Comparison:
Adidas Boston 12 vs Adidas Boston 11
The Boston is Adidas' training companion to the Adios Pro. Here we will be comparing the Boston 12 and the Boston 11.
Comparison:
Designed for speed training, the Boston is a cheaper, more affordable, more durable version of the Adios Pro racer. It shares a lot of the same technologies with the Adios Pro and even looks similar.
The Boston 12 is very different to any other previous version of the Boston. After reading this comparison, you'll be able to decide if the Boston 12 or Boston 11 is better for you.
Similarity and differences: AdiZero Boston 12 vs adizero Boston 11
Expert score
7/10
8/10
Weight
9.4 oz
10.1 oz
Heel Drop
6.5 mm
mm
Verdict
The Adidas Adizero Boston 12 is a shoe which feels more like a daily trainer than a speed trainer. It has an updated midsole which is softer than the previous versions and it has more flexible Energyrods resulting in a less rockered ride. Its outsole is excellent but it suffers from some upper issues.
The adidas Adizero Boston 11 is an efficient trainer and possible long-distance racing shoe with a trimmed yet supportive upper and responsive well-cushioned sole. Unfortunately it is an awkward fit as it runs half to a full size long yet is too narrow for many to size down; little posterior padding leaves a snug heel fit up to tight laces across the ankle.
Recommended for
Daily training
Daily training, long distance racing
Cushioning type
Responsive/balanced
Responsive/balanced
Cushioning amount
Highly cushioned
Highly cushioned
Flexibility
medium
rigid
Stability
very stable
some stability
Sizing
true to size
buy half size smaller
Retail price
US$160
US$159.95
Sole unit: AdiZero Boston 12 vs adizero Boston 11
The Boston 12 has a midsole consisting of Lightstrike 2.0 and Lightstrike Pro. The Boston 11 has a midsole of older Lightstrike and Lighstrike Pro.
The big difference is that there is a lot more Lightstrike Pro in the midsole of the Boston 12. This results in a softer ride. The Boston 12 feels better for easy, slow runs compared to the firmer Boston 11 which is better for fast paced runs.
Inside the midsole, both trainers have EnergyRods but the rods of the Boston 11 are stiffer. The stiffer forefoot of the Boston 11 allows its rocker to function more effectively so it feels more efficient on long runs.
The Boston 11 has a plate in its heel so its heel feels firmer than its forefoot. The Boston 12 has no plate so transitions feel smoother and more consistent.
When it comes to stability, the Boston 11 is more stable thanks to its firmer midsole. There is less lean bias so it feels more supportive during runs.
Both versions have plenty of thick Continental rubber on their outsoles. Both versions have very durable outsoles.
Upper unit: AdiZero Boston 12 vs adizero Boston 11
The Boston 11 has a much better upper than the Boston 12. Foot lockdown is better and there isn’t as much tongue slide.
The Boston 12 has a more narrow fit than the Boston 11 but both versions are not for wide feet.
The Boston 12 has a lighter, more breathable upper which is more suited to warm climates. They both run true to size.
Which one to buy: AdiZero Boston 12 vs adizero Boston 11
If you prefer a softer ride, more flexible trainer, get the Boston 12. The Boston 12 feels more like a daily trainer than a speed trainer.
It has more Lightstrike Pro so it’s softer and better for easy runs as it feels more plush. It also has a more breathable upper.
If you’re looking for a more stable, long run trainer, get the Boston 11. It feels more efficient due to its rocker and it has a stiffer midsole.
The Boston 11 also feels faster and is better for speed runs.
This expert review is written by
Brandon Law
Marathon Runner and Shoe Expert
Brandon is a South African who lives and trains in Malaysia. He is a marathon runner who eats, sleeps and dreams running shoes. While most people wear shoes to run, he runs to wear shoes.
