I was excited to try the adidas AdiZero Boston 12 . It’s gone through significant changes, and I was eager to see how they felt during my runs. The updated Boston 12 now leans more towards being a daily trainer rather than a dedicated speed or racing shoe.
The updated midsole offers a softer cushioning experience compared to its previous versions, featuring more flexible Energyrods that contribute to a less pronounced rocking motion during your run.
adidas AdiZero Boston 12 Quick Facts:
- Weight: 9.4 oz (266 g)
- Cost: $160.00
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 6.5 mm
adidas AdiZero Boston 12 Introduction:
The adidas Boston series has evolved over the years, with the Boston 12 taking on a different role than its earlier iterations. While the Boston 5 was known for its minimalistic and lightweight design, the Boston 12 is a more durable and affordable alternative to adidas’ flagship marathon racer, the Adios Pro 3.
The Boston 12 represents a complete overhaul in the shoe, and that’s not a bad thing. It is slightly lighter than its predecessor, weighing 9.4 oz. The midsole is slimmer than the Boston 11, and it retains its $160 price tag, which is typical for plated speed trainers.
adidas AdiZero Boston 12 Upper:
The Boston 12’s upper is lighter and more flexible compared to its previous versions. There isn’t a lot of information online about the upper, but it uses recycled mesh designed to provide a highly breathable fit. I’ve found that many brands have started using recycled materials, and the shoes don’t breathe well. It’s very obvious they do. Don’t get me wrong; I love when brands use recycled materials, but I want the shoe to fit and feel good. Anyway, the adidas AdiZero Boston 12 doesn’t have that issue and fits and feels good.
The best running shoe uppers disappear off your feet, and the adidas Boston 12 does just that. I don’t have any issues with anything sliding around. The shoe is built on a more narrow last than I prefer, but other than that, it’s been good. The heel collar is thinner but done well so you don’t have to worry about rubbing or irritation.
I usually wear between a women’s size 10-11 wide and have found the women’s size 11 of the Boston 12 to fit the best.
adidas AdiZero Boston 12 Ride:
To address feedback about previous versions being too firm and heavy, adidas has introduced more Lightstrike Pro foam into the midsole while reducing the amount of Lightstrike.
Lightstrike 2.0 serves as the firmer bottom layer, providing added stability and durability. Lightstrike 2.0 does not noticeably differ from the original version, maintaining the feel of a midsole foam from years ago. The Boston 12’s new midsole does not significantly enhance energy return but offers a more forgiving experience compared to the Boston 10. The glass-fiber energy rods in the midsole are more flexible than in the Boston 10, resulting in a less pronounced forefoot rocker. What does this mean? The adidas AdiZero Boston 12 is going to feel much firmer than previous versions. adidas has also removed the plate that we saw in the previous two versions, resulting in a smoother and more consistent ride.
I was curious about how the adidas AdiZero Boston 12 would fit into my rotation. Previous versions have been a harder effort, workout, or race shoe, but the changes this year had me (rightfully) questioning if there were better uses. I’ve found it’s been great for daily and easy runs. It’s now a shoe I can pack and use no matter the pace and one of my top picks for easy runs.
Durability and Traction:
adidas has always excelled with durability and traction, and the adidas AdiZero Boston 12 is no different. Its durable outsole features Continental rubber (the same as your car tires). This results in a thick, grippy outsole. I’ve found every adidas shoe I’ve run in to last over 400 miles, and that is the case with the adidas AdiZero Boston 12. I’ve taken it out in inclement weather, the sand dune trails with no signs of sliding around.
adidas AdiZero Boston 12 Conclusions:
Has the adidas AdiZero Boston 12 changed a lot? Yes. Is it bad? No. It’s just very different than previous versions. I’m excited to have a daily shoe I can take wherever I want to go. It’s much more versatile than in the past. You can shop all adidas running shoes here.
Who Should Buy the adidas AdiZero Boston 12?
- Runners seeking a durable daily trainer with a balance of firmness and cushioning.
- Individuals in search of a daily trainer that is lighter and faster than the Solar Boost or Solar Glide models.
Who Should not buy the adidas AdiZero Boston 12?
- Those looking for a fast shoe, consider the Adios Pro 3. There are several adidas running shoes that are meant for speedwork or faster runs.
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: adidas AdiZero Boston 12, Antepes Muscle Runners, Tracksmith Eliot Runner, New Balance 1080v12 , Newton Gravity 12, 361 Degrees Centauri, ASICS Superblast
Speed Work: Hoka Solimar, Altra Vanish Carbon, 361 Flame, Nike Tempo Next%, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike ZoomX Streakfly
Long Runs: ASICS Superblast
Trail Running/Hiking: 361 Futura, Brooks Caldera 6, Hoka Tecton X2 Shoe Review Speedland SL: PDX,
Races: Nike ZoomX Streakfly, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Reebok Run fast Pro , Nike Vaporfly 3 Hoka Rocket X 2 ASICS Metaspeed Edge+
You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.
Looking to learn more about running shoes? In my ebook, I talk about why you need a good running shoe, a shoe’s anatomy, neutral vs. stable, and even myths of running shoes.
Questions for you:
Have you tried the adidas AdiZero Boston 12?
What is your favorite shoe?