Adidas Adistar 3 review

We're thrilled to recommend the Adidas Adistar 3 for:

• Fans of the previous Adistar models who demanded a lighter, more cushioned version—it delivers brilliantly on both fronts.
• Weekend warriors hitting the pavement 1 or 2 times a week who prioritise comfort in a running shoe.
• Budget-conscious buyers looking for a plush, daily trainer that doubles as a comfortable walking shoe with a breathable upper.

While the Adistar 3 offers several improvements over its predecessor, we've found in the lab that its stability has significantly decreased, making it a less appealing option for runners needing good support. Instead, we suggest considering more reliable mild-stability trainers like the ASICS GT 2000 12, the lightweight Hoka Arahi 7, or the premium ASICS Gel Kayano 31.

Additionally, the energy return from the Adistar 3's REPETITOR foam is disappointing. From our evaluation, it lacks the lively feel many runners seek. Better alternatives at a good price include the Hoka Mach 6 and the ASICS Novablast 4, which both provide a much more energised running experience.

What's truly remarkable is that Adidas achieved this weight reduction while also increasing the heel stack height from 33.8 mm to 40.7 mm.

This means you enjoy more cushioning in a lighter shoe—a perfect upgrade!

The forefoot has also increased from 25.8 mm to 30.2 mm, enhancing the shoe's suitability for midfoot and forefoot strikers, particularly for those considering long runs with the Adistar 3.

Adidas claims this shoe has a 5-mm drop, yet our measurements—taken according to World Athletics guidelines—revealed it's actually more than double that amount at 10.5 mm. This higher drop makes the Adistar significantly more suitable for heel strikers than previously thought. 

If you're curious about these measurement discrepancies, check out our detailed guide for more insights!

Among several minor enhancements, two significant factors contribute to the impressive weight reduction of the Adistar 3. We've already discussed the redesigned outsole, and the other is the revamped REPETITOR foam formulation. 

The previous version of the Adistar used a dense, firm foam, but this update introduces a much lighter and plush version, contributing significantly to the weight loss. In fact, our testing shows it now measures 14.8 HA on our durometer, making it 51% softer than its predecessor!

We tested the Adistar 3's performance in cold conditions by placing it in the freezer for 20 minutes. Our findings show that the REPETITOR foam maintained what we consider a normal behaviour, becoming just 26.5% firmer.

The insole is plush and comfortable despite its average 4.8-mm thickness. This feature sets it apart from other similarly priced daily trainers, offering a nice bonus.

The ride lacks a pronounced rocker, which might be unexpected for some given the high stack height. However, considering the foam's compliance and the absence of a plate, we believe this shape is appropriate.

Let's discuss the fit of the Adistar 3. Our tests revealed a standard fit, confirmed by measuring the toebox at its widest point—98.6 mm—falling squarely within the average range.

Unlike many competitors, Adidas does not provide wide sizes for the Adistar 3, limiting options to the standard width only.

During our detailed evaluation of the toebox, we also used our callipers to measure the width near the big toe, finding it to be 78.2 mm.

The upper's volume posed no issues, and the thin monomesh material did not create any undesired pressure on the toes. However, we would not recommend this shoe for 20 milers where feet may swell and require more room.

There are no miracles when it comes to stability, and the Adistar 3 proves this—its midsole is both softer and taller, yet the platform isn't wider, resulting in a noticeable decrease in stability.

Is this a deal-breaker? It depends. Neutral runners will surely appreciate like these changes, but for those who require more stability and were fans of the previous version, we advise against upgrading to this model.

Adidas maintained the rigidity seen in the previous model, which aligns with our expectations given the softer foam, but offset by a significant increase in stack height which adds stiffness.

During both our manual inspection and active testing, the heel counter of the Adistar 3 proved to be stiff, scoring 4/5. But this version is generously outfitted with ample padding around the entire heel area, enhancing comfort for all wearers!

Initially, we noted that the Adistar hadn't expanded laterally—this was confirmed when our measurements revealed a slight reduction to 113.4 mm from 118.1 mm in the forefoot.

While this change renders the shoe more streamlined and agile, it does compromise stability. We believe this model is best suited for neutral runners seeking a dynamic ride over support.

Adidas also trimmed the heel, reducing it from 96.1 mm to 91.9 mm, which contributes to the shoe's lighter weight yet at the expense of stability. This isn't necessarily good or bad; it simply marks a design change from the previous version of the shoe, offering a different running experience.

Amid the plethora of stiff, maximalist running shoes coming into the market, the Adistar 3 is a great alternative with its more traditional and natural feel. 

Our lab results highlighted the exceptional flexibility of this model, registering a remarkable 16.7N in our 90-degree bend test—proof of its versatility not only for running but also for casual wear.

Following our second freezer test, the results were quite pleasing, showing only a 25.1% increase in stiffness. Another successful outcome!

The previous version of the Adidas Adistar 2.0 was notably heavy, tipping the scales at 11.6 oz or 327g, which clearly indicated a need for an effective diet. 

We're thrilled to report that Adidas successfully slimmed down the third version—it now registers at just 9.7 oz or 274g. This nearly 2-ounce drop in weight is a massive improvement that would certainly impress even the most demanding nutritionist!

A comfortable running shoe must be breathable, and the Adistar 3 truly excelled in this aspect. When tested with our custom smoke-pumping machine, it scored a perfect 5 out of 5—the highest possible rating.

Adidas has focused on enhancing ventilation in the toebox and midfoot, a feature that's clearly evident when we shine a powerful light behind the upper. Can you notice the stark contrast between the front and the rear of the shoe?

After confirming its breathability and alleviating any concerns—especially since the Adistar 2.0 also performed well in this test—we examined the engineered single-layer mesh upper under a microscope.

Using this tool, we observed a classic engineered mesh pattern, dotted with ample ventilation holes across the toebox, which contributed to its top score. However, the mesh doesn’t appear very sturdy, but we will evaluate that shortly.

Upon cutting the upper from the shoe, we noted its excellent quality, especially considering the Adistar's reasonable price point. It features substantial padding in crucial areas!

And, as Steve Jobs loved to say, there’s one more thing: we discovered a perforated insole, a feature typically found in more expensive shoes, enhancing heat and moisture dissipation.

We put the engineered mesh upper to the test, and the results were as expected—disappointing.

The material is so thin and overly ventilated that it gave in almost instantly under our Dremel tool. Regrettably, we had no choice but to rate it poorly, at a mere 1 out of 5.

The heel padding on the Adistar 3 performed slightly better, earning a 3 out of 5, yet it still fell short of our expectations for a daily trainer.

It's becoming apparent that durability may not be a standout feature of the Adistar 3.

One of the top features of the Adistar 2.0 was its Continental outsole—renowned for brilliantly balancing durability with grip. 

Unfortunately, Adidas has replaced it in the Adistar series with the less impressive Adiwear. While this outsole isn't necessarily poor quality, it certainly doesn't match up to the impressive performance of Continental in shoes like the Ultraboost 5.

Our tests with the durometer revealed that the rubber is relatively soft, measuring at 75.0 HC. Additionally, the outsole coverage is not very impressive, possibly as a measure to reduce weight.

Keen to evaluate the durability of Adiwear, we conducted a rigorous Dremel test to measure its wear resistance.

Our findings showed a wear depth of 1.0 mm—essentially average and aligning well with our previous durometer results. Consequently, we believe you can anticipate typical wear with this shoe, although it may not suffice for those who are particularly tough on their outsoles.

In our final step of assessing the outsole, we utilised vernier callipers to gauge its thickness. The measurement came in at 3.0 mm.

Adidas has cleverly incorporated reflective stripes into the Adistar 3, serving a dual purpose. Not only do they enhance visibility for night safety, but they also subtly advertise the brand, making it clear you're wearing Adidas footwear!

While we weren't thrilled that the tongue isn't gusseted, its plushness and thickness—measuring 12.3 mm—ensure excellent lockdown and prevent it from sliding side to side. The integrated tongue loop also contributes a bit.

The lacing system maintains the same hybrid design as the previous version, combining punched eyelets with a standout bright orange loop on each side.

The tongue of the shoe isn't attached to the sides—an expected feature considering its £130 price point.

The Adistar 3 forgoes a heel tab, maintaining the simplistic design familiar in previous versions.

However, Adidas has intensified this look with a prominent logo on the heel—coupled with the iconic three stripes, you essentially become a running billboard for them!

We discovered that the insole is removable. 

However, given that Adidas has included a premium, perforated footbed, we think it's best to keep it in place unless replacing it is absolutely necessary.