Say goodbye to the adidas Supernova Glide (previously reviewed by Austin) and hello to the adidas Supernova.
Thomas: 28.1 (recovery runs, and one 13.1 mile tempo run)
Meaghan: 38 (recovery runs, treadmill, a little speed-work)
Thomas: Holy CUSH! This shoe has lots of BOOST cushioning under foot, it is the defining feature of the Supernova. To keep the cushioning stable adidas added a TPU “Torsion System” and a fully covered outsole of sticky Continental rubber.Under the footbed, there is a semi-rigid web to help keep the BOOST in shape and less sloppy. This shoe has a plush ride with a fair amount of pop making it perfect for long runs and recovery runs.
The upper is pretty sweet too. It seems like a focus of this shoe is on comfort. The tongue and collar are stuffed with ample padding. A TPU plastic heel cup provides the structure with an open spine that keeps the heel stable without rubbing. A flexible 3-stripe cage locks the arch down securely. The upper’s toebox is breathable, and the toe down design looks great. When you look at your feet during the run, the shoe looks great and has the right curves.
Meaghan: The adidas Supernova replaces the existing Glide line. I didn’t have a chance to run in any of the Glide models, but I have tested the Ultra Boost & adizero Boston Boost, both solid trainers. The first thing I noticed about the Supernova is the insane amount of cushioning and springy, responsive ride. I hate using the word responsive, but it really does apply to this shoe. That Boost material is legit. From mile 1 to mile 10, they feel fresh underfoot. And the continental rubber on the outsole is notable. This stuff provides a ton of traction, which is especially helpful during the winter months when I’m running on icy pavement and sidewalks.
I like the fit of the Supernova; they’re really comfortable right out of the box. There’s plenty of cushioning around the collar and the tongue is like a pillow. I typically prefer a more minimal upper, but there’s something nice about the extra material on these shoes. Maybe it’s the winter months. The shoes fit snug through the midfoot but there’s plenty of room for my toes to move around – the toebox isn’t super wide, but it’s wide enough and breathes well. I didn’t have any rubbing or hot spots. I’ve only put 38 miles on these shoes, but they don’t look a day old.
Thomas: The lacing is surprisingly difficult to adjust. Mid-run I had to stop and tighten one and loosen the other. It is a skill to find the perfect fit without over-tightening the laces.
This shoe ain’t light weight. My size 10.5 weighed in at 11.6 oz. I tried the Supernova out on a 13-mile tempo run, the weight was noticeable. It felt like the shoes were fighting the whole run. I was able to hit and maintain my pace, but I will be going for a lighter shoe for the next speed workout.
Meaghan: The first thing you need to do with the Supernova is pull out the laces and re-lace the entire shoe. I don’t know WHAT they’re thinking over at adidas, but the lacing system in place is a monstrosity <end rant>. Anyway, once you re-lace them, good-to-go.
As Thomas noted, the bouncy Boost comes with a hefty price tag, about 9.2oz for my W7.5. These suckers are not light.
Thomas: The Supernova is a solid choice for the runner looking for a durable trainer with loads of cushioning. I would recommend the shoe for heavier runners looking for a shoe that will provide lots of soft landings and plush miles. The Supernova might be a good option for the runner that wants to try the Ultra BOOST, but doesn’t want to spend the $50 difference. The Supernova retails for $130.
Meaghan: The adidas Supernova is durable, springy, fun daily trainer. If you crave that extra bounce for mid-to-long training runs, this is an excellent choice. I wouldn’t suggest the Supernova for someone trying to crush 5Ks or is super sensitive to weight, but if you’re looking for an everyday trainer with a little pick-up – this shoe is a good option.
Stack Height: 26mm (Heel), 16mm (Forefoot) 10mm drop
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I just grabbed a pair of Supernova last week (CUSH deal online that I could not pass up), and I am really digging this shoe. It might be a year later, but I agree with both conclusions above. This might be a cushioned, heavy trainer; however, the energy return in this shoe is pretty stellar. The usual adidas Continental rubber outsole helps with an efficient turnover and ground traction. BOOST gives it that typical adidas smooth float.
Other reviewers had “meh” things to say about this shoe, but I agree with the takes above. It is a shoe that many likely passed on, but I am a fan of this shoe for my filler “slog” miles!
Thanks for the write up!
I agree with Colson. This is my favorite all time shoe; my previous favorite was the Nike Vomero 3, 4, and 5, prior to Nike ruining them…
I used to think that the Zoom Air was a responsive shoe with long lasting cushioning, and it was compared to other shoes prior to Boost, but Boost destroys all in long-term cushioning and durability. Boost does not degrade over time and does not compress over time – it is the same after 2 years as it was when new. I supinate and utterly destroy and compress EVA, but the boost sole has not compressed at all, and I have well over double the miles I would get out of even the best EVA.
I did wear though the rubber sole, and was worried that the TPU boost would wear, but it has not worn at all once the rubber was gone – amazing.
The upper of the shoe has held up just as well as the boost. This is a really well made, long lasting, super comfortable but responsive shoe. My all time favorite and longest lasting running shoe ever!
I wish Adidas still made this shoe! Does anyone know of the comparable current Adidas shoe to this one? Thanks