Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 2 vs. Asics MetaSpeed Sky (2021)
These two carbon plate running shoes are the flagship of their respective brands in the category. The Adios Pro 2 boasts a six-carbon plate configuration (five of which are under the forefoot), while the MetaSpeed Sky uses one that is most noticeable under the heel and midfoot.
The Adios Pro 2 has a higher stack height with 39.5 mm (heel) compared to 33 mm for the MetaSpeed Sky. The drop is also higher (10 vs. 5 mm).
These characteristics translate into comfortable cushioning and a smooth ride for efficient propulsion, crafted for racing.
However, testers note that the MetaSpeed Sky’s cushioning is more explosive, especially with a more dramatic rocking motion. That’s not necessarily a good thing: this type of setup excels primarily at high speeds. Conversely, the Adios Pro platform is more versatile and allows you to enjoy runs at slower paces.
Finally, runners find the MetaSpeed Sky’s lockdown slightly more precise than the Adios Pro 2’s. It has partly to do with its ample yet not very flexible mesh that delivers a good fit.
Adios Pro or MetaSpeed Sky: which one to choose?
Overall, runners agree that the Adios Pro 2 is more versatile, but the MetaSpeed Sky is more effective if the main objective is to go fast.
Thus, the former seems to be a better choice if you want to use it for some daily training, while the latter is better suited for pure racing.
On the other hand, with its higher stack and softer cushioning, the Adios Pro 2 is more comfortable over longer distances overall.
Side-by-side comparison
Cushioning is as effective and versatile as ever
Smooth transitions
Better fitting upper for a more targeted lockdown
Good durability for this type of shoe
A little heavier than its direct competitors (about 1 oz/30 g)
Very responsive cushioning
Sturdy shoe (for a competition model with carbon plate)
Great design
Effective grip
Lack of versatility (not very inspiring at slow paces)
The toe box may be a bit roomy if you have narrow feet
Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 2
Asics MetaSpeed Sky
Technical Specs
| Terrain | Road | Road |
| Pronation type | Neutral | Neutral |
| Drop | 8 mm | 5 mm |
| Heel stack height | 39 mm | 33 mm |
| Forefoot stack height | 31 mm | 28 mm |
| Features | Carbon plate, Rocker | Carbon plate, Lightweight, Maximal cushioning, Recycled materials, Rocker, Wide feet |
| Weight (men) | 227 g/8 oz | 190 g/6.7 oz |
| Weight (women) | 227 g/8 oz | 167 g/5.9 oz |
| Release year | 2021 | 2021 |
| Athletes | Kibiwott Kandie, Peres Jepchirchir |
Technologies
| Outsole | Continental | ASICSGRIP |
| Midsole | Energy Rods, Lightstrike Pro | FF BLAST TURBO, carbon-fiber plate, rocker geometry |
| Upper | Celermesh 2.0 | Integrated breathable knit |
Cushioning
| Softness (1-5) | 4 – Soft | 3 – Moderate |
| Bounce (1-5) | 5 – Very bouncy | 5 – Very bouncy |
Use
| Speed | Moderate, fast | Fast |
| Distance | Mid, long, 10k, half marathon, marathon | Mid, long, half marathon, marathon |
| Workout | Competition | Competition |
