The easiest way to kick off of this review is to reiterate how much we didn’t like the last two iterations of the Adidas Boston, meaning the 10 and 11. We say this because it only emphasizes how much better Adidas has made the new Boston 12 and why it is so much more accessible to even non-Adidas runners. Yes, it still has a couple little hiccups, but overall a much improved shoe and one that is a lot of fun to run in. These things move and still remain easy on the legs, but the upper has to work for you.
Quick Details, Specs, and Availability
- Weight – 9.5oz or 269g for a US Men’s 9, 8oz or 227g for a US Women’s 7
- Cushion – 38mm of cushion and a 7mm heel/toe drop
- Pricing – $160 USD
- Colors – 5 colors
Performance Review
Going into this one, the Boston 12 was a bit overshadowed given how we felt about the 10 and 11. To put it simply, they just didn’t work for us at all. In fact, it left us wondering if Adidas had lost its way a bit with the shoe. The upper didn’t fit well and that midsole just felt way to stiff and it didn’t translate into the hype it typically gets. But then we heard the Boston 12 was getting a bit of a redo and we were intrigued to see what Adidas might have done differently.
First, let’s talk midsole, because that is the standout on the shoe. Adidas has pushed more Lightstrike Pro to the forefoot, giving you a more responsive and firmer takeoff position while pushing Lightstrike 2.0, a softer version of the foam into the heel and midfoot, giving you a more cushioned landing. This creates a much more performance oriented experience, while also providing some recovery to the legs. They have also changed the Energy Rod layout, and all of this leads to a better overall run. Also, once these get moving, it’s like an engine that wants to just keep propelling you forward, but not in a way that puts too much strain on your legs. Adidas just did a great job with the foam implementation on here.
Unfortunately, it is hampered a bit by some issues in the upper. They have moved to a one piece mesh that is extremely breathable and they have also widened the forefoot just in front of the mid, but it still has that severe taper into the lateral toe area, something we’d like to see them move away from them. Then it finishes with a very thin collar, tongue and a heel cup that has just a slight bit of internal padding. They did try to put some padding on the tongue, but it is way too little and you will see what we mean because the problem for us here was fit and lock down. Many times we found ourselves leaving the shoe a little too loose, which would lead to some slippage because there is no real heel counter to lock you in place. Other times, we would try to compensate by lacing tighter, and this would lead to lace bite because there’s not enough padding on the tongue to offset that pressure.
So for us, the running experience, in terms of the midsole, is definitely one of the better out there right now especially in this “plated” distance training category. The Boston 12 is complicated a bit by that upper, BUT that will be person dependent so our only caveat is to try it before making a call. We do love the ride and if you’re an Adios Pro 3 runner, this is your perfect distance, training partner.
Construction and Materials
Upper
The Adidas Boston 12 boasts a one-piece lightweight mesh upper, providing exceptional breathability and comfort during long runs. Its well-ventilated design keeps your feet cool and dry, ensuring a pleasant running experience. Additionally, the mesh upper’s durability ensures these shoes will stand up to the rigors of regular training.
Midsole
The Adidas Boston 12 brings a race-day feel to training with its propulsive ENERGYRODS 2.0, infused with glass fiber to minimize energy loss underfoot. Its impressive speed doesn’t compromise durability, thanks to the combination of ultra-light Lightstrike Pro cushioning and the resilient Lightstrike 2.0 EVA in the midsole.
Outsole
The Adidas Boston 12 features a Continental™ Rubber outsole, delivering exceptional traction and durability on various terrains. This outsole ensures reliable grip and longevity, enhancing your overall running experience.
Overall Conclusion
So the Adidas Boston 12 is not a slam dunk, but it is close, and when it works for you, then it is spectacular. The midsole ride is phenomenal, and when pairing it with a race shoe like the Adios Pro 3 the transition is super easy. Our big issues land in that upper and our inability to really find a secure lock down without creating too much pressure up top. We just couldn’t seem to find the perfect fit up there which meant some slippage or too tight a lace down. However, when it does work for you and it definitely can for some, then the ride itself is one of the best out there right now making this one of the best “plated” distance trainers out there.
Learn more on the Adidas website
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Check Out Other Reviewers Thoughts
As always, we gather together some of our favorite reviewers so you can get a well-rounded view of the shoe. Here are our favorites.
