
The Adidas Adizero line is known for speed and designed for elite endurance athletes. Some of the well known shoes in the Adizero line are, [Adios Pro](https://shoegeeks.in/review/adidas-adizeroadiospro3-001013003/) which is the premium racer, Takumi Sen which is racer for shorter distances, and the popular daily trainer [Boston](https://shoegeeks.in/review/adidas-adizeroboston10-001009010/).

Adizero SL is the newest addition to this iconic line. Adidas has launched Adizero SL in India simultaneously with the global launch. The first edition of Adizero SL is positioned as an entry-level shoe with premium build. SL suffix stands for "Super Light". It aims to be a daily trainer with a bent towards speed training. 

_So how does it work as a daily trainer cum speed trainer?_

_Does it live-up to what one expect from Adizero?_

_So how does it compare to similar shoes from other brands such as [Asics Novablast 3](https://shoegeeks.in/shoe/asics-novablast3-004006003/), [Pume Deviate Nitro 2](https://shoegeeks.in/review/puma-deviatenitro2-005001002/), [Saucony Endorphin Speed 3](https://shoegeeks.in/shoe/saucony-endorphinspeed3-006012003/), and Nike Zoom Fly 5?  Btw, All of these are priced higher than Adizero SL, but often are on sale at a price cheaper or same as Adizero SL price.?_ 

Read on.

<ShoeCard shoeCode="001014001M"></ShoeCard>

##### What makes up Adizero SL?

The Adizero SL has a traditional design (not a rocker with a high toe-drop or no extended heel bevel). The shoe has a stack height of 35mm, which is on the upper end of the spectrum, but inline with most premium daily trainers. Despite the suffix SL (Super Light), it weighs 244 grams for size UK 8, which is on the lower end, but not exactly the lightest. Here is a comparative view of popular daily trainers and their weights. 

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**Midsole**

The midsole features Lightstrike Pro foam embedded within a Lightstrike (EVA) cage.  This is similar to Nike ZoomFly 5’s construction, where the ZoomX foam is inside the React carrier.  Decathlon’s Kiprun KD 500 2 also has a similar construction.  So the goal is to have the best of the both worlds, the bounce of Lightstrike Pro foam and a durable Lightstrike foam. 

The shoe has a heel-to-toe drop of 10mm, so is best suited mid-foot and heel strikers. Based on the information available, the Lightstrike Pro foam is placed under the forefoot, which probably benefits forefoot/midfoot strikers better. That is the confusing part of the shoe design.  So what type of foot strike is it targeted for?   

**Upper**

The upper is a engineered mesh with good breathability features.  It is well built and feels very durable.  It is padded decently for comfort. 

**Heel**

The heel is wider than the other shoes in the Adizero Line such as Takumi Sen, but is a bit narrow when compared to the majority of daily trainers.  The heel is well-padded and offers excellent support. 

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**Bottomsole**

The bottom sole resembles the one we find in Boston 10 and Boston 11.  But surprisingly it is not made of Continental rubber. That said, it looks and feels the same in terms of quality. A cut-out in the bottom sole, gives a peek into the LightStrike Pro foam layer.

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##### Why did I buy it?

I was intrigued about the Adizero SL when it was announced during the [Annual Running Event](https://www.therunningevent.com/) in December 2022.  Having run in other shoes in the Adizero line such as Adios Pro and Takumi Sen, I liked the idea of an affordable entry level Adizero shoe. Kudos to Adidas for launching the shoe in India simultaneously with global launch. However, the price of Rs. 11,999 was a disappointment, and is not exactly affordable.  

##### Ride Experience 

I have run about 100 kilometers so far.  I am currently in the first half of my marathon training block, and I have used the shoes for a variety of runs, including long runs (up to half-marathon distance), tempo runs, easy runs, and strides. First thing I noticed about the shoe is the snug fit it offers. There is no break-in. The shoe feels good on the feet, snug and nimble, and wants you to move fast.  

Speed and Tempo runs was my primary reason for buying the shoe. The shoe has a decent bounce. The lighter weight does help for the tempo runs.  However, the ride is not as fun when compared to other speed focused daily trainers such as Deviate Nitro / Endorphin Speed. Is it that lack of plate in Adizero SL?

For easy runs, the shoe works very well.  It feels comfortable and doesn’t come in your way.  

The shoe is not as comfortable for long runs. I have ran two runs that are longer than half-marathon distance in this shoe. The firmness in cushioning is very evident after about 15kms. So this shoe is definitely not my first choice for long runs, and I wouldn’t recommend it, especially if you are not very efficient with your stride.     

The Lightstrike foam is placed under the forefoot, works best if you are a forefoot striker.  I am not a forefoot striker, rather a midfoot striker and shift towards heel strike as I go longer. This probably the reason I couldn’t get the LightStrike foam advantage. I have had better experience with dual layer designs in Deviate Nitro (softer foam above the harder foam).

<InfoCard title="Run Mechanics" size="S" color="#EDDBC7">
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You can visit <a href='https://runmechanics.in/'>our website </a> to book an appointment for in-studio analysis or share videos of your running for online analysis. 
</small>
</InfoCard>

**Fit and Comfort**

The shoe is a bit smaller for standard size UK 10. There is not much room in the toe-box when compared to other Adizero shoes that I ran in. I feel my big toe is crushed. If you prefer more room in the toe-box, this is not the shoe to go with. Forefoot is wide enough and is accommodating. 

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Engineered mesh upper, doesn’t match those of the rest of the Adizero line. While it is comfortable and breathable, it does feel a bit warm, and I wouldn’t prefer to use it on hotter days. 

The tongue is not gusseted, but given how snug the shoe fits, it doesn’t move around much. The tongue is also very well padded and adds to the comfort. The padding in the heel locks the foot very well, and I have no complaints here.

**Stability** 

The shoe is a neutral trainer, and feels stable during the runs.  When compared to racers in the Adizero Line such as Takumi Sen and Adios Pro, Adizero SL has the best stability.

**Road Grip**

The grip is decent on tarred roads, and have no problems finding the grip on corners. That said, I did have some trouble in finding the grip on roads with construction debris and sand, which is quite common in Bangalore. 

**Aesthetics & Ergonomics**

I got my Adizero shoes in an all black colorway, and I love the way they look. The shoes can easily be dressed up as casual sneakers, making them perfect for everyday wear. I use them as my travel companion, wearing them to work while on the go, while doubling up as my running shoes. Although the all-black design tends to attract dust quickly, cleaning it is not too hard. 

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##### Review Summary

<ReviewSummaryCard shoeCode="001014001M"></ReviewSummaryCard>

<ProsCard
  title="PROS"
  pros={[
    "A daily trainer which can be used for faster running",
    "Feels comfortable and premium",
    "If you like snug and a firmer ride, this shoe offers one",
    "Light weight daily trainer"
  ]}
/>

<ConsCard
  title="CONS"
  cons={[
    "Though it is most affordable in the Adizero line of shoes, it is not cheap when compared to equivalent daily trainers", 
    "Tighter when compared to other shoes",
    "Lightstrike Pro in Lightstrike foam, didn't have the intended effect",
    "Though the shoe is called SL, but it is not super light"
  ]}
/>

<InfoCard title="RECOMMENDATION">
As a daily trainer with a focus on speed training, the Adizero shoe offers a premium feel, similar to other Adizero shoes. Its firmness and lighter weight make it a great companion for Adizero Boston for fast-paced workouts. If you're in the market for an affordable shoe in the Adizero line, this is the one to consider. However, if you're looking for better value for your money, there are plenty of other options available. With the frequent sales in the Indian market, you could find a better shoe at a price more affordable than Adizero SL.
</InfoCard>


A new 'Super Light' addition to Adizero line

Adidas Adizero SL


Our hearts were won over by Deviate Nitro's first edition as an affordable carbon plated shoe.  For many runners including me, it was a gateway to experience what a carbon plated shoe felt like.  However, the first edition was not all that great. It had a harsher ride and heel slip issues ([our review here](https://shoegeeks.in/review/puma-deviatenitro-005001000/)).

Puma has launched the Deviate Nitro 2 in India simultaneously with its global launch.  The shoe  received some significant updates from the first edition.  

+ __Does the update address the shortcomings of the first edition?__
+ __How does Deviate Nitro 2 ride?__
+ __Is the Deviate Nitro 2 a speed trainer, a long run shoe, or a racer?__

Read the rest of the review to find out. 

<ShoeCard shoeCode="005001002M"></ShoeCard>

##### What makes up Deviate Nitro 2?

At a first glance, Deviate Nitro 2 appears to be very similar to its predecessor.  However, there is more to it than meets the eye.  The midsole and the heel got major updates, which are covered in detail below. The weight has increased by 10g (from 274g to 284g for UK 10). Heel to drop is 6mm, down by 2mm from the first edition.  Stack height has remained the same. Like the first edition, it retains the traditional shoe geometry (not a rocker). 

When compared to shoes in the same category in terms of stack height & weight, Deviate Nitro is most balanced of all of them. 

<LightBox src="/images/deviatenitro2_8.jpg" caption="Weights & Stack heights of popular plated trainers" alt="" ></LightBox>

__Midsole__

This edition features a major upgrade to the midsole.  This updates takes a hint from Velocity Nitro's dual layer design. The upper layer is made of Nitro Elite (PEBA based) which provides added softness and bounce at midfoot & forefoot, while the bottom layer is Nitro Foam (Nitrogen infused EVA) that offers stable base at the rear. The Nitro Elite foam softness is about 24 on Durometer, while the Nitro foam softness is about 30 on Durometer.

A carbon plate is sandwiched between the two layers of the foam.  In addition, carbon plate has been upgraded from INNOPLATE to PWRPLATE.  PUMA claims PWRPLATE offers better stability than INNOPLATE, but the exact difference is unclear.

<LightBox src="/images/deviatenitro2_6.jpg" caption="Dual layered midsole" alt="" ></LightBox>

__Upper__

The upper is engineered mesh and is very similar to the first edition.  The material is very breathable and keeps its shape very well.  To keep the structure, the upper also has few overlays (branded PWRTAPE). They do a great job.  There wasn't much padding on the gusseted tongue, but it's very comfortable and holds in place well.

<LightBox src="/images/deviatenitro2_3.jpg" caption="Breathable upper & gusseted tongue" alt="" ></LightBox>

__Heel__

Heel is another area that got a major update in this edition.  The heel collar is now generously padded, making the shoe easier to run in.  The TPU spoiler from the first edition has also been removed, similar to what happened with the Velocity Nitro upgrade. TPU spoiler removal does not seem to have any effect, and the heel feels equally stable as before.

<LightBox src="/images/deviatenitro2_2.jpg" caption="Well padded heel & supportive heel counter" alt="" ></LightBox>


__Bottom Sole__

With the new PUMAGRIP ATR, my love for PUMAGRIP outsoles has only grown.  ATR stands for All Terrain Rubber, and it is one of the best on the market.  Tread pattern is a lot more aggressive when compared to the earlier edition. 

<LightBox src="/images/deviatenitro2_5.jpg" caption="Excellent grip, one of the best out there" alt="" ></LightBox>


##### Why did I buy it?

I've just started my next marathon training block, and currently in the base building phase. I was looking for carbon plated trainer for my long runs. Given I also race in a carbon plated shoe, it is logical to have carbon plated trainer.  Puma Deviate Nitro 2, at an offer price 30% of the MRP, seemed a very sensible choice.  

##### Ride in Deviate Nitro 2

Over the last one month, I have run 190+ kilometers in this shoe. In addition to long runs, I have run easy runs, intervals, and tempo runs.  I couldn't run any race effort runs in the shoe given the phase of training I'm in.

It quickly became a favorite in my rotation, especially for long distance runs.  As of now, I have run four times longer than a half-marathon distance.   This shoe has the perfect balance of bounce and softness for longer runs.  Its breathability and high stack make it perfect for long distance runs.
 
I have used it for a few long interval sessions, and also a few tempo runs. The shoe really comes alive, when you hit paces below  5 min/km.  The softer Nitro Elite foam in the mid and forefoot adds the bounce, and also takes the ground impact very well.  I see only one downside here: the shoe's weight.  Especially for shorter intervals and faster paces, the weight is really felt.  The toe-spring is okay, but not aggressive enough for a plated shoe.

As compared to the previous edition, this edition is much better at handling easier paces. However, I still feel they are a bit aggressive for recovery paces.

__Fit and Comfort__

Overall, the shoe fits perfectly. Most people will find the toe box to be just the right width.  PUMA also released a wide version of the Deviate Nitro 2 in India if you prefer a roomier toe box. I use UK size 10, and it is true to size.  If you are used to running shoes from Nike, Asics, Saucony, then Puma's sizing will fit perfectly.  Those who prefer Adidas sizing may find it a bit bigger. 

The shoe's forefoot fits securely. Additionally, the midfoot and rearfoot fit well, and the shoe works well for forefoot, midfoot, and heel strikers alike. Lacing stays in place, and there are enough eyelets for flexibility.

<LightBox src="/images/deviatenitro2_1.jpg" caption="Perfect fit" alt="" ></LightBox>

__Stability & Road Grip __ 

Despite the high stack, the shoe feels quite stable because of the wide base and relatively hard heel foam.  As for road grip, I have run on tarred roads, loose gravel, muddy trails, and even in the rain.  The shoe has perfect grip no matter the terrain. In spite of wearing the shoe for about 190km, the tread pattern shows no signs of wear. 

__Aesthetics & Ergonomics__

Quite a mouthful, but its "Sunset Glow/Sun Stream/Puma Black" colorway is what I bought.  This is my favorite colorway from Puma so far.   Every time you run it, it turns heads.  It has a beautiful bottom sole with colorful rubber patterns and lugs shaped like water drops.  Through the slit in the middle of the midsole at the bottom, you could see the carbon plate.  As I run before the sun breaks, the reflective elements on the tongue and heel makes it noticeable to oncoming traffic. The shoe is also easy to clean.

<LightBox src="/images/deviatenitro2_4.jpg" caption="Sunset Glow/Sun Stream/Puma Black colorway - A head turner for sure" alt="" ></LightBox>

### Review Summary

<ReviewSummaryCard shoeCode="005001002M"></ReviewSummaryCard>

<ProsCard
  title="PROS"
  pros={[
    "Highly versatile shoe, can be used for long runs, easy runs, tempo runs",
    "Innovative midsole that combines two different foams, and a carbon plate for a balanced ride",
    "Excellent fit and breathable upper", 
    "Excellent grip and highly durable outsole",
    "Heel support is much better than the earlier edition", 
  ]}
/>

<ConsCard
  title="CONS"
  cons={[
    "Slightly on the heavier side, if be used short interval runs, and races"
  ]}
/>

<InfoCard title="RECOMMENDATION">
  Deviate Nitro 2 offers the best ride experience for long runs, tempo runs, and even aerobic runs.  It has an outstanding grip, and can work on any terrain. It is one of the most versatile carbon plated trainers out there.  There is nothing that we know, comes closer.   <br/>
  As a max-cushioned shoe, it offers plenty of cushion and softness, while being light in that category. As a tempo trainer, it has an excellent bounce, and is fun to run on. It is soft and stable enough to handle easy runs.  <br/> 
  In summary, it is an excellent all rounder, offering a bit of everything to every type of run.  That said, I would have loved it to shed a few grams of weight. <br/> 
  If looking for an affordable carbon-plated shoe, this is one to go for.  Though it is priced at Rs. 15,999/-, thanks to Puma’s aggressive marketing, you can find one under Rs. 10,000/-. 
</InfoCard>


Puma Deviate Nitro 2 Review

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Reviews

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