Our verdict

Adidas has completely overhauled the Supernova series, and the Prima is their top-tier model for those seeking robust cushioning, a spacious upper, and stable ride—all wrapped in a reasonably lightweight package. However, in our lab tests, we noted that the outsole lacks the durability and grip of Continental rubber, which Adidas often uses on other models. For a premium daily trainer, this absence is hard to overlook.

Pros

  • Enhanced midsole
  • Fantastic stability
  • Ideal for long-distance training
  • All-day comfort
  • Great choice for heel strikers
  • Generous, roomy upper
  • Reasonable weight
  • Well-ventilated upper

Cons

  • Lacks Continental rubber
  • Durability concerns
  • Not for narrow feet

Audience verdict

89
Great!

Who should buy

We believe the Supernova Prima from Adidas is an excellent choice for:

  • Adidas devotees who’ve been waiting for a well-cushioned, dynamic daily trainer from the German brand.
  • Runners seeking a durable workhorse for aerobic runs across any distance, with enough cushioning and all-day comfort.
  • Heel strikers who want a shoe that naturally centres each stride but prefer to avoid those clunky stability shoes.

Adidas Supernova Prima

Who should NOT buy

The Supernova Prima raises some concerns, particularly in durability. In our lab tests, we found the build quality lacking compared to other tank-like cushioned trainers—models like the ASICS GT 2000 13 and Brooks Ghost Max show significantly better outsole resilience.

Additionally, we think those with narrow feet may find the Prima overly spacious, leading to discomfort during runs. Since narrow sizes aren't offered, we suggest opting for a less roomy daily trainer like the Hoka Skyflow or Nike Pegasus Plus for a more secure fit.

Adidas Supernova Prima parts

Cushioning

Heel stack

Those who found the Supernova Rise’s 32.5 mm stack a bit low will appreciate the Prima, which brings the heel up to a generous 36.1 mm. This extra foam is ideal for longer distances and supports heavier runners, offering just the right amount of cushioned comfort.

At the same time, it stays comfortably below the maximalist feel of the Adizero Prime X 2 Strung, keeping a balanced yet reasonable profile for a daily workhorse.

Adidas Supernova Prima Heel stack
Test results
Supernova Prima 36.1 mm
Average 33.9 mm
Compared to 365 running shoes
Number of shoes
22.5 mm
Heel stack
46.3 mm

Forefoot stack

The forefoot receives similar design attention, resulting in a solid 27.2 mm stack. This setup is ideal for forefoot and midfoot strikers focused on long-distance training, providing more muscle protection and reducing ground feel for added comfort.

Adidas Supernova Prima Forefoot stack
Test results
Supernova Prima 27.2 mm
Average 25.3 mm
Compared to 365 running shoes
Number of shoes
13.7 mm
Forefoot stack
37.1 mm

Drop

In our lab, we tested Adidas’s claim that the Supernova Prima has an 8 mm heel-to-toe drop. Following World Athletics guidelines and using precise digital callipers, we found it to be 8.9 mm—nearly spot on!

We believe the Prima’s balanced drop smoothly adapts to various footstrikes. However, if you’re a forefoot striker seeking a lower drop shoe, the On Cloudsurfer Next might be a better fit, and it's a bit cheaper too!

Adidas Supernova Prima Drop
Test results
Supernova Prima 8.9 mm
Average 8.6 mm
Compared to 365 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 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 finally returned to the daily trainer podium after a 4–5 year hiatus launching underwhelming shoes, but now is equipped to compete with the best. The star of this comeback is their new Dreamstrike+ foam, which delivers a reliable mix of bounce, durability, and comfort.

Dreamstrike+ is a bio-based PEBA variant with a dense formulation that may not deliver world-class energy return, but it outshines EVA and TPU foams like Boost or Lightstrike 2.0. And that's enough.

Adidas Supernova Prima Dreamstrike Plus

We found it pleasantly balanced in softness—neither overly plush nor overly firm—and our durometer confirmed it with a 20.0 HA reading.

Adidas Supernova Prima Midsole softness
Test results
Supernova Prima 20.0 HA
Average 21.1 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 292 running shoes
Number of shoes
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
38.9 HA

Secondary foam softness

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

A secondary layer of firmer 33.0-HA EVA foam serves as a stabilizer, extending into the forefoot to form the Support Rods—an innovative feature we'll discuss in more detail later in the stability section.

Adidas Supernova Prima Secondary foam softness
Test results
Supernova Prima 33.0 HA
Average 23.9 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.

Midsole softness in cold (%)

One standout feature of PEBA-based foams is their remarkable stability across hot and cold temperatures—a stark contrast to the behaviour we observed in EVA foams, which tend to vary significantly.

Dreamstrike+ demonstrated an impressive 10% change in softness after 20 minutes in our freezer, delivering one of the most amazing performances we’ve tested in a daily trainer.

Adidas Supernova Prima Difference in midsole softness in cold
Test results
Supernova Prima 10%
Average 26%
Compared to 292 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Midsole softness in cold
100%

Insole thickness

After removing and carefully measuring its thickness, we found the insole to be 4.2 mm—an average measurement.

Adidas Supernova Prima Insole thickness
Test results
Supernova Prima 4.2 mm
Average 4.5 mm
Compared to 361 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Rocker

In our experience, Adidas often delivers a classic running experience in its trainers, but with the added stack height in the Supernova Prima, a touch of sole curvature was essential to maintain a lively, smooth ride.

Adidas Supernova Prima Rocker shape

We found they achieved this balance with a smooth toe spring paired with a generous heel bevel that extends away from the midsole, enhancing the shoe's dynamic flow—especially beneficial for heel strikers.

Adidas Supernova Prima Rocker

Size and fit

Size

Adidas Supernova Prima is true to size (16 votes).

Owners of this shoe, how does this shoe fit?

1 size small ½ size small True to size ½ size large 1 size large
Compared to 302 running shoes
Number of shoes
½ size small
Slightly small
True to size
Slightly large
½ size large

Toebox width - widest part

With a welcoming width of 102.3 mm in the upper’s widest area, the Prima is a roomy daily trainer—perfect for those with wide feet. In fact, it’s one of the most spacious standard-width (D) shoes we’ve tested recently in the lab.

The forefoot volume impresses as well, offering generous room for toes and a plush, well-fitted upper that never felt restrictive.

Adidas Supernova Prima Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
Supernova Prima 102.3 mm
Average 98.5 mm
Compared to 366 running shoes
Number of shoes
91.6 mm
Toebox width - widest part
104.9 mm

Toebox width - big toe

Unlike other shoes that taper tightly in the big toe area, the Prima stays spacious at 80.8 mm, making it ideal for long runs when feet tend to swell and need extra room.

Adidas Supernova Prima wide

However, in our experience, this generous fit may not suit runners with narrow feet. If that’s you, we suggest trying the Hoka Mach 6, which provides a tighter fit.

Adidas Supernova Prima Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
Supernova Prima 80.8 mm
Average 78.4 mm
Compared to 240 running shoes
Number of shoes
67.6 mm
Toebox width - big toe
89.2 mm

Stability

Lateral stability test

The Supernova line from Adidas is crafted as a neutral running shoe series, yet we found they’ve incorporated so many stability reinforcements that it can easily support runners with mild pronation, making it more appealing to a wider range of individuals.

Torsional rigidity

In our experience, one reason this shoe feels close to a stability shoe is its high torsional rigidity—we rated it a solid 4/5, just below the max score. This added stiffness keeps forces centered, enhancing stability, but at the same time, it's a small downgrade when running at easy paces.

Test results
Supernova Prima 4
Average 3.3
Compared to 344 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

In our view, Adidas clearly aims to give heel strikers a secure feel in this shoe. With an ultra-stiff 5-out-of-5 heel counter, it controls forces effectively, guiding the heel in a straight line—though it slightly downgrades comfort.

To counterbalance the stiffness, Adidas added ample padding to improve comfort, yet we wouldn’t recommend it for runners with sensitive heels, Haglund’s deformity, or those who prefer a flexible heel counter. That said, runners with mild pronation issues will likely find it amazing.

Test results
Supernova Prima 5
Average 2.9
Compared to 328 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width - forefoot

We believe the previous tests showed stability-like results because Adidas maintained standard dimensions to manage weight and prevent a bulky feel. For example, the forefoot measured 114.6 mm, comparable to most daily trainers.

Adidas Supernova Prima Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Supernova Prima 114.6 mm
Average 114.0 mm
Compared to 366 running shoes
Number of shoes
103.3 mm
Midsole width - forefoot
126.9 mm

Midsole width - heel

The heel width is quite similar to models like the Nike Pegasus 41, arguably the most "standard" daily trainer. However, Adidas introduces a key design difference in the midfoot. As seen in our photo, the midfoot area doesn’t taper but stays noticeably wide, enhancing stability and appealing to runners with mild stability needs.

Adidas Supernova Prima Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Supernova Prima 88.0 mm
Average 90.7 mm
Compared to 366 running shoes
Number of shoes
73.0 mm
Midsole width - heel
106.6 mm

Support Rods

One standout innovation in the new Supernova lineup is the addition of Support Rods, prominently visible in light blue along the forefoot. These rods extend throughout the midsole, providing a balanced, more centred ride.

This feature exemplifies how performance-driven technology can enhance training shoes. We found that these Support Rods are clearly inspired by Adidas' carbon-infused Energy Rods, which boost speed and stability in models like the Adizero Boston 12 and Adizero Adios Pro 3.

Adidas Supernova Prima Support Rods

Heel bevel

In our view, heel bevels are a hallmark of Adidas’ design, and the German brand pushes these bevels to the extreme in the Supernova Prima, trying to control lateral motion and centering the foot from the very first contact.

This focus may work wonders for some heel strikers, offering a centred, stable feel. However, others might find this nearly rigid approach too intrusive for a neutral shoe.

Adidas Supernova Prima Heel bevel

Flexibility / Stiffness

In our test runs, we discovered that despite its slightly rockered shape, the Supernova Prima maintains a smooth, flexible feel during our runs.

The Support Rods didn’t hinder flexibility at all—requiring just 23.0N to bend it to 90 degrees in our lab, making this shoe an excellent choice for walking too!

Test results
Supernova Prima 23.0N
Average 28.2N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 348 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.2N
Flexibility <> Stiffness
72.1N

Weight

We believe the previous tests showed stability-like results because Adidas maintained standard dimensions to manage weight and prevent a bulky feel. For example, the forefoot measured 114.6 mm, comparable to most daily trainers.

Adidas Supernova Prima Weight
Test results
Supernova Prima 9.91 oz (281g)
Average 9.38 oz (266g)
Compared to 366 running shoes
Number of shoes
5.61 oz (159g)
Weight
12.59 oz (357g)

Breathability

One of the most noticeable disappointments in this shoe is that, despite being the top-priced model in the Supernova lineup, it skips the Continental rubber. Instead, it uses a new material named LightTraxxion.

Adidas Supernova Prima Lighttraxxion
The outsole is made from Lighttraxxion rubber (dark blue) and rubberized EVA (light blue).

This translucent rubber has a moderate hardness and performs well in terms of grip, but in our experience, it falls far short of the exceptional traction we consistently found in shoes with Continental rubber.

Breathability

We believe that a daily running shoe needs to perform reliably in any weather, and for this, a score of 3 to 4 in our test is ideal. The Prima delivered with a solid 4.

Adidas designed large ventilation holes in the toebox, extending into the lateral and medial sides, which provided excellent airflow on the hottest days of the year.

Using our digital microscope, we found that the Supernova Prima’s engineered mesh upper combines a thick outer layer with a softer, white fabric, adding plush comfort without hindering airflow.

Adidas Supernova Prima microscope

The upper may not be stretchy, but it’s impressively cushioned, especially around the heel area.

Adidas put strong emphasis on Achilles protection, and for good reason—this shoe features a firm heel counter to boost stability, which could irritate the tendon without sufficient padding.

Test results
Supernova Prima 4
Average 3.8
Compared to 295 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

Our initial Dremel test, as always, targeted the toebox. We were optimistic, knowing engineered mesh uppers usually withstand stress well—certainly more so than knit versions.

The toebox earned a solid 3/5 score, the same that we found in the knit-based Ultraboost 5. While not groundbreaking, this result left us satisfied.

Adidas Supernova Prima Toebox durability
Test results
Supernova Prima 3
Average 2.5
Compared to 229 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

We mentioned the plush, pillow-soft heel padding earlier—well, it brings a durability issue along with it.

In our view, Adidas invested heavily in creating a luxuriously cushioned heel. But when we tested its resilience with our Dremel, it turned out to be a true letdown (1/5) in terms of durability.

Adidas Supernova Prima Heel padding durability
Test results
Supernova Prima 1
Average 3.2
Compared to 225 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

One of the most noticeable disappointments in this shoe is that, despite being the top-priced model in the Supernova lineup, it skips the Continental rubber. Instead, it uses a new material named LightTraxxion.

Adidas Supernova Prima Lighttraxxion
The outsole is made from Lighttraxxion rubber (dark blue) and rubberized EVA (light blue).

This translucent rubber has a moderate hardness and performs well in terms of grip, but in our experience, it falls far short of the exceptional traction we consistently found in shoes with Continental rubber.

Adidas Supernova Prima Outsole hardness
Test results
Supernova Prima 82.8 HC
Average 80.1 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 346 running shoes
Number of shoes
60.3 HC
Outsole hardness
93.0 HC

Outsole durability

In terms of durability, we knew not to expect Continental-level resilience, but we hoped for something stronger than what we found.

After putting the shoe through our final Dremel test, we measured a less-than-stellar 2.1 mm wear depth. This score places the shoe far from being the durability powerhouse that other Adidas trainers have been.

Adidas Supernova Prima Outsole durability
Test results
Supernova Prima 2.1 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 207 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

We grew even more concerned when we measured only 2.2 mm of Lighttraxxion rubber—well below the average for daily trainers. For this reason, we believe this shoe isn’t ideal for runners who quickly wear down outsoles, though it should offer sufficient lifespan for everyone else.

Adidas Supernova Prima Outsole thickness
Test results
Supernova Prima 2.2 mm
Average 3.2 mm
Compared to 365 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.0 mm

Misc

We mentioned the plush, pillow-soft heel padding earlier—well, it brings a durability issue along with it.

In our view, Adidas invested heavily in creating a luxuriously cushioned heel. But when we tested its resilience with our Dremel, it turned out to be a true letdown (1/5) in terms of durability.

Price

The Prima stands as Adidas' premium trainer within the Supernova lineup, and we believe it’s competitively priced for everything it offers. In our view, it strikes a good balance between quality and value when compared to similar models on the market.

Test results
Supernova Prima $160
Compared to 366 running shoes
Number of shoes
£45
Price
£270

Reflective elements

This shoe is a solid daily trainer that includes almost everything we look for in this category. However, it lacks reflective elements—a feature we value for the added safety it brings without much cost. Honestly, how much could Adidas have saved here? 10 cents?

Adidas Supernova Prima Reflective elements
Test results
Supernova Prima No

Tongue padding

We appreciated the updated tongue, which significantly improves on the one found in the Adidas Supernova 3, as it felt bulky and overly thick. The Prima’s tongue, redesigned with a balanced 7.7 mm of padding, offers comfort exactly where it counts most.

Adidas Supernova Prima lacing

We also enjoyed Adidas’ streamlined approach to the lacing system, following the KISS (Keep It Simple, Stup*d) method that we love. Flat laces, punched eyelets, and the often-overlooked extra hole provide ample flexibility for various lacing techniques.

Adidas Supernova Prima Tongue padding
Test results
Supernova Prima 7.7 mm
Average 5.8 mm
Compared to 363 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Tongue: gusset type

In our experience, one of the biggest disappointments is finding a premium daily trainer with a non-gusseted tongue. Fortunately, this Adidas model left us pleased—we discovered a semi-gusseted tongue that kept perfectly in place!

Adidas Supernova Prima Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Supernova Prima Both sides (semi)

Heel tab

After testing several hundreds of shoes, we found that Adidas is among the brands that really try to avoid finger-loop heel tabs, so we weren’t surprised to find none on the Supernova Prima.

Adidas Supernova Prima Heel tab
Test results
Supernova Prima None

Removable insole

The insole is removable, as it’s not glued to the last. However, swapping it out means losing those lateral flaps for added stability and comfort. It’s not a huge drawback, but we think it’s worth noting.

Adidas Supernova Prima Removable insole
Test results
Supernova Prima Yes