Dramatic Evolution with Full Model Change: Exploring the Potential of Adidas "ADIZERO SL"

Adidas' Adizero series is developed for runners aiming to achieve their best times, even if only by one second. Over the past two years, Adizero series shoes have supported many runners in breaking world records, including seven set by top-class runners worldwide.
 
The "ADIZERO SL" is a model known for its lightweight design and has mainly been favored by elite runners as their training shoes. However, with the recent full model change, it has evolved into a basic model that accommodates a wider range of runners and their needs.
 
What makes the "Adizero SL" a potential future staple model for Adidas? What features does it contain? We spoke with Tomohisa Yamaguchi, Senior Manager of Category Planning at the Adidas Marketing Division, to find out.

The Birth of the Adizero Series and SL

First, let's take a look back at the Adizero series and the "SL."
 
"The Adizero series began in 2005 with the aim of redefining speed and pushing the limits further. We collaborated with shoe creator Toshiaki Omori, focusing on achieving zero waste, zero stress, and zero energy loss. Special attention was given to fit and lightness, using lasts (shoe molds) honed to 0.01mm precision to provide the best fit."
 
At the 2008 Berlin Marathon, Haile Gebrselassie set a then-world record wearing the "ADIZERO ADIOS", which brought the Adizero name into the global spotlight and has since supported the breaking of many world records.
 
The origin of the "SL" lies in the 1972 running shoe "SL72." SL stands for Super Light, and the model incorporated cutting-edge technology of its time, like nylon uppers and EVA midsoles. In 2020, the "SL 20" emerged, excelling in lightness and responsiveness while inheriting this DNA. In spring 2022, it joined the Adizero series as the "ADIZERO SL 20.3." Now, through a full model change, it has reborn as the "Adizero SL."

"Adizero SL" is the Best Daily Trainer

"With features like fit, lightweight, responsiveness, and cushioning, we can confidently say this is the best daily trainer. It supports all levels of runners, from elite runners' jogs to recreational runners' daily and race training."
 
The midsole combines LITSTRIKE EVA, which offers lightness, durability, and stability, with LIGHTSTRIKE PRO in the forefoot. LIGHTSTRIKE PRO, known for its responsiveness and lightness, is also used in the top racing model "ADIZERO ADIOS PRO 3." The combination of these two materials ensures a balanced performance for various running scenarios.

"The shoes support the entire running motion, from landing to toe-off, making it smooth. Combining LIGHTSTRIKE PRO enables a sharp toe-off."
 
The outsole has a high-grip rubber, ensuring a strong grip on the road surface to reduce energy loss and provide powerful toe-offs. This contributes to the shoe's stability, allowing runners to trust their footing.
 
The upper uses a breathable mesh material called LIGHT WEIGHT SANDWICH MESH, which fits softly around the foot, balancing support and breathability.