The Adidas Adizero Prime X3 Strung represents the pinnacle of Adidas's super shoe technology, pushing stack height to 50mm in the heel with a triple-layered Lightstrike Pro midsole and a redesigned single carbon plate. At $300, it is not cheap, but for runners chasing personal bests in the marathon and half marathon, it delivers a level of energy return and cushioning that is genuinely exceptional.
The biggest change from the Prime X2 is the switch from dual plates to a single carbon plate with a hollowed-out centre, paired with carbon fibre-infused Energyrods 2.0. This redesign shaves weight while maintaining the aggressive forward propulsion that defined the Prime X line. The single plate creates a slightly more natural toe-off compared to the dual-plate predecessor, which some runners found overly rigid through the midfoot transition.
Where the Prime X3 truly excels is in shock absorption. Testing revealed an astounding 160 SA in the heel — a significant upgrade from the Prime X2 and among the highest measurements recorded in any running shoe. This translates to a remarkably smooth ride at marathon pace, with the cushioning absorbing impact without deadening the energy return. Runners will feel protected over the full 26.2 miles without sacrificing the bouncy, propulsive sensation that makes super shoes so effective.
The signature Strung upper returns, providing the precision-engineered woven structure that delivers targeted support and breathability without excess weight. The fit is snug but not restrictive, and the upper adapts well to foot swelling over long distances — a crucial consideration for marathon racing. The 7mm drop is maintained from previous versions, sitting in the moderate range for super shoes.
The Prime X3 Strung is not a shoe for everyday training — at $300, it demands to be reserved for races and key workouts. But for its intended purpose of marathon and half marathon racing, it is among the very best shoes available in 2026. The combination of maximum stack cushioning, refined plate technology, and the lightweight Strung upper creates a package that competes head-to-head with the Nike Vaporfly and Saucony Endorphin Pro at the very top of the super shoe market.