The pair of adiZero adios Boost shoes I tested
First Impressions
My first impressions of the adidias adiZero adios Boost after a 10K test run are overwhelming positive.
The adios Boost is built like a racing flat. It has a secure fit in the heel through mid-foot, with a more relaxed fit in the forefoot, which is unusual for shoes in this category. This gives gives a bit of room for the toes to wiggle and allows for a more natural landing (despite the stiffness issue I discuss below). While the 9mm heel lift was noticeable to me standing around—and after I returned to my 4mm Brooks—once I started running it didn’t bother me at all.
The fit worked great for me, even though I went with a 1/2 size smaller that I usually wear. I seem to be the odd man out in this, as most reviewers went a 1/2 size larger. This could be because the upper material is nice and forgiving. It could also be because my test run was only 10K on a cool day, so my feet weren’t swelling.
To be honest, I didn’t notice any difference with the Boost technology vs the EVA of other running shoes. This could be due to my a quicker, forefront stride, as the Boost technology is concentrated in the heel and aimed at the larger market of heel-strikers. The forefoot is firm yet supportive. The heel is comfortable soft, without being musky.
About the only criticism I had of the adidias adiZero adios Boost is the stiff forefront sole. During the run, I felt like I was slapping the ground with my forefoot. This is quite different with the ‘natural’ running form that shoes like my Skechers GOrun’s promote. I’ve read other reviews mention the same issue. However, as the shoe is intended for racing and faster workouts, the stiffness isn’t necessarily an undesirable feature. Indeed, I expect that it would make for a very responsive racing flat.
My Verdict
Based on first impressions and limited mileage, the adidias adiZero adios Boost is definitely a contender for my next trainer. I’m not sure it is ‘enough shoe’ for me to tackle a full marathon, and the forefoot stiffness is a bit of a concern, however, I think the light weight and firm but supportive forefront make it a great shoe for races up the half-marathon, as well as faster workouts.
Shoe Specs: adidias adiZero adios Boost
Side and sole profile of the adidias adiZero adios Boost.
What adidas has to say:
The adizero adios Boost is smashing world records from the Berlin marathon to the Chicago marathon. Break your own record in these shoes. Designed with a boost™ midsole for efficient energy return, they feature a breathable mesh upper and the lightweight QUICKSTRIKE outsole.
- Weight: 7.8 ounces (size 9)
- Heights: 19.5mm (heel), 10.5mm (forefoot)
- Clover-shaped Coolever mesh upper for heat and sweat management and increased performance; Synthetic overlays for added support
- Non-slip lining for comfort and performance
- Extended TORSION® SYSTEM for midfoot integrity
- boost™’s energy-returning midsole keeps every step charged with an endless supply of light, fast energy; Molded responsive EVA sockliner for anatomical fit and great step-in comfort
- QUICKSTRIKE outsole decreases weight and increases flexibility and durability; Continental™ Rubber for optimal grip in wet conditions
Other Reviews
Some other perspectives:
- Runblogger: adidas Adios Boost Review – Great Shoe, If a Bit Pricey
- Believe in the Run: Adidas Adios BOOST Review
- Thy Stride: Adidas Adizero Adios Boost
- Sam’s Running, People, Places, and Things: First Review adidas adizero adios Boost: Light, Boost Powered Racer/ Light Trainer
