I had high hopes for the Adidas Supernova Rise 2 after loving my runs in the original version, but this update didn’t quite deliver the experience I was expecting. On paper, the shoe offers improvements in fit, weight, and comfort- all the things that you would look for in a daily trainer!
While I really enjoyed running in the original Adidas Supernova Rise , the second version for some reason didn’t win me over. Adidas mentioned that this shoe was going to provide even more comfort but I am not too sure about that. Let’s break down the good, the not-so-good, and why the Adidas Supernova Rise 2 just wasn’t the it shoe for me.
Listen, we can’t love em all! But that doesn’t mean you might not read along and decide this is exactly what you need.
Who Is It Good For?
Who is Adidas Supernova Rise 2 a good fit for? Let’s break it down with some common categories:
- Wide Feet: It has a slightly more narrow fit and does not offer a wide option
- Heavier Runners: Even though it’s a cushioned shoe, it didn’t feel supportive
- Long Runs: 100% designed to carry you through lots of easy miles
- Front of the Pack: Only as a daily trainer, while it can pick up the pace we wouldn’t race in it
Adidas Supernova Rise 2 Specifications
- Heel toe drop: 10mm
- Weight: 8.1 oz women’s, 9.7 oz men’s
- Stack Height: 36
- Usage: Daily trainer (not a speed shoe)
- Not available in wide
- Available in 6 colors
- Available through Adidas and Zappos for $140
The significantly lower stack height than a lot of max cushioned shoes like the Puma MagMax could be a win for a lot of runners. If you’re someone who struggles with overstriding and heel striking, reducing that stack height could be really beneficial.
Adidas Supernova Rise 2 Review
If you already know that Adidas is a great fit for you, the small tweaks that they made in the Supernova Rise 2 will most likely still have you grabbing it as your daily trainer!
Right out of the box, the Rise 2 looked similar to the Rise so I was excited to give them a try.
My first run was on the treadmill, but about a mile in, I noticed some discomfort in my foot that didn’t go away. Hoping it was just the treadmill, I took them outside, but the same issue popped up. The shoe felt firmer than I like for easy miles, making it hard to find a rhythm.
Often what we find with shoes that feel firmer, is they oddly need a break in period. Maybe it’s just getting used to the style of cushion after so many massive stacks with soft foam.
While it’s labeled as a cushioned shoe, the Supernova Rise 2 doesn’t deliver the similar feel of models like the Asics Novablast .
Instead, it offers a firmer ride with a touch of responsiveness—better for those who train in one shoe for everything but not ideal for those seeking extra softness.
That said, the updated design has its perks. The Rise 2 feels lighter than the original, with more room in the toebox, allowing for a natural foot movement which is great for longer runs. Still, I found myself wishing for a little more cushioning to make those miles feel smoother.
One area where this shoe excels is durability. The ADIWEAR outsole is tough, providing solid grip on roads, dirt trails, and even in the rain. After several runs, both indoors and out, it showed barely any wear, proving it can handle the miles.
Supernova Rise vs. Supernova Rise 2
While there weren’t too many big changes, here is a breakdown of how the Rise and Rise 2 compare.
Weight Reduction: The Supernova Rise 2 is 4% lighter than the original.
Refined Upper: Adidas improved the upper with a new sandwich mesh material, designed to be more breathable and secure. The fit is still true to size, with great room in the toe box and a secure hold through the midfoot.
Cushioning Feel: Both versions use Dreamstrike+ foam, but the Supernova Rise 2 felt firmer and less forgiving than the original. For runners who liked the soft, cushioned feel of the first Supernova Rise, this might be a noticeable shift.
Outsole Durability: The Supernova Rise 2 maintains the durable ADIWEAR outsole seen in the original, providing great traction on roads, gravel trails and even slightly wet conditions.
The Good
If you are looking for a daily trainer that can take the wear and tear of lots of miles, you’ll definitely get a lot for your $$ with this shoe.
Because of the weight, it’s also a shoe that can respond if you want to pick up the pace for tempo work. It’s probably not the shoe we’d first think of for speed days, but it can be versatile.
The fit of the Rise 2 is still true to size and with the improvements of in the heel of the shoe there’s no slipping or irritation. Adidas clearly paid attention to feedback from the first version, and I’d say the fit is a big improvement.
The Bad
Unfortunately, while the upper and overall fit were great, the outsole of the shoe just didn’t hit the mark for me.
The Dreamstrike+ foam felt firmer than expected, and I found myself missing the extra softness and bounce that many other daily trainers offer. For easy runs, recovery days, or long runs, I want a shoe that makes me feel like I’m cruising and this wasn’t it.
Similar Shoes to the Supernova Rise 2
Ok so you want a moderate cushion, but aren’t sure this is the winner. We’ve got options!
- Nike Pegasus 41 – Again, not a massive stack, but nice cushion
- Brooks Ghost 16 – One of the most beloved run shoes and not too soft
- Saucony Ride – The newest model we’re testing now is definitely softer than the Rise and we prefer it
The Bottom Line
The Adidas Supernova Rise 2 is a solid choice for runners who like a firmer, lightweight shoe for daily miles.
It has a lot going for it, a breathable and secure upper, great room in the toe box, and impressive durability. If you loved the first version and don’t mind a firmer ride, this update will likely work well for you.
But for me, the Rise 2 fell short. The lighter weight and improved fit couldn’t make up for the lack of cushioning. I struggled to enjoy my runs both on the treadmill and out on the roads. I’m not sure this is a shoe I’d include in my go-to rotation.
There’s our review of the Adidas Supernova Rise 2! Just because we were not the biggest fans doesn’t mean that you will have the same experience. Go give them a try and who knows you may find your next favorite shoe!
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