Adidas has made headlines with the unveiling of its groundbreaking running shoes, designed specifically to help athletes break the elusive 100km world record. In a historic moment, South African runner Sibusiso Kubheka completed the distance in an astonishing 5:59:20 on August 26, 2023, at the renowned Nardò Ring in southern Italy. This achievement marks the first time anyone has run 100km in under six hours.
The event featured five elite athletes, all equipped with the specially crafted Adizero Evo Prime X footwear. These prototypes, engineered to the athletes’ precise specifications, represent some of the most advanced running shoes ever created. The previous record stood at 6:05:35, held by Aleksandr Sorokin, who also participated in the record attempt and finished with a time of 6:03:47.
The shoes were the result of a six-month secret project named “Chasing 100,” led by Adidas’ innovation team. The focus was on maximizing every possible advantage, with the Ultracharge shoe at the forefront of this initiative. Each prototype was tailored to the specific biomechanics of the runner, including adjustments to foam density, stack height, and stiffness.
The dramatic reveal of the shoes began with a pressurized canister, which contained the meticulously designed footwear. As Clemens Dyckmans, director of Athlete Solutions, released the pressure, excitement filled the air. The shoes had to be stored under pressure until they were ready for use, ensuring that their performance-enhancing qualities remained intact.
Jo Fukada, a Japanese athlete who also wore the prototypes, praised their performance, stating, “After I ran with these shoes, I recognized that, okay, I can get through 100km. Usually after 30km my body is tired, but after wearing these, the next day, I was full of energy, no fatigue, nothing.”
The shoes are made from a new grade of Lightstrike Pro EVO foam, which is reported to be 35% lighter and more responsive than current models. Each athlete’s unique footstrike was analyzed to optimize where grip was necessary, effectively minimizing excess weight. The Ultracharge process further enhances the foam’s properties by storing shoes in a pressurized environment for up to five days, making them feel “livelier” during use. Dyckmans compared the process to a “magic trick,” emphasizing its transformative impact on the footwear.
Although the prototypes will not be available in stores in their exact form, a limited release is planned for November 2023. The upcoming version will feature standard configurations rather than the bespoke customization used for the athletes. Key innovations from this project will also be integrated into Adidas’ broader road racing line.
In addition to cutting-edge footwear, the athletes utilized advanced cooling technologies, including CLIMACOOL vests and jackets, to regulate their body temperatures during the race. The apparel enhancements, such as the Clima 3D singlet and TechFit tights, are set for release in 2026 and received positive feedback from the competitors.
The successful record-breaking event not only showcases Adidas’ commitment to innovation in sports technology but also highlights the potential for future advancements in athletic performance. As the world watches, the impact of these revolutionary shoes may define the future of long-distance running.
