Drawing on the technology behind the record-breaking Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3, adidas introduces a lighter, more responsive race-day super shoe engineered for speed, stability and performance
For runners chasing their fastest race yet, every gram, stride and second matters. Now, adidas is bringing technology from its most advanced racing innovations into the latest generation of its celebrated Adizero Pro series.
The new Adizero Adios Pro 5 arrives as a race-day super shoe inspired by the innovation found in the Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3. Weighing an average of just 177g, it is approximately 23g lighter than the Adizero Adios Pro 4 and introduces a series of significant technological updates.
According to adidas, improvements to the shoe’s weight, foam construction and carbon technology deliver a 9% increase in energy return compared with its predecessor.
Adizero Adios Pro 5 Brings Evo Technology to Race Day
Rather than simply refining the Adizero Adios Pro 4, adidas has reworked virtually every major component of the shoe.
The design takes inspiration from the Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3, incorporating premium lightweight materials alongside new carbon technology and the latest generation of LIGHTSTRIKE PRO cushioning.
The result is a shoe designed not only to deliver speed, but to help runners maintain that speed deeper into a race through greater comfort and stability.
“Every record we’ve helped athletes achieve has taught us more. The Adizero Adios Pro 5 transforms those learnings into our most advanced race-day shoe yet, empowering more runners to chase their own fastest performance,” says Stephan Scholten, VP Product at adidas.
Lighter by Design
Weight has been a major focus in the development of the Adizero Adios Pro 5.
At an average 177g, the shoe is around 23g – or 12% – lighter than the Adizero Adios Pro 4. The reduction has been achieved while retaining the comfort and stability required for long-distance racing.
Its lightweight construction is complemented by a visual design language influenced by the Evo series, giving the shoe a distinctly performance-focused identity.
ENERGYRIM Technology Makes Its Pro Series Debut
One of the most notable changes is the introduction of ENERGYRIM carbon technology to the Pro series.
Replacing ENERGYRODS, the new carbon-infused ENERGYRIM construction allows adidas to position a greater volume of LIGHTSTRIKE PRO foam directly beneath the foot.
The system has been engineered to provide precisely tuned stiffness for stability and propulsion throughout the stride. Combined with updates to the cushioning platform, adidas says the technology contributes to the shoe’s 9% improvement in energy return.
ENERGYRIM is also incorporated into the shoe’s aesthetic, appearing around the midsole and highlighted by a reflective zone at the heel.
LIGHTSTRIKE PRO Delivers Greater Responsiveness
The latest generation of LIGHTSTRIKE PRO foam works alongside ENERGYRIM to create a more responsive underfoot sensation.
The cushioning has been developed to balance energy return with the comfort runners need when tackling marathon and long-distance race conditions.
Together, the updated foam and carbon construction form the performance foundation of the Adizero Adios Pro 5.
Grip Engineered for Long-Distance Racing
Underfoot, adidas has introduced a completely re-engineered outsole.
The new maximum-grip construction combines data-driven LIGHTTRAXION technology with Continental™ rubber, providing lightweight traction while improving grip and durability over longer distances.
The approach reduces unnecessary material while concentrating grip where runners need it most.
LIGHTLOCK 2.0 Creates a More Secure Fit
The upper has also received a complete redesign.
The new LIGHTLOCK 2.0 upper features engineered ventilation zones, internal support bands and an updated heel construction. Together, these elements create a more secure race-day fit while reducing overall weight.
The changes are intended to improve comfort without introducing unnecessary structure to the shoe.
Tested With Elite Athletes
adidas describes the Adizero Adios Pro 5 as the most extensively tested, validated and studied shoe in the history of the Adizero franchise.
Development included trials involving more than 25 athletes across Kenya, Ethiopia and the United States, alongside long-term wear testing, in-house performance validation and independent biomechanical research.
Athlete feedback has played a central role in shaping the finished shoe, with insights gathered under real-world training and racing conditions.
The development programme also included elite marathoner Sabastian Sawe, whose performances have contributed to adidas’ ongoing development of its race-day footwear.
The Adizero Legacy Continues
The Adizero franchise has become a central part of adidas’ approach to elite distance running.
According to the brand, athletes racing in Adizero footwear have contributed to 12 world records and more than 30 victories at major road races, providing adidas with performance data and athlete insight that continue to influence each new generation.
The Adizero Adios Pro 5 takes those learnings and translates them into a race-day shoe aimed at runners looking for lightweight construction, responsive cushioning, propulsion and stability over distance.
Adizero Adios Pro 5 Price and Availability in South Africa
The adidas Adizero Adios Pro 5 is available in South Africa through adidas.co.za, the adidas app and selected retail partners.
The shoe retails for R5,799.
