Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 8 vs. Adios Pro 2 (2022)
These two shoes from Adidas have different positions in the brand’s collection and are intended to complement each other.
The Takumi Sen 8 is a specialist shoe for short distances (5 or 10K, for example), while the Adios Pro 2 was designed for the half-marathon and marathon.
In practice, the Takumi Sen 8 has a 33 mm heel stack height with a heel-to-toe drop of 6 mm, while the Adios Pro 2 has an even higher heel stack height of 39 mm, which is 1 mm less than the limit for official competitions. This is reflected in the weight: the Adios Pro weighs 1.1 oz/30 g more than the Takumi Sen.
Both shoes use the Energy Rods technology, a set of carbon fiber plates nested in the midsole to deliver an efficient impulse and maximize the running economy. Note, however, that the Takumi does not have a plate under the heel, unlike the Adios Pro.
The cushioning is soft with a responsive bounce for faster and easier propulsion in both cases. However, testers note that the trampoline effect is much more impressive on the Adios Pro 2.
In terms of foot lockdown, both the Takumi Sen and the Adios Pro use Celermesh, a very thin technical fabric with little structure. The lockdown seems slightly better on the Adios Pro 2.
Finally, note that the Adios Pro 2 is, according to runners, more versatile because it’s comfortable even at low to moderate speeds, unlike the Takumi Sen, which requires a reasonably fast pace to activate its full potential.
Takumi Sen or Adios Pro: which one to choose?
Overall, although their configurations are very similar, the Adios Pro 2 seems better because it’s more versatile and has much better cushioning and propulsion.
However, the Takumi Sen 8 will appeal to athletes looking for an even lighter shoe specifically for short distances. Plus, with a $40 difference for the same durability, it also offers better value for money.
Side-By-Side Comparison
+ Comfortable cushioning that provides impressive propulsion, especially when you’re going fast
+ Thin mesh that offers good support overall and stays loose enough
+ Good durability thanks to the robust outsole
+ Great design
– Lack of stability according to some runners, especially at slower paces
+ 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)
Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 8
Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 2
Technical Specs
Terrain | Road | Road |
Pronation type | Neutral | Neutral |
Drop | 6 mm | 8 mm |
Heel stack height | 33 mm | 39 mm |
Forefoot stack height | 27 mm | 31 mm |
Weight (men) | 193 g/6.8 oz | 227 g/8 oz |
Weight (women) | 193 g/6.8 oz | 227 g/8 oz |
Features | Carbon plate, Unisex sizing | Carbon plate, Rocker |
Athletes | Senbere Teferi, Rhonex Kipruto | Peres Jepchirchir |
Release year | 2022 | 2021 |
Technologies
Outsole | Continental | Continental |
Midsole | Energy Rods, Lightstrike Pro | Energy Rods, Lightstrike Pro |
Upper | Celermesh | Celermesh 2.0 |
Cushioning
Softness (1-5) | 4 – Soft | 4 – Soft |
Bounce (1-5) | 4 – Bouncy | 5 – Very bouncy |
Use
Speed | Fast | Moderate, fast |
Distance | Short, mid, 5k, 10k, half marathon | Mid, long, 10 km, half marathon, marathon |
Workout | Competition | Competition |