9 Best Adidas Running Shoes – 2024 Buying Guide
For this reason, we've carefully tested and reviewed nearly all of Adidas' shoe models to help guide you to a purchase decision.
Below are our picks for the 9 best Adidas running shoes of 2021.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Durability
We know that our readers want shoes that will last.
We are bringing you a buying guide that is focused on run-specific footwear (faster times, trail, basic training, daily running). This means that durability is a quality that we wanted to focus on when making our selection. You can't push past your limits if your footwear is falling apart at the seams.
If you’re looking for a cushioned running shoe, for example, you want one that will last and feel consistency mile after mile. All the Adidas on our guide feature quality construction and durable material so they give you performance day in and day out.
We know that worrying about your shoes is the last thing you want to be doing in the final mile of your marathon.
Comfort
Lacing up those sneakers can be pretty rough some days, so we wanted to select designs that you look forward to putting on!
The best Adidas running shoes have breathable mesh uppers, flex-fit technology, notably cushioned support and responsiveness, and high-quality, durable materials.
Adidas shoes are particularly loved by runners for their comfort and just-lightweight-enough construction that keeps them going whether they’re training, hiking, walking, or racing.
If cushioning is important to you, either because of your foot strike or for comfort reasons, make a selection that features boost performance features to protect your feet over long distances or during high impact runs.
These shoes will be slightly pricier, but they are worth every single penny. Testers noted that the cushioning levels are consistency through their runs, meaning that compression is strong on these models.
Don’t overlook this critical component if you’re looking for quality, dependable cushioning in your running footwear, it’s worth it!
Responsiveness
All of our selections include the very best of their performance technology.
We also checked with hardcore marathon runners, outdoor enthusiasts, and everyday casual users to ensure that they are updated models with the latest features that are tried and true.
Read also about mud shoes.
Boost is one of these features. This is a soft and responsive midsole material that is rated high among long-distance runners. It stays uncompressed longer; this means that your last mile will still feel the same as your first mile.
Read also about track shoes for kids here
Primeknit is Adidas’ version that is similar to Nike’s Flyknit technology. What you have is a highly durable and breathable lightweight fabric that actually expands with your feet as you log in longer wear times. It’s a great synthetic material. Testers also enjoyed Adidas’ Torsion System. It’s not just a fancy name for arch support.
For neutral runners and those who experience slight pronation, this support system has come through and changed the way they run.
These are the types of features we looked for in our selections, not Kanye West’s latest fashion tips.
Breathability
Swampy conditions are never ideal, especially in your sneakers.
Adidas is known for its comfortable and high-performing shoes, but what about breathability? One of the most sought-after features in shoes of all stripes (see what we did there? The Adidas logo is three stripes. Yes, we think we’re clever.) these days is breathability.
This is because excess moisture in your shoes can actually lead to hot spots and blisters, two things that are the bane of every runner's existence as they can totally throw you off your game by totally disrupting not only your running and training but your work and personal lives as well. Yep, blisters suck. Ouch.
For this reason and many more, most Adidas running shoes are highly breathable and will keep your feet cool and dry during your runs. They are designed to be lightweight and breathable, while also maintaining their durability and secure fit.
You will find that most of the options on our list are all highly breathable, however, there are a few that are less breathable than others but which we included because they have many other highly desirable features and qualities.
If breathability is one of the factors most important to you be sure to check out the breathability score we assigned each product on the list to make sure you get something that will fit your needs.
Value
We know everyone has a different budget, so we made sure to take that into account when compiling our list.
Here you will find options for all budgets, those that are quite expensive to highly cost-effective products. While the price is an important factor, also make sure to consider the features you need so you choose the right pair of shoes.
If you lean more towards the minimalist runner side of the shoewear spectrum, for example, there's no sense paying more for a shoe with lots of padding and extra features that add torsional rigidity when that's what you're trying to get away from in the first place. And remember that price doesn't always equal value, and the shoe that you buy just to save a few bucks could end up costing you more in the end.
This is because if it doesn't meet your needs you'll pretty quickly stop wearing them and have to buy a new pair, thus totally negating the money you were trying to save in the first place. In this case, all the cliches and truisms hold fast; that you don't be penny smart and dollar stupid, and that you get what you pay for.
Top 15 Adidas Running Shoes
1. Neo Cloudfoam Race
Built for extreme comfort, these Adidas running shoes are popular for their coziness as well as their style. Customers love that they are stylish enough to wear outside of athletic use, but that they also perform well during a workout.
Read moreComfort and Stability
True to the name, these really do make you feel like you are walking on clouds. The exceptional flexibility allows for a custom fit. The Adidas running shoes are great for outdoors as the super-soft, bouncy soles reduce impact with the ground.
They perform great in the warm weather, thanks to fantastic breathability. Lots of cushioning makes these a comfortable choice for Plantar Fasciitis sufferers.
Quality and Durability
Most customers agree that the shoes hold up perfectly well to lots of use. A cosmetic issue that was reported was ripping in the fabric after regular wear.
2. Ultraboost 21
What makes the Ultraboost 21 great is that Adidas has made some very important changes to not only the style of this option but also the performance. It boasts a lightweight and flexibly upper that won’t rub your feet raw but also provides support when turning tight corners. Users love that they come in almost any color pattern you ever wanted!
Read moreComfort and Stability
If your fitness routine takes you more places than simply sunning on the trails, the Ultraboost 21 is a great companion. A sock-like upper allows your feet to be free and nimble with rubbing blisters into your heels. It also prevents hot spots on the top and sides of your foot. It’s great for trail running, but it also transitions seamlessly into weight training and HIIT training as well.
The amplified padding found in the midsole adds an extra spring in your step. If you need something the provides excellent energy feedback to protect your joint when running on hard surfaces, the Ultraboost 21 has you covered. It claims to have 20 percent more energy feedback when compared to other designs in this line of trainers.
Quality and Durability
If you need something lightweight and easy that still provides excellent energy return, the Ultraboost 21 is worth checking out. We love that the cushioned midsole really supports your foot while the lightweight upper feels like you aren’t wearing anything at all. It may cost a little bit more than most, but we feel that it is worth every penny.
3. Zx Flux
What we love most about the Zx Flux is that it is a perfect blend between a casual shoe and stability trainers. If you are in the market for something that is perfect for being on your feet all day, you may want to give this option a look. It comes in a myriad of unique colors and designs and boasts a price tag that won’t break the bank.
Read moreComfort and Stability
Many stability trainers or walking shoes often host a bulky and cumbersome design that doesn’t make them very aesthetically pleasing. However, the Zx Flux provides users with a structured upper and cushioned midsole with a slim and sleek mesh upper that is both breathable and comfortable.
We also like that this design provides a lot of comfort in the midsole and outsole. Users found that this design provides excellent energy feedback when walking or running on hard surfaces such as sidewalks or treadmills. The structured design is also something that works well in the gym when weight training as well.
Quality and Durability
The Zx Flux is the perfect option if you love to lace up a pair of sneakers to wear all day long. It transitions very easily from the gym to a day running errands. It comes in a wide variety of color options and styles that are bound to match her personal style, and the Continental outsole is durable enough to hold up to years of adventures.
4. Terrex Swift R GTX
These are meant for hiking and slower running than their Terrex FAST counterparts. Highly rated with outdoor enthusiasts the Terrex Swift has the highest “re-buy” rate of trail shoes. That means outdoor runners and hikers buy them over and over again because of their incredible design and performance.
Read moreComfort and Stability
There is Gore-Tex throughout these Adidas trail running shoes for waterproofing while still allowing breathability. The sock liner is molded and the midsole is EVA for extended cushioning. Testers took them outdoors for long periods of time and quickly that the Swift’s get the job done.
Quality and Durability
Although the fit and comfort rate high, there are some issues with the stitching coming loose after a short amount of use. The issue certainly doesn’t make up the majority of the reviews, although it is something to look into.
5. NMD R1.v2
The NMD R.v2 has a style that looks like something from the future but also borrows style from the 1980s as well. If you want something that marries a unique style with incredible performance, you need to check out the NMD R.v2! This is a great option for running out on the sidewalks, but its real home is in the gym where everyone can admire it.
Read moreComfort and Stability
The textile upper is lightweight and contours to the shape of your foot as you wear it, but it isn’t as breathable as mesh designs. The shape of the upper is incredibly pliable and reduces the chance of creating hotspots as you train. Users love that the simple laces are easy to adjust and won’t cause any undue pressure on the top of your foot.
The NMD R.v2 boasts a midsole that is very similar to the Ultraboost 20. It has a very cushioned midsole that offers excellent energy feedback when running on hard surfaces such as treadmills or sidewalks.
Quality and Durability
Due to the limited tread on the outsole, this slick design is not great for running on trails or slippery surfaces.
If the style is something that is incredibly important to you, you can’t really go wrong with the NMD R1. v2. It may look like it’s all sizzle with no steak, but it is packed with smart features that support your feet when working out almost anywhere in the gym.
6. Terrex Free Hiker
If you find that traditional hiking boots are too heavy and cumbersome for trailing in the great outdoors, you will want to give the Add Terrex Free Hiker a look.What we loved about this design is that it has all of the features of a great pair of running shoes (which are not typically found in hiking boots) in a design that is made to keep your traction in treacherous outdoor conditions.
Read moreComfort and Stability
Most hiking boots boast a utilitarian design that makes them a great fashion statement down by the lake- and nowhere else. The Terrex Free Hiker is not only a great fashion statement on the trails, but it is also something that functions you may want to wear all winter when simply running errands. This structured high top/boot hybrid is a great winter sneaker!
This style has a rubber outsole with excellent treads that make it perfect for rocky or slick surfaces. It provides users with great energy feedback with a foam EVA midsole that cushions your foot with each and every step. It also boasts a wider toe box than most which makes it perfect to pair with a thick pair of wool sock in the cold winter months.
Quality and Durability
If you need a good pair of winter sneakers that can take you on the sidewalk to the trails, this is a great option. It is composed of materials designed to keep your feet warm and dry in all sorts of conditions. While they are much heavier than your basic pair of trainers, they are much lighter than a classic pair of hiking boots.
7. Terrex Agravic
If you cannot be tamed by the gym and belong in the great outdoors, the Terrex Agravic is your best option. It has a structured upper for excellent stability, and deep treads that really grip the ground beneath you.
Read moreComfort and Stability
The upper is composed of a blend of both synthetic and mesh overlays. This upper is provides a lot of structure to provide your feet and ankles support when traversing treacherous terrain. It also has mesh vents on the top of the foot that allows your foot to breathe.
We love that the outsole of this design has deep rubber treads to ensure you keep your footing. This is a great option to take when running on uneven or slick surfaces in the spring all the way through to winter. The only downside is that due to the excellent structure and stability, users found these to be a tad on the heavy side.
Quality and Durability
These trainers are built like a tank and can take you safely through some pretty rough trails. If you are in the market for something that you can take out on the trails with confidence, this is a great option. The stiff and structured upper provides a lot of support and warmth when running on cold and rainy days.
8. Solar Glide ST 19
If you need a great stability Adidas running shoe, then this is definitely the way to go. Not only will it provide you with the support that you need, but it will ensure that you stay comfortable during each and every run. These Adidas running shoes also look great and come in great color options--so you can look great while you run too.
Read moreComfort and Stability
These Adidas running shoes are definitely built to last. They are incredibly durable and made of high-quality material. The suede protects the breathable mesh and the rubber outsole protects it against the elements.
This Adidas running shoe is really comfortable and flexible thanks to the Adidas running shoe's cushioned Boast foam midsole. It provides a secure fit and its padded areas will prevent any chafing and blisters from occurring.
Not only do these Adidas running shoes deliver great stability, but they are also really responsive. They allow the weight to be distributed evenly for each stride. They also provide great shock absorption and bounce back to ensure you can get the most out of your run.
Quality and Durability
Thanks to the sturdy mesh the upper of the Adidas running shoe are composed of, these shoes are really breathable. They will allow for optimal ventilation and ensure that your feet don't chafe or develop any blisters.
Really pricey, but worth the cost if you need a great stability Adidas running shoe.
9. Pureboost RBL
What we liked most about the Pureboost RBL is that it marries style with performance for a great pair of trainers or simple casual sneakers. It boasts a higher drop which provides users with added cushioning in the heel to protect your knees and hips when running on hard surfaces. Plus, it comes in unique designs that you won’t find anywhere else.
Read moreComfort and Stability
The very first thing that we noticed about this design is that it boasts a knit upper with a sock-like cuff at the ankle that resists rubbing your feet raw as you train. This soft knit material is also structured to provide you with excellent stability that is still incredibly soft and comfortable.
This design has an 8 mm drop that cradles and supports your heel throughout your entire gait. It uses the Adidas Boost midsole that really cushions your foot while providing excellent energy return that is perfect for running on hard surfaces such as treadmills or hard sidewalks.
Quality and Durability
If you are in the market for a comfortable design that is a great option for running or simply running errands, this design is worth every penny. Users love that it comes in a wide variety of special designs and color options, and we love that it uses Boost foam tech in the midsole to protect your feet.
