Adidas Adizero SL 2 Review: A Softer, Bouncier Take on a Value Favorite

Introduction

The original Adizero SL earned a loyal following by punching well above its price. With an MSRP around $120 and frequent discounts that pushed it as low as $35 to $65, it delivered a firm, fast daily ride that many runners came to love. The Adizero SL 2 is the second year of the shoe in its current form, and it arrives with one headline change: substantially more Lightstrike Pro racing foam in the midsole.

Bought with our own money and tested over a hot 8-mile first run, the SL 2 turned out to be a very different shoe from its predecessor. This is not a routine refresh. Adidas listened to the main criticism of the SL 1, which was firmness, and softened the shoe considerably while keeping the fast, fun character intact.

First Impressions: Same Vibe, Softer Ride

Out of the box, the SL 2 is a clean, simple, good-looking shoe. The design language across the Adizero line is restrained and consistent, and this green-and-black colorway follows the same formula. The upper is an A-grade training upper: not much padding, nothing busy, and noticeably nicer than other Adizero budget options.

One thing that stands out immediately is the fit. The forefoot is narrow, and it appears even narrower than the SL 1, which was already snug. The tongue remains oddly long, a quirk carried over from the first version. On foot, though, security is excellent with no heel slipping and no rubbing, even in thick socks during a sweaty summer run.

Weight and Value

In a US men’s 10.5, our pair measured 261.5 g, down from 276 g for the SL 1. That is light for the category, especially considering the amount of rubber and foam underfoot. For reference, comparable trainers typically run heavier: the Novablast 4 around 280 to 285 g, the Pegasus around 300 to 310 g, the Velocity Nitro 3 around 280 g, and the Rebel v4 around 223 g.

At around $130, the SL 2 undercuts many $140 competitors while offering what is arguably the most racing foam in any shoe at that price. It is shaping up to be exceptional value.

Midsole and Geometry: No Rocker, Plenty of Rubber

The key change is Lightstrike Pro, the racing foam, which now extends through the heel and forefoot rather than being limited to a small section as in the SL 1. The carrier foam, now called simply Lightstrike, has also been softened significantly. Press into the SL 2 midsole and it gives easily; the SL 1 barely moved.

The outsole keeps generous rubber coverage, blending workhorse durability elements into a speed trainer. It is not Continental rubber, but the SL 1’s grip was excellent and the compound appears the same. The shoe also retains a flat, non-rockered European platform, so expect a smoother, gentler roll than before but not the pronounced rocker of some competitors.

Ride and Performance: Soft, Squishy, and Fast

On the road, the SL 2 rides noticeably softer and more flexible than the SL 1. At everyday paces it feels squishy and plush, and at faster paces around 6:30 to 6:40 per mile it stays bouncy without feeling maxed out. Over 8 hot summer miles at an average around 6:44 per mile, it kept up comfortably and never felt punishing.

The closest comparison is the Saucony Endorphin Speed 2: soft, squishy, slightly unstable, and a lot of fun. Like that shoe, it brings something genuinely new to its price point.

Stability is the trade-off. With a narrow heel and deep sink into the foam, this is one of the least stable shoes in its class. Heel and midfoot strikers running fast may feel tossed around, even though the forefoot feels planted and the flexibility actually helps cornering.

Durability Outlook

The SL 1 proved impressively durable, reaching 285 miles with plenty of life left. The SL 2 uses a similar robust outsole, which suggests good longevity, though the much softer foam introduces some uncertainty. Early signs are positive, and long-term testing will confirm it.

Who Should Buy the Adizero SL 2

If you found the SL 1 too firm, this is the update you asked for. It is one of the softest daily trainers available, sitting alongside the Hoka Mach 6 and New Balance 1080 v13 for plushness while costing less than both.

It suits runners who want a fun, soft, fast everyday shoe for easy miles and speed work, especially lighter runners who can handle the deep squish. Heavier runners or those who value stability may find it too soft and squirrely, particularly at faster paces. Wide-footed runners should be cautious given the narrow forefoot. If you loved the firmness of the SL 1, the Puma Velocity Nitro 3 remains the better firm option in this price bracket.

Conclusion

The Adizero SL 2 is one of the most compelling updates of the year. Adidas took real feedback, softened the midsole with more Lightstrike Pro, dropped the weight, and kept the price around $130. The result is a soft, bouncy, fast daily trainer that competes directly with the Mach 6 and Rebel v4 and may be the best value in the soft-and-fast category right now. Just be sure the narrow fit and low stability suit your feet before committing.