The Adidas Adizero Adios Pro is the preferred racing shoe for many of Adidas’ elite athletes due to its winning combination of features: a stiff midsole for maximum energy transfer, energetic midsole foam for responsive cushioning, and a lightweight construction for speed and agility.
Given that two and a half years have passed since the release of the previous version, Adidas has incorporated some significant updates into the new Adios Pro 4. This detailed comparison will break down the key differences between the two versions to help you determine which one best suits your running needs and preferences.
Verdict
The Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 is a long-distance racing shoe that provides exceptional softness with its new formulation of Lightstrike Pro foam. This cushioning creates a bouncy feel, but doesn’t deliver the same aggressive toe-offs or quick transitions as v3 and other racing shoes. Compared to its predecessor, it features a much lower-density foam and a redesigned upper for improved comfort. However, potential buyers should note that the Adios Pro 4 runs a half size small.
The Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 is a long-distance specialist. Its highly cushioned midsole and its efficient, energy saving ride make it perfect for marathons and beyond.
Version 3 has more foam in the forefoot, a wider net base and a more aggressive toe-spring which makes it softer, more stable and more propulsive than the previous version.
Recommended for
Racing, speedwork
Racing, speedwork
Cushioning type
Plush
Balanced
Cushioning amount
Highly cushioned
Highly cushioned
Stability
not particularly stable
some stability
Sizing
buy half size bigger
true to size
Retail price
US$250
US$250.00
The Adios Pro 4 has a new formulation of Lightstrike Pro which is much softer than previous versions. It compresses much more during foot strikes and it feels very squishy underfoot.
The Pro 3 has an older version of Lightstrike Pro which is firmer and compresses less. It feels more responsive and more energetic than the new formulation.
The Pro 4 has a new rocker position which is moved further back in the shoe. The Pro 3 rocker is further forward and this results in a more prominent rocker. The Pro 3 has a distinct forward-tipping sensation unlike the Pro 4 which has a gentler rocker.
The Pro 3 is better for shorter, faster runs due to its firmer ride and its more aggressive rocker. The Pro 4 is better suited to longer, slower runs due to its super soft midsole which has more long-distance comfort.
Stability is better in the Pro 3 due to its firmer ride. It has less lean bias so it’s more suitable for runners who over pronate or supinate. The Pro 4 puts more stress on your ankles due to its soft ride.
The Pro 4 has a new polyurethane outsole called LIGHTTRAXION. This compound is very soft and translates to padded landings. The Pro 3 has more Continental rubber which is firmer and less durable. The Pro 4 has the more durable outsole.
The midsole of the Pro 3 will retain its cushioning for longer than the Pro 4. The Pro 4’s super soft, easily compressible midsole will lose its cushioning faster than the firmer Adios Pro 3.
The upper of version 4 is a big improvement over version 3. Version 3 was hard and scratchy but version 4 is noticeably softer and more flexible. Version 4 is also more breathable than version 3 as it’s thinner.
Another difference is that the tongue of version 4 has some padding in it to prevent uncomfortable lace pressure. The tongue of version 3 is completely flat.
Version 3 fits true to size but version 4 fits small so you have to go up a half size. Both versions have narrow uppers and you might find them both too narrow if you have wide feet.
If you’re looking for a soft racer with a lot of long-distance comfort, the Pro 4 is the right version for you. It has a much better upper, it has a more durable outsole and it has a plusher ride. The Pro 4 also has a gentler, less prominent rocker and it is much lighter.
If you prefer a firmer, faster racer, the Pro 3 is the right version for you. It has a very aggressive rocker and it provides more speed assistance. The Pro 3 has more stability and it will retain its cushioning for longer.
Adizero Adios Pro 4
Adizero Adios Pro 3
