In the world of sports shoes, competition is heating up at exponential pace. All giant brands coming up with cutting edge technology, advance aerodynamics, and unique design. This distinctiveness can be easily seen in latest ace of Adidas: Adidas Springblade. The Springblade is a 13.1-ounce (size 9) running shoe with a breathable, sock-like upper and, eschewing the typical EVA midsole, 16 forward-angled blades made from a high-tech polymer. The idea is that these blades compress and release energy, propelling the runner forward.

Upper: At first glance, the undoubtedly progressive and unique design of Adidas Springblade is carried by the 16 elastic, high-tech polymer blades instead of a traditional midsole. Each blade is angled forward to promote forward rather than vertical energy return and is designed to support the runner through every phase of their running stride. The design team drew inspiration from other pieces of athletic equipment, like springboards and pole vaults, and applied those concepts to a running shoe. Hands down, the design polarizes and doesn’t fall into your conventional running shoe category. For a debut colorway, there’s no missing the vibrant Techfit upper which combines a predominately open mesh upper with systematic usages of support for the heel cup and supportive Three Stripes branding. Subsequent colors that have since launched have also provided further options, for both men and women including some more understated colorways.

Outsole: Like all elements of the shoe, its cushioning is centered around the question whether the 16 blades on the sole offers high energy return or not. The anecdotal answer is yes. The blades offer great cushioning from impact and provide a definite bouncy feeling – especially on harder surfaces. Each blade is precisely tuned in geometry, thickness, and position for each phase of the stride to combine support and flexibility, led a different level of compression. The heel is higher off the ground and provides a high level of cushioning while the lower forefoot blades carry through the gait cycle. While the Springblade does a good job of providing sufficient cushioning to absorb shocks while running, there’s much to be desired regarding ground feel. In a time when minimal design in footwear has been heavily debated, it’s obvious proprioception isn’t exactly a high point for the Springblade.

Verdict: As one of the most innovative running shoes to hit the market in recent years, the Springblade is at its best with heel strikers and casual runners. Without opening a huge can of worms, advanced runners with a more technical and/or midfoot running form will potentially struggle to achieve their accustomed approach to footstriking. With all these merits, Springblade comes up with wallet busting price tag and wonder all of us to re-think over price-features criteria.