Adidas has introduced a groundbreaking pair of running shoes designed to help athletes break the longstanding 100km world record. In a thrilling demonstration of innovation and athleticism, South African runner Sibusiso Kubheka shattered the record on August 26, 2023, clocking in at an impressive 5:59:20 at the Nardò Ring in southern Italy. This achievement was made possible with the aid of Adidas’ specially engineered footwear, the Adizero Evo Prime X.
The shoes, which were stored in a pressurized canister until the moment of unveiling, are tailored for elite performance. Clemens Dyckmans, director of Athlete Solutions at Adidas, described the unique storage method, highlighting that the shoes must remain under pressure to maintain their advanced properties. The anticipation in the room was palpable as Dyckmans opened the canister to reveal these radical prototypes, designed for one audacious goal: breaking the six-hour barrier for the 100km distance.
The record-breaking event featured five athletes, including Aleksandr Sorokin, who also surpassed the previous world record with a time of 6:03:47, and Charlie Lawrence from the United States, who finished in 6:04:10. Each of these competitors wore the Adizero Evo Prime X, which has been meticulously tailored to suit the biomechanics of each runner.
For six months, Adidas’ innovation team focused on maximizing performance gains, particularly through the development of the Ultracharge shoe. This involved reimagining every aspect, from the foam and traction to the stack height and stiffness of the sole. The shoes weigh a mere 136g, making them incredibly light, and the technology behind them sets a new standard in running footwear.
Japanese athlete Jo Fukada, who also tested the shoes, expressed amazement at their performance. “After I ran with these shoes, I recognized that I could get through 100km,” he stated. “The next day, I was full of energy, no fatigue, nothing.” Sorokin echoed this sentiment, noting that the shoes provided a significant boost to his running efficiency, stating, “Your running becomes very economical. The shoes feel like they do 50 percent of the work.”
Adidas has not fully disclosed the specifics of the shoe’s construction, but it is known that a new grade of Lightstrike Pro EVO foam has been utilized, making the shoes up to 35 percent lighter than existing models. The Ultracharge process, which involves storing the shoes in a pressurized environment, alters the foam’s properties to enhance performance. Dyckmans referred to the process as “a bit of a magic trick,” emphasizing its transformative effects.
The innovative footwear was complemented by a range of advanced apparel designed to optimize performance. Athletes utilized CLIMACOOL systems, including cooling vests and necks, to maintain core temperature during the race. Additionally, the Clima 3D singlet and TechFit tights were crafted to improve airflow and reduce fatigue, with plans for their release in 2026.
While Adidas plans to release a limited version of the Adizero Evo Prime X in November, it will feature a standard configuration rather than the bespoke designs used by the athletes. The company hinted at the potential for the Ultracharge process to become available to consumers, although specific details on how this will be implemented remain uncertain.
The record attempt marked a significant milestone in the world of athletics, showcasing not only remarkable human achievement but also groundbreaking advancements in sports technology. As Kubheka celebrated his historic victory, the significance of Adidas’ innovative shoes and the future of running technology became clear.
