Supernova Rise is adidas' series of neutral training shoes. With the update, adidas sticks to what they do best: An indestructible workhorse of a shoe, wrapped in comfort.
The shoe uses the lightweight Dreamstrike+ foam, a takedown version of the super foam Lightstrike Pro, and the shoe's old-school look matches the feel: Classic adidas focusing on durability and comfort.
Read the article here to find out if Supernova Rise 2 should be your next trainer.
Dreamstrike+ – Dream Sole?
Many competing brands have made significant changes to their training shoes in recent years, particularly with the large, soft midsoles trending. However, German adidas seems uninterested in joining the race for the tallest shoes.
Supernova Rise 2 continues its predecessor's path with a low, streamlined midsole. The design makes the shoe's 10 mm drop clear, reminiscent of the '80s short running shorts and cotton tees.
The midsole comprises Dreamstrike+ foam. This 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 is made firmer.
The firmness offers a more classic feel underfoot compared to many modern high shoes. It's a feel I've missed as it provides a more versatile sensation.
The midsole responds when you put energy into it, and combined with the 275-gram weight (EU42 2/3), it makes for a swift shoe. I often choose this shoe on days when my legs feel good, maybe the day before a race, where I need to run a few strides. I've used Supernova Rise 2 for threshold training at half-marathon intensity, and it performed excellently.
The increased response also gives a sense of control and stability; something modern high midsoles can compromise.
Stability is further enhanced with the Support Rod system. Five “fingers” run along the foot between the outer and midsole, supporting the natural stability of the foot.
Upper with Support
The upper hasn't seen major revolutions since its predecessor. But it wasn't an upper calling for revolutions: A double mesh construction keeps the foot well in place, and the heel counter is firm, like in the good old days.
Supernova Rise 2 is “true to size,” perhaps narrow over the instep, but this can be fixed by loosening the laces.
Generally, it's a shoe you feel on your foot, meaning that the stability is also evident in the upper. The firm mesh upper grips well but is well-shaped, which is necessary due to its snug fit.
I notice the good shape as the shoe locks my foot well in place while providing space around the toes.
The heel counter is also firm, familiar from classic running shoes. Another indication of the shoe's primary functions: Stability and durability. The firm heel counter is excellent for giving extra stability, ensuring you’re never unsure in your stride.
However, the heel counter can be a bit harsh on the Achilles, something I experienced as I was already dealing with soreness in that area. I didn't find the shoes worsened the situation, but they did press on the irritated area. This is a general tip to avoid firm heel counters if the Achilles is irritated.
Outsole Challenges: “Try Me”
The midsole's Support Rod system is carefully enclosed in an ambitious Adiwear outsole. No chances are taken here: The entire tread area is covered in slip-resistant rubber.
Grip on surfaces isn't a priority for the shoe, but I don't miss it. In jogs, the low grooves from heel to toe suffice.
The outsole is divided into three panels, making the shoe manageable despite the rigid outsole material. This contributes to the Support Rod system's dynamic stability and stride transition.
The outsole perhaps underscores adidas Supernova Rise 2's promise: Lots of kilometers.
An Easy Choice for Many
If you're looking for a training shoe that can carry you through extreme distances, you'll hardly find a better one for the price than adidas Supernova Rise 2.
The shoe is a classic training shoe for those who think soft shoes have gone too far: Stability and cushioning work together without one overtaking.
Most runners could build an excellent shoe rotation with adidas Supernova Rise 2 as the base.
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