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adidas Adizero SL - Represents...
We live in a great time for innovation in running shoes. These racing shoes are getting wilder, and now elements from top shoes are appearing on the shelves just below.
This is how was born. With the same geometric form as 3, but with a mix of super foam (Lightstrike Pro) and more durable foam (Lightstrike) in the midsole, it could very well be the lightest and most durable daily trainer from adidas.
One thing is certain, SL doesn't stand for SLow. With the slightly firmer Lightstrike and relatively low weight, you get a very versatile daily trainer that performs well for most everyday runs. I wouldn't use it for slow recovery runs or very fast races. A shoe like 5 works better for slow, easy runs, and 11 would be my choice for a long, faster run, at least if you ask me.
adidas Adizero SL - "No frills"
There are no frills when it comes to the upper of . It's not a racing upper like on 8. It's an engineered mesh upper, with a well-padded heel and a tongue that helps lock the foot comfortably. Comfort is key in this shoe, and this slightly more old-school upper has plenty of it.
Typically, I prefer the tongue to be secured with two internal straps, which are not present on , but I don't really miss them. The tongue stays in place, which I see as a very positive thing. My heel slipped slightly in the shoe at first, but tightening the top holes solved the issue, and I realized it was probably just me not being thorough enough.
Overall, I found the fit to be very good. It's a bit narrower around the midfoot and leaves more room in the toe box. adidas Adizero SL is not a wide shoe but falls in the middle of the narrow/broad fit spectrum.
adidas Adizero SL - What makes the shoe great
adidas has crafted a high-quality all-round running shoe here, mainly due to the midsole construction, making it easy and light to run in. But why exactly?
Even though the midsole is somewhat firm, it's the star of the show and the reason why works. The midsole's geometry is based on the same design as some of the more expensive shoes in the Adizero lineup. Around the heel, you'll find surprisingly good support. Most importantly, it has an impressive rocker design that makes the shoe exciting, especially when moving forward on the foot.
And yes, there's this extra thing... Lightstrike Pro. Hidden in the midsole, you'll find a Lightstrike Pro pocket. This material enhances the rolling sensation in the midsole when moving forward on the shoe, making it even easier to maintain your pace.
adidas Adizero SL - An all-round Adizero
This is the shoe the lineup has been waiting for. A lightweight daily trainer offering comfort and durability at a price accessible to a broader audience.
is on the lighter and firmer side, which may deter some. The roll from midfoot to forefoot is what makes the shoe interesting. It's likely a shoe better suited for those who like to keep a bit of pace on their easy days, and for those seeking a versatile, light, and responsive daily trainer.
