Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 Review (2025): Ultimate Carbon Shoes?
2 years of waiting! Needless to say, an eternity in the running world where brands release a new shoe every year. Adidas took its time instead of rushing, considering the Adios Pro 3 was still highly performant.
Moreover, the release of the incredible Adidas Adios Evo Pro 1 (only 133 g!) kept competitors waiting. However, it was more of a prototype than a mass-market model due to its very high price (€500) and limited longevity.
The Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 was all the more awaited as the previous versions contributed to breaking world records.
Is it suitable for your profile and goals? Is it more performance-oriented than other carbon-plated racing shoes?
This is what we will find out in this field test.
Why trust me?
With a personal record of 2 h 38 in the marathon and a substantial weekly training volume, I have the opportunity to test many shoe models to support my practice, including similar shoes like the Nike Alphafly 3 and the Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris.
I carried out my field test of the Adios Pro 4 on different types of sessions to assess their comfort and performance. Additionally, I consulted other runners to validate my feelings and ensure that my recommendations will be useful to as many runners as possible.
Our Verdict
Excellent carbon-plated running shoe, even more performant than the previous version.
- Featherlight weight under 200 g (size 42)
- Energy Rods 2.0 carbon plate + Lightstrike Pro foam
- Height: 39 mm (heel), 33 mm (forefoot)
- Drop: 6 mm
- Competitions all distances
After two years of waiting, the Adidas Adios Pro 4 is finally here with many changes – needless to say, the wait is fully justified!
The midsole appears similar. It features the Energy Rods 2.0 carbon rods and Lightstrike Pro foam. However, the composition is clearly different with more cushioning for excellent running comfort and very good shock absorption.
The geometry is also different with a rocker towards the forefoot and even better dynamics. The new Adizero LIGHTLOCK upper is simply exceptional with impressive breathability and comfort. However, be careful with sizing: the shoe runs small.
Finally, the outsole uses a combination of classic CONTINENTAL rubber and new LIGHTTRAXION technology. The result is once again impeccable with powerful traction on all urban surfaces.
In summary, the wait has been long but fully justified by changes that make this new Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 one of the best carbon-plated shoes today (perhaps even the number 1!).
Pros
- Optimal shock absorption, ideal for marathons
- Very comfortable and breathable upper
- Highly performant outsole
- Excellent dynamics with very strong forward propulsion
- Softer feel for better running comfort (and more accessibility)
Cons
- Loss of stability according to some testers
- Fit may not suit all feet (consider going ½ size up to be safe)
Cushioning
The design is similar to that of the Adios Pro 3, with a double layer of Lightstrike Pro foam framing the pretzel-shaped Energyrods 2.0 carbon rods. These are gathered in a single rigid structure, parallel to the metatarsals.
This allows for better shock wave distribution for more comfort. A change in the shape of the rods is noteworthy: the rocker is more aggressive and starts earlier, at 2/3 of the shoe. This allows for a better foot roll and faster shoe turnover, for better forward rocking.
Another change is the foam composition: softer and with a softer impact feel for a very enjoyable running experience.
These two modifications clearly draw inspiration from the Adios Evo Pro 1. The Adios Pro 4 is, however, more accessible than this one.
The dimensions are 39 mm under the heel and 33 mm at the front of the foot. Needless to say, shock absorption is excellent and there are no restrictions on the distance to consider up to a marathon.
However, some testers note that the protection is less good for heavy runners and/or those with heel strikes.
I don’t necessarily agree with these remarks. In fact, these should be applied to all competitors, especially since the softer side of this Adios Pro 4 gives it an advantage.
In short, the shoe is obviously demanding, but less so than many other carbon rockets.
Finally, the 6 mm drop is fairly common for a racing shoe but can clearly require an adjustment period for those who are not accustomed.
Energy Return
Even though we get used to it, running in a shoe under 200 g (193 g in men’s size 42) and such a thick sole is a technological feat that continues to amaze!
The new geometry induces a more aggressive ride.
The pivot point has been extensively studied – this is certainly one of the points that took time for the brand (6 test cycles according to Adidas).
The result is impressive with very strong propulsion and excellent dynamics.
Support and Stability
The base has been widened again on this V4. With a good fit and a high-performance outsole, I find the stability satisfactory and perfectly comparable to competing models.
However, some testers found that the softer foam made the ride less secure and point out a loss of stability compared to the v3.
This model is for a neutral gait (universal support).
Foot Lockdown
The new Adizero LIGHTLOCK upper is crafted from a unique stretchy material, very close to fabric and far from the plastic mesh of the previous version. To achieve it, Adidas turned to a Japanese source.
The woven mesh is soft and lightweight and only stretches vertically while maintaining very good lateral foot hold. Being very thin and well ventilated, breathability is very good.
No problem either for cold weather with linings. Moisture wicking is also good and drying is quick.
The new LIGHTLOCK strap comes into play to provide more support. Positioned inside, it wraps from the heel on both sides to the eyelets. Combined with logo overlays on each side, testers found the foot lock very satisfying.
The gusseted neoprene tongue (with a foam cushion) is secured along the underlayers and the flat lace lacing system is also very effective — I noticed no sliding!
It is also worth noting that the eyelets were modified to eliminate friction issues from the V3. This seems to work: no tester complained about it.
The heel counter is rigid enough to keep it in place. It is more comfortable than on the previous version due to the additional padding.
In short, the comfort is excellent for a racing model, better than the previous version.
The only real criticism is about sizing. It’s hard to navigate as opinions differ. What is certain is that the shoe does not fit the same way as the “usual” Adidas models.
The space is satisfactory in my opinion (the toe box is notably larger than on the v3) and I think the stretchy side will suit a wide variety of feet. However, some testers complained and recommend going ½ size up. In doubt, it is better to try if possible before purchase.
Traction
The outsole is often neglected in reviews or tests. Yet, it’s a crucial point that plays a role in both traction and ground impact.
The equation is often complex to find the right balance: too much rubber and you have too firm a feeling, not enough and you often have slipping issues.
The new rubber is another point confirming the excellent work of engineers on this new iteration. It translates into CONTINENTAL and LIGHTTRAXION technologies with numerous grooves to ensure very good flexibility.
The grippy elements are very thin and provide a lot of softness on impact. The traction is powerful, even on wet surfaces.
Of course, grip is less effective on paths or trails, but that’s not its purpose. The main use is therefore on the road.
Use scenarios
The main use for the Adios Pro 4 remains racing.
The fairly high lifespan allows using these shoes for key sessions at fast pace, but it’s best not to consider them as the only pair. It’s not a model designed for training.
Regarding the favored distance, it’s hard to exclude anything. From 5 km to a marathon, the shoe is efficient and will be a formidable asset for breaking records.
The shoe will nevertheless be more commonly used for half-marathon and marathon distances.
The same question always arises for these models: at what speed can one fully benefit from them?
The latest studies (including those we shared) show that every runner can benefit and that the limitation comes more from the demanding side of these shoes.
As mentioned earlier, some runners find the shock absorption insufficient for heel strikers and/or heavier runners. In my opinion, it is difficult to have more cushioning and the shoe seems suitable for all profiles (except maybe novices).
Quality and Durability
The foam is quite durable and thus retains its cushioning over time (at least more than on other racing models).
Furthermore, the outsole is of very good quality and the upper is robust.
We therefore have a classic lifespan.
The price is high but within the norm for this type of shoe — we judge the quality-price ratio to be good.
The shoe is made with at least 20% recycled materials.
Finally, according to our information, the Adidas Adios Pro 4 is not vegan.
Comparisons
Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 vs 3
Several changes are noteworthy:
- A new mesh that is more comfortable and efficient
- A new foam composition for more cushioning
- A more performant and durable outsole
- Lighter by about 20-30 g
- New geometry, carbon rods are elevated for stronger propulsion
Both shoes are racing beasts, and you could obviously buy the 3 if it’s on sale. However, the v4 is clearly better and establishes itself as the competition reference.
Adios Pro Evo 1
The brand with the 3 stripes also has the ultimate racing model with the Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1.
With a weight of 133 g for such a high stack, it’s hard to imagine being able to do better. This one is softer and with very strong propulsion.
It is therefore clearly the high-performance model of the German brand. But one must also consider the price and very low durability.
Adizero Takumi Sen 10
Several common characteristics with this other shoe from the Adizero range, such as foam and carbon rods.
The shoe is a bit lighter and stiffer and more intended for short distances and quick accelerations.
The Pro 4 is more complete and much more suited for long distances.
Conclusion
After already hitting it big with the Adios Pro 3 and Adios Pro Evo 1, Adidas is likely to make a lot of noise with this Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4.
Half the price and almost as efficient as the Evo 1 (and much more durable), the shoe is in the running to become the best shoe on the market. Quite simply.
Facts
Reference: official site
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