Adidas adiSTAR 3 review
Adidas adiSTAR 3 Verdict
The pros
- Comfortable
- Ample Cushion
- Durable
- Smooht Ride
The cons
- None
Rating breakdown
Facts / Specs
Size/Fit
Cushioning & ride
Usage
Who should buy the Adidas adiSTAR 3 ?
The Adidas adiSTAR 3 is a perfect shoe for the dedicated road runner, especially one that logs a relatively high volume of miles. If you run most days a week and want one pair of shoes that will hold up to the daily pounding quite well, you should definitely consider these shoes.
Who should not buy the Adidas adiSTAR 3 ?
The Adidas adiSTAR 3 is a not a great shoe for the runner that spends a lot of time doing speed work on the track or logging miles on the trails. An occasional speed workout or off-road run is fine in the adiSTAR 3s, but this is definitely a shoe that is best suited for the road.
Adidas adiSTAR 3 Introduction
The Adidas adiSTAR 3 is a solid “do everything” shoe for the dedicated road runner. There really isn’t anything this shoe can’t do, from daily training to long runs, from speed work to race day, this shoe just does it’s job.
One thing I’ve come to really appreciate about this shoe is its durability. After almost 300 road miles in this shoe, I have no doubt that there are many more miles left in this shoe.
And while the Adidas adiSTAR 3 isn’t an expensive shoe by most standards ($130), I don’t like having to replace my shoes too frequently.
At this point, I’m expecting at least another 500 miles before I’ll need to start thinking of getting some new shoes, which is the type of value for cost that I want from my running shoes.
Adidas adiSTAR 3 First Impressions
My first impression of the Adidas adiSTAR 3 was a little bit of a mixed bag. I liked that the shoe wasn’t too heavy and the upper had the classic “3 stripe” look that Adidas is known for, but I was concerned that there might be a pretty significant heel-to-toe drop based on the look of the shoe. Thankfully, once I put them on, that worry proved to be unfounded.
Putting the shoe on for the first time, nothing really stood out to me as worrisome. The adiSTAR 3 fit true to size, was comfortably snug in the heel and mid-foot, and the sole felt good under my feet. As such, the first run in these shoes pretty much went exactly as I expected: smooth sailing in a quality running shoe.
Adidas adiSTAR 3 Upper
The upper of the Adidas adiSTAR 3 is a fabric-lined mesh that kind of ticks every box.
Every part of the upper, from the heel through the midfoot to the toe box, is snug yet comfortable.
There is just enough lining throughout the shoe to prevent any movement/sliding of the foot, but not enough to prevent the shoe from still breathing quite well.
And I was very pleasantly surprised at how quickly these shoes dried after a long run in a steady rain—I expected damp shoes for my next run but they were actually completely dry!
The fabric textile lining of the adiSTAR 3 is seamless, and I have not had any issues with rubbing, blisters, or hot spots in this shoe.
Adidas adiSTAR 3 Sole Unit
The sole unit of the Adidas adiSTAR 3 is about as good as it gets for a cushioned road shoe. The combination of the REPETITOR midsole and Adiwear outsole (35mm forefoot, 40 mm heel) combine to provide plenty of cushion while still being firm enough to provide a firm, smooth ride. There really isn’t any “squish” to this sole unit, you can feel the ground with every stride while knowing that your foot is still protected.
And when it comes to traction, I have nothing but positive to report on the adiSTAR 3. On both wet pavement and dry, uphill or down, I haven’t had a single traction issue in this shoe.
As is the case with just about every aspect of the Adidas adiSTAR 3, the sole unit of the Adidas adiSTAR 3 leaves me absolutely nothing to complain about.
Adidas adiSTAR 3 Conclusions
I have really enjoyed running in the Adidas adiSTAR 3, and I’m looking forward to many more miles in this shoe over the next few months.
The only pseudo-issues I have with this shoe are personal preference (I prefer a zero-drop shoe and a little more space in the toe box), but they are not enough to prevent me from continuing to run in these shoes until they are well and truly worn out.
As I’ve said a few times in this review, this is a solid shoe and I’ve yet to find any issues with its construction, design, feel, or performance. If you’re looking for a shoe that will do the job while you’re running on the road, look no further than the Adidas adiSTAR 3.
How does the adiSTAR 3 compare?
Adidas Ultraboost 5X
Adidas adiSTAR 3
Nike Pegasus 41
Why you can trust us
As editorial policy, we do not accept free samples from companies.We purchased this pair of Adidas at Running Warehouse with our own money.
This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Read more about our policy.
Reviewed by Denny
Denny Krahe is a running coach and a podcast host living in Central Florida. He is working on running a marathon in every state in the US; 5 down, 45 to go!
User feedback (4)
Similar shoes to Adidas adiSTAR 3
1 week ago
After rotating these with my Nimbus 25s for the past 3 months, I’m thoroughly impressed. Used them for my recent half marathon PR and multiple training runs between 10-15 miles. The cushioning hits a sweet spot – protective enough for long runs but not mushy. Notably more comfortable than my old Ultraboosts. The Continental rubber outsole shows minimal wear after 250 miles. Only mild criticism is the somewhat narrow midfoot, but it loosens up nicely. They’ve become my go-to trainers for both easy and tempo runs.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.2 months ago
These have become my primary training shoes for marathon prep. After 300 miles of training, including several 20+ mile runs, I can verify the durability claims. The cushioning sweet spot makes them versatile enough for both recovery days and tempo runs. While not as bouncy as my Saucony Endorphin Speeds, they’re more stable and comfortable for long runs. The ride smoothness is particularly noticeable during steady-state efforts. I’ve found them especially good on concrete surfaces where the impact absorption really shines. One small issue – they do feel a bit warm during summer running, but breathability is adequate.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.2 months ago
The adiSTAR 3 has been my primary trainer for the past 3 months, covering roughly 300 miles. The dual-density midsole really shines on long runs, providing consistent cushioning without feeling mushy. I’ve used these for marathon training, including several 20+ mile runs. The upper breathability is notably better than version 2, though I did need to size up half a size. Grip remains excellent in wet conditions thanks to the Continental rubber. While not the lightest shoe, the smooth transition makes up for it. Compared to my previous Hoka Bondi 8s, these feel more responsive and less cumbersome. They’ve handled everything from recovery jogs to marathon pace work.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.3 months ago
Been loving these as my go-to trainers for the past couple months. The cushioning is just right – not mushy, not harsh – perfect for my daily 6-8 milers. Really digging the improved breathability compared to my old pair. They’ve handled everything from my recovery days to tempo work, though they really shine on those steady runs where you find your rhythm. Not quite as snappy as my Boston 12s, but way more comfy for everyday miles. My only small complaint is I wish the laces were longer for heel-lock lacing. Solid workhorse shoe that just gets the job done.
3 months ago
These have been absolute workhorses for my spring marathon training. Just passed 300 miles and they’re still going strong. Love how they balance comfort with responsiveness – crushed all my long runs (16-20 milers) with zero complaints. Outsole’s barely showing wear, which is impressive. They feel more planted than my old Triumphs and have better pop. Just don’t expect to break any speed records – they’re a bit heavy for intervals. Perfect for those daily training miles though!
4 months ago
Training for my first marathon this fall and looking at these for the long training runs. Anyone use these instead of Ultraboost? Also got the usual adidas sizing headache – wear 10.5 in Nike but usually size down in adidas. Any advice from current users?
4 months ago
After putting 150 miles on the adiSTAR 3, I can confidently say this is an excellent daily trainer. The cushioning hits a sweet spot – enough for 15+ mile long runs but not so soft that it feels unstable. I’ve used these for everything from recovery jogs to marathon training. Compared to the previous version, the upper breathes much better and the ride feels more responsive. The durability is impressive – barely any wear on the outsole. While not as exciting as the Adios Pro 3 for speed work, these are more versatile for everyday miles. What really stands out is the smooth transition from heel to toe.