The adidas Gearshift is the Next Step in Hybrid Running Technology

Sneaker brands have always invested big money in new technology. From springy, responsive foams and carbon fiber plates for stability to mesh and ripstop uppers that are as light as humanly possible, the sneaker industry has always been on the cutting edge of sports tech. After shaving seconds off the marathon record earlier this year, the latest adidas running technology keeps its performance push, but adds a switch for extra softness.

Shoes that Shift Gears

The adidas Adizero Gearshift is like a manual car for your feet, giving runners the opportunity to engage and disengage a stability plate built into the footbed. With the flip of a switch built into the lateral side of the midsole, the shoe moves from a squishy, foldable stack to a rigid, plate-stabilized sole for long-distance runs.

On the debut pair, adidas starts with a white base and adds black polka dots across the upper. The black Three Stripes branding flips the design, with white polka dots all over. The massive midsole switches to a red-and-white two-tone with red up front and white towards the heel. There’s also a second version, which can be activated using a smartwatch, so you can make the change on the fly while you’re actively running.

adidas Adizero Gearshift Details

The adidas Adizero Gearshift doesn’t have a release date or retail price, but with a debut rollout in Germany over the weekend, we’re expecting more from the new hybrid model soon. To keep up with all the latest from adidas running, download the Sole Retriever App.

Zach Harris

Zach Harris is a writer based in Philadelphia. His work has appeared in Rolling Stone, Vice, Complex, High Times, and more. He is obsessed with skateboarding and bowling. He is still looking for his first 300. For tips, reviews, and anything in size 10.5 - zach.h@soleretriever.com