I’ve wanted to try the adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1, but whew, that $500 price point was not doing it for me. The Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 represents a leap forward in the evolution of racing shoes. While super-stack racing shoes have dominated the market recently, none managed to revisit the ultralightweight benchmarks set by the minimal racing shoes era. I can’t believe I used to race in shoes that weighed less than 4 ounces.
The Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 is the first super shoe under 5 ounces and the first super shoe priced at $500. Before trying the adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1, I had a few burning questions:
- How long does the adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 last? Sorry, folks, it only lasts for one workout and one marathon—or just under 50 miles. While you can run in it after that, you won’t get the same super shoe benefits from the foam and carbon fiber plate. Honestly, it’s so light it might just fall apart, LOL.
- Why is the adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 $500? The cost comes from the foam, carbon fiber plate, and the super-thin materials used to make the upper.
- Is the adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 worth it? Honestly, I’m not sure. It’s super light and fast, but it doesn’t feel amazingly faster than other carbon-plated shoes that are $200 cheaper and last longer.
Now let’s get into an honest review of the adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1.
adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 Quick Facts
- Price: $499.95
- Weight: 4.87 oz
- Stack Height: 39 mm (heel) / 33 mm (forefoot)
- Drop: 6 mm
adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 Fit
Just looking at the Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 mesh, you can see where the weight savings come from. The upper is crafted from an ultrathin mesh material that prioritizes weight savings above all else. It’s one of the big factors of why the shoe is so expensive (the other is the fragile foam). The mesh is so thin you can completely see your socks and toes. adidas claims the material conforms to the foot well over time, but I was worried I’d rip the mesh just by holding the shoe! I didn’t and I don’t think you can, but it doesn’t mean I don’t worry.
The best running shoe uppers disappear on your foot, and for the most part, I’ve felt that with the adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1. There are no hot spots, although the tongue—thin and ungusseted—may fold and cause irritation, so it’s important to situate it properly before racing.
I tend to wear between a women’s size 10–11 wide and found the men’s size 9.5/10.5 to fit best. It fits true to size, although it may feel a bit short when you slide it on. Thankfully, I never had an issue while running.
adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 Ride
The midsole is where the magic happens, right? And, of course, where much of that $500 price tag comes from. It’s made from a unique version of Lightstrike Pro, engineered for minimal weight and a compliant yet cushioned ride. Despite its lightness, the foam provides adequate protection for long-distance races. The problem? The foam is fragile, which is why the shoe doesn’t last long but also why it’s expensive to make.
Its moderate bounce and rockered geometry make transitions smooth and efficient, particularly at marathon or tempo paces. I was surprised the midsole wasn’t as responsive as other carbon-plated shoes. It doesn’t feel fast until you’re running fast. The rest of the time, it feels clunky. If you go for a jog in it, you probably won’t be a fan.
Make no mistake: the Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 is a racing shoe—and not just any racing shoe. It’s a goal-race shoe. I’d recommend it for one workout and one marathon (or maybe two half marathons). You aren’t going to get that durability to use it for an entire season. Can you use the adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 for shorter races? You can and it’s super lightweight. You’ll be able to get a few 5ks or maybe two half marathons out of it.
adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 Outsole
If there were an award for the worst outsole design, the Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 might win. The outsole is another reason for the lack of durability, but it also contributes to the shoe’s minimal weight.
The outsole is almost entirely exposed foam with minimal rubber coverage, making it suitable only for smooth road surfaces. While traction is sufficient for road races, durability is a clear issue. I noticed some shredding after just 8 miles.
In terms of traction, don’t expect much. I constantly worried that one bad turn would send me tumbling. I wouldn’t recommend this shoe for inclement weather or any terrain that isn’t smooth road.
adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 Conclusion
The Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 is a cutting-edge racing shoe designed for elite runners seeking the lightest, most efficient option for road racing. Its ultralightweight construction and rockered geometry offer an unparalleled feel during long-distance efforts. However, its high price and extremely low durability limit its practicality for most runners. Honestly, it just doesn’t make sense for 99% of runners it won’t feel fast unless you’re running at elite paces.
There are a lot of better options out there (even from adidas) that may feel faster but they are also so much durable. (so more durable and cheaper). Truthfully, I am glad it’s not my favorite shoe to race in because well it would make running a lot more expensive.
Who Should Buy the adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1
- Elite or competitive runners prioritizing ultralightweight racing shoes
- Those looking for a highly rockered ride for 10K to marathon distances
- Runners who need minimal medial or lateral stability
Who Should Not Buy the adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1
- Runners seeking a durable racing or daily trainer
- Athletes prone to wearing down outsole materials quickly
- Those looking for a versatile shoe suitable for multiple workouts
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Topo Magnifly 5, Antepes Muscle Runners, New Balance 1080v13 Shoe Review , Newton Gravity 12, , ASICS Superblast
Speed Work: 361 Degrees Furious Future 1.5 Shoe Review Nike Tempo Next%, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike ZoomX Streakfly, Nike Alphafly 3
Long Runs: Topo Specter 2, 361 Degrees Eleos Shoe Review
Trail Running/Hiking: 361 Futura, Hoka Tecton X2 Shoe Review Speedland SL: PDX,
Races: 361 Degrees Furious Future 1.5 Shoe Review Hoka Cielo X1, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Reebok Run fast Pro ,Nike Vaporfly 3 , ASICS Metaspeed Edge Paris
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.