Accelerating with Adidas Adizero

Recently, I celebrated my eighth anniversary of running. It’s hard to believe that the person who once despised running has not only started but also remained committed to it. Reflecting on my earlier days, I realized how much I’ve learned about running, as well as the evolution I’ve experienced in my approach, mindset, and even the gear I utilize.

Initially, when I embarked on my running journey, I wasn’t particular about my shoes. Though I purchased a pair of proper running trainers, I didn’t invest much time in research. My main priorities were affordability and aesthetics; ideally, I wanted something around fifty pounds that looked appealing. How naive I was! This was reflected in my running attire as well. I distinctly remember showing up to my first run with a handbag because I had no idea where to store my belongings. Yep, that was me!

I was completely unaware of prominent running brands, what Strava was, the meaning of splits or personal bests, and the distinction between road running shoes and trail running shoes. Calling myself a novice would be an understatement.

Fast forward to the present… I cycle through trail shoes more quickly than my children go through snacks! I genuinely care about my footwear and understand the significance of selecting the right shoes based on the terrain and distance. I’ve learned that wearing comfortable clothing can vastly improve my running experience and help prevent chafing. All of this is quite essential, and while I’m not looking to break the bank, I’ve come to value the saying: you get what you pay for.

As a blogger for adidas, I have the fantastic opportunity to test their gear regularly. This month, the Adizero range caught my eye. Let’s dive into what it’s all about:

What Is Adizero?

Before discussing the products I selected, let me introduce you to Adizero. This line focuses on creating lightweight products to minimize load and enhance athletic performance. It’s logical, right? The less physical weight you carry, the faster you can move.

The journey began in 2004 when Japanese craftsman Toshiaki Omori joined the team. He prioritized foot anatomy, emphasizing the need for shoes that support the foot while feeling almost weightless. Factors such as material, weight, cushioning, as well as conditions like distance, terrain, and speed all played a role in the design process. Not to mention, they had to look appealing and be functional.

After four years of development, the Adizero Adios men’s running shoes were put to the test by Ethiopian runner Haile Gebrselassie, just before the 2008 Berlin Marathon. He appreciated them so much that he chose to wear them during the race, ultimately breaking the world record by 29 seconds.

I’m not claiming these shoes will make you a world-record holder, but there is an Adizero shoe suitable for whatever type of running you pursue. Whether you’re looking for the Takumi Sen 9 for speedy short distances, the Boston 12 for mid to long-distance runs, or the Adizero Adios 8 for versatile performance, adidas Adizero has you covered.

Adizero Adios 7 Shoes

I opted for the Adizero Adios 7 shoes due to their reputation as an ‘all-rounder’—a fitting description for my running style. I selected the most attractive color combination available (Pulse Mint/Silver Metallic/Core Black) because who wouldn’t? They also come in three other variations (Cloud White/Core Black/Grey Three, Core Black/Beam Yellow/Solar Green, and White Tint/Court Green/Blue Dawn).

It’s important to emphasize that these are not heavy-duty trail shoes. The airy mesh allows for plenty of ventilation, but also means they wouldn’t hold up well in muddy conditions—you can even see your socks through the mesh! However, as illustrated in my photos, they performed admirably on dry sandy trails. In essence, they are better suited for roads or tracks but can handle occasional off-road challenges, thus earning their status as an all-rounder.

Aesthetically pleasing, these women’s running shoes come loaded with features that can ease your running experience significantly:

Breathable mesh – Provides excellent ventilation while ensuring you get the support you need.
LIGHTSTRIKE PRO midsole – Offers soft foam cushioning designed for dynamic performance.
TORSIONRODS – Allow for enhanced flexibility and support, accommodating natural foot movements.
Adjustable lace closure – Lets you customize the fit for maximum comfort.
Lightweight construction – Each shoe weighs approximately 189.7g (UK size 5.5), and lighter shoes can help improve running times.
Eco-friendly materials – Like many adidas products today, the Adizero Adios 7 shoes are partly made from recycled materials, addressing plastic waste issues.

These shoes feel as though they were tailor-made for me right out of the box. They fit snugly and are entirely ready for running. While I can’t say they significantly increase my speed—speed isn’t my forte—they are incredibly comfortable and their lightweight design makes me feel agile while I run. Therefore, they earn a well-deserved spot on my collection of running shoes (yes, I possess that many pairs!).

Adizero 7/8 Leggings

I’m particular about my running leggings. They need to be high-waisted, stretchy, comfortable (naturally), dark in color (as much as I’d love to embrace body positivity, darker shades flatter me more), and absolutely must have pockets. The Adizero 7/8 leggings tick all those boxes. Hooray!

Let’s start with the feel and fit. These leggings are so comfortable they feel like a second skin. Similar to the shoes, they’re made from recycled materials (in fact, over 70% recycled content). The stretchy fabric hugs every curve, eliminating the need for constant adjustments during runs. With features like laser perforation behind the knees, I put them on, run, and they simply stay in place.

On top of comfort, these leggings excel in practicality and functionality. The laser perforation in critical sweat zones ensures maximum airflow, keeping you cool and fresh while you focus on your run. The high-rise waist provides a snug fit, preventing jiggling. Plus, pockets—oh, how essential they are! With zippered side and waist pockets, you can securely store car keys and your phone during workouts.

The color dubbed “Aurora Black” is a stunning deep indigo, contrasted with the neon green Adizero logo along the lower leg. It’s both flattering and refreshing—steering clear of the typical black leggings that dominate my collection. I ordered a medium size, which fits perfectly for my size 12 frame.

Adizero Running Tank Top

To maintain a coordinated look, I selected the Adizero running tank top in Aurora Black to complement the leggings, although it’s also available in Black and Semi Spark (a yellowish tone). Similar to the leggings, the fabric is exceptionally light; it feels as if you’re holding air. The perforated airholes across the surface make it ideal for summer, reducing the risk of overheating.

The racerback design includes tape over inner abrasion points to prevent chafing, an issue many runners face, particularly during hot weather when sweat can exacerbate the problem. Trust me, avoiding chafing is crucial. Thankfully, this vest employs adidas’s moisture-wicking AEROREADY technology, helping you stay dry and minimizing any chances of chaffing.

Furthermore, reflective accents along the sides ensure you remain visible while running, and the loose fit adds to the comfort. I prefer tops that extend past my waistline for modesty and to alleviate concerns about undergarments. This vest hits just the right spot, making it flattering too.

Ultimately, the lightweight, airy design of this vest makes it a standout piece in my collection. I’m thrilled that it also dries quickly after washing, because I can anticipate wearing this top frequently this summer!

Final thoughts

As a dedicated trail runner, I cherish the mud, varied terrain, breathtaking views, and the overall escape it provides—elements that road running simply cannot match. However, practical reasons sometimes require me to go for a quick run, avoiding extensive cleanup afterward. While I can’t say that a specific set of trainers or lightweight clothing will instantly improve my speed, I’m certainly willing to give it a shot—perhaps a bar of my favorite popping candy chocolate could encourage me to run faster!

Reflecting on my journey, that initial hesitant runner from eight years ago is still a part of me. I still care deeply about the aesthetics of my trainers and gear; isn’t that true for most of us? What has transformed, however, is my recognition that performance is equally crucial. The Adizero products I’ve tried not only satisfy my aesthetic concerns but also make my running experience enjoyable and effective.

*products gifted by adidas

Author Bio

Becky Stafferton is a full-time content creator, web publisher, and blog coach. She is dedicated to promoting a realistic and sustainable approach to healthy living. When not writing, she enjoys running through muddy terrain, hiking in forests, organizing various tasks, sharing candid thoughts, renovating her new countryside home, and squatting like her life depends on it. She is also the founder of BlogWell, a blog coaching business that helps bloggers optimize and monetize their platforms.