The Best adidas Running Shoes of 2023 So Far
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Updated August 31, 2023: This guide on the best adidas running shoes was updated with info on adidas’ latest running shoe technology, new in-stock product for the fall and winter 2023 season, and tips on what to look for in the best pairs.
If you’re a runner, you’ve likely pledged loyalty to adidas running shoes after finding a sent-from-the-high-heavens sneaker. In 2023, adidas has set new standards for performance, by upgrading their most popular models through extensive research and development for professional and novice runners alike. No matter if you’re all-in for the best adidas shoes or aiming to find an innovative and supportive sneaker for your next race, look no further: We’ve gathered the best adidas running shoes for all foot types, terrains, foot types, and distances.
The sneaker experts at the Three Stripes brand have been hard at work, collaborating with athletes and foot experts alike to roll out new running technology to launch your strides into hyperdrive. adidas Senior Global Product Manager, Running Footwear, Charlotte Heidmann spoke on the brand’s newest running footwear innovations, noting, “We work with some of the most successful elite athletes on the planet. So, listening closely to them and implementing their invaluable feedback is a crucial part of the development process of new products.” Famously, the brand has an expansive selection of running shoe options for performance, including the best adidas sneakers for training, racing, trail-running, jogging, and more, and it continues to grow with each passing year as a one-stop-shop for athletes of all kinds.
adidas 4D is one of the newest points of evolution that’s boosting both upgrades and fresh designs in the 2023 adidas running shoe lineup. Dubbed “future craft,” 4D is the world’s first high-performance 3D-printed lattice midsole that’s constructed with light and oxygen for stable and supportive cushioning. The 4D adidas shoe range, including the adidas 4DFWD 2, is also topped with signature Primeknit uppers that fit snug like a sock, all while providing supreme ventilation and flexibility. More additions to the adidas running shoe family include the adidas Switch FWD July release, which features a soft EVA compound midsole, stabilizing TPU plate, and grippy Continental Rubber outsole, as well as improvements to cult-favorite Adizero models, such as the Adizero Boston 12 and Adizero Adios 8. Aside from advanced running tech, adidas also introduced new colorways to their most popular running shoe styles such as the Ultraboost Light, Ultraboost 1.0, NMD_R1, to name a few.
The Ultraboost running sneaker collection maintains its stake as one of the brand’s most popular styles — it’s racked up a whopping 20 million TikTok searches by curious runners, is routinely sported by celebrities from Oprah Winfrey, Olivia Wilde, Karlie Kloss, Hailey Bieber, Justin Bieber, Jessica Alba, and Lucy Hale, and likely resides in almost every runner’s sneaker rotation.
adidas’ champion-level running shoes range from $60 to $250, at adidas.com, so no matter your speed or range of budget, the Three Stripes has a running shoe for you. Scroll below to view our FN editors’ roundup of the best adidas running shoe selections for 2023 to upgrade or kickstart your runs — On your marks, get set…
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Size range: Men’s 6 to 14; women’s 5 to 11
Weight: 10.3 oz
Drop: 10 millimeters
Special features: Light Boost midsole
Pros: Breathable upper; moderate cushioning
Cons: Could be lighter
Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
What reviewers say: “Such a comfortable ride. Love the lightweight shoe that can take me from my run to running errands.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $190
Related: adidas Ultraboost Light Review
Size range: 5 to 14
Weight: 8.4 oz
Drop: 6.5 millimeters
Special features: Lightstrike Pro midsole; carbon-infused EnergyRods
Pros: True-to-size fit; highly cushioned
Cons: Upper may feel scratchy
Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
What reviewers say: “This model uses high-level cushioning and you can feel it in your feet. They can do everything; tempo runs, long-distance runs, they have even proven themselves on the treadmill.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $200
Size range: Men’s 4 to 15; women’s 5 to 12
Weight: 9.5 oz
Drop: 7 millimeters
Special features: Lightstrike Pro midsole; carbon-infused EnergyRods
Pros: Mild flexibility; supportive; breathable upper
Cons: May feel stiff to some runners
Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I’ve been using adidas Adizero Boston’s since the 10 and throughout the years it has become my favorite shoe to run everyday. Boston 12 are more comfortable, lighter, and have more features that makes the transitions even smoother. Highly recommend this shoe if you do high mileage runs and want a shoe that you can go fast with.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $160
Size range: Men’s 6.5 to 14; women’s 5 to 11
Weight: 16.3 oz
Drop: 9 millimeters
Special features: Cloudfoam midsole
Pros: Flexible
Cons: Lacks substantial arch support
Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I bought these as a comfortable cardio day gym shoe and for outdoor runs. As soon as I put them on, I knew they were the perfect trainer. Very true to size and super comfortable. Also super affordable.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $39
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Size range: Men’s 6.5 to 15; women’s 5 to 12
Weight: 11.5 oz
Drop: 10 millimeters
Special features: Boost midsole; LEP 2.0 torsion system; Continental Rubber outsole
Pros: Expansive size range; supportive
Cons: Toe box may feel narrow for some runners
Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I love these shoes for easy running. They’re just great durable shoes that last forever. They’re very comfortable and have a lot of room for your feet so they don’t get squished. This year’s has a lot of padding around the ankle which is nice.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $98
Size range: Men’s 6.5 to 18; women’s 5 to 12
Weight: 10 oz
Drop: 9 millimeters
Special features: Boost and Bounce midsoles
Pros: Slip-resistant outsole
Cons: Runs small
Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I have owned the the original Supernova running shoe and the Supernova 3 is just as comfortable. However, the longer tongue and longer laces make the Supernova 3 my best running shoe to date!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $100
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Size range: Women’s 5 to 11
Drop: 8 millimeters
Special features: Lightstrike midsole
Pros: Lightweight
Cons: Not offered in men’s sizing
Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
What reviewers say: “Gorgeous trainers that feel lightweight and comfortable. They’re a dream to run in.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $120
Size range: Unisex 6 to 13
Weight: 8.9 oz
Drop: 8.5 millimeters
Special features: Carbon-plated EnergyRods; Lightstrike Pro midsole; Strung upper
Pros: Breathable upper; highly cushioned
Cons: Pricey; may feel unstable for some runners
Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
What reviewers say: “As a fan of the first edition of the Prime X, this Strung goes one better and delivers on a more comfortable upper. It retains the longevity of the original Prime X as well as the unique and outstanding ride. Plenty fast, ready to get you ready for your next half marathon or marathon.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $300
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Size range: Men’s 5 to 15; women’s 5 to 12
Weight: 11.6 oz
Drop: 10 millimeters
Special features: Boost midsole; PrimeKnit upper; Fitcounter heel counter
Pros: Grippy outsole; stylish design
Cons: Upper may fit too snug on some foot types
Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I have had many models of running shoes from Adidas but took the chance and spent the money on a pair of these. I am so glad I did. They have helped my lower back pain on long walks and jogs. They’re like walking on clouds. Super lightweight and breathable top is perfect for hot days in coastal California.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $190
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Size range: Men’s 4 to 18; women’s 5 to 12
Weight: 11.7 oz
Drop: 10 millimeters
Special features: Boost midsole; PrimeKnit upper; LEP torsion system
Pros: Durable and long-lasting; wide size range
Cons: May feel clunky to some runners
Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I opened the box, looked at these beauties, strapped them on, and can’t stop wearing them ever since. The toe box is my main point of excitement. It really locks my foot in with the comfort and freedom of the textile upper. I am on board and shall be from this day.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $190
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Size range: Men’s 7 to 15; women’s 5 to 12
Weight: 7.2 oz
Drop: 8 millimeters
Special features: Lightstrike Pro midsole; TorsionRods; Continental Rubber outsole
Pros: Lightweight; breathable
Cons: Tongue may feel irritating
Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $130
Related: adidas Adizero Adios 8 Shoe Review
Size range: Men’s 6.5 to 14; women’s 5 to 11
Weight: 20.6 oz
Drop: 10.5 millimeters
Special features: Bounce midsole
Pros: Durable; well-cushioned
Cons: Lacks arch support
Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
What reviewers say: “Love the all black colorway, but more importantly, the comfort of the shoe even when just walking. The upper is flexible, easy to pull on and off, and the sole and heel has a lot of cushioned bounce.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $56
Related: Best Winter Running Shoes
Size range: Men’s 6 to 15
Weight: 8.6 oz
Drop: 8 millimeters
Special features: Boost midsole; Lightstrike cushioning; reflective upper
Pros: Grippy outsole; lightweight; padded heel tab and tongue
Cons: Not fully water resistant
Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I love the Terrex trail shoes line. This is my fourth pair. They fit like a glove. For a trail runner they are ‘barely there’ shoes which I love. No clunkers.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $128
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Size range: Men’s 6.5 to 15; women’s 5 to 11
Weight: 11 oz
Drop: 8 millimeters
Special features: Lightstrike cushioning; Pro-Moderator support
Pros: Durable;
Cons: Stiff heel may cause rubbing
Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
What reviewers say: “This is a great shoe. It provides amazing support, rock protection, and is amazingly stable, even when stepping on sticks and leaves when running on trails. Definitely worth the buy.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $140
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History of adidas Running Shoes
adidas has a storied past that starts with good old fashioned sibling rivalry, set in Bavaria, Germany. In 1924, brothers Adolf and Rudolf Dassler founded a shoe company called “Gebrüder Dassler Schuhfabrik” or “Dassler Brothers Shoe Factory.” The Dassler brand enjoyed early success at the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin (the first televised Olympics) when African American athlete Jesse Owens wore the brand’s durable leather sneakers. Those kicks, which featured a low-cut upper and long, carefully-positioned spikes, carried Owens through the finish line during four gold medal-winning track and field events. But by 1949, a spat between the brothers led Adolf “Adi” Dassler to create his own footwear brand, “Adi Dassler adidas Sportschuhfabrik” — which is now the modern-day adidas brand. That same year, adidas created a shoe featuring the hallmark three stripes.
Forward-thinking footwear has been a key component of adidas since the brand’s inception, making it a top choice for athletes — Owens’ isn’t the only Olympian to place Adi Dassler’s sneakers in public purview. Throughout the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s, track and field medal winners like Billy Mills, Wilma Rudolph, and Daley Thompson also sported the latest adidas styles during Olympic events around the world. adidas hasn’t stopped innovating since, creating cutting-edge sneakers to help runners go the distance.
adidas Running Shoe Technology
- adidas Boost: Modern-day adidas running shoes stand out from competitors, courtesy of the brand’s Boost technology. Boost, which is set in the midsole, incorporates proprietary thermoplastic urethane particles that encapsulate pockets of air. The effect? A cushioned underfoot with high energy return. The Boost midsole rebounds spring from your last stride to efficiently propel you forward. Other popular sneaker brands have attempted to mimic this effect, but none do it better than adidas. Boost is designed for all terrains and temperatures; the material can stand up to rain, wind, snow, and sand. Flexibility is another benefit of Boost, the midsoles are malleable enough to maintain a comfortable stride at any pace. adidas has refined Boost technology since its debut in 2013. Notably, in 2015, adidas launched the first iteration of the ultra popular Ultraboost, a running shoe that marries performance and style. In 2018, adidas released Ultraboost x Parley that incorporates upcycled and recycled waste into the shoe. Runners can now enjoy Boost technology in a slew of styles, each with special features, like Lightstrike cushioning and supportive EnergyRods, to suit any stride.
- adidas PrimeKnit: adidas Primeknit running shoe uppers are designed to hug the shape of your foot for a sock-like fit and unparalleledcomfort. Its softly-structured feel enhances mobility and flexibility, so foot movements are natural and supported by thick material.
- adidas Torsion: adidas Torsion system debuted in 1988 to optimize the sneaker’s sole. It grants extra flexibility in every stride, by supporting the midfoot as it rolls, and allowing for free movement in the forefoot and rear foot. On the bottom of the sole, a bridge-looking connector fuses the sneaker’s front and back with TPU-materials.
- Continental Rubber Outsole: adidas’ Continental Rubber running shoes boast one of the most durable outsoles on the market. It’s equipped with versatile, grippy traction that’s optimal for all kinds of running — from road, trail, track, and everything in between. adidas highest-quality rubber sticks to the ground as you make contact (without holding you in place) and supports stability in short-stops, swift launches, and heavy landings,
What to Look for in the Best adidas Running Shoes
adidas offers over 200 running shoe styles, so you can rest assured you’ll find the best adidas running shoes that feels tailor-made to your running routine. To narrow down the selections, consider these three factors.
- Road shoes vs. trail shoes: Road running shoes are carefully designed to handle repeated blows to concrete. Expect smooth, durable outsoles to give you good glide, and highly cushioned midsoles that protect your feet when you pound pavement. These breathable designs are available in varying weights and heel-to-toe drops. The best trail running shoes also provide cushion to level your feet on uneven terrain, but they tend to have additional protective features in the midsole and outsole. To help stabilize your feet when you’re traipsing rocky surfaces, many of these shoes feature stiff midsoles and reinforced uppers. Trail running shoes also tend to have a grippy outsole that gives you traction when your foot strikes slippery moss, decaying leaves, or mud. Waterproof shoes are handy for wet climates and stream-laden trails.
- Level of cushioning: Cushioned running shoes absorb the impact of your foot when it strikes a surface. That cloud-like underfoot feel is dependent on both the firmness of the foam (the durometer) and how much of it exists in the midsole (the stack height). A shoe’s cushion may feel different person-to-person; someone who weighs 175 pounds will compress the foam more than someone who weighs 120 pounds. Cushioning is a key component in the comfort of a shoe, but it often boils down to personal preference. adidas’ cushioned Boost midsole gives you a pillow-like feel underfoot; those who prefer firmness will love Lightstrike Pro technology found in styles like adidas Adizero shoes.
- Type of support: Supportive running shoes have stabilizing features in the upper, midsole, and heel counter that prevent your foot from wiggling around or collapsing while you run. The level of support can be tricky to determine without feeling the shoe on your foot, but in general, the more flexible a shoe is, the less supportive it tends to be. The best stability running shoes by adidas deliver support via fitted uppers, sturdy midsoles, and cushioned heel counters. So if you’re looking for a shoe that supports your foot, you’re in the right spot.
- Drop: Many running shoe models have a slight decrease in height from heel to toe. This decrease is called drop and measured in millimeters, which refers to the difference in thickness of a shoe’s sole between the heel and forefoot. A drop between 7 to 12 mm will put more pressure on the forefoot, which can help reduce strain and stress, and makes it an especially supportive running shoe for plantar fasciitis. Substantial heel-to-toe drops will provide built-in ankle and arch support, and will include extra cushioning to position the foot for more stable strides. Shoes with that are flat from heel to toe provide a more natural running experience.
- Traction: The outsole of the sneaker is as important as its internal features, no matter if you’re running on the trail or the treadmill, as traction will stabilize your landings. For outdoor runs over road or trail, select a running shoe with thick lugs that can grip to more variable surfaces and prevent slips or slides.
- Durability: adidas, thankfully, is an expert in the durability department. The most durable materials found in running shoes include mesh or synthetic uppers, high-quality-foam midsoles, and rubber outsoles. A thick midsole, made with adidas’ EVA compound foam, Lightboost, Lightstrike Pro, Boost, and Cloudfoam technology in particular, will hold strong for even the most intense sprints or long-distance runs, while adidas’ new Continental Rubber outsole technology will stick your landings with reliable grit and grip.
adidas Running Sneakers for Different Foot Types and Conditions
- adidas running shoes for flat feet: Those with flat feet tend to overpronate, meaning your foot rolls inward when it strikes a surface. adidas Ultraboost styles are ideal running shoes for flat feet, as the cushioned midsole softens the impact.
- adidas running shoes for wide feet: If you’re feet often feel squeezed on the side, you likely need shoes designed for wide feet. Look for roomier options with malleable mesh uppers; adidas offers styles like their Boston 11 running shoes in a wide fit.
- adidas running shoes for heel spurs: Cushioned heel counters and a higher heel-to-toe drop are the name of the game if you deal with dull or sharp pain related to heel spurs; these features take pressure off of the back of your foot. Supernova styles fit the bill.
- adidas running shoes for plantar fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis is a pesky but common injury, often resulting from overuse. The soft feel and substantial support found in Ultraboost 22 and Ultraboost Light sneakers will keep you comfortable.
- adidas running shoes for knee pain: Of the myriad causes of knee pain, the wrong shoe is a common trigger. If you suffer from conditions like flat feet or high arches, pay special attention to the shoe’s midsole. Proper cushioning can help absorb impact when your foot pounds a surface; consider Adizero Adios Pro 3 shoes, which have a substantial stack height.
- adidas running shoes for back pain: Solid shock absorption and cushioning are key for managing and preventing back pain, which is a common ailment for runners. The Ultraboost 22 sneakers deliver both of those key features.
- adidas running shoes for bunions: A wide toe box is essential for runners who deal with bunions. adidas EQ21 Run sneakers flare out around your toes for a roomy fit.
- adidas running shoes for neuropathy: If you’re experiencing diabetes-related neuropathy in your feet, you’ll want to make sure your shoes are highly comfortable and don’t cause friction on your feet. The soft Cloudfoam midsole in adidas’ QT Racer sneakers go easy on your feet.
How to Wash adidas Running Shoes
No matter how deftly you navigate a trail or city streets, odds are, your shoes will show some wear (and probably smell, no offense) after a handful of runs. Instead of storing them outside, give them a good scrub. First, clap the soles of the shoes together to release any chunks of dirt. Then use a damp toothbrush to remove any remaining debris on the outsole of the shoe. Soak a washcloth in warm water and a mild laundry detergent to wipe away any stains or dirt on the uppers of your sneakers. With a clean, wet washcloth, wipe away any leftover suds and bubbles from your shoes. Then let them air dry indoors at room temperature. In a pinch, you can remove the insoles and laces and place your sneakers in a pillowcase, then run them through a washing machine on cold and delicate settings with a mild detergent.
How We Selected the Best adidas Running Shoes
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
At Footwear News, we test top sneakers from popular brands, like adidas, year-round. When testing, we evaluate the feel and durability of the shoe, putting it to the test against city streets and mountainous terrains. To select the best adidas running shoes, we delved into adidas’ running shoe technology, pinpointing the most momentous developments from the brand. Footwear News editors made sure to include options to suit different terrains, foot conditions, climates, and distances. We noted any downsides, too, be it blisters or sizing issues. Shoes are a highly personal choice — every foot is different — but the options on our list passed with flying colors. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Authors
Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for Footwear News and WWD. She’s spent over five years researching, reporting on, and writing about health and lifestyle-related topics for publications like Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. As a half marathon-runner, she’s tested loads of adidas sneakers in her lifetime.
Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes shopping content on the best-rated footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Olivia received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. In her free time, Olivia can be found scouring the internet for deals on adidas shoes to add to her ever-growing collection.
