adidas Adizero Prime X 2.0 STRUNG   Review

The adidas Adizero Prime X3 STRUNG and the Adizero Prime X 2.0 STRUNG share the same concept of a double carbon system with a plate and Energy Rods, but the third version refines it into a taller, softer, and more protective package. The Prime X3 adds even more cushioning, with a thicker slab of foam between the plate and rods under the forefoot, giving a smoother, more forgiving ride underfoot. On the other hand, the Prime X 2.0 is slightly more performance-oriented in its geometry, with a flatter midsole that makes it feel more stable, especially around the arch, with a smoother transition. The arched outsole geometry and higher heel of the Prime X3 also create a more aggressive geometry, which also makes it less stable.

The HOKA Skyward X and the adidas Adizero Prime X 2.0 STRUNG are both max-stack, carbon-plated trainers that push the boundaries of comfort and technology, but they diverge in purpose and feel. The adidas is a bit lighter and slightly firmer, with a geometry and dual carbon plates that deliver a distinct pop, especially noticeable at marathon pace or faster efforts. It's built to energize long, steady workouts. In contrast, the Skyward X prioritizes plushness and smooth transitions, offering a pillowy ride that's best left for recovery days or easy miles when you want maximum cushioning without much propulsion. 

The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 and the adidas Adizero Prime X 2.0 STRUNG are both maximalist, high-stack trainers, but they're tuned for very different experiences. The ASICS is lighter and has a wider platform, giving it a more stable and versatile feel that's comfortable for easy mileage as well as for faster paces. It also lacks a plate, resulting in a more natural, forgiving ride that some runners might prefer for day-to-day training. In contrast, the adidas is taller and more aggressive, with a dual carbon-infused plate and a geometry that activates best at marathon or uptempo efforts.

The HOKA Mach X 2 and the adidas Adizero Prime X 2.0 STRUNG are both high-stack trainers built to handle long runs and pace variations, but they deliver distinct experiences. The HOKA is more cushioned overall, offering a softer, more forgiving ride that feels plush and comfortable over long efforts. In contrast, the adidas' midsole is noticeably bouncier and more energetic. The HOKA uses a nylon plate, which is less aggressive than the adidas' double carbon plate setup. The Mach X 2 is a bit lower stacked (but still very much a maximalist) and lighter overall. However, the upper of the HOKA feels a bit flimsier. 

The adidas Adizero Prime X 2.0 STRUNG and the adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 are often confused because they're both premium, carbon-plated options from the German brand, sharing the same Lightstrike Pro foam at their core. But despite these similarities, they serve very different purposes. The Adios Pro 4 is a true race-day shoe, fine-tuned for marathon performance with a lightweight build and aggressive geometry. In contrast, the Prime X 2 is a super trainer: heavier and designed more for long, steady runs within your marathon build rather than for race-day performance itself.