ADIDAS

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ADIDAS

9605 SW Nimbus
Beaverton, OR 97008
800/677-6638
www.adidas.com

All the shoes are available as of December 15, 1998, unless otherwise noted. The new early winter, '98 shoes--evaluated in our December '98 issue--are also noted by an asterisk. But not every shoe is available at every store. When weights are mentioned, they are for men's size 9. When two prices are listed, the first is the men's price. The less expensive of the prices listed is always for the women's model. Sizes listed are for men's and women's models, when applicable. When it's not, the shoe is a men's models and the sizes listed are for men.

* Signifies new early winter, '98 shoes (or updated model) that has been evaluated in the Shoe Buyer's Guide in the December, '98 issue of Runner's World.

** Signifies one of the very best shoes in a particular category.

Shoe Categories

cushioning stability trail motion control racing lightweight trainer

Shoe Categories
cushioning	stability	trail	motion control	racing	lightweight trainer

Galaxy 3: $65/$60 cushioning There aren't many shoes this good that are so reasonably priced. Especially if you don't need a lot of medial stability. But it does have the Torsion device for added support. The Galaxy has a well-cushioned, single-density EVA midsole, is fairly light (12.5 oz.) and has good durability. Sizes: (m) 6.5-12, 13, 14; (w) 5-10, 11

Ozweego 3: $75 cushioning The Ozweego 3 is the best basic cushioned shoe from Adidas. It's been updated with an improved, more stable midsole (two-density EVA) and the Torsion support system. Especially suited for the forefoot striker. A very similar shoe to the Ozweego is the Wish ($70) which in some models has a second forefoot density and in some others, does not. Sizes: (m) 6.5-12, 13, 14, 15; (w) 5-10, 11.

d' Fiant: $75 stability A terrific shoe, the d'Fiant has good medial support and excellent heel-to-toe transition for a smooth ride. It fits snugger in the heel and toebox than many Adidas shoes. Especially good shoe for faster runners who need some degree of stability. Sizes (m) 6.5-12, 13; (w) 5-11, 12.

Response: $75 stability If you need some support, but still want that lightweight, cushioned Adidas ride, the Response is an excellent alternative. It has good support (due to the Torsion system), but even so the Response is not suitable for runners with severe motion control problems. But if you need just a little extra stability in a light trainer, the Response has it. Sizes: (m) 6.5-12, 13, 14, 15, 16; (w) 5-10, 11, 12.

Universal: $85 cushioning Like many of the Adidas shoes, the Universal has a medial post, but it's in the forefoot area. It's not positioned in the rearfoot as a control device like most shoes, but in the forefoot for added durability. Designed primarily for forefoot runners, this is an update of the Universe. The only differences are a broader-based rearfoot and forefoot (so it's more stable) and a better fitting last. Sizes: 6.5-12, 13, 14; (w) 5-10, 11.

Formula: $85 stability Most stability shoes concentrate on the rearfoot. The Formula does that too, but like the Universal has an extra, firmer density in the forefoot. A very supportive, durable trainer which is best suited for forefoot runners who need good cushioning and added medial support. Sizes: (m) 6.5-12, 13, 14, 15; (w) 5-11, 12.

*Supernova: $85 stability One of the more popular Adidas shoes was the Equipment Light. The only negative with it were the pods in the rearfoot which simply were awkward and didn't cushion well. Think of the Supernova as an Equipment Light without the pods. An excellent stability shoe, the Supernova has a smooth ride and offers plenty of value. A winner in the Adidas line. This updated version is built on a new last with a more tapered midfoot and heel. The outsole is also new and has a blown-runner/carbon-rubber configuration. Sizes: (m) 6.5-12, 13, 14, 15; (w) 5-11, 12.

Terrain Light: $75 trail This updated model is a more stable version of the Response Trail. Built on a new, snugger-fitting last, the Terrain Light has better forefoot balance than earlier versions. Although it's not an especially light shoe, it is slightly lighter than the Response Trail. (m) 6.5-12, 13, 14; (w) 5-11, 12.

Alfresco 2: $85 trail The Alfresco is one of five trail shoes offered by Adidas. This updated model is built on a well-fitting last (narrow in the rearfoot, wider in the forefoot) and the upper extends higher to keep out scree and rocks from the trail. It also has a terrific traction outsole. The difference between the Alfresco and the Response Trail? The Alfresco has a water-resistant upper, a firmer density in the forefoot (added durability) and a much firmer midsole. All in all, a fine update to an already good trail shoe. Sizes: (m) 6.5-12, 13, 14; (w) 5-11.

Response Trail: $80 trail The Response Trail has been one of the most popular trail shoes on the market since its introduction. It has a well-cushioned midsole with a rugged upper in an ``outdoor'' design that is durable enough for the demands of off-road running. But the ride is smooth and cushioned enough if you want to run on the roads as well. This fourth generation of the Response Trail has a better gripping outsole and a Torsion bar has been added for better stability. Sizes: (m) 6.5-12, 13, 14, 15; (w) 5-10, 11, 12.

Equipment Vapor: $90 cushioning Although the Vapor has the look and stretch-fit appeal of a lightweight trainer, it isn't particularly light (weighing 12 ounces). It does have a unique lacing system, but the laces don't work well either. Nor is the midsole particularly cushioned. Forefoot runners may appreciate its ride. (unisex) 4-12, 13.

Konstant: $95 motion control The Konstant is the best motion-control shoe Adidas has made which--admittedly--is faint praise. But the Konstant fits right which has always been a problem with Adidas shoes that tended to be too wide in the heel for American runners. Another plus on the Konstant is its midsole which isn't as firm as previous Adidas attempts (such as the Lexicon). The Konstant is also very supportive with a full length medial post which stabilizes the foot from foot strike all the way through toe-off. If you have shied away from Adidas motion-control shoes in the past, the Konstant is definitely worth a try. Sizes: (m) 6.5-12, 13, 14, 15; (w) 5-11, 12.

**Equipment Roost: $110 trail The most specific trail shoe ever made, the Roost screams traction. With a gripping outsole that has almost a spike-like quality to it, the Roost is ideal for running uphill on the balls of your feet on soft trails. It also has adequate stability with a two-density midsole (the second density is in the forefoot). Not for use on roads as the outsole will wear down too quickly. Sizes: (m) 6.5-12, 13, 14; (w) 5-11.

Equipment Solution: $110 motion control The Solution is a stable, medially supportive, well-cushioned trainer. The Solution has plenty of support and yet it is a minimalistic control shoe, rather than bulky and awkward as many motion-control shoes are. (m) 6.5-13, 14; (w) 5-11.

Adios 2U: $70 racing Adidas has always made good road-racing flats, but the Adios 2U--the update to the popular Adios--is a winner. It has excellent midsole cushioning for a racing shoe, yet is light enough (9 oz.) to get a weight savings. The three stripes are integrated into the laces for added support. Suitable for any distance, especially the marathon. Sizes: 4-12, 13.

*RaTS Racer: $85 racing Continuing in the tradition of the Adios and Adios 2U, the RaTS Racer is a well-cushioned racer. It's a smooth, 'fast' shoe which fits almost like a spike. The forefoot is where the action is. It has exceptional cushioning and surprising durability for a racer. It also has the Adidas Torsion support device. It weighs approximately 8 oz. for men's size 9. Sizes: (m) 6 1/2-13, 14; (w) 5-11.

Converter: $65 racing A true minimalist shoe, only for the biomechanically efficient. It's most suitable for shorter road race distances and/or track races. Very light (7.5 oz.) Sizes: (unisex) 4-12, 13.

**Shimanto: $75 racing Most lightweight trainer/racers lack medial stability and midsole cushioning. The Shimanto doesn't. Although it's heavier than most conventional racing shoes (and suitable for training), it's more stable and supportive than most. An excellent marathon shoe. Sizes: 6.5-13.

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Galaxy 3: $65/$60	cushioning	There aren't many shoes this good that are so reasonably priced. Especially if you don't need a lot of medial stability. But it does have the Torsion device for added support. The Galaxy has a well-cushioned, single-density EVA midsole, is fairly light (12.5 oz.) and has good durability. Sizes: (m) 6.5-12, 13, 14; (w) 5-10, 11
Ozweego 3: $75	cushioning	The Ozweego 3 is the best basic cushioned shoe from Adidas. It's been updated with an improved, more stable midsole (two-density EVA) and the Torsion support system. Especially suited for the forefoot striker. A very similar shoe to the Ozweego is the Wish ($70) which in some models has a second forefoot density and in some others, does not. Sizes: (m) 6.5-12, 13, 14, 15; (w) 5-10, 11.
d' Fiant: $75	stability	A terrific shoe, the d'Fiant has good medial support and excellent heel-to-toe transition for a smooth ride. It fits snugger in the heel and toebox than many Adidas shoes. Especially good shoe for faster runners who need some degree of stability. Sizes (m) 6.5-12, 13; (w) 5-11, 12.
Response: $75	stability	If you need some support, but still want that lightweight, cushioned Adidas ride, the Response is an excellent alternative. It has good support (due to the Torsion system), but even so the Response is not suitable for runners with severe motion control problems. But if you need just a little extra stability in a light trainer, the Response has it. Sizes: (m) 6.5-12, 13, 14, 15, 16; (w) 5-10, 11, 12.
Universal: $85	cushioning	Like many of the Adidas shoes, the Universal has a medial post, but it's in the forefoot area. It's not positioned in the rearfoot as a control device like most shoes, but in the forefoot for added durability. Designed primarily for forefoot runners, this is an update of the Universe. The only differences are a broader-based rearfoot and forefoot (so it's more stable) and a better fitting last. Sizes: 6.5-12, 13, 14; (w) 5-10, 11.
Formula: $85	stability	Most stability shoes concentrate on the rearfoot. The Formula does that too, but like the Universal has an extra, firmer density in the forefoot. A very supportive, durable trainer which is best suited for forefoot runners who need good cushioning and added medial support. Sizes: (m) 6.5-12, 13, 14, 15; (w) 5-11, 12.
*Supernova: $85	stability	One of the more popular Adidas shoes was the Equipment Light. The only negative with it were the pods in the rearfoot which simply were awkward and didn't cushion well. Think of the Supernova as an Equipment Light without the pods. An excellent stability shoe, the Supernova has a smooth ride and offers plenty of value. A winner in the Adidas line. This updated version is built on a new last with a more tapered midfoot and heel. The outsole is also new and has a blown-runner/carbon-rubber configuration. Sizes: (m) 6.5-12, 13, 14, 15; (w) 5-11, 12.
Terrain Light: $75	trail	This updated model is a more stable version of the Response Trail. Built on a new, snugger-fitting last, the Terrain Light has better forefoot balance than earlier versions. Although it's not an especially light shoe, it is slightly lighter than the Response Trail. (m) 6.5-12, 13, 14; (w) 5-11, 12.
Alfresco 2: $85	trail	The Alfresco is one of five trail shoes offered by Adidas. This updated model is built on a well-fitting last (narrow in the rearfoot, wider in the forefoot) and the upper extends higher to keep out scree and rocks from the trail. It also has a terrific traction outsole. The difference between the Alfresco and the Response Trail? The Alfresco has a water-resistant upper, a firmer density in the forefoot (added durability) and a much firmer midsole. All in all, a fine update to an already good trail shoe. Sizes: (m) 6.5-12, 13, 14; (w) 5-11.
Response Trail: $80	trail	The Response Trail has been one of the most popular trail shoes on the market since its introduction. It has a well-cushioned midsole with a rugged upper in an ``outdoor'' design that is durable enough for the demands of off-road running. But the ride is smooth and cushioned enough if you want to run on the roads as well. This fourth generation of the Response Trail has a better gripping outsole and a Torsion bar has been added for better stability. Sizes: (m) 6.5-12, 13, 14, 15; (w) 5-10, 11, 12.
Equipment Vapor: $90	cushioning	Although the Vapor has the look and stretch-fit appeal of a lightweight trainer, it isn't particularly light (weighing 12 ounces). It does have a unique lacing system, but the laces don't work well either. Nor is the midsole particularly cushioned. Forefoot runners may appreciate its ride. (unisex) 4-12, 13.
Konstant: $95	motion control	The Konstant is the best motion-control shoe Adidas has made which--admittedly--is faint praise. But the Konstant fits right which has always been a problem with Adidas shoes that tended to be too wide in the heel for American runners. Another plus on the Konstant is its midsole which isn't as firm as previous Adidas attempts (such as the Lexicon). The Konstant is also very supportive with a full length medial post which stabilizes the foot from foot strike all the way through toe-off. If you have shied away from Adidas motion-control shoes in the past, the Konstant is definitely worth a try. Sizes: (m) 6.5-12, 13, 14, 15; (w) 5-11, 12.
**Equipment Roost: $110	trail	The most specific trail shoe ever made, the Roost screams traction. With a gripping outsole that has almost a spike-like quality to it, the Roost is ideal for running uphill on the balls of your feet on soft trails. It also has adequate stability with a two-density midsole (the second density is in the forefoot). Not for use on roads as the outsole will wear down too quickly. Sizes: (m) 6.5-12, 13, 14; (w) 5-11.
Equipment Solution: $110	motion control	The Solution is a stable, medially supportive, well-cushioned trainer. The Solution has plenty of support and yet it is a minimalistic control shoe, rather than bulky and awkward as many motion-control shoes are. (m) 6.5-13, 14; (w) 5-11.
Adios 2U: $70	racing	Adidas has always made good road-racing flats, but the Adios 2U--the update to the popular Adios--is a winner. It has excellent midsole cushioning for a racing shoe, yet is light enough (9 oz.) to get a weight savings. The three stripes are integrated into the laces for added support. Suitable for any distance, especially the marathon. Sizes: 4-12, 13.
*RaTS Racer: $85	racing	Continuing in the tradition of the Adios and Adios 2U, the RaTS Racer is a well-cushioned racer. It's a smooth, 'fast' shoe which fits almost like a spike. The forefoot is where the action is. It has exceptional cushioning and surprising durability for a racer. It also has the Adidas Torsion support device. It weighs approximately 8 oz. for men's size 9. Sizes: (m) 6 1/2-13, 14; (w) 5-11.
Converter: $65	racing	A true minimalist shoe, only for the biomechanically efficient. It's most suitable for shorter road race distances and/or track races. Very light (7.5 oz.) Sizes: (unisex) 4-12, 13.
**Shimanto: $75	racing	Most lightweight trainer/racers lack medial stability and midsole cushioning. The Shimanto doesn't. Although it's heavier than most conventional racing shoes (and suitable for training), it's more stable and supportive than most. An excellent marathon shoe. Sizes: 6.5-13.