Adidas Adizero SL2 running shoes

The Adidas Adizero SL2 Running Shoe is a fast, lightweight, everyday running shoe that offers good value for the money. A few months ago, Adidas came out with their Supernova series, which used a brand new midfoot foam called Dreamstrike+. I thought they were replacing the previous LightStrike foam with this, because despite the name, LightStrike foam is heavier than DreamStrike+. So I was surprised to see that the Adizero SL got a 2nd version with LightStrike foam, I was expecting the Supernova to get a lighter version.

Adidas Adizero SL2 Upper

The upper of the Adidas Adizero SL2 Running Shoe is not complicated, it has a traditional simple upper. The upper is made of a single layer mesh material that is slightly thicker than average and has a slightly lower breathability. The tongue is thick and well padded. The heel collar is also well padded, and the fabric covering the padding has tiny holes, like a dehumidifying sponge, to absorb sweat more easily. The heel collar lock the foot securely in place so the heel doesn’t slip.
The comfortable cushioned upper is an oxymoron for me on this shoe, as the SL and SL2-r are both designed by Adidas for fast everyday running, the upper on these shoes is typically optimized for performance and not comfort. That’s not a criticism, because it’s nice to have a fast everyday running shoe that’s also comfortable. The upper is narrow, which can be uncomfortable for wide feet. It fits true to size, but since the front of the shoe narrows at the toes, someone with a wider foot may want to buy a size larger.

Adidas Adizero SL2 Midfoot

The Adidas Adizero SL2 Running Shoe Midsole is made up of two different types of foam with different properties that make up a total of 3 layers. The bottom and top layers are LightStrike 2.0, which is slightly stiffer, has high shock absorption and better stability. The middle layer is LightStrike Pro, which is a more advanced, softer foam with higher energy return. This sandwich technology makes the Adidas Adizero SL2 running shoe versatile because it has a dynamic feel, more dynamic than the previous version, but can remain stable with a nice amount of cushioning. It can be used for slower, longer runs, but also supports shorter, faster runs.

Adidas Adizero SL2 Outsole

The outsole of the Adidas Adizero SL2 running shoe is not made of Continental rubber like other Adizero running shoes. The SL2 uses a proprietary rubber compound developed by Adidas. The outsole is thick and deeply grooved, with the right pattern to give good traction, but not perfect grip. The outsole and supports fast runs, but you can feel slippage when accelerating or making sudden changes of direction. As this outsole is made from a stiffer material that is a little thicker than average, durability is good.

Summary

Overall, the Adidas Adizero SL2 running shoe has changed a lot from its predecessor. Most of the change is in the midsole, it has become softer and more dynamic than its predecessor. Very versatile, so very good value for money. The SL2 is a running shoe for those who only use 1 running shoe and don’t have a separate running shoe for fast or long runs. It can also be a great choice for beginner runners, the Adizero SL2 has everything you need to get you started and get you loving running.