adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 review for 2026

When it comes to top-of-the-line running shoes, the adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 is aimed squarely at runners looking to improve their personal bests in half marathons, marathons, and beyond. In this in-depth review, we examine the latest features, performance on the road, who it’s best suited for (and who it’s not), and whether it deserves a place in your running gear for 2026. Keywords such as adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 review, super shoe, marathon runner, Lightstrike Pro foam, EnergyRods 2.0, and race day running shoe are used throughout to improve SEO.

1. At a glance: What is the Adizero Adios Pro 4?

The Adizero Adios Pro 4 is adidas’ current flagship road running shoe (from its launch in 2025 to 2026) in the “super shoe” category—designed for speed, efficiency, and competition rather than everyday training. It follows on from the Adios Pro 3 and features improved materials and optimized geometry to enhance the running feel and responsiveness.

Key specifications (men’s size US 9, unless otherwise stated):

Weight: ~200 g / 7.1 oz.
Sole height: 39 mm heel / 33 mm forefoot (≈ 6 mm drop)
Midsole: Lightstrike Pro foam (new, softer formula)
Propulsion system: EnergyRods 2.0 (five carbon-reinforced rods)
Outsole: Mostly LIGHTTRAXION rubber, with a small section of Continental rubber in the forefoot.
Fit: Narrower than previous models.

2. What’s new compared to the Adios Pro 3?

For runners considering an upgrade in 2026, here are the most important new features of the Pro 4 compared to the Pro 3:

Softer and lighter foam in the midsole:
The Lightstrike Pro foam has been reformulated to feel softer and more springy. Testers note that the feel is closer to that of foams such as ZoomX or FF-Turbo+. ([#1 website for athletic shoe reviews][1]) The Pro 4 is also about 14 g lighter than its predecessor.
Revised rocker geometry:
The rocker point in the forefoot has been moved to about 60% of the length to improve forward motion and efficiency.
• Revised outsole:
Almost the entire outsole is made of LIGHTTRAXION rubber (soft, lightweight), with a small Continental rubber patch in the forefoot area for added traction.
Upper improvements:
The Lightlock upper is thinner, softer, and more streamlined than the previous model.
Fit changes:
The Pro 4 has a narrower fit compared to the Pro 3, especially in the toe box and heel.

3. Running feel and performance

Cushioning and energy return

In lab and field tests, the Pro 4 performs very well in terms of energy return:

“Energy return in the heel area: 89.8%” in a test.
In one review, the model received 8.9/10 points for cushioning and 8.8/10 points for energy return.
Testers describe it as “soft yet dynamic” – comfortable for long distances, yet responsive enough for competitive use.

Stability and fit

Although the running experience is dynamic, there is one drawback: lateral stability is somewhat compromised. Reviewers point out that the soft foam and narrow base can make it feel less stable than some competing products.
Fit:

Narrow toe box and overall narrow fit. Reviewers recommend sizing up or considering carefully if you have wide feet.
Support is good for runners who strike with their midfoot or forefoot; runners who strike with their heel may feel that the rear foot is less secure.

Suitability by distance and pace

According to reviews:

Thanks to its high sole height, energy return, and efficiency, it is ideal for marathon pace and above (half marathon to marathon).
For shorter 5K/10K runs: Some testers feel that the shoe lacks the aggressive “bounce” of firmer Supersonic racing shoes. RunningShoesGuru, for example, noted that the Pro 4 “is simply too soft…more suited for marathons than short, fast races.”
Therefore: If you are running a marathon or long-distance race and are looking for a high-performance shoe, the Pro 4 is the right choice for you. If you mainly focus on short, fast races, you may prefer a firmer, more aggressive model.

4. Summary of pros and cons

✅ Pros

Exceptional energy return and cushioning for a racing shoe.
Lightweight (~440 g) for its category.
Improved foam and rocker geometry provide a smoother ride.
Good traction from the outsole even in wet conditions thanks to LIGHTTRAXION + Continental rubber.
Improved comfort from the upper compared to the previous version.

❌ Disadvantages

The fit is narrow—especially in the toe and heel areas—making the shoe less suitable for runners with wide feet.
Stability is a weak point compared to competing products; runners who strike with their heels may feel less secure.
The softer foam may result in slightly less “bounce” than firmer racing shoes during very short or fast runs.
Durability: Some reviews warn that the softer foam may lose “bounce” faster than firmer previous models.

5. Is the Adizero Adios Pro 4 the right shoe for you?

Consider this shoe if you:

Are aiming for a half marathon or marathon and are looking for a top-notch shoe for race day.
Are a midfoot or forefoot runner—the geometry and rods favor this running style.
have narrow or average-width feet and can handle a snug fit in the forefoot.
want high energy return and a modern super shoe feel with new foam and technology.

You may want to reconsider purchasing this model if you:

have wide feet—the narrow fit may be uncomfortable or too tight.
are primarily heel strikers and require more stability in the rearfoot area.
focus primarily on 5K/10K runs and prefer a more aggressive, firm running style over a soft one.
desire versatile training options for the entire day – the Pro 4 is best suited as a competition shoe, not necessarily as an everyday training shoe.

6. Fit, sizes, and practical tips (especially for Pakistan/Asian markets)

Narrower in the forefoot area: Many runners recommend choosing half a size larger if you normally have average-width feet.
Runners with wide feet: You may find the toe area too narrow and should try the shoe on in the store if possible or consider wider alternative models.
Use this shoe primarily for tempo runs, race preparation, and on race day—not necessarily for high-mileage training sessions.
Since this is a high-performance super shoe at a high price point (~$250 at launch) and supply may be limited, plan your purchase ahead of the important competition season.
Make sure your training includes transitioning to this sole height and geometry; if you are not used to shoes with high soles and low stability, increase gradually.

7. Conclusion and final thoughts for 2026

In 2026, the Adizero Adios Pro 4 is one of the top contenders for ambitious runners who want to get extra efficiency out of their shoes. The combination of updated Lightstrike Pro foam, refined rocker geometry, and first-class workmanship speaks for itself.

However, due to its narrow fit and slightly lower stability, it is not suitable for everyone. Fit and running style play a significant role. If you fit the profile (narrow foot, midfoot/forefoot strike, marathon or longer races), the Pro 4 is an excellent choice and a justified upgrade. If your needs are different (wide foot, heel strike, focus on short races), you should also look at other models.

adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 Reviews for 2026