FAST, BUILT TO GO THE DISTANCE
SPECS
RELEASE YEAR: 2018
SHOE TYPE: road, racing
ARCH: neutral
WEIGHT: M= 8oz (sz 9) // W= 6.5oz (sz 7)
STACK HEIGHT: heel=27mm // forefoot=17mm
PRICE POINT: $80-140
The Adidas Adizero Adios lineup has long been considered a high-performance marathon racing shoe, and the Adios 4 has stood atop the podiums of some of the World's largest and most competitive marathons.
This shoe offers a fast and snappy ride that can handle a spectrum of speeds and workouts.
AESTHETICS
The adios 4 is simply designed and features a speckled marquee of the three stripes logo on both sides of the shoe. Adizero Adios 4 is displayed on the lateral heel counter, and Adizero is detailed the lace aiglets.
The upper is comprised of a breathable mesh overlay with hints of suede lining the first and second lace eyelets.
FIT AND PERFORMANCE
The adios 4 is actually the very first Adidas running shoe that I have purchased and trained with, and I must admit that these shoes are living up to their expectations. The shoes run true to size (I do have a narrow foot. Some runners may recommend to go up 1/2 a size) and I do not have any issues with rubbing, chafing, or slipping out of the shoe. However, I do find that that laces are a bit long, and I will often have to double or triple-tie the laces to prevent excessive loosening or swinging during the runs. I may eventually replace the stock laces with a lace-lock system for easier accessibility.
The adios 4 boasts a lightweight construction, weighing in at approximately 7 oz for a women's size 9. Such a lightweight construction makes the adios 4 ideal for fast-paced runs or long runs - I have even used the adios 4 for a few track sessions with race-effort repeats between 800m and 1km. The tongue is semi-gusseted and sits nicely atop the foot.
The midsole is comprised entirely of Boost technology with a torsion system for some added stiffness. After having been recommended this shoe from numerous runners, it was finally time for me to experience the enthusiasm over Boost technology. I have run a variety of workouts in the adios 4, with paces and distances ranging from 5k and threshold efforts to the half-marathon. I am not by any means a particularly fast runner, but the snap that the boost offers undoubtedly makes the ride feel fast and enjoyable. There is a noticeable positive change in responsiveness in the boost as the run progresses, and the shoe just seems to transition very smoothly throughout the gait cycle.
The outsole features Continental rubber that is arranged in a grid-like pattern along the mid-forefoot for superior traction against the elements. I had developed a great appreciation for the traction that this shoe offers after having completed a tempo run in the rain on slick pavement - I was able to run confidently without the fear of slipping or need to alter my foot strike.
DURABILITY
After approximately 100 road miles, the outsole does appear to show some signs of wear along the forefoot. However, I do not notice any changes in traction or responsiveness. The overall construction of the shoe remains in great condition, particularly with concerns to the integrity of the upper and sole. I anticipate to run many more miles in this shoe.
FINAL THOUGHTS
For $140 at retail (sale prices can range between 80-100), the Adios 4 offers a fast and responsive ride that is built to go the distance. Though this shoe is marketed as a marathon racer, the Adios 4 is capable of racing a range of distances at a variety of speeds. Its durability may also support its role as an uptempo or long-distance trainer.