The complete analysis
Introduction
The Adidas Adizero Boston has changed so much over the years that one wonders if it is still the same collection. So, with this tenth version, we go to a maximalist cushioning : 39 mm thick under the heel, like on the Adios Pro!
Clearly, Adidas wants the two shoes to work as a duo: one for competition, the other for daily training. The story does not say if Kibiwott Kandie (half marathon record holder, sponsored by Adidas) trains with the Adizero Boston.
However, the Boston 10 retains one of its special characteristics: its firm cushioning that offers good dynamism.
Let’s go through expert testing to determine who the Adidas Adizero Boston is for and if its reputation is deserved.
Cushioning
Mousses Lightstrike et Lightstrike Pro, Energy Rods
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No more BOOST, make way for Lightstrike! The Adidas Adizero Boston midsole uses two layers: Lightstrike on the lower part and Lightstrike Pro on the top layer.
The first is classic EVA foam, which has been used by Adidas for a while. The testers agree that it is a rather firm material. The real novelty is Lightstrike Pro, inherited from the Adios Pro (by the way, note that the Adios Pro 2 is fast approaching in France). There, we are dealing with a much softer foam for a pleasant feeling underfoot.
The layer of Lightstrike Pro is thicker under the forefoot which gives a particularly strong push soft under the toes. Conversely, the sensation under the heel is firmer, although testers note that it fades as you step up the pace.
As we told you in the introduction, the Boston 10 goes to maximalism with a now thick sole of 39 mm under the heel and 31 mm under the forefoot (the drop is 8 mm). The Boston 9 was 22mm under the heel so you might as well say that the redesign is radical!
With such a thickness, one could fear for the stability of the Adidas Adizero Boston. However, the runners note that it is not. On the contrary, the Boston 10 is stable ! This is due to two important points:
- Relatively firm cushioning that provides good structure
- The side walls (soft) which support the foot well when running
Okay, and the blades Energy Rods, we are talking about it ? Five in number, we find them embedded in the midsole between the two layers of foam. These are more flexible than the ones on the Adios Pro, which suggests that they are made of a different material. Also, let’s be clear: the Adidas Adizero Boston does not have a carbon plate.
In practice, runners note that the midsole setup is more pleasant for daily training, while still providing fluid cushioning, as we’ll see below.
Foot support
Technical mesh, Primegreen, internal heel counter, gusseted tongue
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The upper of the Adidas Adizero Boston results in a technical mesh with Primegreen technology composed of 50% recycled content for better respect for the environment.
Users note that the mesh is rather thick and therefore pretty hot, although the numerous perforations help air circulate in the shoe.
The upper is not stretchable to compensate for the lack of structure, especially in the midfoot. Nevertheless, the design of the Adidas Adizero Boston is well crafted and gives a comfortable, snug fit.
Note also the semi-rigid and padded internal heel counter as well as the gusseted tongue which wedges the foot well in the shoe.
The Adizero Boston 10 size is no surprise.
Grip and durability
The runners were very impressed with the traction impeccable of the Adidas Boston 10 on urban surfaces, whether wet or dry. In addition, the shoe is even able to rub against not very steep dirt roads.
Continental rubber is very solid and protects the platform well from abrasion. The only doubt concerns the Lightstrike Pro foam discovered in some places. But the testers didn’t notice any signs of wear on their long rides so maybe there is nothing to worry about!
Racing sensations
Who says new configuration says new racing sensations! With massive cushioning that’s soft under the forefoot and firmer under the heel, the Boston 10 offers a comfortable run over long distances.
The use of EnergyRods blades and the rocking design of the sole gives an effect “rocker” discret but pleasant according to the testers. So, the stride is smoother than it is bouncing.
On the other hand, pronator athletes can rest assured: the Adidas Adizero Boston is stable with a platform that prevents the foot from deviating during the race.
The main criticism made by runners about the shoe concerns its imposing weight. While the Boston 9 was rather light with 241, the Adizero Boston 10 goes to 288 g for men and 266 g for women, which gives a certain heaviness, even if this remains reasonable in view of the thickness of the sole. In addition, the testers are reassuring by claiming that the Adidas Boston 10 is lighter on the foot than it looks.
Overall, the Boston 10 is primarily recommended for daily training and long rides at moderate speed. The shoe therefore gains in comfort compared to previous versions but loses in versatility. Uptempo outings are not out of the question, but that is not its primary vocation.
Conclusion
The Adidas Boston 10 changes dramatically with a now maximalist sole that uses new Lightstrike Pro foam and EnergyRods (blades under the forefoot) borrowed from the Adios Pro.
These are comfortable shoes for daily training at moderate speed that provide a smooth ride with a slight rocking effect and little bounce.
However, the new design and the heavier weight than in the past limits the versatility of the shoe : a little clumsy at low speed and not dynamic enough for fast rhythms, it is positioned as a model for long outings. In this niche, she excels! So it’s up to you to see if this new configuration appeals to you.
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Kevin Le Gall
Kevin is the creator and publisher of Running Shoes. He started running in 2015 and ran his first marathon in Rotterdam in 2016.
In addition, he practices and teaches yoga (graduated from Sivananda’s 300h training), which is reflected in his approach to running which favors well-being over performance.
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