A Guide to Adidas Running Shoes

As one of the most recognisable brands in athletic footwear, Adidas has been at the forefront of running shoe innovation for over 70 years. From revolutionary midsole foams to foot-mapping uppers, the German sportswear giant delivers advanced performance technologies trusted by everyone from weekend joggers to elite marathon champions.

This page explores the impressive breadth and depth across Adidas’ running shoe lineup. We’ll cover the flagship neutral cushioning franchise Ultraboost and its Boost midsole technology. Racing enthusiasts will appreciate learning about featherweight competitors like AdiZero. And trail runners can discover agile off-road shoes like Terrex crafted for the forest floors and mountain trails.

Throughout the article, you’ll find useful buying considerations around fit, cushioning preferences, running surface and more. This advice will help guide you to your perfect pair of Adidas running shoes - whether training for your next 5K or logging daily miles.

Adidas designs and develops men’s and women's running shoes to match the biological needs of each gender. But much of the performance technology like Boost foam, Primeknit uppers and external heel counters applies universally across men’s and women’s franchises.

As a pioneer in footwear manufacturing, Adidas' leadership in running shoes stems from key proprietary technologies.

The Adidas running catalogue features an impressive selection of men’s running shoes built to deliver continuous comfort, support and power across varying running surfaces. Neutral cushioning shoes like the Ultraboost provide exceptionally soft landings for logging high mileage on roads. Traction-loaded trail shoes like Terrex supply grip and protection for confident off-road running. Racers like the AdiZero promote speed thanks to featherweight builds lifting each stride into a fast, smooth stride.

Adidas men's running shoes aim to supply a tailored fit and responsive ride that unlocks top running performance potential in male athletes. Expect anatomically shaped lasts, foot-hugging uppers and gender-specific cushioning systems like Boost foam that adapt to the male foot.

While Adidas serves all types of male runners, some of their most popular road running shoes for men include mainstay trainers like Ultraboost, Solarboost and Supernova franchises. These models all leverage Boost foam but differentiate through upper materials and stabilisation features.

The Ultraboost series represents the pinnacle of Adidas' neutral cushioning shoes for men. Debuting in 2015, Ultraboost revolutionised running shoe cushioning with its Boost midsole which delivered unprecedented energy return from heel strike to toe-off. Adidas keeps improving the Ultraboost formula with new versions released across both gender-specific and unisex models nearly every year.

The latest launch, the Ultraboost 22, represents the most significant update to the Ultraboost line since its inception. It adds a new "Linear Energy Push" system to the full-length Boost midsole for a flatter heel and controlled toe spring that smoothens out the heel to toe transition. Adidas also employed its advanced Primeknit+ material on the upper, wrapping the foot in targeted zones of support and flexibility while reducing overall waste.

Beyond acclaimed classics like the Ultraboost, Adidas constantly experiments with new running shoe concepts for men. Recent examples include the Solarboost franchise which adds a grid-like "Energy Rail" through the midsole for a springy and propulsive ride. Adidas also leverages lightweight performance materials like woven textiles and knits for shoes like the Supernova. Expect the brand to keep pushing innovations further in Men's running with 3D printed midsoles on the horizon.

Female runners will find no shortage of thoughtfully made Adidas women’s running shoes to match their needs. Iconic neutral trainers like the Ultraboost franchise cater to logging miles on roads with soft, springy cushioning from Boost foam. Light racers such as the Adizero Adios Pro 2 allow female athletes to chase new PRs on race day. And trailing lovers aren't left out - the Terrex Two Ultra Parley supplies traction and support on gnarly off-road terrain.

Adidas women's running shoes aim to deliver tailored fit and responsive ride specifically for the female foot's shape and biomechanics. Expect contoured lasts, foot-hugging uppers and cushioning systems like Boost foam that adapt to the intricacies of a woman's foot. Still, much of the performance technology like Primeknit uppers and Continental rubber outsoles apply universally across Adidas’ men’s and women’s running lineup.

Road Running Shoes for Women

Many female runners will find their match with Adidas' selection of thoughtfully crafted road running shoes like the Ultraboost 22, Supernova and Edge Lux franchises which provide versatile cushioning and support. The brand also produces women's specific racing flats like the Adizero Adios Pro 2 for chasing new PRs on race day.

Trail & Off-Road Running Shoes for Women

Adidas gives female trail runners grip and protection to confidently tackle off-road terrain through shoes like the durable Terrex Two Ultra Parley which features a Boost midsole combined with a supportive yet flexible adidas Primeknit upper.

With the wide range of high performance Adidas running shoes available, it helps to understand key factors that determine ideal fit, cushioning and versatility when selecting your perfect pair. Consider your foot type, running surfaces, training regimen and any existing comfort/injury issues when evaluating options. This section will cover everything you need to consider when finding the best Adidas running shoes to match your individual needs.

Factors for Finding the Correct Size & Fit

Like all athletic footwear, achieving the proper size and dialed-in fit is critical in Adidas running shoes for comfort, performance and injury prevention. Here are some tips when selecting the size for your new Adidas pair:

Cushioning & Support Preferences

The amount of cushioning and support varies widely across Adidas performance running franchises based on intended use (from daily training to racing). Reflect on your needs.

Running Surfaces & Intended Uses

Consider the typical running surfaces and training types you plan for your new Adidas pair.

Trying Them On

Don't neglect getting properly sized and fit by trying on the running shoes you are considering at your local Runners Need store. Everyone's feet vary in dimensions and preferences around fit feel. What works wonderfully for one runner may cause discomfort for another.

Understand Adidas Running Franchises

As covered earlier, Adidas groups many of its running shoes into training franchises based around cushioning systems like Boost or Lightstrike. Get to know the background, intended use and technologies behind each franchise when narrowing down options. For example - the Supernova franchise aims more for versatile lightweight cushioning versus the max comfort Ultraboost.

By understanding your individual fit needs, performance priorities and Adidas' running lineup, you'll be off to the races in no time with your perfect pair! The right Adidas running shoe choice depends on you as the athlete. Listen to your body, run consistently in them to break-in, and have fun racking up the miles!

Arguably Adidas’ most popular franchise, Ultraboost blends performance technologies with luxurious comfort that envelopes your foot. Innovations like the responsive Boost midsole and adaptive Primeknit upper work together to feel like a "second skin" for miles of energised running. It's no wonder Adidas touts Ultraboost as "the best running shoe ever."

This section will explore why so many runners around the world have made Ultraboost their go-to trainer. We'll learn about the origins of this impressive shoe line and innovations that set it apart. Consider the Ultraboost if you want unmatched softness without sacrificing pep in your step.

Ultraboost Origins & Evolution

Ultraboost initially dropped in 2015 with instant acclaim from runners who marveled at the plush yet responsive sensation. Continuous improvements ever since have only made the formula even better. Recent versions implement an angled “Torsion Spring" through the midsole for enhanced propulsion.

Ultraboost Performance Technologies

A suite of proprietary performance technologies enable Ultraboost to excel run after run:

• Boost Foam Midsole - compression moulded foams return energy on each foot strike
• Adaptive Primeknit Uppers - stretch woven fabric adapts to your foot
• Continental Rubber Outsoles - imported from Germany for superb traction

Ultraboost 22

The 2022 Ultraboost update introduces innovations like a new “Linear Energy Push” system running through the full length Boost foam for a smoother heel to toe transition. It symbolises Adidas' commitment to revolutionising a modern icon.

Optimised for speed, Adidas Swift running shoes supply a ready-to-fly feel whether you're logging interval training or race day competition. Technologies like compressed Lightstrike midsoles and propulsive geometries help ignite each stride with momentum. Consider Swift if seeking a nimble performance kick for faster running.

Swift Running Origins

First debuting in 2019, Swift aimed to deliver "speed in its purest form" for competitive runners wanting enhanced energy return from each footfall. Continuous refinements have trimmed the fat while harnessing propulsive technologies.

Swift Running Technologies

• Lightstrike Foam Midsoles - ultra lightweight EVA compound enabling swift strides
• Broad Anatomical Toe Springs - allows big toe to push off naturally
• Zonal Arch Supports - provide structured medial support

Types of Swift Running Shoes

Adidas produces Swift models for various running surfaces:

• Road Running
• Trail Running
• Track & Field Spikes

This diversified approach lets Swift better hone performance for each running environment.

Situated as the pinnacle of Adidas lightweight performance, AdiZero running shoes push speed barriers feeling virtually weightless. Elite marathon racers and track athletes particularly appreciate AdiZero's featherlight build that translates each stride into raw velocity. Explore what makes these racing marvels so uniquely quick and responsive.

AdiZero Heritage

Ever since its racing debut in 2004, AdiZero was engineered to meet the demands of world-class competition. Continuous innovation over 20 years has only made the franchise faster and lighter without compromising underfoot cushioning.

Featherlight Technologies

It takes an intricate formula of proprietary manufacturing and technologies for Adidas to produce AdiZero's famously minimalist racing shoes:

• Ultralight Mesh Uppers
• Carbitex Carbon Fiber Plates
• EnergyROD Foam Midsoles

AdiZero Racing Flats vs. Trainers

While AdiZero ranges from track spikes to marathon racers, most models emphasise lightning-quick performance over training versatility. Expect very close-to-the-ground rides.

When the trail conditions turn gnarly, reach for Adidas Terrex boots to supply grip, protection and all-terrain performance. Designed for fast-paced hiking and trail running through rugged environments, Terrex boots provide versatile support whether climbing over rock faces or traversing wooded forests. Robust materials withstand the elements while advanced technologies ensure waterproofing, traction and energy return to keep pushing forward mile after mile.

Adidas leans on decades of outdoor innovation to produce the Terrex line of mid-cut and high-cut boots purpose-built to give athletes a confident companion on off-road adventures. Expect precisely constructed uppers wrapping the ankle in adaptive support right out of the box. The midsole and outsole also work in tandem to supply cushioning and multi-surface traction no matter the obstacles ahead on the trail.

Terrex boot models range from lightweight fast-hikers to ultra protective high-cut boots with waterproof Gore-Tex. But common across the board are features like Continental rubber outsoles, EVA midsoles and specially developed uppers to secure the foot in all conditions. Recent Terrex boots also incorporate Boost foam in the midsole which provides highly energised cushioning and stability on uneven ground.

For traction and braking performance, Terrex boot outsoles use Continental Rubber engineered for versatile grip across wet, dry, muddy and slippery trails. Lug patterns dig into loose soil while stabilising lugs ensure control on angled terrain. Inside the boot, Terrex models implement a half-length lightweight EVA foam frame for shock absorption and energy return through the stride.

When it comes to weather protection, select premium Terrex boots feature waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex membranes backed by Adidas’ own durable textile uppers. An integrated gusseted tongue helps block debris from entering. For faster hikers who can weather the exposure, Adidas produces their lightweight mesh and textile upper boots. Regardless of materials, expect the Terrex boot fit to securely lock-in the midfoot while allowing the forefoot to splay naturally.

With so many types of Adidas running shoes available, consider your individual needs and preferences when deciding which model works best. Reflect on your running surfaces, training regimen, fit needs, cushioning priorities and any existing comfort/injury history. Understanding Adidas’ different performance franchises helps narrow possibilities.

Getting Properly Fit

Don't neglect getting properly sized at a Runners Need store - this makes all the difference in comfort, performance and safety. Expect to go up 1/2 or full size from your casual shoe size into performance running models.

Types of Running Shoes

Consider what types of runs or races you want to use your new Adidas for when evaluating different shoe models. Versatile neutral trainers like Ultraboost contrast sharply with fast flats like AdiZero or off-road ready options like Terrex.

Hopefully these buying tips help you find your perfect Adidas running shoe match to achieve new personal bests!