Lightstrike Pro 2.0: Did the Boston 12 Move in the Right Direction?

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Adidas Adizero Boston 12: A Comprehensive Review
The Adidas Adizero Boston 12 arrives amidst much anticipation, poised to build upon the legacy of its predecessors as a versatile daily trainer with speed capabilities. This review delves into the shoe's design, performance, and potential shortcomings to offer a well-rounded perspective for runners seeking their next training companion.
Technical Specifications:
Weight: Men's: 10.2oz (288g), Women's: 8.8oz (252g)
Drop: 7mm
Midsole: Lightstrike Pro + Lightstrike 2.0 with ENERGYRODS 2.0
Outsole: Continental Rubber
Upper: Engineered mesh
Design and Fit:
The Boston 12 features a sleek, modern design with a breathable mesh upper that prioritizes comfort and lockdown. The fit is generally true to size, although some runners report a slightly snug heel. The lacing system is secure and adjustable, offering a personalized fit. However, the upper's overall structure might not accommodate wider foot types as comfortably.
Performance:
The true strength of the Boston 12 lies in its performance. The combination of Lightstrike Pro and Lightstrike 2.0 in the midsole provides a well-cushioned yet responsive ride. The ENERGYRODS 2.0 add a subtle spring to the step, encouraging a smooth and propulsive transition. This shoe shines at tempo paces and faster efforts, offering a lively and engaging experience. While not ideal for true speedwork due to its weight, it transitions surprisingly well for easy runs, delivering surprising comfort and plushness. The Continental rubber outsole provides excellent grip and durability, making it suitable for various terrains.
Potential Drawbacks:
Despite its strengths, the Boston 12 is not without its drawbacks. The upper, while breathable, might lack the plushness of some competitors. Additionally, the snug heel fit might not suit all runners. Some users report occasional lace slippage, requiring mid-run adjustments. Finally, the price point falls on the higher end of the daily trainer spectrum.
Verdict:
The Adidas Adizero Boston 12 is a compelling choice for runners seeking a versatile daily trainer with a penchant for speed. Its responsive midsole, comfortable cushioning, and grippy outsole make it a capable companion for various workouts and terrains. However, the fit might not suit wider foot types, and the upper could benefit from additional refinement. Ultimately, the decision boils down to individual preferences and priorities. If you prioritize a lively ride, appreciate a touch of responsiveness, and value durability, the Boston 12 deserves serious consideration. However, if a plush upper and wider fit are paramount, you might want to explore other options.
Additional Notes:
This review is based on a combination of expert and user reviews, as well as technical specifications provided by Adidas.
Individual experiences with the shoe may vary depending on factors such as running style, foot type, and personal preferences.
It is always recommended to try on shoes before purchasing them to ensure a proper fit.
I hope this comprehensive review provides valuable insights into the Adidas Adizero Boston 12. If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.
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[@BassTonix]

Never ran in the Boston 9, but the 12 is the best that I’ve experienced so far. Completely agree about the upper and lack of heel padding, those were my biggest issues with the shoe. Short, succinct review, gotta love it!

[@andrewgill25]

With any Boston shoe you can routinely get them for 50% off as close as a couple weeks post launch - this is a great shoe for the bigger folks as at 250lbs I’ve found it to be my favorite daily trainer

[@SpencerReek]

I definitely agree with this. I am 255, and it is currently my favorite shoes to run in. I am really want to try the Rebel V4.

[@SKILLZ707]

Got my pair at an Adidas outlet for $80. I'm 185lbs and love them. They are a bit firm but nothing crazy, and after about 30-50mi, you can definitely feel them soften up.

[@kevinfranz4369]

the Boston is burly runner approved 🫡🫡

[@pbnotj1]

6’1 “ 215 lbs and love these , appreciated that they are not too soft and don’t bottom out like softer foams

[@vanvihung8982]

Shoes prices are not realizable anymore, the real price always 50% off, the extra are the cost to get to try on before everyone

[@mdicello1823]

I LOVE the Boston 12. My fav road shoe easily. I remember basing all of my shoe choices off Seth's opinion. Glad I ventured further!!! Thanks for the review as always.

[@loganharder6144]

It definitely softens up after 30 miles. I’d say it’s super versatile, I think it’s sweet spot is moderate but I have also done some 200m strides in them and they feel pretty good actually at paces faster than mile pace. If you want to save money and are interested in building a shoe rotation this is a good one to start with

[@ChristopherSandefur]

I agree. It was not a great experience the first 10 miles or so. Also, it feels great under 6:00 pace. I actually prefer the geometry of the Boston 12 over the Pros. I put in over 400 miles and was responsive until this point. Wide toe box and fit true to size for my size 10.

[@angelmatos9143]

“That feeling after a run is one of the greatest you can have” - Larry Bird on his passion for running

[@nicolaasvanwyk8586]

Im about 400km into a pair, definitely needs about 30 - 50km to break in completely. No issues with fit and lockdown on my med to narrow width feet. I find it quite a versatile shoe ito paces, and find it easy to lock into any speed except e.g sprinting. I think its an ideal faster paced trainer/racer for a heavier runner. Durability is top notch, and the ride still feels really good after the distance Ive clocked.

[@leonchristensen1765]

Pegasus turbo 2s were 🔥. Would love to find them in the back of my cupboard right now.

[@daviddiazlife]

Seth, you give amazing advice!! We regret not buying more of the Saucony Endorphine line. From Your advice We got great deals! ❤❤❤Thanks!

[@sondjata]

1) Glad to see you back 2) My intro to and favorite was the Boston 8. I have the 10 and have taken it 240 miles. I suppose with the move to high stacks I can forget about a return to 8.

[@Bradsworld2]

I wish I had bought 4 pair of the Saucony Endorphin Speed 1. I loved that shoe.

[@richardrankin7488]

More than 5 years. I started watching when I retired: January, 2019. Time races by when you are having fun.

[@dasdWARf]

Wish I had stockpiled endo speed 2's.

[@backyard1015]

I agree 100%! I hate it when they take my shoe of the year and totally destroy the positive aspects of a shoe! The foam in the 3s is unpredictable and unstable. The heel counter is way too harsh! Saucony has been dropped from my shoe rotation. I switched to Asics. Saucony lost a customer while Asics gained one!

[@seanduffy2944]

I agree with Anne on the Nike Terra TC. It has been @ forty years (before you were born Seth) since it came out, but it was my favorite shoe of all-time. It is crazy that Nike hasn’t tried to recreate or reintroduce. The Pegasus came out around the same time, but I wish we were on the TerraTC 40.

[@kuriosites]

Very helpful. I'm 130 lbs. soaking wet and I've hesitated about the Boston because of the weight. I'm wondering if the Endorphin Speed or the upcoming Topo Specter 2 might work better for me because I'm sensitive to weight.

[@cristinaarceo9136]

Thank you Seth fir your review of this shoe. Your review was on point 'cause I feel the same way too. The heel counter feels so different for me. But it make me run in a specific way which is to land on mid to forefoot so I'm on my toes all the time.😅 Onward and upward DGR!

[@groupsimon6501]

QD: definitely the Mach 4 or 5, and Novablast…love them 😊

[@johanskjlberg2636]

QD: Saucony Kinvara 11! I loved them, and was so dissapointed with the changes they made for the K12s

[@snowwalker9999]

QD: Rebel V3. I can still find them but I’m kicking myself for not getting them a few months ago when I could find the color way I wanted for really cheap. I’m really liking the Novablast 3 and the Cloudsurfer too. Both are on sale and in might get a couple of those too. I could get Noosa tri 14 really cheap. They felt light and comfortable but I can’t get too crazy right now.

[@christianschobinger1131]

I love the Boston 9 as well 😊 my treasure are my 6 pairs of the Alphafly 1, best shoes ever by far 🎉

[@eulogyforadream]

The Adios 6 and 7 reminds me a lot of the Boston 9.

[@hfurbano]

The Adios 8 is even better than Boston 9 for me!

[@eulogyforadream]

@@hfurbano The Adios 6, 7 and 8 are all underrated. Adidas didn't fix what wasn't broken. The V9 is going to be very different. I think it's going to be track legal.

[@CriticalThinker02]

I’m struggling a bit with these shoes… bought them to train for my first marathon in May (also to run the race in), but so far they’ve been pretty harsh on my legs. Always feel beat up afterwards. I have 50 miles in them now. Keep wondering, am I doing something wrong in these shoes?

[@gtromble]

Hi Seth - at about 6:30 you have an outsole card giving it a score of 9, but in your overall summary table you have the outsole as a 6.

[@backyard1015]

Good catch!

[@davidmcquade4743]

Hi Seth - you did like the heel counter on the Adizero SL... Adizero SL may be my bread and butter shoe. I've ran in the SL and Boston 12. SL wins for me with the better fit, lighter weight, and it can easily pick up the pace.And no rods/plate. Plus, the price point is great.

[@Cellularsurfer]

Running my 2nd Boston marathon in April. V12 I had to donate as the upper was trash. Poor lockdown. Even tried new laces.

[@cevasbinghost]

QOD: I wish I had stockpiled Mach 4s, I bought them thanks to you Seth and oh my god they're still my all time favorite shoes, durability would be the only issue but man they were just perfect. Also I got a pair of Boston 12 a couple months ago and even though I think they are fine they're nothing alike to the Boston 9s or the Adios 5 that are my favorite adidas shoes

[@franciscomachado8990]

mix of fast / daily / long, did all with it and works good in all those 3 but i would use for for fast or long, they were quite good in a 30km training for the marathon at marathon speed

[@derekgamblin]

Best shoe I have ever had, so good I got two pair. Helped when i picked them up for £82/$104 a pair

[@SoundScoutOne]

The Boston 12 have become my favourite daily trainer in 2023 and on top of that Adidas regularly has sales on where these shoes can be picked up for 30%, 40% and sometimes even 50% off. I agree that for a proper long run I also go with the Triumph. PS: I just retired my pair of Rebel V2 😢

[@seamusmcsweeney55]

Definitely should have stocked up on Rebel V2

[@TheScottyLincoln]

I really liked the ride of the Boston 12 but for some reason the shape of the upper just didn’t get along with my foot shape. Adios pro 3 fits perfect but the Boston just fit oddly and had some discomfort.

[@Enoch-Root]

Got a second pair of Boston 12s yesterday. This time went down half a size. Find that the fit is now perfect, before it was just a little loose. Really like this shoes, used the first pair for 1025km. The Boston 11s though were awful and injured me, especially due to the narrow fit and the rigid heel counter.

[@themanorruns]

I’m racing in Boston!! The BAA 5k will be week 52 of running a 5k every week for a year 🙌🏻

[@MINIMALmtb]

I found the heel counter very rigid and it dug into my heel after only a few km's. Sad because everything else on the show felt great but I ended up selling them. I know lots of people loved these so not sure if my pair was faulty or if they just didnt work for my foot shape.

[@user-sl1ol6lm9i]

Epic list: Alphafly 1 (racing), NB Fuelcell TC (long run). Nike Dragonfly is another potential candidate.

[@annestrock4917]

Wait isn't that a stockpile of shoes in the background?!😂 I went through 4 pairs of the Boston 9 ! It was really the shoe to do it all! Currently on my 3rd pair of Rebel v2 and Mach 4s and 2nd pair of Asics Noosa tri 14s.( I wish I still had a pair of Nike Terra tc's and Nike Zoom Elite v4's) .

[@sahacking]

My two favorite daily trainers in the past 10 years were the Adidas Supernova Glide (Boost midsoles) and the Hoka Huaka. I had three pairs of the Supernova Glide, and four pairs of the Huaka. Also, you're right about the first Asics Novablast--I wish I had a new pair of those right now because the 2 and 3 (and I assume the 4) have moved further and further away from the original goodness.

[@RobertHarridge]

I own the 12, and I find it gets better the longer you run in it. I really do enjoy this shoe for just about everything. That being said, the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 is better. The upper is much more comfortable with a better lockdown. Puma Nitro Elite foam and regular Nitro foam with the Puma PWRPLATE. PumaGrip outsole rubber is amazing. For a daily trainer with some pep, I’d pick the Puma over the Adidas, especially at the same price point.

[@CriticalThinker02]

Are the Puma DN2 midsoles softer?

[@SofaKingA]

I was about to buy the B12. I have the Puma DN2 coming in the mail tomorrow. Glad I saw this post I'll hold off on the Bostons!

[@CriticalThinker02]

@@SofaKingA I just ran a marathon yesterday in the DN2’s. They might not have quite enough cushion under foot for some for that distance, but they do for me. Highly recommend this shoe.

[@SofaKingA]

@@CriticalThinker02 That's great to hear! My biggest concern is if the DN2 is fun to run in. I know it has a plate but the shoe doesn't seem to have an aggressive rocker like the Boston or Speeds. I know it has rave reviews though.

[@CriticalThinker02]

@@SofaKingA They are fun to run in… the plate and foam provide some bounce & propulsion, but nothing extreme. And yes the toe rocker is nowhere as aggressive as the B12’s (which I hate personally). They’re also relatively lightweight and very stable. And you can find them on sale, which you may have already!

[@Loc1792]

Bought the B12 and loved them bought the Superblast for long runs and it feels heavier and just ok ( lighter on paper though ) Sad cause I could have bought 2 B12 plus saved a little instead of the superblast.

[@trilife93]

QD: or dream rotation if you will. •Nike Zoom Peg Turbo 2 (tempo) •Saucony Kinvara 11 (daily) •Nike A.F v1 (race) •hoka speedgoat (mountain) •undecided long run shoe •undecided trail run shoe

[@JohanSmalls]

The 3 shoes I stocked up in my life: Nike Epic React 1, Hoka Mach 4 and now Asics Noosa 14

[@reginaldgonzales]

Can you review hyperion max?

[@ADyess086]

Love mine

[@Mr-SRG]

QOD Stockpile: Saucony Speed 2. So quick and lasted 400+ miles!

[@justinjordaens7864]

QOD: The Asics Novablast 2, beautiful shoe.

[@MojoShock]

Waiting for these Adidas shoe reviews to end, more New Balance and Saucony 🙏 😊

[@Wildbrooker4304]

Kicking myself I didn’t stock pile the Nike zoom fly 2 flyknit

[@AlistairEldred]

I still have my 9 and run in it every now and then to reminisce. The upper and tongue are probably my favourite in any shoe ever. The grip is fantastic but midsole is a bit flat; whack a modern foam in there and it would be a thing of beauty.

[@user-ct9vh8dg1t]

hahahaha I replayed what you said about stock piling a great shoe when you have the chance to my lovely wife so she stops telling people I am crazy for buying 3 pairs of Mach 4. After 400km in the first (Coral) pair I loooooved them so much I went out and got another 2 pairs in different colour ways and am still running in the last pair now (Teal). My shoes usually hit 1000km of treadmill.

[@ScottC79]

I do think the Boston 12 is a little overhyped, so appreciate the honest review. The only thing I would add is that it probably took me about 50 miles to break them in. They’re still firm, but much more enjoyable now. I’m not sure I’ve ever had a shoe with that kind of break-in mileage. I also find them to be best around the 7ish min/mile pace, which is about my half marathon pace. So for me they’re not great for easy/daily training runs +/- 9 min/mile. I weigh about 160 if that helps.

[@LHNguyens]

Just got them and PB my 5k by 2 minutes with a full blader 😂 beast of a shoe

[@cesarzoghbi4695]

Why price 150$ is high? And for other running shoes not??

[@ahilleastzimas475]

lovit i pick it up in good discount about 110

[@fergusdenoon1255]

Just one point and one question, Point: the 10/11 were very good, the upper was awesome, the midsole foams were great, the outsole was great... ... it having a carbon plate directly under your heal with no padding above it, made it the worst shoe ever. Q: Does the 12 have a hard plate directly under your heal with no padding above it?

[@mattpotts6649]

For sure these need 40-50k breaking in. Mine came alive after 40k and they feel amazing now

[@TrailrunnerTroy]

Solid trainer for 5 to 15 mile training runs up to tempo pace. I like a little heaviness for distance training ;-)

[@BrendanWise-ze6ih]

Maybe because I’m a little bigger (5’8 175 shoe size 9) but I will take the Boston 12 over the 9 all day everyday. It’s better for me for daily, tempo, long run and even to race .

[@thomasbraun6603]

I was thinking the same thing. I'm the same build, and it feels great. Similar to the Endorphin Speed line.

[@BrendanWise-ze6ih]

@@thomasbraun6603 super excited to try out the Speed 4. Between the Boston 12 and Speed 4 I can get in all my marathon training

[@ronrunsworld]

I got them for 47$ (Black Friday), so no complains about the price. This shoe sometimes feel like a racer and sometimes like a brick (maybe on a colder days?) I am not sure on what is going on there!!

[@keithc1264]

QD: Altra Torin 4.5 Plush

[@jacosteyn4095]

Did I hear you say….. it’s not a tempo shoe…. Nor a long run shoe…. Or easy day?? So what is it good for then?

[@klipk7296]

lol I was wondering about this. I actually agree, but it's funny how the review has such a positive tone despite saying it's basically suitable for nothing

[@jacosteyn4095]

@@klipk7296 watched it again…. And I am concluding that it’s a poor review video…. He states basically it’s a daily trainer that is good for nothing.

[@ianwarner1429]

Freedom 4 from Saucony. I just ordered my 5th pair. They fit like moccasins on my feet. Lower stack, great feel and lightweight. I have over 600 miles on each pair. 4mm drop works for me and I use them for steasy runs and going to the store. 80 bucks Canadian is unbelievable too!🇨🇦

[@Christellezphoto]

QOD: Endorphin Speed 1, Novablast 1

[@cdigdawg]

QoD: Mach 4. I'm on my last pair now, and I'm getting sad.

[@edwinpepito1498]

So glad i got it for 71usd 😊 Edit: thanks Adidas for sending me a 50% off discount

[@marceloamador92024]

Asics novablast and the first asics FFBlast shoes take the insoles and insert them into say boston 11s and will make boston 11 feel like a super shoe

[@johnward4299]

I'm not crazy about the energy rods. In my experience, kind of forcing one to run in a particular way.

[@cmo3]

Seth is a tough grader. 6.6 out of 10 is a borderline failing grade for a shoe that most people say is very good. Everyone is entitled to their opinions.

[@FatUglySadMan]

His reviews are weird, sorry !

[@frankjacobsen6848]

Boston👍🏃🏻‍♂️🇳🇴

[@aristodiga82]

harsh score for the price point there. It's not cheap, obviously, but definitely there are more overpriced shoes out there...

[@FatUglySadMan]

Another odd review, Boston 12 is a proper do it all shoe, it’s a great long run shoe and tempo,not to sure what you’re on about.

[@runcheatthereaper9016]

Endorphine Speed 1& 2 !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@cesarzoghbi4695]

The Boston 12 is listed as one of the best shoes for fast training in late 2023 and early 2024 by almost all youtubers on the internet. You are one of the few who don't

[@jean-phil]

fordy runs and eddbud likes it but other reviewers, not that much ... kofuzi and doctorsofrunning for example

[@tomba343]

QD: Novablast 3 and Saucony Endorphin Pro 3. From what I heard in latest shoe reviews, the Endorphin Pro 4 is less aggressive and more a training shoe than a racer. Having a rather wide (flat) midfoot, not all super shoes suit me, but the Endorphin Pros and Speeds do. And the EP3 is fast, stable and fun at the same time, so that's my answer of the QD.

[@timtrenholm3698]

If they connected those inner heel collar padding strips, it would probably fix most of the heel lockdown problems people have. The other being, to soften the heel cups just a bit, so even if people have a bit of heel lift their heels aren't grinding against a hard rigid cup. Love the midsole/outsole for uptempo stuff, but not for recovery or pure long runs. Just a bit too firm.

[@user-so8kx7uj2x]

Awful review imo. The outsole is at least 8/10, the midsole is top, the price tends to be better than Deviate Nitro's 2 and Saucony Speed 3, the energy return is more than decent

[@tishamonroe7418]

not my choice for shoe

[@piotrswiecicki9239]

Did you get these glasses from your MAMA ?

[@SethJamesDeMoor]

grandmother

[@kikinomad]

I regret buying this shoe. It's just too heavy feeling and the ride is too firm for me. I've tried breaking it in, but it's the least favorite of my shoes and the one I never want to put on. I got it hugely discounted, but still regret it. Just not the shoe for me.

[@klipk7296]

same, feels like strapping wooden planks super tightly to my feet

[@trainwellracewell]

It’s a shame Adidas doesn’t try to make this shoe live up to its Boston name. The Boston Marathon is one of the pinnacle races worldwide. If I’m going to name a shoe after a race of that magnitude, it better be of the highest quality and competitive with any other shoe brand on the market. Adidas just comes off as mediocre and runners can smell it a mile away…or perhaps 26.2 miles away

[@Mr-SRG]

Boston 10 was the worst shoe that I ever tried... Straight back to Adidas

[@michaeldominic2070]

I'll be at Boston!

[@marcosgarcia7321]

Good reviews