Are you preparing for an important race and looking for a pair dedicated to performance? The Nike Alphafly 4 and adidas Adizero Adios Pro 5 represent two ways of building a competition shoe.
The Alphafly 4 is worth a try if you want to explore the Nike system with Air Zoom in the forefoot. The Adios Pro 5 is an alternative with Lightstrike Pro foam and an ENERGYRIM construction. The choice cannot be made solely based on the reputation of the two brands.
Air Zoom or ENERGYRIM?
Nike combines several elements in the Alphafly 4: ZoomX and ZoomX LT foams, a carbon Flyplate, and Air Zoom units. The whole is developed for long-distance competition.
The Adios Pro 5 uses Lightstrike Pro and the ENERGYRIM construction, a frame incorporating carbon announced by adidas. One must therefore compare two complete systems, rather than looking for a simple equivalence between their rigid elements.
| Criterion | Alphafly 4 | Adios Pro 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Foams | ZoomX and ZoomX LT | Lightstrike Pro |
| Carbon structure | Flyplate | ENERGYRIM |
| Air Zoom units | Yes | No |
| Question during the test | Do you like this system at your pace? | Do you like this transition at your pace? |
What should decide your purchase
Start with the fit. Check the pressure under the arch, the heel hold, and the toe box space. A competition shoe should give you confidence without requiring uncomfortably tight lacing.
Then compare it at your planned pace. During a few accelerations, you may enjoy a feeling that will suit you less during a sustained effort. For a marathon, look for an experience that you want to maintain throughout the entire race.
Finally, consider your schedule. If your competition is approaching, make sure you have enough time to test the pair over several sessions. Availability in your size and the time remaining before the race are concrete criteria.
How to compare them during your preparation?
Keep the conditions the same as much as possible: socks, pace, and type of session. Note any pressure or friction after the run, not just the feeling during the first few minutes.
If you already own a competition shoe that works for you, ask yourself an additional question: what problem are you trying to solve? A better fit, a different feeling, or a pair to replace are more useful reasons than switching brands without a specific goal.
Our verdict
This comparison does not designate a universal winner. The Alphafly 4 and the Adios Pro 5 are worth a try for different reasons related to their construction. Choose the pair whose fit and behavior best match your competition pace.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Adios Pro 5 use the same uppers as the Pro 4? The Pro 5 introduces ENERGYRIM; avoid automatically attributing the construction of the previous generation to it.
Do Air Zoom units necessarily make the Alphafly superior? No. Their presence describes a design difference, not a guaranteed individual result.
Should I take the same size in Nike and adidas? Check each fit separately with your racing socks.
Prepare for your next race with Boutique Endurance: our team can help you clarify your criteria and compare the available models.
