Adidas Solar Boost Running Shoe Review

Does the name Adidas Solar Boost ring a bell? If it does, it’s because a few years ago, Adidas already introduced the Solar Boost model. For its return, the new Solar Boost is now packed with innovative technologies which aim to deliver an improved running experience.

Summary

Score: 85/100

Pros:

● Durable outsole

● Impressive traction even on light trails

● Soft, responsive cushioning

● Heel pull tab facilitates easy foot entry

● Supportive upper design

● Lightweight

Cons:

● Tight midfoot and forefoot fit

● The tongue rubs against the skin

● Size runs small

● Not breathable

Adidas Solar Boost Updates

The upper of the Adidas Solar Boost has been completely modified to provide support and improved fit. One of the obvious updates is the presence of the Tailored Fiber Placement (TFP) configuration in the midfoot. This stitched-in reinforcement is designed for structural support and midfoot lockdown.

This running shoe now has a smooth internal bootie construction, as well as a one-piece upper that employs a neoprene material that is soft and slightly flexible. The attachment of the elastic Tech Fit overlays provides added support whenever necessary.

Aside from the Boost technology integrated into the entire midsole, the Solar Boost also uses the new Solar Propulsion Rail, which is designed to deliver a more lively and softer underfoot feel. The rails also encourage steadiness throughout the gait cycle.

Lastly, Continental Rubber Outsole brings reliable traction on both dry and slippery surfaces. This compound also heightens durability for long-term use.

Upper

The new Adidas Solar Boost now has a seamless internal bootie design, which provides a smoother and more comfortable environment for the foot. The neoprene material used for this section is specially engineered to wrap the foot securely. It aims to accommodate a wide variety of foot shapes, especially those who have medium and wide foot-volumes.

Attached to the neoprene are Tech Fit overlays which are elastic and lightweight. Aside from the added support, the primary function of these elastic add-ons is to provide a more natural, adaptive fit.

The Tailored Fiber Placement (TFP) is a set of stitched reinforcements on the midfoot area. Thousands of threads are sewn in the area where support is vital. The fibers are durable and not stretchable, bringing the level of support to the highest without affecting midfoot security.

Lastly, the FitCounter in the back area encourages natural heel fitting without compromising motion and security.

Midsole

As the name suggests, the Solar Boost features the two popular technologies from Adidas – the Boost and the Solar Propulsion Rail.

The Boost technology, a lightweight midsole composed of TPU pellets, extends from the heel to the forefoot. It delivers a reactive and bouncy ride while providing comfortable underfoot protection. Along with the Boost technology is the Solar Propulsion Rail which guides the foot towards a more stable running experience.

Placed between the forefoot and the heel is the Torsion System which encourages independent foot movement and increased stability.

Outsole

The Adidas Solar Boost is a road running shoe that has the Continental Rubber Outsole, a feature that is known for its durability. The job of this rubber layer is to offer enough grip for both wet and dry surfaces. Despite being sturdy, the outsole is still flexible.

Performance of the Adidas Solar Boost

A bouncy and responsive ride is made possible by the Boost technology placed in the entire midsole of the Adidas Solar Boost. Aside from the bouncy performance, the shoe also feels fast, making it suitable for long-distance and quick-paced training.

A flexible and lightweight running shoe, the Solar Boost gives exceptional grip, not just on dry surfaces but in wet and slippery conditions as well. It can even function well on light trails.

Lastly, the upper performs well when it comes to midfoot lockdown and support.

Comfort and Breathability

The Adidas Solar Boost has a street-ready design and versatile look that it can even be worn at work. The internal bootie provides a soft in-shoe feel for all-day comfort. However, the overall upper coverage is not breathable because the neoprene material creates a warm internal environment. Overall, this product is not ideal for hot conditions and for runners who sweat a lot.

Another minor thing that causes discomfort is the tongue of the shoe. The edge rubs against the skin, and it creates irritation when paired with low-cut or no-show socks.

Fit

The Adidas Solar Boost runs small; one is encouraged to get a half-size bigger to get a more accommodating fit. In general, the shoe has tight coverage, especially in the midfoot and forefoot sections. The neoprene upper adapts to the natural shape of the foot, but the TechFit overlays are not elastic enough to provide a snug fit. The constrictive forefoot design causes slight pressure, even while walking or standing. Since the dense thread reinforcement is not stretchable, it also creates a tight fit in the midfoot.

Durability

The sturdiness of the Adidas Solar Boost can be seen in its upper, midsole, and outsole. This shoe is well-made, and though it is designed for the roads, the Continental Rubber Outsole can also effectively tackle some light trails without any severe damage.

Everything in the upper, especially the neoprene and the Tailored Fiber Placement, is sturdy enough to withstand the destructive elements of the road. After several miles of running, the shoe still looks impressive.

Adidas Solar Boost Compared to Other Neutral Road Running Shoes

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 34

Nike formulated the Pegasus 34 with performance, comfort, and durability in mind. It is a good option for runners who are looking for a responsive, flexible, and affordable shoe. The midsole makes use of the Zoom Air unit and the full-length Cushlon ST foam, which deliver comfortable underfoot cushioning. The Pegasus 34 is genuinely superior when it comes to traction and breathability.

Adidas Ultra Boost

The Ultra Boost is a very expensive running shoe from Adidas. It was designed to deliver high performance and unmatched comfort for runners with neutral pronation. This shoe is light, well-cushioned, and very responsive. The overall design is very similar to the Solar Boost, and both use the same technologies such as Boost midsole, Continental rubber outsole, and Heel FitCounter.

Asics Gel Nimbus 20

The Nimbus 20 is as expensive as the Solar Boost, and both are notably durable. This running shoe features some of the fundamental Asics technologies, including the Gel cushioning system, the FluidRide technology, and the Asics High Abrasion Rubber. It is very responsive, light, and fast. The critical difference between the two shoes is the capacity for breathability and comfort – the Nimbus model is far more breathable and comfortable than the Adidas Solar Boost.

Conclusion

The Adidas Solar Boost is outstanding when it comes to responsiveness, but it needs some improvements when it comes to the overall fit, comfort, and breathability. This road-companion is sufficient for runners who don’t consider fit and comfort a deal-breaker. Also, the shoe is stylish enough to rock the street whenever you want to. Overall, the Solar Boost is not a perfect pair, but it’s worth a try.