The New Standard in Adidas Running: How Has the 'ADIZERO SL 2' Evolved?

Developed for runners aiming for their best time, even by a second, the Adidas Adizero series has been evolving since its debut in 2005 by utilizing Adidas’ technology and listening to athletes' voices.
 
Tigist Assefa, wearing the innovative and lightweight racing shoe "ADIZERO ADIOS PRO EVO 1," broke the women's marathon world record by over 2 minutes, finishing in 2 hours, 11 minutes, and 53 seconds at last year's Berlin Marathon.
 
The "ADIZERO SL," loved as a training shoe for elite runners, underwent a complete model change at the end of 2022, evolving into a basic model that can be used by a wide range of runners to suit their needs. Now, a year and a half later, what kind of shoe is the updated "Adizero SL 2"?

Lightstrike Pro Full-Length Midsole

"The midsole, which functions as the engine of the shoe, is equipped with Lightstrike Pro, used in the Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1. While the previous model only had it in the forefoot, the Adizero SL 2 now includes it full-length.

"By combining the highly responsive, lightweight, and cushioned Lightstrike Pro with the stable Lightstrike 2.0 to cradle it, it supports stable landings and smooth forward transitions," says Masaya Kobayashi from Adidas Japan.

Additionally, the stack height (thickness of the sole) is 26mm for the forefoot and 36mm for the heel. The forefoot has become 1.5mm thicker and the heel 3mm thicker compared to the previous model. These updates have improved cushioning by 10% and responsiveness by 5%.
 
 "While the midsole is structured with Lightstrike Pro cradled by Lightstrike 2.0, the central part of the upper Lightstrike 2.0 is hollowed out, allowing runners to directly feel the softness and rebound of Lightstrike Pro. Additionally, the drop (height difference between forefoot and heel) has increased from 8.5mm in the previous model to 10mm, making it easier to move the foot forward."

Upper & Outsole Updates

The shoe weighs 232g (27cm). Even though the sole thickness has increased, it is 8g lighter than the previous model. This is due to the lightweight nature of Lightstrike Pro and the change in upper material.
 
"The upper now uses engineered monomesh, which can provide necessary support on necessary parts. The previous model used a two-layer lightweight sandwich mesh that was soft on the foot, but switching to engineered monomesh has improved both breathability and support, resulting in a clingy fit to the foot."
 
The outsole uses Adiwear rubber which excels in abrasion resistance and traction performance. The high durability of the outsole is particularly appealing for jogging shoes that cover long distances. You can confidently put in the miles.

Furthermore, the high traction performance not only supports stable footwork but also minimizes energy loss from slipping, providing great assurance even on rainy days.
 
The ankle cushion pads have been simplified while maintaining softness. As a result, the heel holds better and reduces wobbling, enhancing the unity between the foot and the shoe during runs.