JA/EN

AI Search

Related Hashtags

Articles

"ADIZERO ADIOS PRO," the Latest Model by a Significantly Refreshed Adidas & the Training Model Carrying the DNA of "EVO 1"

2024.11.25
adidas's ADIZERO series is designed for runners aiming for their fastest personal best times, even by a second. The latest top racing model, the "ADIZERO ADIOS PRO," has released the "ADIZERO ADIOS PRO 4."
Additionally, the lightweight high-speed training model "ADIZERO EVO SL," which inherits the DNA of the highly discussed "ADIZERO ADIOS PRO EVO 1" with a sales price exceeding 80,000 yen and astonishing lightness, has launched. What kind of shoes are each, and what technology is hidden within them?

Significant Evolution of the "ADIZERO ADIOS PRO" After About 2 Years of Development

The previous model, "ADIZERO ADIOS PRO 3," was launched in June 2022. Over two years have passed since then, leading to the carefully developed and highly anticipated launch of the "ADIZERO ADIOS PRO 4." At the Berlin Marathon held in September this year, Yohei Ikeda from the Kao Athletics team had a great run with these shoes, marking a time of 2 hours, 5 minutes, and 12 seconds—ranking him second in Japan's history, generating significant buzz.
Both the upper and outsole have new materials, and the sole structure has been revised. Let’s check out the updated points of this new release.
ADIZERO ADIOS PRO 4. The color in the photo is scheduled for release in early January 2025. 28,600 yen (tax included)
"One point is that the rocker point (the point where the sole curves upward under the forefoot or toe) has shifted toward the midfoot compared to the previous model. By studying top athletes' running data and utilizing feedback from them, we positioned the rocker point at 60% of the shoe length, successfully improving running economy.
"In conjunction with the change of the rocker point, the shape of the full-length carbon bar and ENERGY RODS 2.0 has also been modified," says Masaya Kobayashi from Adidas Japan.
As the rocker point has shifted toward the midfoot, the shape of ENERGY RODS 2.0 has been altered
The midsole, like the previous model, features a low-density high-rebound material, LIGHTSTRIKE PRO, but its hardness has been changed.
 
"It is softer than the LIGHTSTRIKE PRO used in the ADIZERO ADIOS PRO 3, improving cushioning. The hardness varies between the top and bottom, with the top being notably softer. This change also reflects feedback from athletes.
"Japanese athletes participated in the product testing, and their feedback greatly informed the updates, making it likely that Japanese recreational runners will really enjoy this shoe."
The midsole incorporates LIGHTSTRIKE PRO, with the top part (photo above) being softer than the bottom part (photo below)

New Materials for the Upper & Outsole

The upper features a newly adopted lightweight stretch material, LIGHTLOCK.
 
"There were voices from some runners stating the upper of the ADIZERO ADIOS PRO 3 was a bit stiff, hence we changed it to a new, softer material. LIGHTLOCK is a one-way stretch material that only stretches in one direction (vertical), and when combined with the locking band placed inside the upper, it provides excellent support during high-speed runs."
 
The outsole predominantly utilizes a new material called LIGHTTRAXION, with CONTINENTAL rubber used in part on the big toe side of the forefoot.
 
"We studied the landing patterns of top athletes and created a new outsole pattern. It offers high grip and effectively engages with the ground. LIGHTTRAXION is an incredibly lightweight material, which contributes to the overall reduction in shoe weight while ensuring durability."
A new lightweight material, LIGHTLOCK, that stretches only vertically is used in the upper
The outsole features lightweight and highly gripping LIGHTTRAXION, while the pink area of the forefoot uses CONTINENTAL rubber

Lightweight High-Speed Training Model "ADIZERO EVO SL"

The "ADIZERO EVO SL" combines advanced racing technology from Adidas with the design DNA of "ADIZERO ADIOS PRO EVO1," and is a model developed for use in training that demands speed.
ADIZERO EVO SL. Although it has already been released in a limited edition, general sales are scheduled to begin in December. 19,800 yen (tax included)
"The midsole features full-length LIGHTSTRIKE PRO, known for its excellent cushioning and responsiveness. The midfoot is equipped with a nylon plate to suppress twisting. It offers a neutral ride feel and has gained quite a high evaluation from top athletes and student runners alike."
 
The nylon plate that suppresses twisting serves solely in a supportive role. It is categorized as a non-plate model, allowing the user to fully experience the softness and bounce of the full-length LIGHTSTRIKE PRO.
While I want to wear a non-plate model for training, I look for shoes that allow me to speed up smoothly during interval training or pace runs. This shoe meets the requests of such runners.
 
The design of the "ADIZERO EVO SL," which embodies sophisticated functional beauty, is also a significant attraction. Despite being a performance model for runners, its availability at sneaker select shop Atmos highlights its remarkable design.
 
When I actually ran in the "ADIZERO EVO SL," I experienced a bounce that only a model with full-length LIGHTSTRIKE PRO can provide. Compared to Adidas' daily trainer "ADIZERO SL 2," it offers more propulsion and makes it easier to increase speed. I believe it is an excellent shoe for mid to advanced runners' speed training, but I personally would like to use it in half marathon and 10K races.
The naturalness and softness of the ride feel unique to a non-plate model

PROFILE

Masaya Kobayashi

adidas Japan K.K.
Marketing Division, Senior Manager of Category Management

Joined Adidas Japan in 2017.
After engaging in product planning for both retail and online sites, he has been responsible for product strategy in the running category since January 2024 in his current position.

Text by Fumihito Kouzu

Tags

How was the article?

ShareCopied to Clipboard

Related Articles