Adidas Supernova Glide 8
Adidas is a sports company that doesn’t need much introduction since even the birds on the trees are familiar with the three stripes design logo, and the Trefoil branding. Adidas footwear and apparel reach every possible sport, and the innovative and advanced models are insolently challenging other designs. But this pompous dominance on the market isn’t void, the company has long been investing a lot in their research and development team which in turn has produced some of the most outstanding, game-enhancing designs.
Such is the lineup of Adidas Supernova Glide, a model that was initially launched back in 2011, and which has marked a new era for the company’s running shoe models. As this design integrates a technology that up until then hadn’t been as developed as it is now, it was an all-new model that spiked the interest among runners. And, we say runners since this model has been advertised as a running shoe and it was made predominantly to meet the needs of runners.
However, thanks to its wider design and comfortable feel, many other athletes from different sports have put their trust in them, among whom golfers as well. Actually, this model has been so popular, that from the initial Supernova Glide original model, this year the company has launched the Adidas Supernova Glide 9, the ninth generation of succeeding model update.
And, if you are contemplating over the name of this model, and the reason why Adidas decided to give this model a name of an astronomic phenomenon, well, we need to remind you what Supernova is. When there’s a stellar explosion, there’s a burst of radiation that has as much energy as the sun can produce in 10 billion years. Well, the sneakers might not give you extra energy, but they can help you feel your own energy explosion once you put them on. And, the fact that their popularity never ceases, definitely confirms that there’s something about them that makes them unique.
We wanted to know how they perform, and why the Adidas Supernova Glide can be your next choice, so read below about their technology, the way they are made, and what reviewers say about them.
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Engineered mesh, synthetic leather, and inner sleeve
Compression-molded EVA midsole with proprietary Boost foam, and plastic midfoot shank
Continental rubber outsole
Moisture-wicking material that dries fast
Breathable mesh panels that allow maximum airflow
Several color varieties
There is only one width option
The First Release
In addition to the superior outsole, this model featured the patented adiPrene midsole which delivers the most flexible and lightweight cushioning which protects and guides the feet and promotes better movement. The removable insole was also cushioned and delivered extra fit and comfort in addition to the padded tongue and collar. The upper was made with synthetic and leather overlays which enhance the durability and stability, while the mesh was extremely breathable and prevented overheating. Another cool feature that was introduced in this model was the moisture-wicking fabric lining which had the capacity to absorb the extra sweating so that your feet could stay dry and fresh.
These very the basic features, and the very beginnings of the Adidas Supernova Glide. As we said, each new season, the model has been upgraded and brought to perfection, and even though most of the technologies are mainly the same, they differ aesthetically and in the use of subtle details. For the purposes of this review, we are going to focus on the Adidas Supernova Glide 8 model which represents the crossroad of the absolute running shoe perfection, and the epitome of harmony between soft and firm, and comfort and support.
General Description
Before we talk even further, let’s remind you what the greatest game-changer in Adidas sneakers was back in 2012. The company has completely reshaped and redesigned their approach to the sport by considering and selecting materials and technologies that delivered not only comfort, but they literally help the wearer to get the most of his/her potential. So, the game-changer for Adidas was the Energy Boost technology that created the midsole of the sneaker from compression-molded EVA rim, supported by foam and plastic midfoot shank. And, of course, as this midsole has proven to work the best, it is part of the Supernova Glide 8.
The rest of the shoe is just a modification of their previous designs, but in the best possible manner from the moisture-wicking liner to breathable mesh and synthetics and the incredible foot support. So, below we go into details of all the components that constitute this model and make it so loved by athletes out there.
Midsole Design
Upper Design
What's New?
The Adidas Supernova Glide 8 seems to be a continuation of the previous generation, but with some added features to notify that there are some improvements. The front part of the upper represents a blend of fused synthetic leather panels and engineered mesh. One of the upgrades can be found in the mesh, which is more flexible, with much more squeeze, thanks to the springy yarns that are integrated in-between the two layers. The layer which is on the top represents a combination of dense knit structures that are vented, while the lower layer represents the inner lining. These layers are connected by yarns which make the mesh more voluminous and sponge-like, and this design delivers support and ventilation at the same time.
As we move along the upper, we get to the midfoot panels which feature molded details covered with synthetic leather and lacing which makes the Adidas logo look doubled. Next, come the three stripes which are highly reflective and when you just think that the heel insert is also reflective, the Adidas Supernova Glide becomes an excellent night running shoe.
When running or doing any sport, if the tongue isn’t properly positioned, it can be a cause for discomfort and annoyance, so Adidas made sure that this won’t be an issue with this model. The inside part of the tongue area features a half gusset that positions the tongue in the right place. The tongue has a flap with the Adidas logo and it can work well for better managing the laces.
Regarding the Achilles area, it has more of a ‘lip’ design rather than the traditional one because of the curves inside. However, it delivers maximum comfort and this design is considered to be much better for those people who often suffer from blisters.
Another slight change that is noticeable in this model is the wider toa area that is a rarity among running shoes, but this is one of the features that make it a choice for other sports as well. However, this model is offered in one single-width and that’s what Adidas needs to work on.
Insole
The support insole is made from very thick, compression-molded EVA foam which works in synchronization with the midsole. The upper part of the sock liner is made from a very smooth material that is soft and moisture-wicking at the same time. It doesn’t retain moisture and it dries very quickly. The insole is removable and it can be easily replaced, removed and even washed individually.
Grip and Traction
The grip and the traction of the outsole are on a very decent level, outstanding for runners and acceptable even for golfers. We mentioned that golfers love it and obviously, the good level of traction is the reason why. Mind you though that these aren’t spikeless golf shoes, so aren’t very suitable for wet turf conditions.
Comfort
Thanks to the wider toe box and the EVA rim with the Boost foam, this shoe is one of the most comfortable and relaxing. So, if you are looking for comfort, then this is the shoe that will stand up to your expectations.
Key Features
Key Features
- Engineered mesh, synthetic leather, and inner sleeve
- The midsole is made from compression-molded EVA, boost foam, and plastic midfoot shank
- The outsole is made from Continental rubber and it is one of the most durable on the market
- Moisture-wicking material that dries fast
- Breathable mesh panels that allow maximum airflow
- Several color varieties