© adidas
adidas Adizero Evo SL gets an update: a new woven mesh upper for added comfort
In 2025, few shoes generated as much buzz as this one. The adidas Adizero Evo SL stole the spotlight and established itself as one of the leading models in the daily trainer/performance category. Simple, efficient, and incredibly versatile, it quickly found its place in many runners’ rotations. After a gravel version, the German brand now unveils a new iteration of the Evo SL, featuring a major update: a brand-new woven mesh upper. A change that may seem subtle on paper… but brings significantly more support and comfort.
| An unchanged foundation… and that’s good news
Before diving into what’s new, let’s recall why the Evo SL has been so successful. The formula is simple, yet highly effective: a Lightstrike Pro midsole—adidas’ premium foam—delivering an excellent balance of cushioning, lightness, and energy return. A smooth geometry without a carbon plate that allows for a natural stride. And above all, unmatched versatility.
The Evo SL is the kind of shoe you can put on without thinking. For runners drawn to performance, it can do it all—from easy runs to speed sessions and tempo efforts. It’s essentially a more accessible and forgiving version of carbon-plated racing shoes like the Adizero Adios Pro Evo 2 or the Adios Pro 4, which also inspire its design.
Technical specs – ADIZERO EVO SL
- Category: performance daily trainer
- Usage: easy runs, speed training, tempo
- Cushioning: Lightstrike Pro
- Outsole: Continental rubber
- Surface: road
- Level: all runners
- Weight: 224 g (men)
- Stack height: 38 mm / 32 mm
- Drop: 6 mm
- Price: €150
| A new upper for improved comfort
This is where the main evolution lies. adidas introduces a woven mesh upper inspired by its Adizero racing models. Thinner, more flexible, and more breathable, it enhances overall comfort while providing better support—without adding weight.
This multi-directional stretch material allows for targeted support, with reinforced zones where the foot needs it most, while maintaining freedom elsewhere. Most importantly, this new upper fixes two key issues from the previous version.
First, the tongue—previously prone to shifting—has been redesigned to stay securely in place during runs. Second, overall foot lockdown is improved, particularly thanks to the Lightlock band that connects the lacing system to the heel. The result: a more secure fit, especially during accelerations and changes of direction.
| Still built for speed
Underfoot, nothing has changed—and that’s the most important part. The full-length Lightstrike Pro midsole remains, without any plate or added rigidity. This design choice is what defines the Evo SL and allows for a more natural, less demanding ride compared to carbon shoes.
The feel stays true to the Evo SL DNA: fluid, lightweight, and dynamic, capable of adapting to different paces. The foam provides solid energy return without being overly aggressive, making the shoe accessible to a wide range of runners—from beginners to more experienced athletes. Still, it remains a performance-oriented model, true to the Adizero philosophy.
| Reliable grip, as always
Another strength carried over to this version is the outsole. adidas continues to rely on Continental™ rubber, a benchmark for grip. Whether on dry or wet roads, traction is excellent, allowing runners to perform confidently in all conditions—especially during fast sessions or rainy runs.
| A shoe that blends performance and lifestyle
Beyond performance, the Evo SL stands out in the running world thanks to its style. Its updated design, unveiled during Fashion Week and inspired by Adizero carbon models, gives it a bold identity. A modern, sleek, and aggressive silhouette that appeals not only to runners but also to sneaker enthusiasts.
That’s part of its success: a shoe you can run in… but also wear casually in everyday life.
| adidas goes big for the Paris Marathon
To support this launch, adidas is going all out. During the Paris Marathon, the brand is setting up its “adidas District” in the 11th arrondissement, transforming several locations into running-focused hubs.
Highlights include:
➜ ADICOFFEE: a space to meet, recharge, and share pre-race energy
➜ ADICARE: a massage space for pre-race prep and post-race recovery
➜ ADIGARDEN: a redesigned flower shop where runners can test the Evo SL, take part in a Strava challenge, and receive a “finish flower” after the race
The goal is clear: create a true community hub for runners while showcasing flagship products and positioning the Evo SL as a symbol of modern running culture.
With this new version of the Adizero Evo SL, adidas doesn’t reinvent the shoe—it refines it. The updated upper improves comfort, fit, and breathability, while preserving what made the model successful: versatility, lightness, natural feel… and price. Still priced at €150, it remains one of the best value-for-money options on the market. adidas confirms that the Evo SL is more than just a trend—it’s becoming a long-term staple in the running world.
✔ The adidas Adizero Evo SL is available on adidas.com for €150.
Clément LABORIEUX
Journalist
