Adidas Evo SL Review: The Budget Racer That Feels Like a Super Shoe

The Adidas Evo SL is a lightweight running shoe inspired by the high-performance Pro Evo 1, a racing shoe that carries a hefty price tag of $500.

However, the Evo SL offers a much more affordable alternative at just $150, making it a tempting option for runners looking for speed without breaking the bank.

But does it live up to the hype? Let's dive in.

Adidas EVO SL Unboxing

Key Features & Specifications

• Price: $150 / €150
• Stack Height: 39mm (heel), 32mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 7mm
• Weight: 267g (US size 14)
• Upper: Lightweight woven mesh
• Midsole: Full-length Adidas Lightstrike Pro foam
• Outsole: Adidas Continental rubber (winter version)
• Use Case: Speed work, threshold runs, racing (5K to half marathon)
• Neutral Shoe: Designed for runners with a neutral gait

Performance Review

Speed & Responsiveness

The Evo SL is built for speed. With its full-length Lightstrike Pro foam, the same premium foam found in Adidas' top-tier racing shoes, it delivers a highly responsive and energetic ride.

It excels in workouts like tempo runs and threshold sessions, making it a great option for runners looking to improve their speed.

Comfort & Fit

Despite being a lightweight shoe, the Evo SL provides a decent level of comfort.

The woven mesh upper is highly breathable, though it may feel a bit too airy for running with colder conditions. The fit is relatively accommodating compared to other Adidas shoes, making it a good choice for runners with medium-width feet.

Durability & Traction

The Continental rubber outsole provides reliable grip, particularly in winter conditions. However, due to its minimalistic design, the outsole is relatively thin, meaning durability may be a concern for high-mileage runners.

This shoe is best suited for workouts and races rather than daily training.

Versatility

While the Evo SL is primarily designed for fast-paced efforts, some runners have used it for marathons. However, for long distances, a plated shoe may provide better efficiency.

It shines brightest in shorter races like 5Ks and 10Ks, as well as speed-focused training sessions.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Affordable compared to other 'super' shoes
• Lightweight and highly responsive
• Full-length Lightstrike Pro foam (no watered-down version)
• Versatile for different speed workouts and races
• Good traction for winter running

Cons:

• Thin outsole may wear out quickly
• Tongue is too short, making lockdown less secure
• Laces feel cheap and flimsy
• Hype-driven marketing may create unrealistic expectations

Comparison: Evo SL vs. SL2 vs. Boston

• Adidas SL2 ($90): Heavier but more durable; great for daily training.
• Adidas Evo SL ($150): Best for speed workouts; super lightweight but less durable.
• Adidas Boston ($120): Offers more support and durability for longer runs.

If you’re looking for a daily workhorse, the SL2 is a solid choice, here you can read a full review. If you want a balance between speed and durability, the Boston may be worth the extra investment.

But if pure speed and fun are your priorities, the Evo SL is hard to beat at this price.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth the Hype?

The Adidas Evo SL is undoubtedly a fantastic value for a performance-oriented shoe.

It delivers premium racing-foam technology at a fraction of the cost of Adidas' flagship models.

However, it’s important to set realistic expectations, this is not a do-it-all shoe.

For runners seeking a lightweight, responsive option for speed training and short-distance racing, the Evo SL is an excellent pick.