Few running shoe lines have maintained their identity while evolving with the times quite like Adidas’ Adizero Boston series. Since its debut in early ‘80s, the Boston has toed the line between racing flat and daily trainer, building a devoted following among runners who demand versatility without compromise.
After the mixed reception to the Boston 10 and 11’s radical redesign, the footwear giant has spent the last two iterations methodically fine-tuning the formula, and the Boston 13 represents their most successful balancing act yet.
LEGACY OF SPEED
Born in 1982 and named after running’s most prestigious marathon, the Boston series has evolved from pure racer to quintessential speed trainer. Initially aimed for comfort and versatility, the Boston got its performance focus in 2010 when joining the Adizero franchise, and it’s been evolving ever since.
ENGINEERED EVOLUTION
With 13.8% more responsive Lightstrike Pro foam and thoughtful upper refinements, the latest Boston delivers exactly what made this franchise legendary. It’ll give you enough speed for tempo days, enough cushion for recovery runs, and an uncomplicated design that’s increasingly rare in today’s over-engineered market.
The Boston 13 features a completely redesigned engineered mesh upper with substantial padding around the collar and heel, addressing comfort complaints of previous models without compromising performance-oriented fit. The eyestay configuration provides a more customizable lockdown, while the perforated mesh delivers exceptional breathability for when your workout really heats up. Despite sporting an intentionally retro aesthetic, this shoe still boasts a function-driven design.
Better Underfoot
As we said, Adidas packed in significantly more Lightstrike Pro this time around. Their premium supercritical foam has been added atop a layer of Lightstrike 2.0, creating a sandwich of responsiveness and stability. Between these layers sits the ENERGYRODS 2.0 system, limiting energy loss for snappier strides to preclude the rigidity complaints customers gave with earlier iterations. With a 36-mm heel stack, it strikes the perfect balance between protection and ground feel.
The outsole combines proven Continental rubber with Adidas’ new Lighttraxion compound. This strategic placement reduces weight while maintaining durability where needed. The result is a versatile outsole that grips confidently on various surfaces without unnecessary bulk.
Still Room for Good Looks
While this running shoe is certainly function-forward, Adidas still acknowledges that runners like to look good when they cross the finish line. Eventually available in several colorways, the Adizero Boston 13 has been unveiled in this special EQT edition, which will come beside other pieces of running gear as well. Featuring a white base with black and teal accents, the retro flair is inspired by the designs of Adidas’ Equipment uniform pieces that were worn by Boston Marathon staff in 1991.
SPEC SHEET
Model: Adizero Boston 13
Upper: Engineered mesh with padded tongue and collar
Midsole: Lightstrike Pro and Lightstrike 2.0 with ENERGYRODS 2.0 propulsion system
Outsole: Continental rubber and Lighttraxion compound
Stack Height: 36mm
Weight: ~9.8oz
Drop: ~8mm
Price: $160
PRICING & AVAILABILITY
Launching May 5 in this special EQT edition, the Adizero Boston 13 is priced at $160. Meanwhile, more colorways are set to debut on June 4. Head to Adidas’ website to learn more.
Recap
Adidas Adizero Boston 13
Addressing customer feedback with previous iterations, Adidas debuts the Adizero Boston 13 with more responsive midsole foam and a less rigid feel. It debuts in a vintage-inspired EQT edition to match the Boston Marathon staff uniforms in 1991.
