adidas evo sl review

ADIDAS EVO SL REVIEW

Adidas EVO SL
adidas evo sl running trainer
£130
BUY NOW FROM ADIDAS

PLEASE NOTE: I paid for the Adidas EVO SL trainers myself and was not gifted these trainers or paid by Adidas to give a honest review. This page contains affiliate links. Making a purchase via our affiliate link means I may receive a small share of the sale.

The Adidas EVO SL is the latest addition to the world of running trainers, offering a blend of performance and comfort. The Adidas EVO SL is a lightweight, speed-inspired trainer designed for everyday running.

It draws inspiration from Adidas's high-performance racing shoe the PRO EVO 1 but is tailored for a broader audience, making it suitable for various paces and distances.

THE HEEL

adidas evo sl heels
adidas evo sl heel padding in shoe

The heel of the EVO SL features a stack height of approximately 38-39mm, providing ample cushioning for long-distance comfort.

The heel design incorporates a subtle curve, which complements the shoe's overall geometry and supports a natural running gait.

The trainer is really easy to get on and is well padded around the heel. I have not suffered with any blisters.

THE UPPERS

adidas pro sl heels of trainers

The EVO SL boasts a simple yet effective upper made of thin engineered mesh. It offers excellent ventilation, particularly in the toe-box, making it well-suited for warmer climates.

The upper provides a comfortable and secure fit, enveloping the foot without causing irritation.

However, it's worth noting that the tongue lacks a gusset, which some people might find less secure.

You also have to almost untuck the tongue every time you put them on, which is slightly annoying but this might just be me.

THE OUTSOLE

adidas evo sl outsole of trainers

The outsole of the EVO SL utilises Continental rubber in the forefoot, known for its exceptional grip and durability.

The rear foot features a clear rubber to reduce weight. This combination provides good traction in various conditions.

I am just not sure about the Continental rubber. I am not sure if I am expecting to much from it but just like I mentioned in the Adidas Prime X 2 Strung review I am just left feeling like I expect more from the grip. Its not bad, it is just not as good as I thought it would be.

This is the only part of the shoe that concerns me a little with wear and tear. I suspect these outsoles will not last long.

THE MIDSOLE

adidas evo sl outside midsole of trainers
adidas evo sl inside midsole of trainers

The midsole is undoubtedly the star of the show in the EVO SL. It features a full Lightstrike Pro foam, the same material used in Adidas's premium racing shoes.

This midsole delivers an engaging, responsive ride with excellent energy return. It strikes a balance between firmness and softness, providing a dynamic experience that shines during faster-paced runs.

DOES IT HAVE A FULL CARBON PLATE?

No, the EVO SL does not feature a carbon plate. Instead, it incorporates a small midfoot shank, which Adidas calls a 'nylon dog bone'.

This provides some structure and stiffness without compromising the shoe's flexibility in the forefoot.

HOW MUCH DO THEY WEIGH?

adidas evo sl weight

Adidas says a UK size 9 weigh approximately 224g.

My UK size 9 and 1/2 weigh 241g.

HOW LONG DO THEY LAST?

I first tested these out in Dubai when I went on holiday for Christmas and the conditions are perfect with purpose built running routes compared to my local roads and paths in the UK with pot holes and grit, it was hardly the mostly challenging of conditions for them.

I have since done a few runs in them in the UK but they are already showing signs of wear and tear, which is a similar to what other reviewers have mentioned. 

I suspect you will not get a huge amount of mileage in these but this might be why Adidas has been really competitive on the price.

I will update this section once I have done a few runs in them and put a photo of the outsole to show the wear and tear. 

HOW MUCH DO THEY COST?

The Adidas Evo SL shoes retail at £130 in the UK.

WHAT TRAINERS DO THEY COMPARE TO?

The EVO SL can be compared to other premium daily trainers like the Nike Pegasus Plus or the Saucony Ride.

Within the Adidas lineup, it offers a simpler, lighter alternative to the more built-up Adidas Boston 12.

It is also billed as the everyday training counterpart to the Adidas Pro Evo 1.

CONCLUSION

The Adidas Adizero EVO SL represents a significant step forward in Adidas's performance training range. It offers an exceptional balance of lightweight design, responsive cushioning, and versatility.

While it excels in faster-paced runs, it's equally capable of handling easy days and long distances. The main drawback appears to be potential durability issues with the soft midsole foam.

Overall, the EVO SL is a compelling option for runners seeking a high-performance daily trainer that can handle a variety of workouts and distances at a really competitive price.

WOULD I RECOMMEND THEM?

Yes, but with a few caveats.

  1. If you can actually get hold of them as they were released in small numbers.
  2. Kudos for Adidas for putting them at such a great price, but I suspect that might be to do with durability not being great so do not pin your hopes on them being a 500 mile trainer.
  3. None the less, their a great fun trainer. If your fan of Adidas running shoes your love them.

WHERE TO BUY

You can buy Adidas EVO SL shoes direct from the Adidas website.

Adidas EVO SL
adidas evo sl running trainer
£130
BUY NOW FROM ADIDAS

If you have any questions you would like to ask about the Adidas EVO SL, please ask get in touch.

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