Adidas has officially released the Adizero Adios Pro 5, positioning it as the fastest racing shoe currently available for purchase. The new model incorporates learnings from the exclusive $500 Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3, which was worn by Sebastian Sawe when he became the first runner to break the two-hour marathon barrier in an official race. Unlike its predecessor, the Pro 5 is designed for broader availability while maintaining elite performance standards.
The most significant update is a reduction in weight, with the size 12 model weighing just 7.3 ounces, an ounce lighter than the Adios Pro 4. This weight loss brings the shoe in line with competitors like the Nike Vaporfly 4 and Asics MetaSpeed Sky. Underfoot, the shoe utilizes Lightstrike Pro foam, which testers describe as slightly firmer and more responsive than previous versions. The foam now fills the gap under the arch and back half of the shoe, eliminating the window that previously exposed carbon rods and contributed to mid-stance wobble.
Replacing the traditional carbon rods is a new carbon rim setup that runs around the perimeter of the shoe. This design choice aims to boost stability at the edges while allowing runners to land directly on high-powered foam. Adidas reports that the combination of the 12.5 percent weight savings and the efficiencies gained from the new foam and rim configuration results in a nine percent improvement in energy return compared to the Adios Pro 4.
Regarding fit, the shoe maintains a snug, race-oriented geometry but feels more true to size than the previous model, which some runners found too short. The upper material now features pinholes for improved ventilation while retaining the secure lockdown of older versions. However, testers noted that the narrow waist of the shoe remains a potential issue for those with wider feet or lower arches, as it can cause hot spots during long runs.
Shortly after launch, Adidas addressed durability concerns regarding the exposed forefoot foam on the lateral side. While initial testing by editors showed only minor scuffing after over 60 miles of use, including at the Berlin Marathon, some runners who supinate reported premature wear on social media. In response, Adidas is rolling out a fix that extends the cast polyurethane outsole to cover the beveled section of the foam. This adjustment aims to eliminate wear issues while adding only a few grams to the shoe's weight.
The Adizero Adios Pro 5 is available globally immediately through adidas.com and select retailers, marking a rare instance where a major release is announced and stocked on the same day in 2026.
Sources: Runner's World.