The adidas Prime Strung X3 does the most. What I mean by that is it has the most amount of cushion for a running shoe…at a price. If you’re looking for a shoe that doesn’t hold back on height, cushioning, or price tag, the adidas adizero Prime X3 Strung might just be what you’re after. With a towering 50 mm heel stack, bouncy Lightstrike Pro foam, and dual propulsion technologies (carbon plate + rods), this shoe is a maximalist’s dream. It’s designed for long efforts, long distances, and runners who like gear that feels more like a high-speed vehicle than a running shoe. Adidas has been on the rise lately, and as we head into cooler weather, they’ve added a lot of new fleece on their website.
Whether you’re chasing marathon pace during a long run or saving your legs deep into a workout, the Prime X3 Strung was built for big efforts. It’s not for everyone, but if it works for you, it really works. I won’t even lie, I’ve been a huge fan since the first run I wore them.
Questions I Had Before Trying the adidas Prime Strung X3
Is the adidas Prime Strung X3 fast?
Yes, it’s definitely one of the fastest running shoes out there.
Is the adidas Prime Strung X3 race legal?
Not technically. You can run your workouts and hard efforts in the shoe, but it’s banned from competition because of its stack height. If you’re a hobbyist, no one is coming to bang down your door, but if you’re regularly winning races, it’s something to keep in mind.
Does the adidas Prime Strung X3 fit true to size?
Yes, it was comfortable the moment I put it on…a rare thing to say in a workout and racing shoe.
Now, let’s get into an honest adidas Prime Strung X3 review.
adidas Prime Strung X3 Quick Facts
-
Weight: 10.9 oz
-
Stack Height: 50 mm heel / 43 mm forefoot
-
Drop: 7 mm
-
Price: $299.95
-
Category: Super Trainer
adidas Prime Strung X3 Fit
We can’t get around how bright this shoe is right? It was made to stand out. The Strung upper is one of the most unique and polarizing parts of this shoe. It fits true to size, but it’s low over the toe…especially the big toe…which may prompt some runners to consider a half-size up. The forefoot is a bit wider than the Prime X2 Strung, which is a welcome change for those needing more toe splay. However, this upper is not very forgiving: it has low volume and hugs the foot closely.
The midfoot and heel are secure thanks to internal padding and a snug collar. There’s no heel counter, so this works well for runners with heel sensitivities like Haglund’s deformity. The lacing system can create some lace bite if you overtighten, and there’s no last eyelet for a heel lock. Overall, if you have normal-to-slightly-wider feet and don’t rely on super-tight laces, you’ll be fine. Thicker socks help with comfort. I say all this to prepare you, but I really haven’t had any issues.
The best running shoes disappear on your feet, and as mentioned so far I’ve had no issues with the adidas Prime Strung X3…even with higher arches. In running shoes, I wear between a women’s size 10–11 wide, and the size 11 has fit well.
adidas Prime Strung X3 Ride
With 50 mm of Lightstrike Pro foam in the heel and 43 mm in the forefoot, this is one of the tallest shoes you’ll find (well, not race-legal). If you want to walk a runway without heels, consider this. JK… kind of.
The heel is incredibly soft and bouncy, delivering a trampoline-like sensation that works best for heel strikers. If you’re a midfoot or forefoot striker, it may feel bulky. The forefoot is firm because of the full-length carbon plate and embedded Energy Rods. It’s stiff…borderline too stiff for some forefoot strikers.
There’s a bit of toe spring, which smooths transitions, but until it breaks in, the forefoot can feel uncomfortable. Around 35 miles in, the ride softens and becomes more responsive.
Where does the adidas Prime Strung X3 fit into my rotation? This is a fast run shoe. It’s not designed for short intervals or sprints; it shines in marathon-paced efforts, long runs, and steady tempos. The ride is smooth and efficient for sustained efforts, and it keeps your legs fresh.
For me, it’s a go-to for long tempos and marathon-based training. It works at 5K pace, but this shoe’s sweet spot is high-mileage efforts. The recovery benefit is noticeable…after big runs, I’ve felt like I barely worked. The first time I ran sub-7-minute pace for five miles in years was in the Prime Strung X2, and I knew this line was special. My biggest uses for this shoe are workouts I want to save my legs and sometimes the day before a race.
adidas Prime Strung X3 Outsole
The Lighttraxion outsole grips well on pavement and track, but stability isn’t its strong suit given the stack height. It’s fine on straight, smooth roads but not ideal for uneven surfaces. I wouldn’t use it on trails…even light ones. When you’re that high up, it makes sense and it would be next to impossible to make super stable.
Durability is impressive. I expected it to wear out quickly, but I’ve put over 100 miles on my pair, and it’s still going strong. Some plated shoes barely last me 30 miles before showing signs of wear, so this was a pleasant surprise. I’m excited because I want this shoe to last as long as possible.
adidas Prime Strung X3 Conclusion
The adidas adizero Prime X3 Strung is as maximalist as they come. It’s not trying to be subtle, and it doesn’t have to be. For the right runner…especially someone training for a marathon…it could be one of the most efficient super trainers available.
If you want a high-stacked, high-tech trainer that eats road miles, saves your legs, and rewards consistent effort, this shoe is worth a spot in your rotation.
Who Should Buy the adidas Prime Strung X3
-
You want a long-run or marathon-training workhorse
-
You like maximum cushioning with a responsive feel
-
You’re okay with a high stack and non-race-legal status
Who Should Skip the adidas Prime Strung X3
-
You prefer minimalist or flexible trainers
- You want an easy run shoe. There are so many better options.
-
You’re on a budget…this is a $300 super trainer
-
You run mostly on trails
adidas Prime Strung X3 vs. Prime X2 Strung
The Prime Strung X3 feels snappier and more runnable than the Prime X2. The upper is more accommodating, and new ride is fun. Both shoes are high-stack, but the X3 has smoother transitions and a more aggressive yet protective feel. I think the X3 feels faster as well.
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Salomon Aero Glide 3, Mizuno Neo Zen, Topo Magnifly 5, Antepes Muscle Runners, adidas Adizero Evo SL, Newton Gravity 12, ASICS Superblast 2
Long Runs: Topo Specter 2, 361 Degrees Eleos Shoe Review
Trail Running/Hiking: 361 Futura, Speedland SL: PDX, Hoka Tecton X 3
Races/Speedwork: Adidas adizero adios pro 4, 361 Degrees Furious Future 2.0, ASICS Metaspeed Edge Paris, Puma Fast-R Elite 3, Nike Streakfly 2, Nike Vaporfly 4
Curious about how I do gear reviews? You can read about that here.
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:
What is your favorite super trainer?
Have you tried adidas?
SOLAR SLIME GREEN!!!