adidas Solar Glide

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adidas Solar Glide: Review

“A versatile shoe for daily running and long-distance sessions.”

Overview


The adidas Solar Glide is a versatile running shoe designed for daily running and long-distance sessions. This shoe is part of the adidas Solar Glide family, known for its balance of comfort and performance.

Key Features:

  • Boost Foam: Provides excellent cushioning and energy return.
  • Continental Rubber Outsole: Offers superior grip and durability on various surfaces.
  • Propulsion Rail Technology: Enhances stability and efficiency in each stride.

The adidas Solar Glide is an ideal choice for neutral runners who prioritize cushioning and stability for long-distance running. Its breathable upper and responsive midsole make it suitable for both casual and serious runners.

Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 30% of running shoes today.

Verdict

The consensus on the adidas Solar Glide


The adidas Solar Glide is a solid choice for runners seeking a cushioned and stable shoe for daily running and long-distance sessions. The Boost foam provides excellent cushioning and energy return, making it comfortable for long runs. However, some reviewers noted issues with the heel fit and lacing system, which may cause discomfort for some runners. The Continental rubber outsole offers great traction and durability, suitable for various surfaces. While the shoe is slightly heavier than some competitors, it still performs well for most running activities. Overall, the Solar Glide is a reliable option for neutral runners who value comfort and stability, though it may not be the best choice for those seeking a lightweight shoe for speed workouts.

Comparable Shoes


The Saucony Freedom Iso 2 is a good alternative for runners seeking a lighter and more flexible shoe. It offers excellent cushioning and a responsive ride, similar to the Solar Glide. However, the Freedom Iso 2 has a more flexible upper and a lower weight, making it suitable for speed workouts and daily training. Runners who prefer a more adaptable fit may find the Freedom Iso 2 to be a better choice.

The Reebok FloatRide Run is another option for those looking for a lightweight and cushioned shoe. It features FloatRide foam, which provides a responsive and comfortable ride. The FloatRide Run is slightly lighter than the Solar Glide, making it a good choice for speed training and daily running. Runners who appreciate a more flexible and breathable upper may prefer the FloatRide Run.

The Hoka Clifton 9 is a maximalist shoe known for its plush cushioning and lightweight design. It offers a similar level of comfort and support as the Solar Glide but with a softer and more cushioned ride. The Clifton 9 is ideal for long-distance running and daily training, providing excellent shock absorption and a smooth transition. Runners who prefer a more cushioned and lightweight shoe may find the Clifton to be a better option.

Special versions of adidas Solar Glide


The adidas Solar Glide ST is a stability version of the Solar Glide, designed for runners who need additional support. It features a firmer Boost foam under the arch and more responsive Boost in the forefoot. The upper is similar but with slightly less stretch, providing a more secure fit. The Solar Glide ST is a great option for those who require extra stability without compromising on cushioning and comfort.

6 adidas Solar Glide Pros & Cons


3 Pros

Boost foam provides excellent cushioning and energy return.
Continental rubber outsole offers great traction and durability.
Breathable mesh upper ensures good ventilation.

3 Cons

Loose heel fit may cause discomfort during runs.
Lacing system can be uncomfortable and difficult to adjust.
Slightly heavier than some competitors, making it less suitable for speed workouts.

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the adidas Solar Glide features a breathable mesh material that provides a snug fit and good ventilation. The Flex Fold engineered mesh increases flexibility and comfort, though some users found it initially snug. The heel collar flares out to reduce Achilles irritation, and the lacing system, while stylish, may cause discomfort due to its stiffness. Overall, the upper offers a decent fit after breaking in, but could benefit from more room and flexibility.

Midsole

The midsole of the adidas Solar Glide is equipped with full-length Boost foam, known for its excellent cushioning and energy return. This foam provides a bouncy and responsive ride, making it suitable for long-distance running. The EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) rails on the sides add stability without being too invasive, ensuring a balanced and comfortable run. The 10 mm heel-to-toe drop (32 mm heel, 22 mm forefoot) offers a smooth transition from heel to toe.

Outsole

The outsole of the adidas Solar Glide features Continental rubber, which provides exceptional grip and durability on various surfaces. The Stretchweb design allows for natural flex and smooth ground contact, enhancing the overall running experience. This outsole is highly resistant to wear and tear, making it a reliable choice for road running and light trail use.

Size/fit

The adidas Solar Glide offers a true-to-size fit with a medium toe box. The upper provides a snug fit initially but adapts after a few runs. However, some users found the fit to be narrow, especially in the forefoot area. The heel collar and lacing system may cause discomfort for some runners, but overall, the shoe offers a decent fit after breaking in.

Comfort

Comfort is a key feature of the adidas Solar Glide, thanks to its Boost foam midsole and breathable mesh upper. The shoe provides excellent cushioning and energy return, making it suitable for long-distance running. However, some users reported discomfort with the heel fit and lacing system, which may cause pressure points during runs. Overall, the shoe offers a comfortable ride for most runners.

Cushioning

The adidas Solar Glide excels in cushioning, thanks to its full-length Boost foam midsole. This foam provides a soft and responsive ride, absorbing shock and returning energy with each stride. The shoe is well-suited for long-distance running, offering ample cushioning for extended periods of use. The EVA rails add stability without compromising the cushioning experience.

Breathability

The breathable mesh upper of the adidas Solar Glide ensures good ventilation, keeping the feet cool and dry during runs. The Flex Fold engineered mesh increases flexibility and comfort, though some users found it initially snug. Overall, the shoe offers decent breathability, making it suitable for various running conditions.

Stability

Stability is a notable feature of the adidas Solar Glide, thanks to its Propulsion Rail technology and EVA side rails. These elements enhance stability and efficiency in each stride, making the shoe suitable for neutral runners. The plastic torsion element under the midsole adds additional support, ensuring a stable and balanced run.

Durability

The adidas Solar Glide is built to last, with its Boost foam midsole and Continental rubber outsole providing long-term durability. The shoe can withstand extensive use, making it a reliable choice for daily running and long-distance sessions. The upper materials are also designed to endure wear and tear, ensuring the shoe remains in good condition over time.

Grip

The Continental rubber outsole of the adidas Solar Glide offers excellent grip on various surfaces, including wet and dry conditions. The Stretchweb design allows for natural flex and smooth ground contact, enhancing traction and stability. This makes the shoe suitable for road running and light trail use, providing reliable grip and control.

Flex

The adidas Solar Glide features a flexible design, thanks to its Stretchweb outsole and Flex Fold engineered mesh upper. These elements allow for natural foot movement and smooth transitions during runs. However, some users found the upper to be initially snug, which may affect flexibility until the shoe is broken in. Overall, the shoe offers good flexibility for most running activities.

Who should buy the adidas Solar Glide?


The adidas Solar Glide is ideal for neutral runners who prioritize cushioning and stability for long-distance running. It's a great choice for those who enjoy daily running and need a reliable shoe for various running conditions. Runners who appreciate a responsive and comfortable ride will find value in this shoe. Additionally, those who prefer a breathable and durable shoe for extended use will benefit from the Solar Glide.

Who should not buy the adidas Solar Glide?


Runners seeking a lightweight shoe for speed training may find the adidas Solar Glide too heavy. Those with wide feet might experience discomfort due to the snug fit of the upper. If you prefer a shoe with a more flexible lacing system, the Solar Glide may not be the best choice. Consider alternatives like the Saucony Freedom Iso 2 or the Reebok FloatRide Run for a lighter and more flexible option.

adidas Solar Glide: What's it good for?


The adidas Solar Glide is well-suited for daily running and long-distance sessions. Its excellent cushioning and stability make it ideal for everyday training. The shoe performs well on various surfaces, including road and light trails, thanks to its durable Continental rubber outsole. Neutral runners who value comfort and support will find this shoe to be a reliable choice for their running needs.

5 adidas Solar Glide FAQs


Is the adidas Solar Glide suitable for daily running?

Yes, the adidas Solar Glide is designed for daily running and long-distance sessions. Its Boost foam midsole provides excellent cushioning and energy return, making it comfortable for extended use.

How does the adidas Solar Glide fit?

The adidas Solar Glide offers a true-to-size fit with a medium toe box. The upper provides a snug fit initially but adapts after a few runs. However, some users found the fit to be narrow, especially in the forefoot area.

What is the weight of the adidas Solar Glide?

The adidas Solar Glide weighs 306 g (10.8 oz) for a men's size 9 and 275 g (9.7 oz) for a women's size 8. This makes it slightly heavier than some competitors but still suitable for daily running.

Is the adidas Solar Glide durable?

Yes, the adidas Solar Glide is built to last, with its Boost foam midsole and Continental rubber outsole providing long-term durability. The shoe can withstand extensive use, making it a reliable choice for daily running and long-distance sessions.

Does the adidas Solar Glide provide good traction?

The adidas Solar Glide features a Continental rubber outsole that offers excellent grip on various surfaces, including wet and dry conditions. The Stretchweb design allows for natural flex and smooth ground contact, enhancing traction and stability.

adidas Solar Glide alternatives



adidas Solar Glide
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adidas Solar Glide
bestDealShow prices
priceBand
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released
Released
May 2018
Feb 2015Apr 2017Jun 2016Nov 2015May 2017
expertReviewScore
Expert Review Score












productAthletes
Pro athlete users

+8
Jérémy RoyPatrick Lange
Weight
Weight
M: 306 g
W: 275 g
M: 218 g
W: 181 g
M: 238 g
W: 190 g
M: 269 g
W: 241 g
M: 249 g
W: 207 g
M: 238 g
W: 196 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
22 mm
18 mm
M: 20 mm
W: 18 mm
22 mm
20 mm
20 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
10 mm
10 mm
8 mm
4 mm
4 mm
3 mm
Heel
Heel
32 mm
28 mm
M: 28 mm
W: 26 mm
26 mm
24 mm
23 mm
Brand
Brand
adidas
NikeNikeSauconyNikeTopo Athletic
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
ComfortableMaximalist
LightweightLightweightLow dropLightweightLow dropLightweightLow drop
Techs
Techs
Nike Flyknit
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Vegan Ⓥ
Vegan Ⓥ
0

adidas Solar Glide: what the experts say (2 reviews)

adidas Solar Glide: 3 Expert video reviews

adidas Solar Glide characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2002)
TerrainRoad (+1326)
UsagesDaily running (+1102)Speed training (+291)
Brandadidas (+287)
Support TypeNeutral (+1563)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1543)
Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike (+1083)Heel strike (+1067)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1490)
Shoe TypeComfortable (+213)Maximalist (+405)
FitMedium toe box (+826)
ColorwaysActive Red Active Orange / Active Red, Ash Pearl / Cloud White / Signal Orange, Black, Black / Grey, Black / Grey / Blue, Black / Wht / Oran, Blue / Wht / Navy, Blue / Yellow, Cloud White / Active Orange / White Vapour, Cloud White / Cloud White / Chalk White
Specificationsvs Average
Released
May 2018
Measurements
Weight
M: 306 g
W: 275 g
Heel to toe drop
10 mm
Heel
32 mm
Forefoot
22 mm

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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