A few months ago marked my 8-year “runiversary,” and I can hardly believe it. The transformation from someone who despised running to a dedicated runner seems almost miraculous. Reflecting on my early days, I realize how much I’ve learned about running and how differently I approach it now. From the type of running I engage in, to my mindset, and even the running gear and shoes I choose, everything has evolved.
When I first ventured into running, I had little regard for the shoes I wore. Yes, I bought a decent pair of running trainers, but I didn’t spend much time researching them. My only criteria were that they needed to be affordable—around fifty pounds—and look good. How naive I was! Similarly, my running wardrobe was lacking; I once showed up for a run with a handbag simply because I had no clue where to stash my belongings. Yes, I was really that person!
I was completely oblivious to popular running brands and didn’t know what Strava was, nor did I understand terms like splits or personal bests. I didn’t even realize that there were different types of running shoes for roads versus trails. I was a total novice.
Fast forward to today… I go through trail shoes like my kids cycle through snacks. I now pay serious attention to my footwear. I appreciate the significance of wearing the right shoes for specific terrains and distances, as well as the comfort that quality clothing can bring to my runs—particularly in preventing the dreaded chafing. While I don’t want to spend a fortune on gear, I now believe you truly get what you pay for.
As an adidas blogger, I have the exciting opportunity to test their gear from time to time. This month, when I received the new campaigns, the Adizero range immediately caught my eye. Let’s dive in!
What Is Adizero?
Before I share my selections, let me tell you more about Adizero. This line focuses on creating the lightest possible products to reduce mass load and enhance athletic performance. It’s simple—a lighter load allows you to run faster.
The journey began in 2004 when Japanese craftsman Toshiaki Omori joined the team, emphasizing the importance of foot anatomy. He knew that an ideal shoe should provide support while feeling almost weightless. These shoes had to consider materials, weight, cushioning, and running conditions like distance, terrain, and speed while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
Adizero spent four years in development before the Adizero Adios prototype was tested by Ethiopian runner Haile Gebrselassie the night before the 2008 Berlin Marathon. He loved them so much that he wore them during the race, breaking the world record by 29 seconds.
I’m not claiming these shoes will have you setting world records, but depending on your running style, there’s an Adizero shoe for you. Whether you’re looking for the Takumi Sen 9 for short, speedy runs, the Boston 12 for mid to long distances, or the Adizero Adios 8 for versatile performance, adidas Adizero has you covered.
Adizero Adios 7 Shoes
I selected the Adizero Adios 7 shoes because they’re designed as an “all-rounder”—which aligns perfectly with my running style. I opted for the stunning color combination of Pulse Mint/Silver Metallic/Core Black, though there are three other available colorways (Cloud White/Core Black/Grey Three, Core Black/Beam Yellow/Solar Green, and White Tint/Court Green/Blue Dawn).
It’s important to note that these are not hardcore trail shoes. The lightweight mesh allows for lots of air flow but wouldn’t protect against mud and muck. As shown in my photos, I took them on a dry day along sandy trails, and they performed exceptionally well. While primarily designed for road or track running, they also handle an occasional off-road adventure, making them a fantastic all-around option.
In addition to their eye-catching design, these women’s running shoes feature a variety of enhancements to make your runs easier—something most of us could really use!
Key features include:
- Breathable mesh: Provides excellent ventilation while offering support.
- LIGHTSTRIKE PRO midsole: Delivers soft foam cushioning for dynamic performance.
- TORSIONRODS: Enhance flexibility, allowing your foot to move naturally while providing support.
- Adjustable lace closure: Lets you customize the fit to your liking.
- Lightweight: Each shoe weighs only 189.7g (UK size 5.5), promoting faster times.
- Recycled materials: Like many adidas products today, the Adizero Adios 7 incorporates recycled materials, aiding combat against plastic waste.
What I love about them is how they fit like they were custom-made just for me. They are comfortable, light on my feet, and contribute to that bouncy feeling when I run, earning them a well-deserved spot on my regular running shoe shelf (yes, I have that many pairs!).
Adizero 7/8 Leggings
I’m picky when it comes to running leggings. They must be high-waisted, stretchy, comfortable (of course), dark-colored (as much as I aspire to body positivity, I lean toward darker shades on my lower half), and equipped with pockets—it’s essential! The Adizero 7/8 leggings check all those boxes. Hooray!
First off, let’s discuss comfort and fit. These leggings are so cozy they feel almost weightless when worn. Like the trainers, they incorporate a significant amount of recycled content (at least 70%), and the stretchy fabric hugs every contour of your body. When running, the last thing I want to do is adjust leggings that ride up or sag down! These leggings remain perfectly in place, thanks to thoughtful details like perforated fabric behind the knees.
In terms of functionality, these leggings shine too. They feature laser perforation in key sweat zones for optimal airflow, helping keep you cool and focused while running. A high-rise waist is a must for me—I appreciate that feeling of being held in, ensuring I’m not fidgeting while I run. And did I mention the pockets? With zipped side and waist pockets, you can securely carry essentials like your car keys and phone.
The color, Aurora Black, is a lovely deep indigo, with the Adizero logo in a bright neon green down the lower leg. It’s flattering without being a basic black, which is my usual go-to. I got a size medium, as I’m usually a large size 12, and they fit perfectly.
Adizero Running Tank Top
To complete my matching outfit, I selected the Adizero running tank top in Aurora Black, though it’s also available in Black and Semi Spark (a yellowish shade). The fabric is incredibly lightweight—almost airy—and features perforated airholes to ensure cooling during summer runs, preventing overheating.
The racerback design has tape over potential friction points to minimize chafing, which is especially important in the hot months. Those of you who have suffered from chafing know this feature is a game changer. Thankfully, the Adizero running vest incorporates adidas’s sweat-wicking AEROREADY technology to keep you dry and reduce chafing risk.
The vest includes reflective details for enhanced visibility, while the loose fit makes it comfortable and flattering, covering the backside just right. For me, the light and airy nature of the fabric truly sets this tank apart from others. Fortunately, it dries quickly after washing—an essential feature as I plan to wear it frequently throughout the summer!
Final thoughts
While I am a trail runner at heart—drawn to the mud, varied terrain, scenic views, and the sense of tranquility it brings—there are times when running on trails isn’t feasible. Sometimes I want a quick run that doesn’t involve cleaning up after a muddy adventure. I can’t predict whether quality shoes and lightweight clothing will improve my speed, though a piece of chocolate candy or the possibility of missing dinner might motivate me more!
What I do know is that the girl who took her first steps into running eight years ago is still there, in some ways. I still care about how my trainers and running gear look. Don’t we all? However, what has changed is my need for them to perform well too. This Adizero gear has truly made both my past and present self very happy.
*Products gifted by adidas
Author Bio
Becky Stafferton is a full-time content creator, web publisher, and blog coach. She is dedicated to promoting a realistic, sustainable, and positive approach to healthy living. When she’s not writing or reminiscing about her teenage days, she enjoys running through muddy puddles, hiking in the woods, creating elaborate to-do lists, and tackling renovations on her new country home. Additionally, she runs BlogWell, her blog coaching company aimed at helping bloggers optimize and monetize their platforms.
