Ultraboost 5 is a solid choice.

Also consider

It might not look as cool, but ASICS' Gel-Nimbus 26 is just as comfortable as the Ultraboost 5. It offers improved traction, enhanced midfoot support, and plush cushioning, making it ideal for recovery runs and slower paces. Perfect for those seeking a comfortable, cushioned running experience. Read my full ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26 review.

Adidas has been steadily refining its strength training shoes, and the Dropset 3 is a testament to this evolution. After using these shoes for a variety of workouts over the past few weeks, I can confidently say that they stand out. Their unique features make them my go-to choice for deadlifts and squats.

I’ve long been looking for a pair of workout shoes that can finally push the Nike Metcon 9 off my feet. There is nothing wrong with the Nikes; I found them stable and comfortable. However, they are designed for ‘metabolic training’, and I don’t often climb ropes or go for a run in between sets when working out in my home gym.

No, I need stability, grip, and ventilation inside the shoes. I need footwear that keeps me locked in and feels comfortable after a long and sweaty session in my garage (where I work out). The Adidas Dropset 3 is exactly that kind of shoe. Want to know more about the best workout shoes for strength training I have tried recently? Read my full review below.

Adidas Dropset 3 review

Price and availability

The Adidas Dropset 3 was launched in June 2024 and is available to buy now directly from Adidas US, Adidas UK. and Adidas AU for a recommended price of $130/ £110/ AU$200. It comes in women’s and men’s versions in eight different colours (five for men and three for women). The Dropset 2 has the same RRP/ MSRP, so it’s worth getting the updated version instead. I tested the fab Lucid Pink / Semi Cobalt Blue / Shadow Fig colourway.

Specifications

• Best for: strength training
• Heel drop: 6 mm
• Weight: TBC
• Fit: wide fit

Design and materials

The Dropset 3 is fully and completely optimised for strength training. It has a flat outsole and a dual-density midsole with a moderate 6 mm drop. It features a softer foam at the front for cushioning and a firmer one at the rear for more stability.

The new geoFIT construction is introduced in the Dropset 3, providing heel support and locking in the ankles for better support. The upper is made with Adidas’ HEAT.RDY technology, which is said to offer optimal sweat distribution.

It also features a TPU sidewall and overlays to provide midfoot support and durability. For example, the nose of the shoe has a wider TPU rind in case you want to use the shoes for push-ups or even rope climbing.

Probably the most exciting area of the shoes is the multi-directional outsole. The ADIWEAR 6 rubber material features TRAXION rubber to give added grip and has an integrated airflow window to keep your feet cool as a cucumber during training.

Performance and comfort

I was blown away by the stability the Adidas Dropset 3 offers. My concrete garage floor can only be kept so clean, and there is often a thin layer of dust on it, which isn’t great for stability.

However, when I put the Dropset 3 on and tried sliding my feet, they wouldn’t budge. I’ve never experienced so much grip on such a notoriously slippery surface. Well, slippery isn’t the right word, but I’m used to being able to slide my feet, which I always consider when doing deadlifts or squats.

Not anymore! I love the flat sole, too, as it prevents me from rocking during lifts. Even my trusty Nike Metcon 9s rock slightly due to the fact they are designed with some running in mind; not the Dropset 3, though.

The HEAT:DRY upper does a great job of providing some ventilation in the shoes. I love the little peek-through window in the sole; not sure how useful it is, but it must provide an extra outlet for heat to escape.

My only grief with the shoes is the sizing. I went with my usual Adidas size, which is already half a size over my normal size, but the toe box still felt a bit snug. It’s not a huge issue; after all, you won’t run a marathon in the shoes, and there is also a wide reinforced area at the front to ensure the upper won’t rip due to internal pressure.

However, I’d recommend going up a size, especially if you have wide feet. To be honest, the Dropset 3 is pretty accommodating width-wise, but still. 

Verdict

The Adidas Dropset 3 is a brilliant workout shoe for strength training – one of the best I tried in years. If you mainly do resistance workouts with heavy weights and need footwear that provides added stability, the Dropset 3 is your best option.

If you can, try on the shoes before you buy to ensure the size is correct. Otherwise, there is nothing to criticise about them. Even if you’re not the biggest fan of the snazzy colourway pictured here, you can always opt for a black or grey colourway.

In a groundbreaking revelation, Adidas has introduced its latest workout shoe marvel – the Dropset 3, aimed at tackling a widespread issue that plagues 82 million gym-goers: incorrect footwear during strength training.

Adidas, teaming up with renowned sports physical therapist Dr Leada Malek, PT, DPT, aims to set a new standard in fitness footwear.

This follows a recent study commissioned by Adidas that uncovered a startling fact: seven out of ten gym enthusiasts are unknowingly compromising their workouts by wearing unsuitable shoes.

The findings underscore the need for greater awareness of the benefits provided by specialised training shoes, such as support, stability, cushioning, and grip.

Dr Malek elaborates, "Many gym-goers don't realise that their footwear choices are not optimising their performance. Instead, they're increasing energy exertion, risk of injury, and disruption of normal foot function. Proper footwear is crucial for maintaining posture, reducing pain, and enhancing muscle activation."

Enter Dropset 3, the game-changing footwear designed specifically for strength training. With a low midsole drop height of 6mm, the Dropset 3 ensures even weight distribution and optimal force transfer from feet to ground, promoting accurate alignment and stability.

The innovative TRAXION rubber outsole provides exceptional grip, minimising the risk of slipping, while the integrated airflow window and knitted mesh upper keep feet cool and comfortable.

The Dropset 3 launch builds on Adidas' mission to combat gym intimidation and its collaborations with fitness giants like Les Mills and Tonehouse.

Starting today, the Dropset 3 is available online at Adidas and in select stores. Designed for explosive strength training movements and endorsed by top instructors from Les Mills and Tonehouse, the Dropset 3 promises to be a game-changer in the fitness world.

This summer, Adidas launching the Supernova Prima, the newest addition to the recently revamped Supernova family.

If you thought last year’s Supernova Rise was comfortable, get ready to be blown away. The Prima boasts 13% more of the dreamy DREAMSTRIKE+ super-foam, making it one of the cushiest shoes Adidas has ever released.

JT Newcomb, Category Director of Adidas Running Footwear, highlighted the focus on evolving runners’ needs. "Comfort has always been a key focus of the Supernova family," said Newcomb. "With Supernova Prima, we want to elevate everyday runs by providing more comfort than ever, as well as just the right level of support."

So, what’s new? The Supernova Prima isn’t just about more foam – though that’s certainly a big part of the appeal. This model also introduces the LIGHTTRAXION outsole, designed to keep your strides light and your grip strong.

Plus, the Support Rods have been widened and firmed up, providing extra stability with every step. The heel-fit pillow and engineered mesh upper ensure a snug yet breathable fit, so your feet stay cool and comfy mile after mile.

The new Supernova Prima shoes weigh 292g (10.3oz) for men and 242g (8.5oz) for women, with a stack height of 37.5mm/29.5mm and an 8mm drop.

Available in eye-catching colourways like Preloved Scarlett with Purple Burst for women and Solar Red with Pulse Lime for men, the Supernova Prima will be turning heads on and off the track. Priced at $160 (€170), these shoes are set to hit stores globally today, 4 June 2024.

For more info, visit Adidas US, Adidas UK, and Adidas AU. For more Adidas goodness, you might also want to check out T3's best running shoes and best trail running shoe guides. 

Entering the Adidas Archives in Herzogenaurach, Germany, is like stepping into hallowed grounds. The reverence is palpable as you instinctively lower your voice, and your eyes widen, taking in the magnitude of the space.

You’re surrounded by artefacts that have graced the hands and feet of some of the most illustrious athletes of the past century, a testament to the brand's enduring legacy.

Founded in 2009, the Archive’s purpose is to preserve Adidas’ legacy and history. “Our founder collected shoes from athletes to learn and improve them, which were initially kept in a museum,” says Adidas historian Sandra Trapp.

The collection now includes about 40,000 catalogued products, with another 40,000 in storage and a corporate file archive of up to three kilometres of files. It’s a lot of stuff to keep track of.

If you, like me, are wondering why so many products are still in storage, Sandra explains that archiving a single product can take up to eight hours. If only one person worked on the project, adding the remaining items to the storage would take 320,000 hours. That’s 36.5 years of work, 24/7.

The reason for my visit to the Archives is to learn more about Adidas Terrex. The outdoor apparel-focused brand is not particularly secretive, but it’s not easy to find much about its early years.

Thankfully, climbing legend Alexander Huber is on hand to give us a little insight into the formative years of Terrex. As the story goes, Alexander and his brother, Thomas (along with Stephan Siegrist), wanted to be the first to ascend three peaks in Antarctica in 2008, as chronicled in their book Eiszeit (Ice Age).

At the time, the brothers were affiliated with a British outdoor manufacturer. However, since they were born and raised in Bavaria, the Hubers were keen to use a German company to supply them with gear for the challenge.

Adidas, despite not having a line of suitable outdoor gear at the time, was a natural choice for the brothers. Their shared Bavarian roots and the Hubers's desire to use a German company for their Antarctic expedition led them to Adidas.

The lack of existing gear didn’t deter them from collaborating. In fact, it spurred them on, and the lessons learned from this adventure ignited a new passion within Adidas for outdoor clothing.

And with that, Terrex was born. Sandra, with the help of Alexander, proudly showed us the actual trousers and jackets worn on the Antarctic expedition. We also got to see many of Adidas’ earlier outdoor boots, including models from the Adventure line and the iconic Super Trekking Boots.

Moving on from the Terrex display prepared specifically for us – and includes Tom Evans’ Western States 100-winning Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra – we get to admire other treasures in the Archive.

One that makes everyone cover their mouths in awe is the first-ever track spike created by the brand in the 1920s that, at the time, wasn’t called Adidas. The shoes look tiny and have the biggest spikes I’ve ever seen in my life.

Being in close proximity to something so pivotal in sports history does send a chill down your spine. It might just be the cool temperature in the Archives, though; who knows?

“We follow museum standards, with 18 degrees Celsius (64.4°F) and 55% humidity, which is a mixed climate to accommodate various items,” explains Sandra. “Stability is crucial, so we limit the number of people and use acid-free boxes and paper and special shelving systems to protect against water, fire, and other damages.”

In fact, not even Adidas employees are allowed in. At least not without special permission. Sandra says visits are limited to special requests. Press, media, and brand inductions also visit the archive in person. People working for Adidas can also access the collection digitally 24/7.

The archives contain more than shoes, such as apparel, balls (e.g. footballs and rugby balls), bags, rackets, and miscellaneous items. You’ll even see boxes in the collection, which are notoriously hard to find as they are always the first thing people throw away when they buy a new product.

With thousands of new Adidas products coming out every year, it’s impossible to add all of them to the Archives. “We have collection criteria: athlete-worn items, special events, new technologies, designs, materials, prototypes, limited editions, and first-time products [are selected],” she elaborates. “We also receive offers and maintain contacts with former employees who might donate items.”

Looking at the shelves full of products, one wonders if the Archives will outgrow its current space. After all, new products are being added continuously; surely, space will run out? “It’s a living archive,” Sandra says. “We aim to share more stories and use the archive to inspire new products. Our goal is to keep adding to our history and share it with everyone.”

As I walk out of the temperature-controlled room, I wonder if I’ll ever be able to see it again. We only scratched the surface of the vast collection hidden in the room – who knows what other treasures we missed?

Sliding my white gloves emblazoned with the ‘Adidas Archives’ in my pocket, I try my best to commit everything I’ve seen to my long-term memory. It’s much easier for Sandra, who has an eidetic memory—not a bad thing to have if you look after the ever-growing Archives.

The Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra is a high-performance trail running shoe designed for downhill dominance. Built for long-distance races, the shoe boasts a lightweight build, a wide forefoot platform for enhanced control during descents, and advanced cushioning technology for superior energy return.

Despite its high price and a few sizing issues, its innovative features make it ideal for serious runners prioritising speed and agility on uneven terrains. With a combination of comfort, performance, and cutting-edge design, it is highly recommended for trail enthusiasts.

Want to know more? Read my full review below to see why the Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra is one of the best trail running shoes available today. Let’s dive in!

Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra review

Price and availability

The Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra, along with the Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed, was announced in April 2024 and is available to buy now directly from Adidas Terrex UK and Adidas Terrex US for a recommended price of £200/ $220 – AU price and availability TBC.

The non-plated Agravic Speed is less expensive (£150 and $160 in the UK and the US, respectively).

The asking price is steep, but not only a ton of R&D went into developing the shoes, but it’s also a ‘super shoe’ designed for racing and similar road running shoes are sold for much more (e.g. Saucony Endorphin Elite costs £280/ $275).

As you’ve probably noticed, even daily trailers are getting more expensive (e.g. Asics Gel-Nimbus 26 is £180/ $160), so £200/ $220 for top-tier footwear isn’t extreme (sadly).

Specifications

• Best for: off-road racing, especially fast downhill sections
• Tested weight: 290g/ 10.25 oz (men’s UK 10.5/ US 11)
• Drop: 8 mm
• Stack height: 42 mm (heel), 34 mm (forefoot)
• Lug depth: 2.5/3.5mm
• Cushioning: Lightstrike Pro
• Sustainability: contains a minimum of 20% recycled and renewable content

Development and purpose

The design process that created the Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra started in May 2021, as it was explained to me and my fellow journalists in Herzogenaurach recently by Jeff Morris, Global Director of Innovation, adidas Outdoor TERREX.

At the time, renowned trail runner Tom Evans wanted to win the Western States 100, which inspired the development of a shoe to help him achieve his goal. After talking to Matt and other Adidas Terrex athletes (e.g. the fab Pablo Villa), the team narrowed their focus to creating a downhill shoe that mitigates the impact force of quick descent.

They also studied hundreds of other races and identified that the fastest runners dominated the downhill sections of races – clearly, a fast downhill shoe, or more like a trail shoe that enabled fast but controlled descents, could provide the upper hand to athletes who wore them on races.

Adidas took inspiration from its road running lineup, too, most notably the Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3, which included borrowing the Lightstrike Pro foam and tweaking the shape of the shoe’s rocker geometry.

Speaking of iterations, one of the earlier versions of the Agravic Speed Ultra had ‘deceleration ridges’ under the heel. They didn’t work, so they shaved it off on location! Furthermore, the Energy Rods system was modified to better suit off-road conditions, which resulted in the removal of one of the rods.

One thing I found fascinating about the shoes and the concept as a whole is that it’s not just about performance. Sure, the Agravic Speed Ultra is fast, but Adidas Terrex paid attention to the shoes also delivering an experience so that you can feel fast in them. This might sound obvious, but trust me – someone who tested dozens and dozens of running shoes over the years – not all fast shoes feel fast.

Fun fact: ‘Agravic’ is an amalgamation of the words ‘anti’ and ‘gravity’ with a bit of an Adidas flair.

Design and construction

The Agravic Speed Ultra features a number of Adidas technologies, including the Continental Rubber outsole and the Lightstrike Pro foam.

The former can be found on most Adidas road and trail shoes. In the case of the Agravic Speed Ultra, it covers most of the outsole apart from a groove in the middle of the forefoot, possibly in an attempt to reduce the shoes' weight.

Another difference between the Continental outsole here and—let’s say—on the Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 is the presence of lugs. The Agravic Speed Ultra sports a combination of 2.5 mm and 3.5 mm lugs, a bit shorter at the front and longer at the rear.

The Lightstrike Pro needs no introduction; it’s a lightweight foam that focuses on maximum energy return. Here, you get a big wedge of it underfoot, so much so that it would make the shoes ‘illegal’ to wear on World Athletic Approved races, where the maximum stack height limit is 40 mm (the Agravic Speed Ultra has 42 mm under the heel).

The Energy Rods system has been modified and has a wider profile, running along the perimeter of the forefoot platform – you can see them poking through the foam on the lateral and medial sides of the foam. This platform is indeed expansive and feels both wider and longer than standard running shoes.

I’ll talk about this more below, but one of the most dominant features of the Agravic Speed Ultra is its rocker shape. The curve is intense, although not as sharp as some of the early prototypes of the shoes (see photos above). The rocker is most noticeable under the heels.

Finally, the upper is made of a fine, engineered mesh. It has seamless overlays to provide abrasion resistance and durable protection. Padding is minimal around the ankles, and there are no heel tabs, which makes it somewhat challenging to put on the shoes.

Performance and comfort

I went with my usual Adidas size with the Agravic Speed Ultra, which is half a size over my usual. To my surprise, the shoes felt (and still feel) a bit loose both around the heel and the toebox, which is a strange sensation for an Adidas shoe.

Most running shoe brands can be a bit hit-and-miss when it comes to fit, but in my experience, Adidas generally provides a consistent fit. Not this time! I wish I went half a size under with the shoes.

Once I managed to slip into the shoes, which wasn’t easy due to the thin material and the lack of heel tabs, I almost immediately started rocking back and forth. It almost feels like some foam is missing under the heels. The rocker shape also curls up aggressively at the front.

The forefoot platform is massive and provides a stable foundation for toe-offs. The upper tapers off towards to front, almost funneling your feet into the very front of the shoes upon descends.

The middle section of the foam provides even more stability; it almost feels like there is an oblong ball under your feet. The foam rim around the edge of the upper cradles your foot and helps contain it during fast turns.

How does it feel to run in the Agravic Speed Ultra? Magical. As expected, the shoes really shine during the descends. I was slightly apprehensive at first, not letting myself go hard, but after a few strides, I realised I was in good hands and really leaned into it.

Once you start speeding downhill, all the puzzle pieces fall into place: the heel construction, the forefoot platform, the shape of the upper, and the modified Energy Rods all work together to help you gather and maintain speed on the decline.

Of course, most of the features help you move forward even when the terrain isn’t on the decline. The lugs, in particular, helped me avoid faceplanting on one of my runs when I mistakenly tried to hold onto a slippery log to avoid a large puddle.

I also appreciated the foam cradle, which helped me keep my stride in check on uneven terrain. If only the shoes were my size so I could enjoy them even more! But even so, the Agravic Speed Ultra has been a lot of fun to run in already.

Verdict

The Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra is a very good trail running shoe. It’s tailor-made for fast long-distance races, and I hope it’ll have the same effect as the Nike Vaporfly did back in the day, namely enticing more beginners to try longer distances.

I am not suggesting you should sign up for the UTMB or the Barkley Marathons (not like you can, anyway). But there aren’t enough people enjoying trail running, which is sad, as it’s a very different environment from road races – in the best possible way.

What I like the most about the Agravic Speed Ultra is the innovation and House of Adi’s effort to advance footwear design. Sure, stuff like the Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 is more novelty at this point, and the Adidas Adizero Prime X 2 Strung is more a revolution than an evolution, but the company is definitely trying to make a difference.

If you’re into trail racing, especially longer distances, and like running fast, the Agravic Speed Ultra is a no-brainer purchase. It feels like a niche product (i.e. fast downhill trail racer), but in reality, this feature allows you to become the fastest version of yourself overall. Highly recommended.

Also consider

Salomon Speedcross 6: Known for excellent traction, particularly on muddy trails.

Hoka Speedgoat 6: Offers maximum cushioning and a comfortable fit for long-distance runs.

Brooks Cascadia 18: Provides a balance of cushioning and support for rough terrain.

Inov-8 Roclite G 275 v2: Known for its durable grip and lightweight design.

Innovation has always been at the forefront of running footwear and performance apparel in general. From the earliest days, companies such as Nike and Adidas have been pushing the envelope of what’s expected of trainers, clothing and accessories.

However, in recent years, the process seems to have accelerated so much that it feels like we’re only a step away from becoming cyborgs, enhanced by technology you can purchase anywhere, anytime.

Market saturation plays a huge part in pushing innovation. As companies get more competitive, they get more creative in trying to up each others’ games. One brand rolls out a concept that works, and the others will surely follow suit within a year or so.

A good example – and one that almost everyone in running circles knows – is the story of the Nike Vaporfly 4%. These shoes were engineered from the ground up to give their wearer a 4% performance boost, which might not sound much initially, but it’s quite a substantial advantage over long distances, like marathons.

The Vaporfly 4% and its successor, the Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT%, were marketed heavily towards athletes who seek marginal gains, and Nike’s strategy has paid off. Not only did the Vaporfly NEXT% become the best running shoes to achieve a new personal best, but it also triggered official bodies such as the World Athletics to apply rules to remove ‘unfair’ advantage from its competitions.

Essentially, World Athletics drew the line at the Nike Vaporfly NEXT% and said running shoes used in its competitions couldn’t be taller or have more than one propulsion plate embedded in their sole, halting further experimentation on stack heights and plates.

And that's just running shoes. These days, wearables such as running watches and triathlon watches can monitor almost all of your vitals non-invasively. No need to take a blood test to check your oxygen saturation or to go to a specialised lab to determine your VO2 max.

Better still, most performance wearables can suggest workouts, advise on recovery and sleep, and do all sorts to help you perform at your best, day after day. Add accessories like a chest strap heart rate monitor, and you can also gain access to specialised running metrics such as vertical oscillation, ground contact time, stride length, vertical ratio and more.

Most Garmins and Polar watches have these functionalities and are famous for being a one-stop shop for all your training needs. There is an argument that unless you're a professional athlete, you can replace a real-life coach with a virtual assistant living on your wrist.

Of course, this is a gross simplification, but if you aim to get slightly better at running and haven't got all the money in the world, there is no need to splash the cash on a flesh-and-bone coach.

You can go further and use more than just a wearable to check your vital all day. This is the system Amazfit is working on with its smart ring concept. The brand's upcoming finger wearable is supposed to complement its running watch; you wear the watch during the day and the ring at night, providing 24/7 coverage of your training and recovery, all in one app.

It doesn't stop there, either. Companies such as Ultrahuman combine their smart rings with a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) for even more data. This tech veers into the world of semi-invasive tracking, as CGMs do pierce the skin, but it's so convenient and easy to use that it's almost less hassle than wearing a wristwatch.

Both the performance shoe and wearable markets are saturated, so naturally, companies move over to other areas to expand their portfolio.

One of these companies, Adidas, teamed up with Rheon Labs (retailer link) to produce running shorts using a patented ‘reactive super polymer’. These high-tech shorts are meant to align the shearing forces to maximise energy output, enabling you to run more efficiently. 

Tamirat Tola, who won the New York City Marathon (external link) in course record in 2023, wore the shorts, as well as a number of influencers and other athletes. 

“Rheon Labs tech shorts have strips of the highly strain-rate sensitive polymer strategically placed across major muscle groups,” says Liz Yelling, former double Olympian and Rheon ambassador, “This ensures that the shearing forces you produce in your muscles during high-intensity running don’t work against you.”

Yet another technology uses smart insoles to help you better your running form. UK-based company NURVV (retailer link) promises to analyse your technique and train you to be a better, healthier runner as you hit your goals and manage injury risk.

Then there is Sydney-based startup Minimis Technologies and its Minimis Glass (retailer link). It incorporates a high-resolution waveguide heads-up display into stylish, minimalist sunglasses.

Minimis says the AR glasses require no secondary device to operate, so runners can access real-time performance data, music, and maps without needing a phone in high resolution, thanks to Minimis Glass’s waveguide solution.

One might argue that performance tech is getting out of hand and that if you have enough money, you can supercharge your training from one day to the next using high-tech gear. It’s true that the change in performance technology, much like other areas in life, isn’t getting any slower.

However, trying to solve this issue by ignoring it won’t help. Pandora’s box is open, and we can’t unlearn the innovations that have already occurred. The only way forward is to embrace progress and be mindful of our environmental impact.

Forever chasing the bleeding edge of technology isn’t sustainable. The value of tech products continuously degrades over time; the most exciting innovation of today will only be a footnote in a presentation in a couple of years’ time.

Technology will only ever be able to replace some of the hard work, which means you’ll be able to get much better at running just by optimising rest, training load and nutrition. Should you get to the point where marginal gains become important, you can rest assured that there will be products to help you take your game to the next level.

Adidas' Adizero franchise has been going from strength to strength these past years, winning races left, right and centre. The company's race-ready lineup includes the Takumi Sen franchise, now in its tenth iteration, explicitly designed for 5-10k races.

Admittedly, it's a niche market compared to marathon runners, but considering the growing running population, it makes sense for Adidas to have a shoe like the Adizero Takumi Sen 10 in its roster.

As a speciality shoe, the Takumi Sen 10 really only makes sense if you have a running shoe rotation and need a fast pair for short distances or if you're a runner who often participates in 5-10k races. It certainly isn't a general-purpose running trainer.

Is it worth buying? Should we add the Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 to T3's best running shoes guide? Most importantly, is it good enough to add to your rotation? Let's find out.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 review

Price and availability

The Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 was announced on 1 January 2024 and is available to buy now at Adidas US, Adidas UK and Adidas AU for a recommended retail price of $180/ £170/ AU$ 270.

I find Adidas shoes slightly tighter than others (more on this below), so I went half a size up, which, in my case, is UK 10.5. Currently, the shoes are only available in a couple of colourways, including the tested Ivory / Core Black / Off-White and Green Spark / Aurora Met. / Lucid Lemon.

Specifications

• Best for: 5-10k races
• Weight: 198 grams (M UK 8.5)
• Drop: 6 mm
• Stack height: 33 mm/ 27 mm
• Sizing: true to size
• Colours: See above
• Carbon plate: yes, EnergyRod 2.0
• World Athletics approved?: yes, under 40mm max stack height, one plate
• Vegan: no
• Sustainability: Contains at least 20% recycled content

Comparison

Design and materials

The Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 is a lightweight shoe that feels nimble on foot. It has a double layer of Lightstrike Pro foam for impact force reduction and energy return. 

Adidas seems to be on a mission to confuse people about its foam technologies (not to mention carbon plates; more on this below). There are at least three distinct versions of Lighstrike currently in circulation (Lightstrike, Lightstrike 2.0 and Lightstrike Pro), and Adizero shoes use different combinations of these.

The Lightstrike Pro used here is the same foam as the one in the Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3, and you also get a double serving of it here. However, the Adios Pro 3 is taller, and the construction isn't the same, either. As a result, the Takumi Sen 10 is lighter than the Adios Pro 3, weighing in at 219g (7.7oz, men's UK 10.5).

A new addition to the Takumi Sen franchise is the ENERGYRODS 2.0 system. Adidas' take on the propulsion plate concept has a long, strange history. Previous Takumi Sen models used a combination of a carbon plate in the heel and individual, separated carbon-infused rods in the forefoot, which was said to mirror the shape of the metatarsal bones in the feet.

The new setup is one continuous heel-toe lattice that looks less anatomical than the original. One feels like Adidas is taking the scenic route towards traditional carbon plates, joining the different rods more and more at each iteration. The system works, but the rods are certainly thicker than most carbon plates.

One thing to mention is that Adidas' ENERGYRODS 2.0 is made from partly recycled glass rather than carbon fibre. The brand says glass fibre is more flexible than carbon, which is crucial for "navigating tight corners of 5-10K road races" and "enduring the high impact" experienced from running fast on hard ground.

The synthetic mesh upper is made from 100% recycled polyester and looks exactly what you'd expect from an Adizero shoe. It's practically see-through to reduce weight, reinforced in critical areas and features minimal padding around the ankles. The tongue has a soft-to-touch feel and is slightly padded, too, to relieve the pressure on the top of the foot.

Performance and comfort

Running in the Takumi Sen 10 reminded me of the Adidas Adizero Adios 8 (which uses a different Lighstrike foam setup, Lightstrike 2.0 and Lightstrike Pro) but with added propulsion, thanks to the ENERGYRODS 2.0 system.

It's a peppy shoe that allows you to control your stride while giving you a push at every step. Corners are tight, and changing speeds is easy in the shoes, too.

I love the lightness of the Takumi Sen 10. Since it's designed for shorter distances, the shoes shed a ton of unnecessary weight. They are also less bulky, which is refreshing to see and feel in a world of bulky, max-cushioned shoes. These days, the more foam you have underfoot, the better, it seems.

Although the Takumi Sen 10 is for racing and fast running to distances up to 10k, that. doesn't mean you can't wear it for anything else. I haven't tried running mega-long distances in them, but that's only because I found the upper extremely tight.

Not sure what went wrong there. The Adios 8 has a similar construction, and that felt fine. Yet in the Takumi Sen 10, after a few consecutive 10k runs, the top part of my metatarsal bone on the medial side of my foot was hurting pretty bad.

I have wide feet, which doesn't help, but as I said above, the Adios 8 felt fine, so the upper on the Takumi Sen 10 must be less flexible – and, therefore, less accommodating – than the other one.

I wish it were, though, as I really enjoyed running in the Takumi Sen 10. I was invited by Apple to a track session at Battersea Park Millennium Arena and decided to wear the Takumi Sen 10, and it was a ton of fun. We did intervals, and I was flying in the shoes. So nimble and agile. And, most importantly, really, really fun.

Verdict

The Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 is a tremendously fun shoe. Its lightweight, stripped-back construction lets you leave it all on the field, so to speak, if that's what you want to do.

The double layer of Lighstrike Pro foam improves energy return, and the ENERGYRODS 2.0 system gives that little extra kick at each step to ensure you can jolt forward from every position. The Takumi Sen 10's cornering ability is exceptional, and you also get more stability thanks to reduced stack height compared to high-stack marathon racers.

The only grief is the tightness of the upper. The Takumi Sen 10 would be the ultimate mid-distance racer if the toe box were more accommodating. This shouldn't be an issue if your feet are narrow, but people with wide feet might want to think twice before buying the shoes.

Also consider

The Nike Streakfly came out a couple of years ago, and has been a bit of sleeper hit in a world focused on marathon-ready shoes. Similarly to the Takumi Sen 10, the Streakfly is designed for 5-10k races and has a 32mm maximum stack height and a 6 mm drop. These days, it's around half the price of the Adidas, too. Read my full Nike Streakfly review.

We've seen plenty of Adidas collaboration sneakers of late, with the Marvel's Spider-Man 2 training shoes being particularly impressive. However, its partnership with hyper sports car manufacturer Bugatti is on another level, and has me wanting to get back onto the football field, no matter how knackered my knees.

The Adidas X Crazyfast Bugatti football (soccer) boots have been designed around the "characteristics that have come to define" the French manufacturer's elite vehicles.

Based on the X Crazyfast_laced boot, the special edition features a carbon fibre inlay that pays homage to the material used on the Bugatti Chiron. The semi-transparent mono-mesh material on the mid-foot cage has been adapted to include Bugatti Blue elements – a hark back to the marque's Grand Prix days.

There is also Ettore Bugatti's insignia which repeats across the rear three-quarter of each boot. The phrase "impossible is nothing" can also be found on the sides.

Lastly, Adidas' proprietary Speedframe sole plate technology represents the power of the W16 engine inside the Chiron.

Each pair of X Crazyfast Bugatti boots will be housed in a special edition, unique box with a design inspired by the weaves of carbon fibre. However, you might find it tricky to get hold of them.

There will be only 99 pairs made in total and the only way to buy them will be via an auction process on Adidas' Collect Web 3 platform.

It will run from 8 - 11 November and all winners will be awarded a digital shoebox to redeem from 13 November onwards.

The price for each pair is yet to be revealed, although payments will need to be paid using crytocurrency. Adidas will also offer a direct on-ramp for bidders to have traditional cash converted.

Karim Benzema and Milan's Rafael Leao will both wear the boots in November.

"X Crazyfast is meticulously crafted for speed and performance for a game that demands players move and react faster than ever," said Adidas Football's general manager, Nick Craggs.

"By uniting these two iconic brands, we’ve once again pushed the boundaries of boot design to create something truly unique that both looks incredible and helps players at all levels to be their best."

Adidas has teamed with Sony to celebrate the release of Marvel's Spider-Man 2, which will be available for PlayStation 5 on 20 October. The partnership has resulted in a new range of Spider-Man training shoes, football boots and clothing.

Each item is inspired by the graphics of Peter Parker's in-game Advanced Suit, particularly when his Suit 2.0 is overtaken by the Venom symbiote. This works particularly well in the Ultra 4D sneakers, which already have a unique black latticed sole for additional impact absorption.

In this shoe, Venom's black amorphous, liquid-like form can be seen to extend beyond the lattice sole and creep up the sides, covering some of the instantly recognisable Adidas three-stripe and around the heel.

Naturally, there’s plenty of red and blue in the colourway, while the unique Adizero 12.0 football cleat features Spider-Man’s iconic web design along the flanks. Whether or not this helps the ball stick to the wearer's feet is yet to be seen.

Adidas says it will also release sweatshirts, compression tights and more, made for gamers and athletes alike. Plus, to complete a perfect marketing circle, Adidas products can also be seen on the citizens of Marvel's New York in the game.

Shane Jochum, senior director of market strategy and partnerships at Adidas, said: "The connection between Marvel's Spider-Man 2 and this collection is so special and allowed us to really play with so many design aspects of Marvel's New York, on apparel and in game.

"It's been amazing to see the creative design come to life within the new video game, and we’re excited to see athletes and fans game in style."

This isn't the first time Adidas has tapped into the MCU, as several Major League Soccer teams have also featured some very recognisable prints. Atlanta United FC, for example, teamed up with the childhood cancer charity and Childhood Cancer Awareness month with an Avengers-inspired print on its shirts.

Plus, MLS teams all wore Captain America pre-match jerseys during Independence Day celebrations this year. The Captain America shield is emblazoned across each jersey, making it pretty much impossible to miss.

Adidas is bringing you a splash of summer goodness with big sales across the board for footwear. Whether you want to slip your feet into some of the best running shoes around, or you just want something to get you to and from the beach, Adidas has it in stock for you. But as many of these are items on clearance, with no guarantee of a restock, it’s worth having a look-see on the Adidas sales page to see if there’s something that’s right for you.

We at T3 have also done a little bit of digging and pulled out our favourite shoes from the sale. Don’t be surprised if you start seeing the shoe game of your nearest and dearest levelling up! 

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Let's face it: no one prefers to run in the cold and dark weather we are about to experience. I know this, you know this and Adidas knows this too; that's why it created the Adidas PulseBoost HD Winterized, an all-weather variation of its Adidas PulseBoost HD running trainers we reviewed very recently.

The Adidas PulseBoost HD Winterized are low-profile running trainers that were engineered with ballistic nylon to be more water repellent. More reflective details have been added on it, too, so you can comply with the number one rule of winter running: see and be seen.

• Pre-order the Adidas PulseBoost HD Winterized running shoes directly from Adidas for £119.95 (release date 10 October 2019)

A new feature is the AI-developed Continental Adaptive Traxion outsole, which allows for maximum grip on both wet and dry ground, and indeed, in an urban environment – where the PulseBoost HD Winterized is most likely to be used – the shoes provide excellent grip.

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What's so great about the Adidas PulseBoost HD Winterized running trainers?

The Adidas PulseBoost HD Winterized builds on the foundation set by the likes of Adidas UltraBoost 19.

The Boost HD midsole was engineered to provide more stability and good energy return on hard surfaces like concrete. The PulseBoost HD Winterized feels tighter and thanks to the low-profile of the shoes, zig-zagging past people and obstacles has never been easier.

Sharp turns are also supported by the new Continental Rubber outsole developed by artificial intelligence. We don't trust humans with design tasks anymore! If AI is good enough to know what we want to watch on Netflix, it will be good enough to know what the best layout is for an outsole.

Having said that, The PulseBoost HD Winterized indeed feels grippy, even on wet concrete, so the system is working.

Most importantly, the top of the shoes have been reinforced with ballistic nylon, a water repellent treatment with a cosy lining and reflective materials that allow your feet to stay warm and dry during runs on cold and wet days. Basically every day until next May.

The Adidas PulseBoost HD Winterized will be available from Adidas from 10 October 2019 for the RRP of £119.95.

• Pre-order the Adidas PulseBoost HD Winterized running shoes directly from Adidas for £119.95

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Adidas have combined their adizero F50 miCoach boots with some rather powerful software to create the first tracking system that will analyse the whole team

Adidas have announced that the American Major League Soccer All-Star Game on 25 July will be the world's first 'smart soccer match' featuring their miCoach professional soccer team tracking system.

In layman's terms think a real-life version of Football Manager and you're not far off. By equipping each player with the Adidas adizero F50 miCoach boot the coach is able to see real-time analysis of each player and of the team.

Viewable via an iPad app or via computer the analysis can then be crunched after the match allowing a coach to see potential weaknesses or boost strengths that pop up throughout the game.

The technology itself is able to track everything from steps, speed, distance covered, intensity of play and even acceleration.

With the debut taking place at the MLS All-Star Game Adidas have confirmed that this will then be followed by a global rollout of the technology.