Our verdict
- Our top pick in best marathon running shoes
- Our top pick in best Adidas running shoes
Pros
- Supreme stability... in a supershoe!
- World-class energy return and cushioning
- Feather-light and agile
- A dream come true for marathoners
- Wonderful breathability
- Top-notch grip, even in wet conditions
- Outstanding outsole durability
- Accommodates wide feet
Cons
- Risk of heel slippage
- Lacing can be tricky
- Not suited for heel strikers
Audience verdict
- Top 20% in road running shoes
- Top 20% in Adidas running shoes
Comparison
The most similar running shoes compared
+ + Add a shoe | |||||
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Audience score | 90 Great! | 91 Superb! | 90 Great! | 90 Great! | |
Price | $250 | $250 | $275 | $225 | |
Pace | Competition | Competition | Competition | Competition | |
Arch-support | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | |
Weight lab Weight brand | 7.7 oz / 218g 7.9 oz / 223g | 6.5 oz / 183g 6.4 oz / 181g | 7.2 oz / 203g 7.2 oz / 204g | 7.8 oz / 220g 7.7 oz / 218g | |
Lightweight | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Drop lab Drop brand | 8.0 mm 6.5 mm | 6.5 mm 5.0 mm | 8.0 mm 8.0 mm | 9.5 mm 8.0 mm | |
Strike pattern | HeelMid/forefoot | Mid/forefoot | HeelMid/forefoot | HeelMid/forefoot | |
Midsole softness | Balanced | Balanced | Soft | Balanced | |
Difference in midsole softness in cold | Small | Small | Small | Small | |
Toebox durability | Bad | Good | Bad | Good | |
Heel padding durability | Good | Good | Good | Good | |
Outsole durability | Good | Good | Good | Good | |
Breathability | Breathable | Breathable | Breathable | Breathable | |
Toebox width at the widest part | Medium | Narrow | Medium | Medium | |
Toebox width at the big toe | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium | |
Stiffness | Stiff | Stiff | Stiff | Stiff | |
Difference in stiffness in cold | Small | Small | Small | Small | |
Torsional rigidity | Stiff | Stiff | Stiff | Stiff | |
Heel counter stiffness | Flexible | Flexible | Flexible | Flexible | |
Plate | Carbon plate | Carbon plate | Carbon plate | Carbon plate | |
Rocker | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Heel lab Heel brand | 37.8 mm 39.5 mm | 39.1 mm 39.5 mm | 39.9 mm 40.0 mm | 38.1 mm 40.0 mm | |
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand | 29.8 mm 33.0 mm | 32.6 mm 34.5 mm | 31.9 mm 32.0 mm | 28.6 mm 32.0 mm | |
Widths available | Normal | Normal | Normal | Normal | |
Orthotic-friendly | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Season | SummerAll seasons | SummerAll seasons | SummerAll seasons | SummerAll seasons | |
Removable-insole | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Ranking | #51 Top 20% | #34 Top 13% | #42 Top 16% | #44 Top 17% | |
Popularity | #97 Top 37% | #69 Top 26% | #20 Top 8% | #27 Top 11% |
Who should buy
The Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 stands out as an excellent pick for any race, from a short 5K to the marathon. We believe it's designed for:
- Midfoot or forefoot strikers looking for a reliable racing shoe for their upcoming races, spanning from the 5K to the marathon.
- Those on the hunt for a top-tier racing shoe that offers stability without the lateral wobble often found in racing models.
- Fans of the Adios Pro series with wide feet who need enhanced stability and felt the previous editions too narrow.
Oh, and this shoe is not just an excellent option for races; it also excels in interval training, thanks to its long-lasting outsole and durable midsole.
Who should NOT buy
We strongly suggest that diehard fans of the Adizero Adios Pro 2.0 stick with their current model rather than upgrading to version 3. Why? If you're a lover of the v2, the shift to the new model could be a bit too much. The v3 is significantly wider, catering more to midfoot strikers, while the v2 suits heel strikers better due to its high drop.
Those with a preference for extremely plush racing shoes might also find the Adios Pro 3 disappointing.
Although it's not a firm shoe by any means, it does feel somewhat firmer than other racing competitors such as the Nike Alphafly 2 or the Saucony Endorphin Pro 3.
Finally, if you're in search of a top-tier upper that is exceptionally pliable and comfortable, and not the slightest bit rough, we recommend you check the ASICS Metaspeed Sky+ for exceptional comfort in a racing shoe.
Breathability
While it's typical for racing shoes to boast incredible breathability, the Adidas Adios Pro 3 sparked our interest immediately. From our initial examination of the shoe in the lab, we all anticipated a flawless 5/5 score in our lab tests—and indeed, it lived up to the hype!
First, we put the shoe through our smoke-pumping machine to assess airflow, and then we passed the upper over the light. Why? To pinpoint the exact locations of airflow.
Some shoes may have splendid ventilation in the toebox but fall short in the medial part, leading to arch blisters during a marathon. But, the Adios Pro 3 outshone all those concerns—its design allows light to pass through the upper, revealing strategically placed ventilation holes on the lateral part.
However, nothing compares to the microscopic examination that reveals why this shoe breathes so exceptionally well. Crafted from a sleek, thin engineered mesh, the Adios Pro 3 is a spectacle to observe up close.
Air just flows effortlessly through it.
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 5 |
Average | 3.8 |
Durability
Toebox durability
While the mesh Adidas uses in the Adios Pro 3 certainly offers amazing breathability, it falls short in the durability department and we rated it at 1/5 in our Dremel test. This lack of longevity is, unfortunately, a recurring issue with most running shoes, especially those designed for competition.
However, when brands expect us to shell out £250 for a shoe, we believe it's entirely reasonable for us to demand better durability in future releases. For instance, the Nike Alphafly 2 (right) did a great job in this regard.
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Toebox durability](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-toebox-durability-20181002-main.jpg)
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 1 |
Average | 2.5 |
Heel padding durability
In stark contrast, the heel demonstrated extraordinary performance during our heel durability test.
Our Dremel hardly left a mark on the heel collar, illustrating the remarkable resilience of this part of the shoe. Of course, the fact that is barely padded in that area was key.
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Heel padding durability](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-heel-padding-durability-20181005-main.jpg)
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 5 |
Average | 3.3 |
Outsole hardness
Transitioning to the outsole, our measurements of the exceptionally-soft rubber confirmed a hardness of only 55.5 HC, verifying its astounding grip. It also features Continental rubber.
To grasp the design logic behind this outsole design, a useful comparison is an F1 race car. For the quickest lap, flat tyres made of soft rubber are key to gaining maximum grip. Well, that's precisely what the Adios Pro 3 offers.
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Outsole hardness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-outsole-hardness-20181006-main.jpg)
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 55.5 HC |
Average | 80.0 HC |
Outsole durability
Usually, a soft outsole measurement implies less durability. That's not the case here, fellas.
Adidas arguably leads the market when it comes to the grip-to-durability ratio of their outsoles, and the Adios Pro 3 only strengthens that claim.
Despite working hard, the Dremel only managed to cause a minuscule indentation of 0.26 mm in the outsole. It's one of the shallowest marks we've ever seen in the lab, and this is on a racing shoe!
If you're looking for a top-tier shoe with a resilient outsole, the Adios Pro 3 is THE ONE.
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Outsole durability](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-outsole-durability-20181009-main.jpg)
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 0.3 mm |
Average | 1.0 mm |
Outsole thickness
The shoe's outsole, at 1.4 mm, is undeniably thin. It's designed this way intentionally to reduce weight and enhance performance. But don't let its slim profile worry you.
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Outsole thickness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-outsole-thickness-2-20194258-main.jpg)
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 1.4 mm |
Average | 3.2 mm |
Weight
Weighing in at 7.70 oz (218g), the AP3 stays just below the 220g mark that scientific research indicate as the threshold for noticeable performance loss in races. However, it doesn't make the list of the lightest racing shoes.
If going ultra-light is a priority, we'd recommend considering the Nike Vaporfly 2.
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Weight](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-weight-20181010-main.jpg)
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 7.69 oz (218g) |
Average | 9.35 oz (265g) |
Cushioning
Heel stack
Adidas crafted this shoe with a singular goal in mind—creating the fastest racing shoe while adhering to the World Athletics guidelines that cap the heel stack height at 40 mm.
When we took precise measurements, we found that the stack height is a compliant 37.8 mm, which means it adheres to the WA rule.
However, this shoe isn't designed heel strikers. The medial cutout in the shoe favours smooth transitions for midfoot and forefoot strikers instead.
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Heel stack](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-heel-stack-20181011-main.jpg)
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 37.8 mm |
Average | 34.0 mm |
Forefoot stack
The forefoot measures up to only 29.8 mm, falling short of the 33 mm that Adidas originally stated. This discrepancy can be disappointing for forefoot strikers who were counting on that extra bit of cushioning.
Nonetheless, it remains one of the most cushioned forefoots on the market, but we would love that Adidas meets its numbers moving forward!
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 forefoot](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-forefoot-20181013-main.jpg)
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 29.8 mm |
Average | 25.4 mm |
Drop
The shoe is supposed to have a 6.5-mm heel-to-toe drop, but our measurements showed an 8 mm drop. Still, this is a typical drop seen in racing shoes and should pose no issue whatsoever.
We would like to remind that we conduct all our measurements in accordance with World Athletics official rules. We've even discussed in a previous article why the drops stated by brands might differ from the actual ones.
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Drop](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-drop-20181014-main.jpg)
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 8.0 mm |
Average | 8.6 mm |
Insole thickness
Considering its design as a racing shoe with the need to minimise weight, we anticipated a slim insole. Indeed, the one we measured was only 2.7 mm, perfectly aligning with our expectations.
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Insole thickness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-insole-thickness-20181015-main.jpg)
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 2.7 mm |
Average | 4.5 mm |
Midsole softness
The Adizero Adios Pro 3 features Adidas' premier foam, known as Lightstrike Pro. It uses a Thermoplastic Polyester Elastomer (TPEE) compound, which provides world-class energy return but offers a firmer feel compared to Pebax-based shoes.
This results in improved stability and durability, and it's an ideal choice for runners who prefer not to feel their feet sinking into the shoe. Our durometer measurement of 20.9 HA confirms these observations.
For more insights about running shoe foams and a comparison of Lightstrike Pro with others, consider checking our advanced guide.
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Midsole softness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-midsole-softness-20194047-main.jpg)
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 20.9 HA |
Average | 20.9 HA |
Difference in midsole softness in cold
With a measurement of 22.8 HA, the midsole remains essentially unchanged in cold temperatures. This feature, typical of high-quality superfoams, is something we really appreciate.
This shows a 9% uptick following a 20-minute freezer test—an impressive outcome. It ensures top-notch performance from the foam, no matter the season.
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Midsole softness in cold](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-midsole-softness-in-cold-20194049-main.jpg)
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 9% |
Average | 25.4% |
Rocker
We found that Adidas has revamped the Adios Pro 3's rocker with a more pronounced toe spring, which makes sense given the reduced drop from the previous version.
In stiff shoes, a strong curvature in the forefoot is essential to aid turnover. In our opinion, it’s a clever move!
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Rocker](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-rocker-21956208-main.jpg)
Stability
Lateral stability test
The Adidas AP3 could very well be the most stable supershoe on the market. We felt its stability as soon as we put it on.
However, remember it's a racing shoe, so don't look for stability at slower speeds. It's designed for fast running, and that's when it really demonstrates this feature.
Torsional rigidity
The midsole of this shoe features two layers of Lightstrike Pro, separated by Energyrods. These are Adidas' answer to the carbon plate.
Naturally, this results in a very stiff shoe despite the big cutout in the outsole. In fact, when we tested the shoe for torsional rigidity, we gave it a perfect score of 5 out of 5.
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 5 |
Average | 3.3 |
Heel counter stiffness
The heel counter lacks stiffness or support, giving a typical race-fit feel. We rated it at 1/5.
While this approach does reduce the weight of the shoe, it can also create heel slippage for some runners. Thankfully, an alternative lacing technique can mitigate this problem.
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 1 |
Average | 2.8 |
Midsole width in the forefoot
This is where the Adios Pro 3 truly shines. In response to some stability concerns with the Adios Pro 2, Adidas made a firm commitment to create the most stable racing shoe on the market. And they delivered. But how did they accomplish it?
The key lies in the width of the midsole. The landing platform in the forefoot is simply remarkable—it provides enhanced stability, particularly for midfoot and forefoot strikers.
For instance, let's compare the AP3 with the best racing shoes in the market.
Shoe | Midsole width (mm) | Difference (mm) |
Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 119.4 | 0 |
Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 2 | 106.1 | -13.3 |
Nike Vaporfly 2 | 107.8 | -11.6 |
Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 | 109.3 | -10.1 |
ASICS Metaspeed Edge+ | 110.9 | -8.5 |
PUMA Deviate Nitro Elite 2 | 108.1 | -11.3 |
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Midsole width in the forefoot](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-midsole-width-in-the-forefoot-2-20194060-main.jpg)
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 119.4 mm |
Average | 114.0 mm |
Midsole width in the heel
In contrast, the heel is narrow, measuring at 84.0 mm.
A wider heel would simply add too much weight, so this design choice is deliberate. This makes the AP3 an excellent option for midfoot and forefoot strikers, but heel strikers might find it a bit uncomfortable.
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Midsole width in the heel](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-midsole-width-in-the-heel-20194057-main.jpg)
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 84.0 mm |
Average | 90.7 mm |
Flexibility
Stiffness
The secret behind supershoes lies in merging a high-energy return foam with a stiff forefoot, and it's now time to check out the latter in our lab.
As we anticipated, the AP3 is hyper-stiff thanks to the carbon-infused Energyrods. To bend it to 90 degrees, we had to apply a force of 45.6N.
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 45.6N |
Average | 28.7N |
Difference in stiffness in cold
In cold temperatures, the shoe turns even stiffer. It now measures 56.9N in the same test we used before but after 20 minutes in the freezer.
This represents a 24.7% increase in stiffness—an impressive performance and just what we expect from one of the market's premier midsoles.
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 24.7% |
Average | 34.4% |
Size and fit
Internal length
According to Adidas size charts, the shoe should measure 264.0 mm (US 9). Our measurement shows it's just a tad long at 264.2 mm—off by only 0.2 mm. Amazing!
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Internal length](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-internal-length-20194062-main.jpg)
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 264.2 mm |
Average | 269.3 mm |
Toebox width at the widest part
With its impressive width, it's evident that the AP3 aims to provide one of the most generous forefoot areas among racing shoes—and it indeed succeeds.
However, don't anticipate an excessively wide upper when compared to daily training shoes. Adidas implemented a clever design feature to enhance stability: coupling a broad midsole with an upper that's not quite as wide (96.9 mm).
As a result, while the upper's maximum width remains average compared to most shoes, it's still wider than most racing shoes. Therefore, for those with wide feet, the AP3 stands out as one of the top choices in the market.
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Toebox width at the widest part](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-toebox-width-at-the-widest-part-20194067-main.jpg)
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 96.9 mm |
Average | 98.4 mm |
Toebox width at the big toe
This trend continues in the big toe area as well. We recorded its width at 76.8 mm, which is pretty average when compared to most shoes. But when put up against most racing shoes, it's the roomiest.
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Toebox width at the big toe](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-toebox-width-at-the-big-toe-20194068-main.jpg)
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 76.8 mm |
Average | 78.3 mm |
Tongue: gusset type
Designers of racing shoes always feel the squeeze to keep weight as low as possible. One area they often look to trim down is the shoe's tongue.
In the Adios Pro 3, Adidas made the decision to not implement any gusset, all in an attempt to minimise weight. Despite this, we haven't found any issues with tongue discomfort or unwanted movement while running.
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Tongue: gusset type](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-tongue-gusset-type-20194069-main.jpg)
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | None |
Comfort
Tongue padding
We also found that the tongue on the Adios Pro 3 measures a mere 0.9 mm—about five times thinner than an average shoe! Because of this, it's vital to be mindful of lace tension. Tying the laces too tight can lead to significant discomfort or lace bite during long-distance races.
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Tongue padding](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-tongue-padding-20194070-main.jpg)
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | 0.9 mm |
Average | 5.7 mm |
Heel tab
In line with recent Adidas shoes like the Boston 12, the AP3 now features a flap-style pull-tab at the heel.
We're big fans of this touch—it not only enhances the look, but it also simplifies the foot-entry process.
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Heel tab](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-heel-tab-20194071-main.jpg)
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | Pull tab |
Removable insole
It's possible to replace the insole with one from a third-party, but you should be aware that not all will fit.
Since this shoe is specifically designed for race day, its unique shape might not accommodate some orthotics or custom insoles.
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Removable insole](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-removable-insole-20194072-main.jpg)
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | Yes |
Misc
Reflective elements
Sadly, following the current trend, the shoe lacks any reflective elements. However, we should note that it's unusual to require these feature during races or interval training sessions.
![Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Reflective elements](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/38793/adidas-adizero-adios-pro-3-reflective-elements-20194073-main.jpg)
Adizero Adios Pro 3 | No |