Technology focus: Rubber traction in Adidas sub-100 gram supershoe
29 Apr 2026
Share:
London Marathon record-breaker Sabastian Sawe among athletes wearing latest “supershoe”
Sabastian Sawe, who became the first athlete to run a sub-two-hour marathon in a competitive race at the London Marathon, runner-up Yomif Kejelcha, who also finished under two hours, as well as Tigst Assefa, who set a new women-only world record, were among athletes wearing Adidas’ latest “supershoe”, launched only three days before the event.
Launched 23 April, the Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3 is 'a new elite racing shoe' weighing an average 97 grams and featuring "strategically placed Continental rubber" in the forefoot for traction at high speeds.
The outsole uses a minimal rubber layout designed to preserve grip while reducing weight, underlining the role advanced rubber compounds continue to play in next-generation performance footwear.
Adidas said the design avoids compromising weight while delivering “reliable traction” in race conditions.
The shoe also combines a new ‘Lightstrike Pro Evo foam’ with an integrated carbon system branded Energyrim, aimed at improving propulsion and running efficiency.
Adidas said the model is 30% lighter than its predecessor, with 11% greater forefoot energy return and a 1.6% improvement in running economy.
The launch highlights how lightweight rubber traction systems remain central to balancing grip, durability and energy efficiency in the latest generation of marathon “supershoes.”
This article is only available to subscribers - subscribe today
Subscribe for unlimited access. A subscription to European Rubber Journal includes:
Every issue of European Rubber Journal (6 issues) including Special Reports & Maps.
Unlimited access to ERJ articles online
Daily email newsletter – the latest news direct to your inbox