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0 The new Adidas Adizero EVO SL has been generating a lot of buzz since its release. This is the first shoe to boast a full-length LIGHTSTRIKE PRO midsole without any carbon plate, and Adidas has priced it very competitively at SGD 209 or USD 150. We initially shared our thoughts on this news here. Spoiler alert: Adidas might have just shaken things up in the running shoe market
Product Specification & Comparison
| Specification | ADIZERO EVO SL |
| Size | US 11.5 / UK 11 |
| Weight | 255 grams |
| Midsole Technology | LIGHTSTRIKE PRO |
| Stack Height (Forefoot – Heel) | 36mm – 42mm |
| Insole | Undetachable |
| Outsole | 1mm |
| Width (Forefoot – Mid – Heel) | 11.8cm / 7cm / 8.7cm |
Adizero EVO SL – Five Key Takeaways
Pointer 1: A Surprising Fit for Wide Feet
The first pleasant surprise was finding that the US 11.5/UK 11 fits exceptionally well. I typically require UK 11.5 in Adidas shoes to accommodate my wide feet. Furthermore, there were no pressure points or discomfort during wear. Previously, sizing issues with Adidas shoes, such as the Boston 12, had deterred me from exploring their range. The EVO SL offers a more accommodating fit for wide feet compared to other Adidas running shoes, making it a welcome option for runners with this foot shape.
Pointer 2: Highly Breathable Upper with Excellent Comfort
The Adizero EVO SL draws inspiration from the EVO PRO 1 in its upper design and performance. The upper material, though initially feeling slightly coarse to the touch, provides exceptional comfort and breathability. Even in hot and humid conditions, the EVO SL effectively prevents the buildup of hotspots.
Pointer 3: Exceptional Performance for the Price
Priced at SGD 209, the Adizero EVO SL offers remarkable value. It provides a compelling alternative to the more expensive Adizero Pro or EVO PRO 1 for runners training for sub-4 or even sub-3-hour marathon paces who may not require a plated shoe.
The EVO SL delivers a satisfying blend of cushioning and speed. While it lacks a carbon plate, the significant stack height and early rocker design effectively compensate. Adapting to the rocker requires some adjustment in running posture and style to maximize its benefits. The absence of a plate also eliminates the potential foot soreness often associated with prolonged plate usage. However, stronger leg muscles are necessary to maintain stability and momentum.
Pointer 4: Relatively Stable Despite Full-Length LIGHTSTRIKE PRO
The EVO SL maintains a good level of stability despite incorporating full-length LIGHTSTRIKE PRO midsole technology. Race-level foams like LIGHTSTRIKE PRO are typically highly compressible, enhancing responsiveness but potentially compromising stability.
Several factors likely contribute to the EVO SL’s stability. The outsole design extends across the forefoot towards the midfoot, potentially enhancing rigidity and minimizing excessive torsional movement. The midsole sculpting also plays a crucial role in improving stability.
Pointer 5: Outsole Durability Remains a Question
While featuring a Continental outsole in the forefoot and CL Rubber in the rearfoot, the EVO SL’s outsole rubber is only 1mm thick. This may result in reduced grip on certain wet surfaces. Additionally, it performs best on flat surfaces compared to more varied terrains. Although the overall durability remains to be fully assessed, the proven track record of Continental rubber suggests that it should not pose a significant concern.
Adizero EVO SL: Conclusion
The Adizero EVO SL has made an excellent first impression. Its performance-to-price ratio is exceptional, surpassing that of my ASICS Magic Speed 3 in my opinion.To facilitate a comparative analysis, I will also incorporate the Magic Speed 3 in my running routine.
As outlined in our previous article, Adidas appears to have created a new sub-segment of running shoes: non-plated high-performance racers. These shoes are not merely training shoes to be used alongside a more expensive race-day option. The Adizero EVO SL has the potential to serve as a versatile race-day shoe for both training and competition.
Further testing and evaluation are necessary to fully assess its long-term performance. Until then, happy running!
