Supernova Rise is adidas' series of neutral volume training shoes. With this update, adidas sticks to what they do best: a tireless workhorse of a shoe, wrapped in comfort.
The shoe uses the lightweight Dreamstrike+ foam material, a takedown version of the super foam Lightstrike Pro, and the shoe's old-school look aligns with the feel: Classic adidas with focus on durability and comfort.
Read the article here to find out if Supernova Rise 2 should be your next volume trainer.
Dreamstrike+ – Dream Sole?
Many competing brands have in recent years made significant changes to their volume training shoes, particularly with the trend of large, soft midsoles. However, German adidas seems uninterested in the contest of who can make the tallest shoes.
Supernova Rise 2 follows in its predecessor's footsteps with a midsole that is low and streamlined. The design makes the shoe's 10 mm drop evident, reminiscent of the short running shorts and cotton t-shirts of the '80s.
The midsole consists of Dreamstrike+ foam. The foam builds on the super foam type Lightstrike Pro, used in the Adios Pro series and other super shoes. In this Dreamstrike+ construction, the foam has been made firmer.
The firmness provides a more classic feel underfoot, compared to the range of modern tall shoes. It's a feel I've missed, as it offers a more versatile sensation.
The midsole indeed gives a response when you put energy into it, and combined with the light weight of 275 grams (EU42 2/3), it makes for a speedy shoe. I often choose this shoe on days when my legs feel good, maybe the day before a race, when I plan some strides in addition to easy running. I've even used Supernova Rise 2 for threshold training around half-marathon intensity, and it passed with flying colors.
The increased response also provides a sense of control and stability; something that can be criticized in modern tall midsoles for compromising.
Stability is further enhanced with the Support Rod system. Five “fingers” run along the foot between the outer and midsole, supporting the foot's natural stability.
Upper with Grip
The upper has seen no significant revolutions since its predecessor. But it wasn't an upper calling for revolutions: A double mesh construction keeps the foot well-placed, and the heel cap is firm, like in the good old days.
Supernova Rise 2 is “true to size,” maybe on the narrow side over the instep, but this can be resolved by loosening the laces.
Generally, it's a shoe you feel you're wearing, meaning the stability also extends to the upper. The firm mesh upper grips well and is well-shaped, necessary as it fits as it does.
The good form is noticeable as I feel the shoe locks my foot well in place while providing space around the toes.
The heel cap is also firm, as known from classic running shoes. Another indication of the shoes' primary functions: Stability and durability. The firm heel cap is excellent for giving you an extra degree of stability, so you're never unsure in your push-off.
However, the heel cap can be slightly hard on the Achilles tendon, something I experienced while already dealing with soreness in the area. I didn't find the shoes worsened the situation, but they did press on the area, which was irritated. This is just a general tip to avoid firm heel caps if the Achilles tendon is irritated.
Outsole Challenges You: “Try Me”
The midsole's Support Rod system is carefully packaged in an ambitious Adiwear outsole. No chances are taken here: The shoe's entire tread area is covered in non-slip rubber.
Grip on the ground is not something the shoe prioritizes, but I don't miss it. In jogs, the low grooves, which the shoe is equipped with, from the outer heel to the outer toes, suffice.
The outsole is divided into three panels, making the shoe manageable, given the rigid outsole material it is equipped with. This contributes to the dynamic stability and stride transition of the Support Rod system.
The outsole might be the biggest underline under adidas Supernova Rise 2’s promise: Lots of kilometers.
An Easy Choice for Many
If you're looking for a volume training shoe that you know can get you through extremely many kilometers, you'll hardly find one as good for the price as adidas Supernova Rise 2.
The shoe is a classic volume trainer for those who think soft shoes have gone overboard: Stability and shock absorption go hand in hand without one taking over.
Most runners could build an excellent shoe rotation with adidas Supernova Rise 2 as the base.
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