Which Adidas Originals Running Shoes Are Actually Worth Buying? A Real Comparison
Adidas Originals running shoes deliver reliable performance across three distinct price points, with the Response Pace at £65 offering genuine value for casual runners, the X9000L2 at £99.99 striking a balance between cushioning and cost, and the Supernova Prima 2 at £109.95 targeting serious training. The choice depends on your running goals and budget — not all three deserve equal consideration.
Why Adidas Originals?
Adidas, founded in 1949, has spent over seven decades refining running shoe technology. The Originals line specifically bridges heritage and modern performance: these aren't retro trainers, but contemporary running shoes built on Adidas's three-stripe foundation of durability, responsive cushioning, and proven fit.
What sets Adidas apart is their material specificity. They publish actual foam densities, stack heights (the thickness of cushioning), and ground-contact metrics — not vague marketing. The three shoes here span three different technology tiers, making them genuinely comparable rather than just colour variations.
Top Picks
Adidas Response Pace — £65
Best for budget-conscious casual runners or gym cross-training. This is the entry point: genuine cushioning (not a thin insole) in a lightweight package. No fancy gel layers or aerospace-grade foam — just honest, responsive EVA. Perfect if you run 15–20km per week.
Adidas X9000L2 — £99.99
Best for runners seeking mid-range performance without premium-tier pricing. The X9000L2 sits between casual comfort and serious training. It's lighter than the Response Pace (roughly 260g per shoe), with more responsive ground feel. Suits runners doing 25–40km weekly who want speed without sacrifice.
Adidas Supernova Prima 2 — £109.95
Best for high-mileage runners or those prioritising comfort over speed. This is the premium option in the current range. The Supernova line historically targets long-distance runners; expect thicker cushioning (higher stack height) and more shock absorption. Ideal for 40km+ weekly runners or those with high-impact concerns.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Price | Best For | Standout Feature | |---------|-------|----------|------------------| | Response Pace | £65 | Casual runners, gym training | Entry-level value with responsive EVA cushioning | | X9000L2 | £99.99 | Intermediate training, speed-focused | Lightweight responsiveness for 25–40km weekly mileage | | Supernova Prima 2 | £109.95 | Long-distance, high-mileage runners | Maximum cushioning and shock absorption for 40km+ weekly |
What to Look For
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Cushioning stack height: The Supernova Prima 2 has a higher stack (more cushioning) than the X9000L2, which in turn exceeds the Response Pace. If your runs exceed 30km per week, aim for a mid-range or premium option to reduce joint stress.
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Weight per shoe: Lighter shoes (X9000L2, roughly 260g) suit tempo runs and speed work; heavier shoes (Supernova Prima 2, typically 280–300g) favour endurance. Check this against your training focus, not just your weekly distance.
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Grip and sole durability: All three use Adidas's Continental rubber outsole or equivalent for traction. The Response Pace may show wear sooner if used on rough trails; the others are rated for mixed terrain.
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Fit and sizing: Adidas Originals running shoes typically run true to UK size. The Response Pace has a narrower toe box (suits standard-width feet); the Supernova Prima 2 offers more volume (better for wider feet or when wearing thick socks).
The Bottom Line
If you're new to running or train casually, buy the Response Pace at £65 — it's honest value and won't feel like a waste if running doesn't stick. For committed runners doing 25–40km weekly, the X9000L2 at £99.99 is the sweet spot: you're paying for genuine performance improvements, not premium branding. Only choose the Supernova Prima 2 at £109.95 if you're logging serious mileage (40km+) or have specific cushioning needs — the extra £10 over the X9000L2 is justified by measurably thicker foam and better shock absorption.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Adidas Originals running shoes good for beginners?
Yes, particularly the Response Pace at £65. Beginners don't need premium cushioning yet — their bodies adapt to almost any decent shoe. The Response Pace gives you reliable EVA cushioning and Adidas's proven fit without overcomplicating things. Upgrade to the X9000L2 or Supernova Prima 2 only once you've settled into a consistent running habit.
How long do Adidas Originals running shoes typically last?
Expect 400–600 km of running before noticeable wear, depending on your weight, gait, and surface. The Response Pace and X9000L2 will show outsole wear around 500 km; the Supernova Prima 2, with its thicker sole, may stretch to 600 km. Most runners replace shoes every 6–8 months of regular training.
Is the Supernova Prima 2 worth the extra £45 over the Response Pace?
Only if you run more than 25 km per week. The price difference buys you measurably better cushioning (visible stack height difference) and lighter overall weight, reducing fatigue on longer runs. For casual runners doing 10–15 km weekly, the Response Pace is sufficient; the extra cost delivers no practical benefit.
Can I use these shoes for trail running?
Casually, yes. All three have Continental rubber outsoles for traction. However, they're road-optimised shoes — Adidas's Terrex range is better for genuine trails. These will handle gravel paths and light woodland running, but aren't designed for technical, rocky terrain or sustained off-road mileage.
