The world’s fastest marathon racing shoe launches locally, redefining performance innovation for South Africa’s running elite

South Africa’s performance running scene has entered a new era with the official local launch of the adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3, unveiled on 19 May 2026 at the Cape Town Marathon and now available in extremely limited quantities nationwide.

Globally recognised as the fastest and lightest marathon racing shoe adidas has ever created, the sought-after supershoe sold out within minutes of its international release. Designed as adidas’ first official sub-two-hour marathon racing shoe, the Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3 marks a bold leap forward in sportswear innovation for athletes chasing elite-level speed.

Built at the pinnacle of adidas’ award-winning Adizero franchise, the Evo 3 continues a legacy of record-breaking performance with groundbreaking engineering focused on delivering maximum speed, propulsion and race-day efficiency.

Engineered to break barriers

Created through adidas’ ambitious mission to develop its first-ever sub-100-gram race shoe, the Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3 pushes the boundaries of long-distance performance footwear.

“Our goal was two digits on the scale, with better performance than we’ve ever had,” says Stephan Scholten, VP Product at adidas.

The result is a racing shoe packed with next-generation innovation:

Next-generation Lightstrike Pro Evo foam

adidas’ lightest and most responsive foam to date, delivering nearly 50% less weight than previous versions. Combined with a 39mm stack height, it offers enhanced cushioning, explosive propulsion and exceptional energy return.

Revolutionary ENERGYRIM technology

At the core of the shoe is adidas’ advanced carbon-integrated system, supporting maximum foam volume underfoot while delivering precisely tuned stiffness for improved stability and efficiency.

Ultra-lightweight precision upper

Inspired by kitesurfing sail technology, the stripped-back upper offers featherlight support, while every detail – from stitching to laces – has been refined for marginal performance gains.

Efficient Continental™ rubber outsole

Strategically placed forefoot traction ensures reliable grip at high speeds without adding unnecessary weight.

A defining moment for South African runners

According to Tom Brown, Senior Brand Director at adidas South Africa, the local launch marks a milestone for the country’s running community.

“This shoe represents the future of marathon racing. Bringing the Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3 to South Africa is incredibly special and gives local runners access to one of the most advanced performance innovations in sport right now.”

The shoe making marathon history

The Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3 has already delivered historic results on the global stage.

adidas athletes Sabastian Sawe and Yomif Kejelcha both broke the sub-two-hour marathon barrier at the London Marathon, while Tigist Assefa set a women-only world record of 2:15:41, further cementing the shoe’s place as one of the most revolutionary racing silhouettes ever produced.

Availability and pricing

The adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3 is now available in highly limited quantities across South Africa, alongside the newly launched Hyperboost Edge.

Retail pricing:

  • Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3: R9 999
  • Hyperboost Edge: R4 499

For more information, visit adidas South Africa.