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adidas Adizero SL - Represents...
We live in a great time for innovation when it comes to running shoes. All these race shoes are just getting wilder and wilder, and now we see how elements from top shoes are used in those just below.
This is how was born. With the same geometric shape as 3, but with a combination of super foam (Lightstrike Pro) and a more durable foam (Lightstrike) in the midsole, it could very well be the lightest and most durable volume training shoe 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 volume training shoe, perfect for most everyday runs. I wouldn't use it for slow recovery runs or very fast races. A shoe like 5 is better for very slow and easy runs, and an 11 would be my choice for long and slightly faster runs, at least if you ask me.
adidas Adizero SL - "No frills"
There's no fuss when it comes to the upper of . It's not a race upper like you see on, for example, 8. It's an engineered mesh upper, a heel with good padding, 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 held in place by two internal straps, which aren't found on the , but I really don't miss it. The tongue stays where it should, which is a real positive for me. My heel slipped a bit at first, but when I tightened the shoe with the top holes, the problem disappeared, and I realized it was just me not being careful enough.
Overall, I thought the fit was really good. It's a bit narrower around the midfoot and leaves a bit more room in the toe box. adidas Adizero SL is by no means a wide shoe, but it probably sits in the middle of the narrow / wide fit scale.
adidas Adizero SL - What makes the shoe good
adidas has created a high-quality all-around running shoe here. Mainly due to the midsole construction, which makes the shoe easy and light to run in. But why exactly?
Though the midsole is somewhat firm, it's the star of the show and the reason why works. The geometry of the midsole is based on the same sketch as some of the more expensive shoes from 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. Slightly hidden in the midsole, you'll find a Lightstrike Pro pocket. This material supports and enhances the rolling sensation in the midsole when you move forward in the shoe, making it even easier to keep your pace.
adidas Adizero SL - An all-around Adizero
This is the shoe the lineup has been waiting for. A lightweight volume training shoe that offers comfort and durability at a price that makes it accessible to a broader audience.
is on the lighter and firmer side, which might deter some. The roll from midfoot to forefoot is what makes the shoe interesting. It's likely a shoe that performs better for those of you who like to keep the pace up on your easy days. And for those of you looking for a versatile, lightweight, and responsive volume training shoe.
