To runners, “Boston” means the Boston Marathon; the adiZero Boston also takes its name from the race. Taking a page from the minimalist’s design book, it nestles into the adiZero line, the pure performance range of adidas running. The upper is a thin, open mesh with an internal framework of soft, synthetic suede supports and external overlays at heel and toe. A thin layer of foam at the ankle collar and in the tongue only where the laces tie provides just enough padding to secure the shoe comfort- ably without adding unnecessary weight. The midsole is a resilient chunk of EVA with a surprisingly low-profile feel. The heel is a combination of the effective ForMotion cassette and a substantial crashpad to manage the touchdown. It’s mated to a fore- foot of flexible adiPrene+. The result is an effective performance shoe that withstands the demands of high-mileage training.
Testers: “Well cushioned, even for daily training. Not bad in the weight department; light enough for faster running. I’ve been very pleased with the performance.”
Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation • Price: $100 • Sizes: Men 6.5–13,14,15; Women 5–12 • Weight: Men 11.5 oz. (size 11); Women 9.7 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, adiPrene Strobel board (heel)