Our verdict

The Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 stands out as a lightweight, responsive racer—perfect for 5K and 10K distances and exceptional for speed workouts. We were impressed by the Continental outsole and Lightstrike Pro midsole during our tests, as they delivered fast paces with excellent grip. However, we encountered concerns regarding durability and an extremely cramped fit. In our experience, while the Takumi performs wonderfully in specific scenarios, its limited overall utility makes it a specialised tool that might not meet every runner's needs.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Awesome for 5K/10K races
  • Responsive Lightstrike Pro midsole
  • Breathable engineered mesh
  • Loves to go fast
  • Awesome for track workouts
  • Continental rubber
  • Amazing at taking corners
  • Recycled materials in the upper

Cons

  • Not for heel strikers
  • Durability concerns
  • Extremely cramped fit

Audience verdict

89
Great!

Who should buy

We think the Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 stands out as a superb option for runners who demand speed:

  • Midfoot and forefoot strikers will find its massive energy return and aggressive grip perfect for shaving seconds off all 5K and 10K races.
  • Track enthusiasts will appreciate the spike-like feel—close to the ground and highly responsive—yet with enhanced leg protection.
  • Admirers of the Takumi Sen legacy will be pleased too, as the 10th edition maintains its hallmark attributes—it’s lightweight, narrow, and built for speed.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10

Who should NOT buy

The Takumi Sen 10 is not suited for rearfoot strikers or those with wider feet—it has a super-narrow heel and a cramped toebox and we found the heel stability lacking, which might pose a problem for many runners. For a better fit and more stable ride, we suggest the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 or the Adidas Adios Pro 3.

We also think the Takumi Sen 10 has an suboptimal cushioning-to-weight ratio. From our lab analysis, runners looking for substantial foam underfoot will find better options in pricier models like the Saucony Endorphin Elite or the Nike Vaporfly 3, even for 5K races.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 parts

Cushioning

Heel stack

With a heel stack of just 30.6 mm, World Athletics surely verified that the Takumi Sen 10 meets their road racing regulations (40 mm) with ease, just as we did.

With that said, heavier runners—especially heel strikers—might find the Takumi Sen 10 suitable only for distances up to 10K. Lighter athletes, however, might use it in half marathons. We also think that opting to race a marathon in this model doesn’t seem practical for almost anyone, except for some exceptionally light individuals.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Heel stack
Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 30.6 mm
Average 34.0 mm
Compared to 362 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Heel stack
46.3 mm

Forefoot stack

With only 22.8 mm in the forefoot, this shoe embodies the perfect modern racing flat, providing an excellent mix of ground feel and top-notch foam technology.

It's ideal for track workouts, delivering an experience akin to wearing running spikes but in a road shoe package.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Forefoot stack
Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 22.8 mm
Average 25.4 mm
Compared to 362 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Forefoot stack
37.1 mm

Drop

Adidas advertises the Takumi with a 6-mm drop, but after several precise measurements following World Athletics guidelines, we determined it to be 7.8 mm, still a mid-drop shoe anyway.

This discrepancy of 1.8 mm might seem significant, but it's well within normal manufacturing tolerances or could be attributed to the natural compression of the foam. It's a minor variation that shouldn't raise any concerns.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Drop
Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 7.8 mm
Average 8.6 mm
Compared to 362 running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.8 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

Adidas has adopted the supershoe midsole design started by Nike with the Vaporfly—two slabs of superfoam sandwiching a stiffening agent. For the Takumi Sen 10, instead of a carbon plate, it features Energy Rods 2.0 made from fibreglass to ensure the shoe isn’t too stiff.

We’ll start by discussing the midsole, and later we will cover the rods. The first of the two TPEE-based Lightstrike Pro layers is the one closer to the foot, formulated with more softness and less density (13.4 HA) to enhance foam compression and comfort.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Midsole softness
Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 13.4 HA
Average 21.1 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 290 running shoes
Number of shoes
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
49.0 HA

Secondary foam softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

The second layer of foam is the one closest to the ground. It’s denser and firmer at 20.4 HA, which helps stabilize the shoe and prevents bottoming out despite its relatively low design. It also results in a ride that lacks plushness, providing a firmer, more responsive overall feel, as it should be in any Takumi Sen.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Secondary foam softness
Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 20.4 HA
Average 23.9 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.

Midsole softness in cold (%)

We found a 17.7% increase in firmness after a 20-minute freezer stint—a very good result. This ensures consistent foam performance regardless of the season you're racing at, which we highly value.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Difference in midsole softness in cold
Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 18%
Average 26%
Compared to 289 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Midsole softness in cold
100%

Insole thickness

Given its design as a 5K racing shoe, we expected a thin insole to help minimise weight. And we got it at just 3.4 mm.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Insole thickness
Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 3.4 mm
Average 4.5 mm
Compared to 358 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Rocker

We already hinted at a natural, classic ride in the Takumi Sen 10, and its subtle toe rocker confirms this. 

The rocker is minimal by today's standards, providing just enough assistance during toe-off, leaving the rest of the work to your feet. This feature is fantastic for short races and manoeuvring around corners in 5Ks that are anything but straight lines.

Size and fit

Size

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 is slightly small (41 votes).

Owners of this shoe, how does this shoe fit?

Small True to size Large
Compared to 287 running shoes
Number of shoes
Small
True to size
Large

Toebox width - widest part

The Takumi Sen series has consistently maintained a performance fit throughout its iterations, and the 10th edition continues this tradition.

Measuring just 96.6 mm across the widest part of the upper, the shoe is absolutely perfect for those with narrow feet. It also offers a spike-like, low-volume secure lockdown that runners with average-width feet will appreciate during short intervals or races, providing a snug, race-ready feel.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 96.6 mm
Average 98.5 mm
Compared to 363 running shoes
Number of shoes
89.5 mm
Toebox width - widest part
109.1 mm

Toebox width - big toe

This trend extends to the big toe area as well. We measured its width at 75.2 mm, clearly revealing a notable taper.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 toebox

This design likely makes the shoe unsuitable for those with wide feet, as the snug fit may not accommodate those with broader or square foot shapes.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 75.2 mm
Average 78.4 mm
Compared to 237 running shoes
Number of shoes
60.4 mm
Toebox width - big toe
92.5 mm

Stability

Lateral stability test

The Takumi Sen 10 stands out from most other shoes on the market, and it's a bit unusual in terms of stability too, especially due to both midsole cutouts.

It has a narrow platform—particularly in the heel—without midsole sidewalls or a rigid heel counter, yet it still feels fairly stable for neutral runners, especially for forefoot strikers. We believe this is due to the combination of the firmer foam layer, Energy Rods, and low stack height, among other factors.

Torsional rigidity

With a stiffening agent in the midsole, we knew this shoe wouldn't offer much torsional flexibility. After our manual assessment, we found it to be a 4/5 in rigidity—confirming our expectations of a notably rigid shoe.

Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 4
Average 3.3
Compared to 341 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

Contrary to the previous test, the heel counter offers no rigidity—it's just your heel against the upper. Obviously, this earned a 1/5 in our tests.

We can only recommend this shoe to those without any rearfoot stability concerns. Otherwise, we suggest the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 for better heel security.

Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 1
Average 2.9
Compared to 325 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width - forefoot

Holding the Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 next to almost any maximalist running shoe is almost comical—it's significantly smaller.

Starting with the forefoot, we measured it at just 110.3 mm, sitting below the typical width for most running shoes.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 110.3 mm
Average 114.0 mm
Compared to 363 running shoes
Number of shoes
100.5 mm
Midsole width - forefoot
127.9 mm

Midsole width - heel

The heel measurement of just 75.8 mm left us truly astonished. It's akin to driving a go-kart on a circuit—pure adrenaline, ideal for those who love an exhilarating ride or for track enthusiasts.

However, this narrow design makes the shoe not appealing at all for heel strikers. We highly recommend the ASICS Magic Speed 3 instead for those seeking better heel support.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 75.8 mm
Average 90.7 mm
Compared to 363 running shoes
Number of shoes
74.9 mm
Midsole width - heel
106.6 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

We already mentioned that the Energy Rods are made from fibreglass instead of carbon fibre. This results in a less stiff, more forgiving shoe.

We tested this in our 90-degree bend test, requiring just 29.9N of force—about half of what’s usually needed for carbon-plated shoes.

Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 29.9N
Average 28.4N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 345 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.2N
Stiffness
94.4N

Stiffness in cold (%)

We tested it again after 20 minutes in our freezer and observed a 26% increase in stiffness—a result that we consider favorable.

Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 26%
Average 34%
Compared to 345 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Stiffness in cold
148%

Weight

One of the critical aspects of the Takumi Sen 10 is its attempt at maintaining a low weight—measured at just 7.1 oz or 200g. While this positions it as a featherweight contender, there's a significant drawback worth mentioning.

The shoe's Lightstrike Pro midsole, crafted from TPEE—more on this in our detailed guide on foams—is notably heavier than its PEBA-based competitors. Consequently, Adidas was forced to reduce the overall stack height and dimensions of the shoe to manage the weight effectively, and despite these efforts, it's still as heavy as the towering Nike Alphafly 3.

On a brighter note, it's worth mentioning that although heavier, Lightstrike Pro ages like fine wine, maintaining its top performance far longer than PEBA superfoams.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Weight
Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 7.05 oz (200g)
Average 9.38 oz (266g)
Compared to 363 running shoes
Number of shoes
5.26 oz (149g)
Weight
12.59 oz (357g)

Breathability

Adidas is renowned for creating ultra-thin, see-through uppers in their racing shoes, and the Takumi Sen 10 is a prime example. We anticipate excellent results from our breathability tests because of this design.

Our smoke test confirmed our expectations—smoke easily escaped from the toebox, encountering virtually no resistance. This effortless airflow scored a perfect 5/5 from us.

We also examined the halved upper under a light and observed uniform transparency across most of the upper, not just in the toebox.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 microscope

The next step was to use the microscope, an invaluable tool that unveils the true nature of the upper.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 mesh

What we observed was a minimalistic, single-layer engineered mesh crafted with thicker horizontal yarns interwoven with thinner vertical ones, creating tonnes of microscopic holes.

While the Takumi's design significantly enhances its ventilation, the downside is a scratchy material. Combined with some rough internal stitches, it's totally unsuitable for going sockless. Sorry, triathletes!

Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 5
Average 3.8
Compared to 292 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

Just as we anticipated excellent ventilation prior to our smoke-pumping test, we must now face the reality of this mesh in terms of durability.

The video clearly shows the Dremel tearing through the upper almost instantly—a clear demonstration of its fragility, compelling us to rate it a dismal 1/5.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Toebox durability
Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 1
Average 2.5
Compared to 226 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

Much to our satisfaction, the heel counter outperformed expectations when subjected to the same rigours as the toebox.

The absence of padding in the heel—it has just two pads on either side—contributed significantly to a robust performance, earning it a solid 4/5 rating.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Heel padding durability
Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 4
Average 3.2
Compared to 222 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

Our anticipation was high when we noticed the Continental logo on the outsole.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 outsole
The outsole is composed of three unique sections—a segment of Continental yellow rubber, two pieces of sandpaper-like material, and some exposed foam in the centre.

Initially, we measured the hardness of the thinner material, which registered at a notably soft 52.1 HC. To put this into perspective, consider the analogy of a Formula 1 car's soft tyres—they offer exceptional grip yet tend to wear out quickly. We're curious to see if a similar scenario unfolds here.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Outsole hardness
Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 52.1 HC
Average 80.0 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 343 running shoes
Number of shoes
52.1 HC
Outsole hardness
93.0 HC

Outsole durability

To assess the durability of the sandpaper-like material on the outsole, we conducted one final test using the Dremel.

The results were concerning—our test left a 1.9-mm dent, severely damaging the outsole. While we anticipated some wear, the extent of the damage was disappointing. This finding is particularly worrisome for runners who tend to wear down the outer part of their shoes, such as supinators.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Outsole durability
Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 1.9 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 204 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

While some might consider using the Takumi Sen 10 for various types of runs, it's primarily engineered as a competition shoe, making the 1.8-mm rubber entirely appropriate.

This design choice naturally affects durability, as we previously observed, but minimising weight is crucial in terms of performance.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Outsole thickness
Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 1.8 mm
Average 3.2 mm
Compared to 362 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.6 mm

Misc

Reflective elements

If you're doing intervals on the track or pushing to the limit in 5K/10K races, reflective elements typically aren't necessary. That's why it's not concerning that the TS10 features... none at all!

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Reflective elements
Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 No

Tongue padding

While most racers feature razor-thin tongues, the Takumi Sen 10 pleasantly surprised us with a generous 4.0 mm of padding. Adidas smartly focused this padding in areas that endure more lace pressure, while keeping the rest of the tongue as thin as possible.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 tongue
Adidas remains one of the few brands that still doesn't use notched laces in their premium racing shoes—a decision we find disappointing.

This padding may seem minimal compared to the average shoe, yet it's significantly three to four times the thickness typically found in high-performance supershoes. This thoughtful design choice provides a bit of comfort without compromising the shoe's streamlined, race-ready feel.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Tongue padding
Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 4.0 mm
Average 5.8 mm
Compared to 360 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Tongue: gusset type

Adidas opted to forego a gusset in the Takumi Sen 10, aiming to shed extra weight (and some money) from the design.

Despite this choice, the shoe's slim profile and snug fit in the forefoot and midfoot ensure that the tongue stays comfortably in place without shifting, and we've experienced no undesired movements during runs.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 None

Heel tab

As part of the Adizero family, we anticipated Adidas would maintain the iconic design language in the Takumi Sen 10, including the flap-like pull tab on the heel—and indeed, there it is!

Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Extended heel collar

Removable insole

We discovered that, unlike many road racing shoes, the insole of the Takumi Sen 10 is not glued to the midsole, allowing us to remove it in just a few seconds.

However, we found that replacing it presents a challenge. The ultra-narrow heel shape means that most aftermarket insoles likely won’t fit perfectly. Moreover, we believe finding another thin, perforated insole as breathable as the original will be difficult.

Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Removable insole
Test results
Adizero Takumi Sen 10 Yes