The Boston Marathon is a race. But it's also a goal, and a training plan and all the days it stays on your mind before the big one. The Adizero Boston 12 Shoes are built for mid- to long-distance running. They bring a race-day feel to training with a propulsive feel that comes from the glass-fibre infused ENERGYRODS 2.0, which limit energy loss underfoot.
The Boston Marathon is a race. But it's also a goal, and a training plan and all the days it stays on your mind before the big one. The Adizero Boston 12 Shoes are built for mid- to long-distance running. They bring a race-day feel to training with a propulsive feel that comes from the glass-fibre infused ENERGYRODS 2.0, which limit energy loss underfoot.
The Boston Marathon is a race. But it's also a goal, and a training plan and all the days it stays on your mind before the big one. The Adizero Boston 12 Shoes are built for mid- to long-distance running. They bring a race-day feel to training with a propulsive feel that comes from the glass-fibre infused ENERGYRODS 2.0, which limit energy loss underfoot.
The Boston Marathon is a race. But it's also a goal, and a training plan and all the days it stays on your mind before the big one. The Adizero Boston 12 Shoes are built for mid- to long-distance running. They bring a race-day feel to training with a propulsive feel that comes from the glass-fibre infused ENERGYRODS 2.0, which limit energy loss underfoot.
Last updated at 04/22/2025 06:37:52
originally posted on REI
One of the best soles that I've ever experienced in a running shoe. Soft enough for comfort but firm enough for responsiveness at speed and protection on long runs. The upper is a mystery to me though. Of the countless shoes I've gone through from every major brand, I've never had to size down before, yet these still feel a little long after sizing down. I have to tie these so tight that they kind of hurt before the run in order for them to be tight enough that my heel doesn't feel like it's going to slip out during the run, but in doing so I've also tightened them so much that I thought I might get a blister along the outside of my arch for the first time in my life. When I get it right, they may be the best shoe I've ever trained in, but many is it hard to get right.
originally posted on roadrunnersports.com
Been away from Adidas running shoes for decades because fit was too narrow for me but when I heard these shoes have a roomy toe box I decided to give them a try. Overall this shoe checked a lot of boxes for me, a cushioned ( but not too much) shoe with still some responsiveness that I can use as a daily trainer/super trainer that is comfortable during easy runs and fun for tempo runs. The only downside to this shoe is the flimsy heel counter which I still have some heel slippage even by going half a size down and doing the runner's knot. I have to wear my thicker runner socks with these shoes. For the next iteration of this shoe I suggest: 1) better heel counter, more structure and make the heel cushioning more robust 2) gusset the tongue 3) change the laces (likes ... MoreBeen away from Adidas running shoes for decades because fit was too narrow for me but when I heard these shoes have a roomy toe box I decided to give them a try. Overall this shoe checked a lot of boxes for me, a cushioned ( but not too much) shoe with still some responsiveness that I can use as a daily trainer/super trainer that is comfortable during easy runs and fun for tempo runs. The only downside to this shoe is the flimsy heel counter which I still have some heel slippage even by going half a size down and doing the runner's knot. I have to wear my thicker runner socks with these shoes. For the next iteration of this shoe I suggest: 1) better heel counter, more structure and make the heel cushioning more robust 2) gusset the tongue 3) change the laces (likes to come undone) and lacing system to something easier to lockdown midfoot.
originally posted on roadrunnersports.com
I bought special addition Bostons for the 2018 LA Marathon and really like them. I purchased the Boston 12s from RR this past October because of the carbon plate. I really liked the ride I was getting. I rotate three pairs of shoes for running, and I had just gone over the 280-mile mark for my Boston 12s. So, I went ahead and ordered a new pair from RR (May 15th, delivery still pending), but this morning, it happened.What happened?!?, you ask. Welp, about 2 miles into my 6-mile recovery run, I was feeling strange irritation in my left Achilles. It wasn't painful, so I ignored it, but by 2 1/2 miles, it got too much. So, I stopped to take a look, and it was the left shoe sole insert coming out of the back of my shoe. For the rest of the run, I had to stop every ... MoreI bought special addition Bostons for the 2018 LA Marathon and really like them. I purchased the Boston 12s from RR this past October because of the carbon plate. I really liked the ride I was getting. I rotate three pairs of shoes for running, and I had just gone over the 280-mile mark for my Boston 12s. So, I went ahead and ordered a new pair from RR (May 15th, delivery still pending), but this morning, it happened.What happened?!?, you ask. Welp, about 2 miles into my 6-mile recovery run, I was feeling strange irritation in my left Achilles. It wasn't painful, so I ignored it, but by 2 1/2 miles, it got too much. So, I stopped to take a look, and it was the left shoe sole insert coming out of the back of my shoe. For the rest of the run, I had to stop every quarter mile or so to shove the insert back into the shoe.After I finished my run, I pulled out the insert to inspect it. The left shoe insert is no longer structurally sound (you can see the crinkles), so I will have to replace the insert to run in that pair of shoes.I have full faith that this defect is an anomaly, and I will get the most mileage out of the new Boston 12s that are pending delivery. However, I can only give this purchase 3 stars due to the defective sole insert in the left shoe.
One of the best soles that I've ever experienced in a running shoe. Soft enough for comfort but firm enough for responsiveness at speed and protection on long runs. The upper is a mystery to me though. Of the countless shoes I've gone through from every major brand, I've never had to size down before, yet these still feel a little long after sizing down. I have to tie these so tight that they kind of hurt before the run in order for them to be tight enough that my heel doesn't feel like it's going to slip out during the run, but in doing so I've also tightened them so much that I thought I might get a blister along the outside of my arch for the first time in my life. When I get it right, they may be the best shoe I've ever trained in, but many is it hard to get right.
Been away from Adidas running shoes for decades because fit was too narrow for me but when I heard these shoes have a roomy toe box I decided to give them a try. Overall this shoe checked a lot of boxes for me, a cushioned ( but not too much) shoe with still some responsiveness that I can use as a daily trainer/super trainer that is comfortable during easy runs and fun for tempo runs. The only downside to this shoe is the flimsy heel counter which I still have some heel slippage even by going half a size down and doing the runner's knot. I have to wear my thicker runner socks with these shoes. For the next iteration of this shoe I suggest: 1) better heel counter, more structure and make the heel cushioning more robust 2) gusset the tongue 3) change the laces (likes ... MoreBeen away from Adidas running shoes for decades because fit was too narrow for me but when I heard these shoes have a roomy toe box I decided to give them a try. Overall this shoe checked a lot of boxes for me, a cushioned ( but not too much) shoe with still some responsiveness that I can use as a daily trainer/super trainer that is comfortable during easy runs and fun for tempo runs. The only downside to this shoe is the flimsy heel counter which I still have some heel slippage even by going half a size down and doing the runner's knot. I have to wear my thicker runner socks with these shoes. For the next iteration of this shoe I suggest: 1) better heel counter, more structure and make the heel cushioning more robust 2) gusset the tongue 3) change the laces (likes to come undone) and lacing system to something easier to lockdown midfoot.
I bought special addition Bostons for the 2018 LA Marathon and really like them. I purchased the Boston 12s from RR this past October because of the carbon plate. I really liked the ride I was getting. I rotate three pairs of shoes for running, and I had just gone over the 280-mile mark for my Boston 12s. So, I went ahead and ordered a new pair from RR (May 15th, delivery still pending), but this morning, it happened.What happened?!?, you ask. Welp, about 2 miles into my 6-mile recovery run, I was feeling strange irritation in my left Achilles. It wasn't painful, so I ignored it, but by 2 1/2 miles, it got too much. So, I stopped to take a look, and it was the left shoe sole insert coming out of the back of my shoe. For the rest of the run, I had to stop every ... MoreI bought special addition Bostons for the 2018 LA Marathon and really like them. I purchased the Boston 12s from RR this past October because of the carbon plate. I really liked the ride I was getting. I rotate three pairs of shoes for running, and I had just gone over the 280-mile mark for my Boston 12s. So, I went ahead and ordered a new pair from RR (May 15th, delivery still pending), but this morning, it happened.What happened?!?, you ask. Welp, about 2 miles into my 6-mile recovery run, I was feeling strange irritation in my left Achilles. It wasn't painful, so I ignored it, but by 2 1/2 miles, it got too much. So, I stopped to take a look, and it was the left shoe sole insert coming out of the back of my shoe. For the rest of the run, I had to stop every quarter mile or so to shove the insert back into the shoe.After I finished my run, I pulled out the insert to inspect it. The left shoe insert is no longer structurally sound (you can see the crinkles), so I will have to replace the insert to run in that pair of shoes.I have full faith that this defect is an anomaly, and I will get the most mileage out of the new Boston 12s that are pending delivery. However, I can only give this purchase 3 stars due to the defective sole insert in the left shoe.
Just not for me 🤷🏼‍♂️ ran a few 3-5 miles distances in them and they just didn’t feel right. The heel sole for me was narrow compared to my Saucony Triumph 21’s. They were pretty light and have that race feeling. I heard from reviews about the lacing and how it is hard to get a good lock down. I experienced that. I had to buy a pair longer shoe laces because the pair that come with the sneaker are way too short to double knot and event for the lacing configuration for heel lockdown. I returned them after 3 runs in them. I really wanted them to work for me. I instead went with the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 shoes which fit me well, i don’t have to mess with the lacing, are super light and work with me well.
I’ve used this shoe as an every day trainer up to long distances (13-23 miles). Compared to the Boston 10 and 11, the 12’s have a different shape, stack height, feel compared to Boston 10 and 11. Everything from the aesthetic profile of the shoe to it’s responsiveness and spring makes it an ideal shoe for a daily trainer up to a full marathon. I wouldn’t use this shoe for anything longer than a 26 mile run, but it has proven to be a one-stop-shop for short/fast to long/slow distances and pace. I love the versatility. There is a better responsiveness from a “step and feel” as they’ve reapplied the same technologies from their high-end racing shoes as each stride step roll through the foot and pops off on every stride. I think this speaks to the combination of midsole ... MoreI’ve used this shoe as an every day trainer up to long distances (13-23 miles). Compared to the Boston 10 and 11, the 12’s have a different shape, stack height, feel compared to Boston 10 and 11. Everything from the aesthetic profile of the shoe to it’s responsiveness and spring makes it an ideal shoe for a daily trainer up to a full marathon. I wouldn’t use this shoe for anything longer than a 26 mile run, but it has proven to be a one-stop-shop for short/fast to long/slow distances and pace. I love the versatility. There is a better responsiveness from a “step and feel” as they’ve reapplied the same technologies from their high-end racing shoes as each stride step roll through the foot and pops off on every stride. I think this speaks to the combination of midsole compounds in the Light Strike Pro in the forefoot and Light Strike 2.0 through the heel and midfoot. Having the carbon rod segment going from the heel and splaying out into 5 rods interacting with each toe instead of a full plate makes the shoe lightweight yet still durable. I would not use this shoe for any type of trail or off-road running, its not designed to for durability on trail surface conditions.I believe the shoe size is true to fit. I thought it was too long for my 11.5 size foot, but the shoe does narrow down at the toe box and if I went a half size smaller, my pinky toes would have been pinched.At first, I thought I was not going to like how thin the tongue material is. However, Adidas engineered in a thick/durable "eye let" system where the laces do not create pressure points as they cross over the top of your foot.
I wanted to put some real miles on these before submitting my review and after a little over a week running with them I think I have a new favorite road runner. These are the first pair of Adidas that I have trained in but I can say that out of the box I felt that they fit and felt better than my other running shoes.The fit is great, I have size 13 feet and I often feel like running shoes leave a lot to be desired in the size of the toe box. Typically when I run down hill my toes scrape the front or top of the shoes in a really uncomfortable way and that just wasn't an issue with the Boston 12. My local runs take me up and down hundreds of feet so a minor rub or pinch is not an insignificant issue over a number of miles. The mesh upper breathes very well and have ... MoreI wanted to put some real miles on these before submitting my review and after a little over a week running with them I think I have a new favorite road runner. These are the first pair of Adidas that I have trained in but I can say that out of the box I felt that they fit and felt better than my other running shoes.The fit is great, I have size 13 feet and I often feel like running shoes leave a lot to be desired in the size of the toe box. Typically when I run down hill my toes scrape the front or top of the shoes in a really uncomfortable way and that just wasn't an issue with the Boston 12. My local runs take me up and down hundreds of feet so a minor rub or pinch is not an insignificant issue over a number of miles. The mesh upper breathes very well and have just a little stretch so that when you lace up the thin tongue of the shoe you get that really nice snug but not-too-tight feeling through the middle. The heel is lightly padded which I prefer as I can be sensitive to contact there. I will say that the materials inside might be a little scratchy in an ultra thin sock but in both cheap cotton and my name brand merino wool running socks I was quite comfortable. Having not tried the older model Boston shoes I didn't have a frame of reference but the Energyrod 2.0 tech that Adidas is marketing for these shoes does seem to have a very positive effect on my performance. The feeling of transfer of energy from the ground strike to the lift is noticeable and I can honestly say the feeling made me want to keep going. The Boston 12 felt stable and sturdy without being heavy and after long runs I didn't feel like I had been battling gravity which is high praise for a heavy runner like myself. Ultimately I think the thing that I love about the Boston 12 is that when I see them sitting with my other gear I want to put them on and go running.
I received this product for free for the purpose of reviewing it.I have put about 15-20 miles on them, and wore them casually around my office a couple of days.I usually run with the Gel-Kayano from Asics, the most recent ones I purchased being the 29s. This is my first pair of Adidas running shoes and I am very surprised by them. Other than Asics, I have tried Nike, Mizuno, and Saucony, but never liked any of them. These Boston 12s have a lot of bounce, and provide a lot of support and stability. I liked the stiffness of the upper part of the show, but did not like the lacing system. I needed to readjust the laces multiple times, and creates pressure points on the top of my foot. The heel area lacks stiffness, and without creating pressure on the front of my ... MoreI received this product for free for the purpose of reviewing it.I have put about 15-20 miles on them, and wore them casually around my office a couple of days.I usually run with the Gel-Kayano from Asics, the most recent ones I purchased being the 29s. This is my first pair of Adidas running shoes and I am very surprised by them. Other than Asics, I have tried Nike, Mizuno, and Saucony, but never liked any of them. These Boston 12s have a lot of bounce, and provide a lot of support and stability. I liked the stiffness of the upper part of the show, but did not like the lacing system. I needed to readjust the laces multiple times, and creates pressure points on the top of my foot. The heel area lacks stiffness, and without creating pressure on the front of my feet by tightening the laces, the rear does feel a bit loose. Overall I really like the shoes. They are very nice looking, and feel great over multiple miles.
I received these products for free from the REI Trailblazers sampling program in exchange for my honest review.How I tested this product:I have taken these for two 5-mile runs, three 2-mile runs, and worn them on a long airport day and a half-day walk around the city.Pros1- snug and comfortable - it felt like my feet were being hugged. I liked the under ankle cushions on the sides of the shoe mouth.2- light - these are nice and light for long runs3- good cushion when running - my knees and heels did not hurt at the end of my runs.4- back of the heel tongue was convenient for putting onCons1- Difficult to slip on - I like my shoes to be able to slip into and not have to tie every time I put them on. Unfortunately, despite the cool tongue feature for ... MoreI received these products for free from the REI Trailblazers sampling program in exchange for my honest review.How I tested this product:I have taken these for two 5-mile runs, three 2-mile runs, and worn them on a long airport day and a half-day walk around the city.Pros1- snug and comfortable - it felt like my feet were being hugged. I liked the under ankle cushions on the sides of the shoe mouth.2- light - these are nice and light for long runs3- good cushion when running - my knees and heels did not hurt at the end of my runs.4- back of the heel tongue was convenient for putting onCons1- Difficult to slip on - I like my shoes to be able to slip into and not have to tie every time I put them on. Unfortunately, despite the cool tongue feature for helping you slip in, I found that I had to untie and tie every time I wanted to put these shoes on.2- I found them somewhat difficult to loosen and tighten, they may need a little more breaking in but I find that the lace holders did not easily loosen.
The Boston 12 showed promise after all the rave reviews, I thought it would be my new super shoe. I was let down by a few things. Fit was too narrow at the midfoot, so it was a challenge to get a loose enough lacing (I have a feeling it had to do with the funky lacing system where the eyelets acted as gussets, squeezing your foot even if you don't intend to). The heel on the contrary was way too loose with no bumpers or pads (well a small almost nonexistent one), and the heel counter was stiff right at the center back. No matter what type of socks you wear with them, toe socks, thick cushioned wool ones, no-show or crew, nothing fills in this awkwardly loose fit (even in my TTS and one size up). Ultimately, it is a huge fail by Adidas on designing the shoe fit, even ... MoreThe Boston 12 showed promise after all the rave reviews, I thought it would be my new super shoe. I was let down by a few things. Fit was too narrow at the midfoot, so it was a challenge to get a loose enough lacing (I have a feeling it had to do with the funky lacing system where the eyelets acted as gussets, squeezing your foot even if you don't intend to). The heel on the contrary was way too loose with no bumpers or pads (well a small almost nonexistent one), and the heel counter was stiff right at the center back. No matter what type of socks you wear with them, toe socks, thick cushioned wool ones, no-show or crew, nothing fills in this awkwardly loose fit (even in my TTS and one size up). Ultimately, it is a huge fail by Adidas on designing the shoe fit, even though the other aspects held promise. Hopefully they get it right on the Boston 13 or maybe 14.
