Upload / Capture
I was really excited to try the adidas Prime Strung X 2. If you’ve never experienced them, they are a super shoe with a higher than technically legal stack height. With a stack height of 50 mm, they are technically illegal for racing, but they offer substantial benefits for training and recovery. Will someone come after you to disqualify if you aren't winning or on the podium? Likely not. The latest version boasts improvements from its predecessor, offering better stability and comfort.
Quick Facts
The upper of the Prime X 2 features a semi-bootie construction with a knitted tongue seamlessly connected to the rest of the upper. It employs Strung technology, using fused soft strands for comfort. With the wider base, I found it fit and felt good immediately. You can see all of the strands woven together, which is honestly kind of neat. I like the visual of the shoe a lot.
The best running shoe uppers disappear off your feet, and the adidas Prime Strung X 2 does just that. For my first run in them, it felt good, and I didn’t experience any rubbing or discomfort. I've since about 100 miles on them with no issues in fit or breathability (essential for summer desert running).
The Prime Strung X 2 fits true to size. I usually wear between a women’s size 10-11 wide and found the size 11 fit perfectly.
The midsole boasts a 50 mm stack height, incorporating a full-length carbon fiber plate and a 3/4-length carbon-infused plate for a rigid and responsive ride. The increased stack height in the forefoot contributes to a softer experience, further enhancing the shoe’s speed capabilities through its aggressive rocker geometry. While technically illegal for pro athletes and those winning races, it is highly beneficial for training. As mentioned, they likely aren't going to disqualify you if you aren't on the podium or winning races, but it's always important to keep in mind.
On my first run in the adidas Prime Strung X 2, I felt fast. Despite its weight and stack height, it provided a comfortable and responsive ride. I’ve only used them for faster workouts, and they’ve felt great, contributing to both speed and recovery. There is no point to use them for anything other than workouts and races because they are so expensive.
adidas is known for their high-quality outsoles, and the adidas Prime Strung X 2 is no different. The outsole utilizes a “sandpaper” type of Continental rubber which provides excellent initial grip, ideal for wet conditions. I’ve used them in inclement weather with no signs of slipping.
I was unsure how long the Prime Strung X 2 would last, but I think it will be similar to other carbon-plated shoes, around 100-200 miles. I’ve put about 75 miles on mine and I feel like I could get more than 100, so we will see.
The Adizero Prime X 2 Strung is an improvement in stability and comfort over its predecessors. It’s overall more comfortable and it’s a fast shoe. I haven’t felt “that fast” in quite some time! I can’t emphasize what a big fan I am! Now if only they were legal for racing, but that's probably what makes them so fast.
Who Should Purchase the adidas Adizero Prime X 2 Strung?
This shoe is perfect for runners who already have a marathon racer like the adidas Adios Pro 3 but are seeking additional cushioning.
Who Should Not Purchase the adidas Adizero Prime X 2 Strung?
If you’re looking for a lightweight and low-to-the-ground shoe, the Prime Strung X 2 is not it. If you are an elite athlete looking for a race day shoe, this isn’t the first choice because it can get you disqualified. You should look more towards the adidas Adios Pro instead! Finally, the elephant in the room is the $300 price tag, but it’s definitely worth it.
I was paid to write an honest shoe review of my choice.
Login to your account to leave a comment.
We Want to Give it to You!
