A plated daily/tempo trainer that keeps the Boston 12’s firmer, structured DNA but adds comfort and a touch more snap. Key changes most reviewers agree on: ~more Lightstrike Pro concentrated in the forefoot provides more bounce than V12, a comfier upper (more heel/tongue padding + gusseted tongue) with better lockdown, and a Continental + LightTraxion outsole for durable grip. Net effect: a stable, versatile workhorse for steady to uptempo days—less “fun” than the soft/bouncy super-trainers, but more disciplined and durable.
Technical Specs
Intended Uses
Adizero Boston 13
Critics' Concensus
Overview
The Ride
Firm and a little blocky at easy paces, then meaningfully quicker and more responsive as you push into marathon pace, 10K, even 5K work. The EnergyRods + wide platform create a planted, controlled feel with a snappy toe-off rather than trampoline bounce. Multiple reviewers found it slightly livelier than v12 (extra LS Pro up front), but still on the firmer, more structured side versus modern soft/rockered peers (think Evo SL, Superblast 2, Mach X2). One dissenting voice felt it was very rigid—“brick-like”—and not a good “trainer for Pro 4” match; others thought it opens up nicely at pace and works fine as a Pro 4 training partner.
Fit & Feel
Most testers agree the shoe is true to size with more forefoot room and better midfoot hold than v12, plus a more forgiving heel collar and padded, gusseted tongue (less lace bite/heel rub). Lockdown is secure without feeling racy-tight. If you’re between sizes or prefer extra toe volume, a few suggest you could consider a half-size adjustment; otherwise TTS is the safe pick.
✓ Pros
- Improved upper comfort & lockdown (padded heel, gusseted/padded tongue) while staying breathable
- Snappier forefoot vs v12 thanks to more Lightstrike Pro, without losing stability
- Excellent outsole grip/durability (Continental + LightTraxion) for all-weather mileage
- Stable, confidence-inspiring platform that suits heel strikers and/or heavier runners.
- Versatility: steady mileage, long runs, tempos, and even race day on a budget
✗ Cons
- Firm/rigid feel at easy pace; not the smoothest rocker or the bounciest ride
- Heavier than several rivals in the uptempo category
- Laces feel basic; a couple reviewers suggest swapping them for nicer ones
- Philosophy split: some say it trains you well for Adios Pro 4; others say it doesn’t mirror the Pro 4’s softer spring.
Bottom Line
Best for: Runners who want a durable, stable, plated trainer to anchor marathon blocks: reliable grip, lockdown, and a quick toe-off once you’re rolling. Great if you prefer controlled firmness over plush bounce, and if you rack up long, steady, and uptempo miles.
Consider alternatives if: You want lighter, softer, more “fun” bounce or softer, more natural rocker (consider adidas Adizero Evo SL or Saucony Endorphin Speed 5)