Details
Brand
Adidas
Heel To Toe Drop
10 mm
Breathability
8/10
Latest Version
No
Terrain
Road
Type
Neutral
Key Features
• Boost™ technology in the midsole provides a springy, comfortable ride• Continental™ rubber outsole provides excellent grip for superior traction• Highly responsive and flexible, with boost™ midsole providing extra bounce with each lift-off• Super lightweight trainer that won’t weigh runner down during long runs• Comfortable and breathable, the Boost 2 provide a consistently enjoyable ride
Upper
The Adidas Adizero Boost 2’s upper is thicker than other comparable running shoes, comprised of a seamless mesh with little padding, but this makes it no less comfortable. However, this upper mesh is lightweight and well-ventilated and allows for breathability. Besides this, the synthetic Tirrenina Suede mesh gives the upper a bit of inflexibility overall, but depending on a runner’s personal taste on how much firmness they enjoy in the upper of their trainers. However, the Boost 2 also banished the plastic saddle that the signature Adidas three-stripe logo over the midfoot, instead replaced by Tirrenina Suede overlays which provide more flexibility over the previous saddle, along with being softer on the top of the foot.
Midsole
Possibly the most notable upgrade from the original Adizero Adios is the inclusion of the boost™ midsole foam. Made of TPU pellets that provide superior responsiveness and durability, this new midsole design aids in lift with every toe-off and gives each step an extra boost. The boost™ midsole also helps prevent discomfort and receives impact pressure without loss of stability. Of course, this upgrade comes at a literal price, which may lead to some sticker shock when shopping for a pair of Adios Boost 2. In addition, the outer edges of the midsole are rimmed by a molded EVA that has been designed for ideal support of the curvature of the foot pad in mind.
Outsole
One of the best features of the Adidas Adizero Adios Boost 2 is its dependable, durable, and most importantly lightweight outsole. Made from Continental™ Rubber, one of the leading outsole technologies available, its long-lasting nature guarantees that structural integrity will be maintained even after continual use and will hold up against friction and the general wear and tear that comes with long-distance running. Effectively protecting the wearer from the hard-hitting asphalt, this surprisingly thin outsole allows runners to move more naturally due to its lightweight and flexible construction. Reliable surface control is also maintained throughout a run while the Continental™ Rubber provides excellent traction.
Breathability
As previously mentioned, The Boost 2’s upper is constructed of polyester fibers called Tirrenina Suede, a synthetic that comprises the unlined mesh that provides excellent ventilation. This ultra breathable mesh is lightweight but can feel coarse on the interior, although its exterior is smooth to the touch like natural suede. Stylish and breathable, the Boost 2 will keep your foot cool and dry for miles on a ride.
Comfort
For a lightweight running shoe, the Adidas Boost 2’s namesake boost™ midsole provides sure cushioning throughout a run. Experienced runners will find an extra bounce in their step and softness in their footfall of great relief. Now for the downside: as mentioned, there is no lining inside the shoe, which helps with breathability but comes at the cost of a measure of comfort on the interior against the upper part of the foot. Some runners have noted a mesh pattern on their foot due to the wide mesh pattern on the tongue, particularly those who enjoy wearing their trainers extra snug. However, those are superficial and can be prevented by wearing heel socks: overall, the Boost 2 will provide a great running experience no matter how long the journey.
Style
Fitting form with function, the Boost 2 isn’t out to win any fashion contests but work as effectively as possible. This isn’t to say it’s an ugly shoe–quite the opposite, it’s quite stylish and kinetic-looking–but it’s a serious long-running shoe. After all, when a shoe was worn by marathon world record holder Dennis Kimetto, that’s the most fashionable statement a running shoe could have. Coming in bold colors that catch the eye, along with the prominent three-stripe Adidas logo on both sides and raised white soles with a 10mm drop from heel to toe, the shoe looks as slick as it rides.
Durability
From the Continental™ Rubber that its outsole is made from to the polyester mesh that comprises its upper, the Adios Boost 2 is a sturdy and durable shoe that will retain its shape (and more important its grip) even after numerous long runs and many miles of unforgiving pavement with only minimal wear showing on its Quick-strike lugs. Of course, for its price tag, they better be durable!
Protection
The soft upper mesh that comprises the majority of the body of the shoe may not provide much in the way of protection of the elements minus small amounts of moisture but this is counterbalanced by the sturdy outsole which, as praised for its durability, will also provide a good amount of protection from all but extreme conditions. In kinetic activity, the boost™ midsole will protect the foot from the shock of hitting the pavement repeatedly and provides comfortable cushioning but overall the Boost 2 performs best in dry conditions.
Responsiveness
Although this super lightweight trainer features a comfortable midsole, its responsiveness has been noted as a key features for runners: the boost™ technology in the midsole gives an extra bounce to each lift-off, resulting in a snappy push forward with each footfall. At slow speeds, this may not be noticeable, but once the runner gains some momentum, they’ll be glad the boost™ midsole is there. Couple this with responsive heel cushioning and the runner will feel the difference in their stride.
Support
Although super lightweight trainers are known for stripping out all but the most essential support options, the Adios Boost 2 features the boost™ midsole, which–in addition to aiding in responsiveness and providing protection to to foot–also acts as a comfortable support for the wearer. In addition, the midsole’s outer edge features a molded EVA that’s designed to support the natural curvature of the foot pad, which provides the wearer of the Boost 2 a natural-feeling fit.
Terrain
The Adizero Adios Boost 2 was made for one thing in mind, and that’s running, preferably extended sessions. The outsole’s numerous contact points (including numerous raised ‘fingers’ for extra grip and traction) are similarly ideally suited for one type of terrain: solid. Whether the hard asphalt of the road or the synthetic rubber of the running track, the Boost 2 is made with the serious runner in mind. While it may perform fine on slick surfaces or even wet grass, these are not the ideal terrains for this trainer. Its mesh upper will not provide adequate protection from rain, snow, or mud and are best in dry, temperate conditions. That being said, when in its element, the Boost 2 performs spectacularly–just don’t go trail running or hiking while wearing them.
Price
Here’s where the Boost 2 may make some runners hesitant about purchasing a pair, as they are not cheap. With its boost™ technology and super lightweight, the Adios Boost 2 is a serious running shoe with a serious price tag. Although their performance can’t be beat in the marathon game, sticker shock is expected when pricing these either online or in-store. That said, this restrictive price point also acts as a barrier to separate the serious runner from the casual one, and whether the investment will lead to a satisfied customer or someone who will experience buyer’s remorse for a trainer they don’t use enough to justify the cost.
Drop
While stripped-down and super lightweight, this is not a zero-drop trainer. The Boost 2 features a 10mm drop from heel to toe, allowing for a natural roll for heel-first runners while allowing for a near-flat contact at the toe.
Stability
Stability is a primary focus in the Adizero Adios Boost 2’s design. The boost™ midsole is the primary factor of its great stability, as it keeps the heel firm and prevents wobble while also providing comfort without being plush. Since the shoe fits snug without being tight, the runner can feel stable in the Boost 2 throughout their run.
Flexibility
If a runner is in it for the long haul like a marathon, a stiff shoe can lead to foot pain or lessened performance on the road. Fortunately, the Boost 2 is as flexible a running shoe: its upper is made from synthetic mesh that’s both breathable and conforms to your foot shape. Although its outsole does have some give, the forefoot is noticeably stiff–which isn’t necessarily a bad thing since this also provides the runner with a strong push-off.
Traction
Thanks to a well-developed outsole (made of Continental rubber) that features numerous contact points, including forefront rubber nuggets and micro-lugs, the Adios Boost 2 features great grip and traction, particularly on synthetic tracks. The forefront grip is particularly tenacious, and in a dead sprint or during quick acceleration this grip can be felt.
Bottom Line
For the serious runner looking for a super lightweight trainer, the Adidas Adizero Adios Boost 2 is a high-end performance shoe that gets results. While the price tag may be higher than what the consumer would want, you get what you pay for and the Boost 2 delivers. Providing superior comfort and performance thanks to the boost™ technology in the midsole, runners will be pleasantly surprised at how responsive this tech is during a run. Best for 5K and marathon running, the Boost 2 has been the shoe of champions, although this trainer is light enough for a workout run as well. Never too plush but always delivering the right amount of relief, snug without being constrictive, and responsive and lightweight, if you’re in the market for a serious trainer and the price isn’t prohibitive, the Adidas Adizero Adios Boost 2 may be the right shoe for you.