adidas adizero SL 2 Review
Published: June 15, 2024
The adizero SL is Back With a Highly Responsive Lightstrike Pro Ride
Likes
- Full-length Lightstrike Pro is very soft and responsive
- Incredibly lightweight on foot
- Versatile on the road and track
Dislikes
- Midsole feels mushy at times
- Slight price bump
What's New
The adidas adizero SL 2 is built for runners who seek a versatile everyday trainer that delivers both speed and comfort, all at a great value. Whether you are a seasoned athlete looking to take your uptempo runs and speed workouts to the next level, or a casual runner dedicated to daily training, the adizero SL 2 offers the ideal blend of lightweight comfort and performance.
The adizero SL 2 promises a dynamic running experience with its upgraded midsole technology, and the Lightstrike 2.0 foam delivers a soft underfoot feel that absorbs the impact of foot strikes. The Lightstrike Pro foam adds a burst of propulsion perfect for faster paces. This dual-foam setup ensures that every stride is energetic and efficient, making it easy for runners to maintain quicker paces over longer distances.
The engineered mono-mesh upper caters to runners who prioritize comfort and breathability. It adapts to your foot, offering targeted support in critical areas while enhancing airflow to keep your feet cool and dry. This thoughtful design reduces the risk of slippage, hot spots, and blisters, allowing you to focus on your run without distractions.
Durability and grip are essential for any running shoe, but especially in a speed shoe, and the adizero SL 2 excels in both areas with its strategically designed rubber outsole. The outsole not only enhances traction on various surfaces but also helps minimize weight, contributing to the shoe's overall lightweight, speedy feel. This makes it an excellent choice for everyday training and more intense workout sessions.
In summary, the adidas adizero SL 2 is ideal for runners seeking a go-to all-purpose shoe that combines protection, support, and responsiveness. It is crafted to help you achieve your running goals, offering the comfort needed for daily miles and the performance boost required for faster, more intense speed sessions.
The Bottom Line
The original adizero SL was a value-buy favorite here at Running Warehouse, and our testers were excited to see what version two had to offer. After testing, the excitement for the adizero SL 2 remains. Still, with top-to-bottom upgrades, version two is a bit of a different beast, garnering mixed reviews from those who were familiar with the first version. However, being different is not necessarily bad depending on your priorities.
Our testers unanimously agreed that the SL 2's updated upper was the star of the show, and the lightweight, breathable construction enhanced the shoe's already speedy feel, helping make version two even more ideal for faster workout efforts. The team also appreciated the secure fit and support offered by the upper, which provided comfort and performance regardless of the type of run. Though the upper impressed our whole team, opinions on the new midsole composition were not as unanimous.
The testers highlighted the step-in comfort offered by the new midsole that features both Lightstrike 2.0 and Lightstrike Pro foams. However, the softer underfoot feel was not as protective as some had hoped for on long distances, despite surpassing version one in this capacity. That said, other testers noted their preference for version one's firmer, more stable feel when faced with cross-training exercises and workouts. Despite these concerns, there was no denying that the performance of the midsole for uptempo efforts has definitely improved.
The outsole of the adizero SL 2 maintained the high standards set by the original, providing confidence-instilling traction and nimble agility on the road and track. After extensive testing, the durability of version two's outsole looks very promising as well, and our team is confident that runners will be able to get a lot of mileage out of this speedy training companion.
Overall, the adizero SL 2 delivers on speed and comfort, especially for short to mid-distance speed workouts. Its softer midsole might not suit every runner's preferences, especially compared to version one, but it remains a great update for those focused on getting the most out of their training at a wallet-friendly price.
Specifications & Fit
Shoe Specs
| Weight | 8.5 oz (Men's size 9) |
| Stack Height | 10 mm Heel-Toe Offset |
| Terrain | Road and track |
| Stability | Neutral |
| Sizing | True to size |
Our In-Depth Look
Upper
Jon: "The upper of the adizero SL 2 represents an amazing upgrade from the previous version. While version one has a very comfortable and soft upper, the upper of the SL 2 feels much more lightweight and breathable, which adds to the sense of speed this shoe delivers on the run."
Kaleb: "Like version one, the adizero SL 2 provides an amazing fit for my feet. There is good arch support and a secure hold that is not restrictive. For a speedier shoe, I also appreciated the SL 2's toe box, which delivered the security I needed for speed workouts without sacrificing room for my toes to splay over longer distances.
I've noticed that adidas running shoes, and even cleats back when I was playing soccer, have always fit my foot very well, and it was no surprise that the SL 2 followed suit. I enjoyed irritation-free running right out of the box."
Risa: "I had no complaints about the adizero SL 2's upper. That said, there was not anything I particularly loved about it either. It was breathable, and I did not experience any irritation."
Midsole
Jon: "When we learned that version two of the super fun SL was getting a full-length slab of Lightstrike Pro, we were psyched! But after running about 30 test miles, I am a bit torn. On the one hand, the midsole is certainly upgraded by the Lightstrike Pro layer, providing a soft feel the second I get the shoe on my feet. On the other hand, it was almost too soft, and I even felt like it was bottoming out in the forefoot late into a 12-mile progression run.
That said, for shorter efforts and even daily training, the adizero SL 2 offers great value, and even though I do not love it when a shoe's price increases from one version to the next, at least adidas can justify it given that we now have a full-length layer of Lightstrike Pro."
Kaleb: "Similarly to Jon, my feelings after testing the adizero SL 2 are mixed. Like some other shoes we have seen this year, I feel like the adizero SL 2 has become a better running shoe but has lost some of its cross-training versatility.
Version two is much softer and bouncier than the original, which felt great during longer uptempo workouts in the 6- to 10-mile range. That said, version one was a bit more stable due to the firmer, more composed midsole, and it's a better overall option for those who like to cross-train in the gym or enjoy mixing agility work into their training. The SL 2 is still a very dynamic training shoe, and again, with the full slab of Lightstrike Pro, runners will love this shoe for all their daily runs, including longer efforts, which was an area where the original fell short. So overall, the SL 2 is a high-performing, highly versatile daily trainer, and with all the performance upgrades to the midsole and upper, I did not even think twice about the small price increase."
Risa: "The midsole of the SL 2 surprised me a bit. It was softer than expected, delivering all the comfort I could want from a daily trainer, at least for shorter daily runs. I still would prefer a more protective shoe for my longest efforts, but for shorter, faster runs, the SL 2 shoe was excellent. I was surprised I enjoyed the SL 2 more on my threshold runs than my easy runs."
Outsole
Jon: "The outsole of the original adizero SL was a highlight, and the SL 2 carries on that reputation. I cannot fully speak to its durability, as I would like to get at least 100 miles before issuing a full judgment, but in terms of traction, the SL 2 is fantastic."
Kaleb: "I 100% agree with Jon here. The adizero SL 2's traction is superb on the track and roads. The shoe remains very nimble, and thanks to the grippy traction, you can maintain speed regardless of how crazy your run is. After 30 miles, I have not noticed any abnormal wear and tear, and given the durability of version one, I have high hopes for the SL 2."
Risa: "The SL 2 is a lower profile shoe with some ground feel. There is a good amount of rubber coverage on the outsole, and I had no issues with grip on the roads."
Comparable Shoes
adidas adizero Adios 8 vs. adidas adizero SL 2
Jon: "It's the same brand and a similar type of shoe at the same price point, which means that I practically have to do a comparison so the runners out there know the difference. Getting straight to the point, both shoes are nimble with a fast ride, but the adizero SL 2 is a bit more versatile. The SL felt just as good for daily miles as it did for faster efforts.
On the other hand, the Adios 8 has a speedier overall design thanks to the inclusion of rods in the midsole with a thicker layer of Lightstrike Pro in the forefoot for more pop. I would not use the Adios 8 for daily training though, as it does not feel as comfortable or natural at slower paces."
adidas adizero SL 2 vs. HOKA Mach 6
Jon: "The HOKA Mach 6 is an extremely popular shoe and features a full-length supercritical EVA foam midsole, as opposed to just a top layer of super foam in the adizero SL 2. Both shoes provide a closer-to-the-ground feel with the versatility to take on everyday runs and speed workouts. In terms of underfoot feel, I think the Mach 6 will feel better for runners who like a firmer, more responsive underfoot feel, whereas the adizero SL 2 will serve runners who want a very compressive and responsive ride. Both shoes are fast and nimble, so it comes down to personal preference in terms of how soft you want your shoes to be."
Kaleb: "I have had a chance to test both the adidas adizero SL 2 and the HOKA Mach 6, and both models are speedy lightweight trainers that can tackle a variety of different runs, with some key differences. The Mach 6, with its full-length supercritical EVA foam midsole, offers a more protective and responsive ride that feels great on longer, faster runs. On the other hand, the adizero SL 2, with its Lightstrike 2.0 and Lightstrike Pro midsole, provides a ride that really shined during shorter, faster runs. Both shoes are versatile for daily training, but if you are looking for more distance, then I would pick the Mach 6."
adidas adizero SL 2 vs. Saucony Kinvara 14
Risa: "The Kinvara 14 is another great option for speedwork and daily training. It is very lightweight on foot (6.2 oz for a women's size 8). It is less protective than the SL 2, though the Kinvara is more than protective enough for daily runs. If you are torn between these two options and love lightweight shoes, then the Kinvara is the way to go, in my opinion."
Individual Thoughts
JonOverall Score: 9/10
The adizero SL was a huge surprise when it was first released. I could not believe the value the shoe offered, and I loved every run I did in them; long, short, fast, and slow, the adizero SL always delivered. That said, I am slightly disappointed in the SL 2, as the Lightsrike Pro midsole does not feel as dense or protective compared to version one.
This shoe certainly allowed me to hit my fastest paces, but it is not as versatile as the original, in my opinion. I definitely think this is my personal bias, especially since I put such a high value on versatility in my running shoes. I have little doubt that the SL 2 will be well received by the running community and lovers of the original, and I commend adidas for putting a lot of love into the version two upgrade.
KalebOverall Score: 9/10
The adidas adizero SL 2 continues to provide an excellent fit, much like its predecessor. It offers good arch support and a secure yet non-restrictive hold, making it ideal for speed workouts while still providing room for my toes to splay during longer efforts. As with other adidas shoes, the adizero SL 2 delivers irritation-free running straight out of the box, proving to be an excellent option for my feet.
After testing, my feelings about the SL 2 are a bit mixed. Do not be confused; I still am very much in love with the adizero SL. It is just a bit different from the original in terms of how I would like to use it for training. While the shoe is softer and bouncier than the original, enhancing the experience during longer uptempo workouts, it has lost some stability and cross-training versatility. I love a dynamic shoe that I can run in, coach in, or hit the gym while wearing, and although you can still do all those activities in the SL 2, the original was a better fit with its denser, more stable midsole.
Again, the updated midsole of the SL 2 delivers excellent energy return that translates perfectly to shorter uptempo efforts. The shoe's traction remains superb, offering excellent grip on both the track and the road, and it shows promising durability after extensive use. So I have high expectations for the SL 2. Overall, I think the adizero SL 2 is a better "running" shoe thanks to the new softer feel that extends the shoe's range for me, but I still love version one for all its versatility for workouts and activities other than running.
RisaOverall Score: 8/10
I have some mixed feelings after testing out the adidas adizero SL 2. It had a softer midsole and was more comfortable than I was expecting. I appreciated the arch support and secure lockdown. I took the SL 2 out on some easy runs (up to 5 miles) and a threshold run and was surprised that I enjoyed the shoe the most on my fast run. The shoe had some pop at faster paces, which made for a fun run.
I struggled to figure out where the SL 2 would fit into my rotation, especially with all the great options in the category. Overall, while I don't think there is a place in my rotation, I think this is one of the best more budget-friendly options on the market (at $130) that can handle speedwork and daily training. For runners who aren't looking to do double-digit mileage runs and are looking for one shoe to do it all, the SL 2 could be the perfect pick.
adidas Men's adizero SL
The adidas adizero SL is a value-priced, verstaile running shoe. Great for standard runs or picking up the pace.
adidas Women's adizero SL
The adidas adizero SL is a value-priced, verstaile running shoe. Great for standard runs or picking up the pace.
