Details
Brand
Adidas
Heel To Toe Drop
8mm
Breathability
9/10
Latest Version
Yes
Terrain
Road
Type
Neutral
Key Features
• Continental Microweb outsole with flex grooves• Lighter version of Boost technology midsole• Advanced Mesh upper with Microfit lockdown• Between five and six ounces for men and women• Only two color options available• Expensive price tag of $180• Heel-to-toe drop of 8mm
Upper
Its Advanced Mesh upper has been one of the Adizero Sub 2’s best-received features. Aside from its breathable nature, provided by numerous air holes all over the material, it also provides a surprising amount of structure, thanks to the inclusion of internal support layers that set the foot in place. A Microfit lockdown system, comprised of overlays and reinforcements are also added to help the shoe retain its shape for longer. Its traditional lacing system features sewn-in eyelets and an anchor in the middle of the tongue for a more customizable fit.
Midsole
For the Adizero Sub 2, Adidas uses a lighter version of their trademarked Boost technology as its midsole. This specialized material is made from thousands of TPU pellets that are fused together to enable a higher level of energy return than standard foam materials. Though most buyers state that this version performs just as well as the regular, with a lighter feel for more enhanced speed, some say that it’s lacking. They claim that it does not have the same level of responsiveness as normal Boost technology. Still, on average, most reviewers are satisfied with its cushiony feel.
Outsole
The Adizero Sub 2’s supportive and durable nature is mostly due to its specially designed outsole. Constructed from Adidas’ trademarked Continental Microweb rubber, it covers the entire length of the foot and protects the midsole from damage. Its grid-like tread pattern also keeps the runner secure while running across wet surfaces. Its flexible wear its aided by the inclusion of narrow flex grooves that run both across and down the foot. Considering that this a competition shoe, reviewers are especially thankful for its long-lasting and pliable wear and know that they can depend on it for many months for running.
Breathability
Just from looking at it, it’s very easy to see that the Adizero Sub 2 offers an incredibly breathable wear. The shoe’s Advanced Mesh upper features multiple air holes that target almost every part of the foot, minus the sole and parts of the heel, to completely eliminate all hotspots and ensure that sweat is wicked away entirely. Reviewers noted that they feel cooler and drier both during and after races and long distance runs and are also better enabled to reach their maximum speed.
Comfort
Overall, reviewers are very happy with the level of comfort that the Adizero Sub 2 provided them. Though some claim it is not as responsive as its regular form, this shoe’s lightweight Boost midsole technology still provides the perfect amount of cushioning for long distance runs and intense competitions. Buyers are also thrilled with the uppers breathable wear, noting that they have no hot spots as they move around during the day. Furthermore, the support systems built into the foot chamber, as well as the light padding around the collar, were praised for their smooth, non-irritating wear.
Style
Reviewers have described the Adizero Sub 2 as minimalist yet very stylish. Aside from a heel counter at the back, thin overlays give the shoe some much-needed structure. They also form Adidas’ signature striped design on its lateral side. The different colors of the midsole’s TPU pellets give this feature a marbled effect that’s especially appealing. Unlike most minimalistic shoes, however, this model is only available in two different color options. Black is the more widely sold option, which is no surprise since it pairs well with a number of different looks. There is also a turquoise option available at some retailers for those who enjoy the color.
Durability
Across all online platforms, the Adizero Sub 2’s outsole has been widely praised for its durable nature. This feature’s Continental Microweb rubber not only withstands heavy usage on roads and pavements but also keeps the midsole protected from wear and tear. Adidas’ Boost technology not only provides greater shock absorption and energy transfer but also retains its shape better than standard EVA foam. Because this particular shoe uses a lighter version of this material, it’s unclear if that affects its durability. Though the Advanced Mesh upper is engineered to be sturdier than other similar materials, making it fit for multiple competitions, it still is not intended for use on rough terrains.
Protection
The Adizero Sub 2 offers very mixed levels of protection. The highest amount, of course, can be found in its outsole. Not only does it safeguard the rest of the shoe from wear and tear, but it also keeps the runner completely secure even on wet surfaces. Though this version is lighter than normal, its Boost midsole is still able to give the runner adequate impact protection and cushioning. The Advanced Mesh upper, however, is not intended to provide any protection against rough terrains or harsh weather. Still, its high level of breathability does keep odor, blisters, and infection caused by excessive sweating at bay.
Responsiveness
Across a number of online retailers, the Adizero Sub 2’s responsiveness has received mixed reviews. This is almost entirely due to the fact that its Boost midsole technology is significantly lighter than what Adidas typically uses in its running shoes. For the most part, buyers are satisfied with its levels of impact absorption and energy transfer. Yet some still feel that these qualities are not as high as they would have expected from the brand’s trademarked material.
Support
Despite their general lightweight nature, it’s still extremely important that all racing shoes be supportive as well. Between heavy impacts and long distances, runners need to feel properly cushioned and safeguarded against chronic pain throughout the day. For the most part, reviewers are quite happy with how well the Adizero Sub 2 supports their feet throughout marathons and high-intensity runs. The Continental Microweb outsole provides a durable and protective base for the rest of the shoe, while the lighter Boost midsole gives the proper amount of cushioning for long running sessions. Even the Advanced Mesh upper is equipped with internal support layers to make sure the foot stays in place. Though it still doesn’t prove to be enough for some runners, who don’t feel that the midsole provides as much cushioning as they would like.
Terrain
It’s quite obvious that the Adizero Sub 2 is meant solely for use on roads and other everyday terrains. The Continental Microweb rubber that constructs its outsole is engineered to remain durable even after constant use against concrete and asphalt. For this reason, it’s especially good at protecting the midsole against possible damage. Furthermore, its grid-like tread pattern allows the runner to keep going even on wet surfaces. Unfortunately, due to its lack of any gripping lugs and the upper’s flimsy amount of protection, this particular shoe does not fair well on rough and rugged terrains.
Price
At $180 across all retailers, the Adizero Sub 2 is extremely expensive for a minimalist racing shoe. While some reviewers claim that this price tag is justified due to its inclusion of several Adidas trademarked technologies, many find that they still are not worth paying full price. Some even note that similar models sold by Nike and Asics are available at a much lower cost. Those who are still dead-set on owning this particular model can find a number of reputable listings with a reduced price on either Amazon or eBay.
Drop
The Adizero Sub 2 features a heel-to-toe drop of 8mm. Considering that the average height is 10 mm, this does make a slightly noticeable difference for the runner. It provides a good amount of heel support for competitions and long distance runs without impeding too much on the runner’s natural movements. However, some runners prefer a low, or even zero drop platform, as it aids them in achieving better balance and posture. It’s safe to say that those who look for this feature in their running shoes will be very unsatisfied with this model.
Stability
Though it does not have any corrective features, the Adiwear Sub 2 is still able to provide an incredibly stable run for the average buyer. The Continental Microweb outsole starts this off by acting as a durable yet flexible base that protects the midsole against wear and tear and keeps the runner moving securely on both wet and dry surfaces. The lighter version of Adidas’ Boost midsole technology is put in place to ensure the proper amount of impact absorption and energy transfer without giving any additional weight. Some do state that this feature is not as responsive as its original version, yet most runners feel that it’s substantial enough for their individual needs. In addition, the mesh upper’s internal support layers, thin overlays, and traditional lacing system work together to keep the foot in place as well as maintain the shoe’s structure.
Flexibility
Aside from its lightweight build and durable outsole, reviewers are also pleased with the Adizero Sub 2’s highly flexible wear. The Continental Microweb outsole features several shallow flex grooves that go across and down the foot to allow the runner to move their foot as naturally as possible. Its Boost midsole is also engineered to properly cushion the foot and move entirely with its natural gait while still being able to retain its original shape. Of course, the Advanced Mesh upper aids both of these features even further, with internal support layers and overlays fixed in to provide some needed structure.
Traction
Aside from being highly durable, the Adizero Sub 2’s outsole has also received praises for its incredible traction. The Continental Microweb rubber, molded into a grid-like tread pattern, keeps the runner secure and steady throughout long, intense runs on nearly all types of road surfaces. Even better, it is also designed to provide a completely safe run over wet surfaces, making it a great choice for post-rain jogs or races. Because the outsole does not feature any gripping lugs, which are found mainly in trail running shoes, it’s safe to say that runners wouldn’t get the same level of traction on rugged terrains.
Bottom Line
Reviewers have encountered a number of downsides to the Adizero Sub 2. Some claim that its midsole does not have the responsive qualities that they look for in their running shoes. It is only available in two different colors, with only one being found at most retailers. Furthermore, many consumers feel that its $180 price tag is much too high for a shoe that does not feature a significant amount of technologies. Yet many of those who looked past this high cost, or were able to find a discount, found themselves to be very pleased with this model. Its durable outsole provides very secure traction. The midsole keeps feet cushioned even throughout long distance runs. And its mesh upper virtually eliminates hotspots and keeps the runner comfortable all day. Though some improvements can be made, this has proven to be an extremely functional and stylish racing shoe.
