Adidas Adizero Boston Boost 7

The Adidas Boston lineup has been one of Adidas' main racing/high-performance training options. It has provided runners with a lightweight and fast trainer/racer.

It is a favorite and fairly affordable racing option for many runners who don't want to spend crazy money on a racing/workout shoe, and who want a more traditional racing flat/natural shoe feel.

I think many runners will be able to use this shoe for many types of workouts and races any distance under half marathon, or even marathon depending on experience level and feel preference.

Specs

• Weight: 8.6 ounces (size US 9)
• Stack Height: Adidas states, (heel: 29 mm / forefoot: 19 mm ), but that seems very high and generous for the shoe, as it seems to be fairly less than my Pegasus 37 which is no more than 28mm/18mm, and just about the same as my Pegasus 36 which is around 22mm/12mm but that's what Adidas has down.
• Midsole drop: 10 mm 

Ride

In terms of the ride, I really enjoyed this shoe for the workouts I have done in it. I did have to adapt to the more traditional flat type feel, as this shoe is a cross between a daily trainer and a track flat.

I was used to high stack height shoes, but once I started doing more workouts than my feet eventually adapted to the less cushioned, more natural type of shoe, which is almost becoming unusual nowadays.

I ended up really liking this shoe a lot. I had done workouts on the road, track, and grass and they performed well. 

I've also done many different kinds of workouts with these shoes, most of which I've enjoyed. I ran a 4:40 mile time trial in this shoe, on the track, so it definitely can handle fast paces.

An example of a road workout I did in these shoes was 2 x 3000m (3k), averaging 5’30 pace (10:15) for the 3k intervals. The shoes performed well, having a great racing-type fit lockdown, very breathable upper, great traction, and they were very light as well.

A couple of things I will note is that the shoe has a ground contact type feel, so if you're used to not feeling the surface you are running on then it could throw you off and leave the feet a little beat up the first couple of times of wearing it.

The forefoot part was also very stiff and had an almost burning sensation (could've been the socks I was wearing), but once I broke in the shoe those feelings went away. 

The more I wore the shoe the more those “problems” went away. A workout I had done on the track was 6 x 1200m averaging 5’14 pace per mile (3:54)  each interval. The shoes felt perfect on the intervals because workouts like that are what it's good at, high volume workouts.

The shoes had good responsiveness and felt light. That workout was also rainy, and the upper did a good job of not absorbing the water because of all the perforations that are in it.

In terms of grass, I had also done a 5K tempo on a cross country course (grass, dirt, hilly.) The tempo 5k was at 18:00 min (5’47 pace per mile.) The shoe performed well in the dirt and grass with the help of the Continental outsole, providing great traction.

Wearing the shoe in the grass, you also get a good feel of the terrain, which goes back to the ground contact feel.

In all, I really enjoyed all the workouts I had done in this shoe and I feel that it can accomplish most workouts. Surprisingly though, I enjoyed this shoe better in the softer terrain (track/grass), as I don't have the strongest of feet and it did leave them a little beat up after hard efforts on the roads.

 I do think this shoe could be used for long runs if you have strong feet and ankles and enjoy lighter shoes. Also, I think this would be a great racer if you’re into a more natural, traditional flat type feel while still having support. I would personally race it 5k to 10k.

I would do a half marathon if my feet were stronger (and I'm not a half marathoner anyway), but I think there would be better options.

I do think it can be raced in a marathon but you really would need strong feet and leg muscles to be able to handle the low stack height and such. But for me being a 5k runner, got the job done just fine in terms of my training. 

Looks

In terms of first impressions, when I first held his shoe I could tell it was very lightweight.

I also very much enjoyed the really simplistic but still very nice looking design of the shoe. It looks fast, and it looks like (and is) a breed of a daily trainer and a traditional racing flat. 

Upper

The upper of this shoe consists of a lightweight, thin mesh upper. I really enjoyed the fit of the shoe. It has a snug, racer type of feel while still being comfortable.

Adidas provides a great fit using its “Microfit technology.” The Microfit is a system that ensures a locked-down fit to reduce slippage and hugs the foot with a snug and secure fit, which it did fairly well. 

The tongue of this shoe has just the right amount of cushioning where it doesn’t feel too much but still keeps the laces from irritating the top of the foot.

One thing I do wish was integrated into the upper was a gusseted tongue which would have provided an even better lockdown. I did get a half size down so the shoe is a little tight but a little adjusting of the laces and the shoe felt fine.

The upper is extremely breathable and thin with many perforations towards the heel/rearfoot.

Towards the toe box and forefoot part of the upper, it has a “CoolOver” internal lining which Adidas says absorbs and evaporates moisture within the shoe to keep the foot clean, dry, and healthy. 

Overall I was very happy with the upper, it was lightweight while still having structure and durability. The only drawback I have is that the laces were short, but they never became undone or had any problems, just hard to double knot.

Also, the lockdown could have been just a bit better, I found when I hit fast paces (5:45 min/mile or under) or hit sharp turns, it seemed to get a little loose, but I really did enjoy it for the most part. 

Midsole

The midsole of this shoe consists of two foams, Adidas Boost foam, and then a traditional EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) foam.

The Boost foam covers most of the midsole from the heel to about the ball of the foot. That Boost adds durability and helps the overall comfort and responsiveness of the ride.

The EVA part of the midsole sits just atop of the Boost foam and then goes all to under the toes. That EVA foam provides a more stiff and stable feel compared to the Boost.

I personally felt like EVA portion was not as responsive as I wanted it to be, especially later on in the harder workouts when I felt I could have used some extra responsiveness.

 I do think most of the responsiveness came from the Boost, and the EVA added stiffness.

Also, Adidas added a Torsion System just below the midsole in the midfoot. It is a thermoplastic insert that adds stability for a smooth transition and an extra snappy feeling. 

One thing I will say is that there is more foam on the medial side of the shoe, almost like a stability shoe.

I haven't found a valid reason on the Adidas website for the reason for this, but I have seen people say it is because that's the foot's natural way of landing. It felt a little weird at first in terms of the foot landing in my gait, but then once I got into a rhythm it didn't affect performance.

Outsole

The outsole of this shoe is a Stretch Web Continental outsole. It provides very good traction on roads, tracks, grass, and dirt trails.

It also is very durable, I think it could last at least 400-500 miles before tread decreases to where it affects the traction. Not sure if the midsole will last the same amount though. Overall though, I’m happy with the outsole.

Price

The retail price of this shoe is $120, which I think is a good price for someone who wants a reliable and durable fast day shoe with a more traditional racing flat feel while still having some support and cushion.

Conclusion

 In conclusion, I really enjoyed this as a workout shoe. I think it can handle intervals on the track to tempos on the grass or road. I also think, depending on experience level and feel preference it could be used for long runs.

I also think it could be used for racing for most people 5k-10k, maybe a half marathon/marathon if you have strong ankles and feet. if you enjoy low stack height, ground contact shoes, you’ll love this one. It is once again, breathable, lightweight, and fast. 

First time seeing Adidas, they only come up with a lesser color option. If anyone is looking for some flashy colors while running, Boston Boost 7 is not the one.

But if you are looking for a comfortable design with good performance, then this is the one. It is absolutely one of the perfect blends of the design and the performance.

Size & fit

The shoe comes in regular sizes. No need to buy a large or small size to fit your feet. The material used in the shoes will make you feel better when you wear a pair of them. It will be a little uncomfortable fit for the very wide feet.

Comfort

I run long distances. The comfort of the shoes is so well to keep you pushed. The shoes perform and fit with good comfort for your walk or run even for the wide feet.

For the extra wide feet, the toe finger will rub to the inner layer leading a little uncomfortable. For me, this shoe is like tailormade to my feet. The comfort meter is high.

If you are used to high cushion shoe, it will take a couple of miles/couple of training session to get the comfort.

Outsole

Sole is the one which takes maximum credit when any shoes hit the road. The very well-designed sole makes the shoes lighter. The sole grips on the road very comfortable and keeps you going.

Midsole

The technical turns are easier and make sure you better perform well. I found the response of the midsole is just amazing to boost your run and the performance.

Even after my long runs, I have never faced any issues in my feet. I have experienced this sole is a little slippery in wet surface, and the runner should be little careful.

Durability

I have been using Boston 6 from quite a long time. And Boston 7 is a new member of my shoe family. Many miles have already gone with this shoe and many more to come. Planning to run a few Ultra's wearing this pair.

Breathability

The material of the mesh and the vent is so well designed and chosen to have cool running. The went on my midfoot is something very special which helps me to have comfortable, sweat-free, dry, and cool running. When compared with Boston 6, it is a little less breathable.

Performance

Considering my experience, Boston 6 and 7 are one of the precision shoes for performance. It has amazing quality with low cushion to feel the road/terrain and to boost your run in a different way. It is a very good shoe to have low cushion and performance together.

Safety & protection

As it is a road running shoes, safety and protection are not a key factor to look for. I can say the fit, design, material, sole, cushioning will ensure each step on the road is comfortable and safe. I even can say you will enjoy your blister free ride.

Boston 6 vs. Boston 7

• There is no difference in the sole - entire comfort under the feet has been maintained as it is
• Boston 6 is more breathable than Boston 7
• The finger protector is little more when compared to Boston 6, if you are not wearing a right sock, it might hurt for the wide feet
• Fewer colors available in Boston 7
• Performs equally good

Positives

• Good design for comfortable running
• Perfect feet hugging shoes for better performance
• The material used will help for better fit even with wide feet
• Design for the sole is just in place to grip your run and performance
• Material is breathable enough to have a dry and comfort running
• Lightweight shoes will automatically push you to perform better
• Better shoes for the long distance running
• Worth for the money you pay

Negatives

• A runner should be little careful while running on wet road conditions
• Not suitable on trails
• Limited colorways
• A threat from nails, chances of penetrating through soft part/non-rubber areas

My experience

So far, I was using Boston 6 and made many of my friends to buy the same. Now, it’s time to have some new experience with my new pair.

I welcomed it with few running plans and the maximum duration (I ran 12 hrs wearing this). Now it's time for me to suggest this new shoe to my friends and running family to improve their training and performance.

Verdict

Adidas Boston 7 is a perfect shoe for any kind of runs. It may be a training run or a performance race; it will perform equally good and will make you feel proud for your choice.

Lightweight, perfect design, materials, breathability, fit, make it stand out. The response at each step and the push from the midsole makes you perform better and run injury free.

Overall, Adidas Adizero Boston Boost 7 is an amazing shoe for training and performance.

As soon as I pulled them out of the box, I could tell the Adidas Adizero Boston Boost 7 were going to be a fast shoe. Lightweight and a cool design, I was ready to give them a whirl before busting them out at the Boston Marathon. 

At 8.6 ounces (size 9), Adidas boost technology, and Continental rubber outsole, the Adizero Boost 7 is built for speed while still providing some cushion.

Upper

The Boost 7 upper is lightweight and super breathable. With how light the upper is, I was afraid that it would either not be supportive enough or be too tight when I laced them up. 

However, I found the upper to be surprisingly stable and have had no issues with rubbing. The upper fit my foot like a glove and made for a comfortable run. The tongue kept my foot from moving around without having to tie the laces overly tight. 

Midsole

The midsoles of the 7, pack a powerful punch of speed and responsiveness without losing too much comfort. Without even thinking about it, I found myself moving at a good 30 seconds faster per mile the first time I took them out for an easy jog. 

During tempo runs, I could easily ramp up the speed without feeling a lag. They definitely put a spring in my step, but I also felt some amount of cushioning. 

Overall, I would say that speed trumps cushion in the 7; however, they are more comfortable than what you would expect in a similar shoe.

Outsole

The Boost 7 features a Stretchweb continental rubber outsole. It delivers a lot of grip and great traction. While running in wet conditions, I found no issues with slipping and got the same performance as during dry conditions. 

With the upper being lightweight and dries quickly, the Boost 7 would make a solid shoe even in poor conditions. The grip of the shoe also held up very well running on loose gravel. The outsole appears durable and able to withstand many miles.

Usage

After logging some shorter tempo runs and long slow runs, I see these as being saved for faster workouts and races up to marathon distance.

While the 7 does provide some cushioning, towards the end of one of my marathon training long runs, I could start to feel the impact on my feet slightly, so not sure if I would trust this as a daily trainer if you are logging a lot of miles.

However, it offers more protection than a traditional racing flat so it would be ideal for someone who needs just a little cushioning.

Fit

I found the shoe to run slightly smaller than expected. I didn’t end up going half a size bigger. However, it was right on the cusp where I could have. 

The toe box and really the shoe, in general, are narrow which may prompt some runners to go up half a size. Although I would have preferred slightly more room in the toe box, I have narrow feet, so I did not find this to impact me negatively.

Appearance

The Adizero Boston 7 come in a few different color schemes ranging from the not so stylish all-black to the sleek green and blue with racing stripes. Additionally, Adidas has put out Boston Marathon edition shoes which feature the official logo on the back and come in either high-res yellow or black and blue.

Final thoughts

The Adidas Adizero Boston Boost 7 is a lightweight, breathable shoe that will find a place in any serious runner’s rotation. For those who are looking for a fast tempo or racing shoe for up to the marathon distance but prefer additional cushioning over a traditional racing flat, I would highly recommend getting a pair.

When I first got the Adidas Adizero Boston Boost 7, I was amazed! They were so light. And after 400 Strava-counted and many more uncounted track kilometers, I think it's time to review them.

Size, weight, and fit

Like I said, I was amazed by the lightness when I first got them in my hand (and on my feet). EU size 46 gave me the best fit like Ultraboost 4.0 and my spikes, Adidas Sprintstar, that I already owned before the Bostons.

And at that size, they are still very light at only 280 grams. This is compared to the Ultraboost's 354 grams and spikes that are made to be fast and light, the Sprintstar's, which weighs 191 grams.

Boston's

Sprintstar's

Ultraboost's

The weight was probably reduced by "taking away" some Boost foam (compared to the Ultraboosts) and using a much lighter upper, which leads us to the next section.

The upper

The upper is made out of a light mesh material that is about 30% transparent and therefore very breathable. You can literally see through the shoe in a somewhat lightened up room.

The first time I ran in them, the mesh or the lack of it caused me some problems. It was a windy day, and I just couldn't warm up my feet. But, I got used to it in about a week.

The heel frame is very thin but not any less comfortable than the Ultraboost's or the Adidas Supernova's, which are a bit too cushioned, in my opinion. 

Regardless, I had no problems with the heel frame of this shoe. I really like how the outside of it looks and goes well with the whole design.

The only minor issue I had with the shoe was at the front. The front mesh uses something extra that holds the height for your foot and toes.

When I walk, the mesh above the toes sometimes wrinkled and gives me an unpleasant feeling. But, while running, I can't feel it at all.

The laces are good, but I would still do a double knot just to make sure they hold through the 15k.

Another thing is the tongue. I don't know if I have weird feet or if there was a problem with the manufacturing of the shoe.

One of the tongues feels great and lays nicely flat on my foot, but the other one folds up, which makes it a bit uncomfortable. But it is nothing too serious.

Meanwhile, the insole is a very thin one yet feels very nice and not uncomfortable at all. The only problem I have is the wear on the outer edge of it as seen in the picture.

This happened to me on the Ultraboosts as well, but in that model, there is a soft material under the insole. With the Boston 7, it has a harder material and not comfortable to wear.

That's why I put in the insoles from the Supernova shoes instead, which are still okay.

The midsole

The midsole is mostly made out of a thinner layer of my favourite cushioning foam, the Boost foam. The midfoot part of the shoe's midsole is Boost encased in a TPU/plastic material while the very front is made out of the encashment material.

Under the heel and arch part of the foot is the iconic Boost foam, which is totally exposed. The cushioning is okay, but that is fine since this shoe isn't made for recovery or that kind of runs.

It is meant to be a shoe that allows you to feel the surface you are running on and to lose as little energy as possible from cushioning and weight. At least, that's how I understand this shoe is made for.

The outsole

The whole front and the heel part of the outsole is made of Continental rubber with a Torsion system in between.

I noticed it's less grippy on both, the track and asphalt than the Ultraboosts 4.0 and the Supernovas. The Bostons have a more hard rubber, which I don't like because you will have less grip as soon as the surface is a bit wet or frozen.

The Torsion system is also bigger, more open, and closer to the ground than the one on the Ultraboost 4.0s, thus being more affected by the ground. Given this, you might see a lot of bumps and bruises on the plastic of it.

But don't worry. It doesn't get destroyed at all even though it looks like it can't be used for one more run.

The lines on the rubber are getting less visible. But, I understand that after doing an average 80k per month from May/June, the rubber can't look the same.

Regardless, the feeling is still the same given that this is a shoe that already did 500k in terms of grip.

The feel

When I first put it on, I was in a dilemma. They felt excellent and light but as I was a spoiled runner (in terms of cushioning) coming from the Ultraboosts. They were a bit too hard for me. But, I took the chance, bought them, and got used to them.

Now, if I have to put on the Ultraboosts, I really don't feel comfortable running in them because I can't feel the actual ground underneath me. Moreover, I just sink into the foam every time I push myself off the ground when using those.

The upper is windy—very windy. And because the upper (mainly the tongue) is so thin, don't try to lace your shoes very tightly (like I do way too many times) because you might get pain on the top of your foot.

Other than that, the shoe feels great. It's a fast shoe, and lots of the times, I tend to start faster than I should and die later because it just feels great going fast in this shoe.

I have no regrets for getting it for the full price. It seems and I hope that I can still use it for a very long time before needing another shoe that is so versatile.

I do every training, from sprints to 1k repeats, and for all the longer runs in them. I also run races in them, and they really feel great each time I put them on.

One more thing about it is the look. I said in the title that it looks like a sleeper shoe since it is a fast one but looks just like a normal shoe. But, sometimes, it just looks fast as well, and I just can't stop looking at them. It really is awesome.

The score

I scored this shoe by these categories:

• Performance: 14/15
• Comfort: 15/15
• Value 15/15
• Grip 12/13
• Weight 11/12
• Look 10/10
• Durability 10/10
• Breathability 10/10

Final score: 97/100

Note that this is my personal preference, and also that I don't give a score to each shoe on the same criteria since they are not all made for the same purpose.

Thus, I can't give points for a low racing flat for bounciness/cushioning, for example. I also give more possible points to more important categories (in my opinion) as you can see.