The Adidas Adios Prime X is a cutting-edge running shoe designed for runners seeking high-performance features with maximum cushioning and energy return. This shoe pushes boundaries with its towering 50 mm stack height, advanced carbon-infused technology, and innovative construction, making it an attractive option for those wanting to shave time off their personal bests. However, it’s important to note that the Prime X is not legal for official World Athletics races due to its high stack, which exceeds the legal limit for competitive racing. Nevertheless, this shoe is engineered to deliver speed, comfort, and unparalleled energy return for non-sanctioned events or training purposes.
Design and Technology
The Adidas Adios Prime X uses some of Adidas’ most advanced technologies. One of its key features is the Energyrods, carbon-infused rods in the midsole that help runners maintain efficient forward motion. The shoe also incorporates Lightstrike Pro foam, a lightweight cushioning material designed to provide both comfort and responsiveness. The combination of Energyrods and Lightstrike Pro creates a balance of firmness for fast transitions and ample cushioning to soften the impact of each step.
Another remarkable feature is the rockered geometry of the shoe. This design element promotes forward propulsion, making the Prime X especially suitable for fast-paced runs. The high stack height, though controversial, is designed to maximize energy return, cushioning, and overall comfort. Despite its benefits, the height does introduce some challenges, particularly when it comes to stability, as the shoe may feel unstable during sharp turns or on uneven surfaces.
Stack Height and Racing Restrictions
One of the standout elements of the Prime X is its towering 50 mm stack height, which far exceeds the 40 mm limit allowed for competition by World Athletics. This places the shoe in a category of its own, making it unsuitable for use in official races. However, for non-sanctioned events or training, the Prime X offers a unique advantage in terms of energy return and speed. Its unconventional stack height allows for more foam underfoot, which contributes to enhanced comfort and propulsion during fast-paced runs.
While this higher stack height has raised eyebrows in the running community, it also makes the Prime X one of the most cushioned racing shoes on the market. The added cushioning translates to less strain on the legs, making it an excellent choice for runners focused on speed workouts and shorter races where comfort and speed are critical. However, runners should be cautious about using the Prime X on uneven terrain or for long distances, as the increased height can affect stability.
Performance and Propulsion
At the heart of the Adidas Adios Prime X is the concept of speed and propulsion. The Energyrods combined with the Lightstrike Pro midsole create a unique sensation of “springiness” underfoot. This propulsion system is particularly effective during sprints or interval training sessions, where the shoe’s responsiveness becomes most apparent. Runners have noted that the Prime X feels more like a racing spike than a traditional road shoe, thanks to its aggressive forward motion.
However, this emphasis on propulsion also introduces trade-offs. The design, focused heavily on speed, means the Prime X might not be the best option for everyday long-distance training. While it excels during fast-paced efforts, runners may find the shoe’s lack of stability less ideal for more relaxed or endurance-based runs. The shoe’s fit and overall construction are also tailored for performance, meaning that runners with wider feet or those who prefer a more stable ride may need to consider alternative models.
Upper and Fit
The upper of the Adidas Adios Prime X is designed with breathability and lightweight performance in mind. It features a single-layer engineered mesh that hugs the foot without adding excess weight. This lightweight construction ensures that the shoe feels airy and unobtrusive during runs, allowing the runner’s foot to stay cool and dry even during high-intensity efforts.
In terms of fit, the Prime X has a snug feel, with a performance-oriented design that holds the foot securely in place. However, runners with wider feet may find the shoe a bit too tight, especially in the midfoot region. The secure fit is intentional, designed to minimize foot movement inside the shoe and enhance overall control, but it may take some getting used to for those who prefer a roomier toe box.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
• Maximum Cushioning: The 50 mm stack height and Lightstrike Pro foam offer a highly cushioned ride, reducing strain on the legs and improving comfort during fast efforts.
• Innovative Carbon Plate Design: The Energyrods provide excellent propulsion, giving runners a forward push that enhances speed.
• Breathable Upper: The engineered mesh upper is lightweight and breathable, keeping the foot cool during intense runs.
• Aggressive Forward Motion: The rockered geometry of the shoe enhances forward propulsion, making it ideal for speed workouts.
Cons:
• Instability on Turns: The high stack height can feel unstable, especially when making sharp turns or running on uneven surfaces.
• Not World Athletics-Approved: The 50 mm stack height makes the shoe ineligible for use in World Athletics races, limiting its appeal for competitive runners.
• Tight Fit: The performance-oriented fit may feel too snug for runners with wider feet or those who prefer more room in the toe box.
• Limited Versatility: While excellent for speed workouts and short races, the Prime X may not be the best choice for everyday training or long-distance runs.
Conclusion
The Adidas Adios Prime X is a shoe that pushes the limits of what running shoes can achieve. With its impressive stack height, innovative Energyrods, and Lightstrike Pro cushioning, it offers a unique combination of speed and comfort. While it may not be the most versatile shoe for all runners, those who prioritize speed and forward propulsion will find the Prime X to be a valuable addition to their shoe rotation. Its ineligibility for World Athletics races may limit its use in official competitions, but for training, non-sanctioned events, or personal best efforts, the Prime X is a formidable option.
For more in-depth insights and runner reviews, you can check out the full review of the Adidas Adios Prime X on Running Shoes Guru.
Thanks for reading
James