Adidas Boston 13 EQT Edition: Our In-Depth Look

The Adidas Adizero Boston line. For many of us runners, it's a name that conjures up images of reliable training partners, shoes that can handle the daily grind and still have a bit of zip for those speedier sessions. The latest iteration, the Boston 13 EQT Edition, has landed, and it's got our attention. This special release isn't just another colourway; it's a proper nod to Adidas' heritage, specifically the iconic Equipment designs from way back in '91. Think retro vibes meet modern running tech - a compelling combination, right?

Expert reviews across the pond - from the likes of Believe in the Run, WearTesters, and Road Trail Run - suggest the Boston 13 EQT Edition builds on the solid foundation of the Boston 12, with key tweaks aimed at boosting comfort and responsiveness. While it's getting plaudits for its revamped upper, that extra bit of Lightstrike Pro foam underfoot, and its sheer versatility, there are a few whispers about how long that outsole might last and whether the fit will suit everyone. So, is the Adidas Boston 13 EQT Edition the do-it-all workhorse you've been waiting for, capable of tackling everything from your easy miles to those lung-busting tempo runs? Let's dive in and have a proper look.

Under the Bonnet: The Tech Specs

For the data geeks amongst us (we know you're out there!), here's a rundown of what makes the Boston 13 EQT Edition tick:

That bump in Lightstrike Pro foam in the forefoot is a big talking point, suggesting a potentially softer and more responsive feel underfoot - ideal for those longer stints and when you're pushing the pace. The dual-density midsole, pairing that bouncy Lightstrike Pro with a firmer Lightstrike in the heel, hints at a clever balancing act between cushioning and stability. And those carbon fibre EnergyRods 2.0? They're all about giving you that propulsive oomph as you toe-off, helping you feel a bit quicker.

The outsole design is a smart combo too. The LightTraxion rubber on the sides, also seen on the speedy Adios Pro 4, likely aims to keep the weight down, while the trusty Continental rubber in the forefoot should provide that crucial grip where you need it most. The revamped engineered mesh upper suggests Adidas has been listening to feedback, aiming for better breathability and support. Finally, that slightly lower 6mm heel-to-toe drop might just appeal to those who prefer a more natural feel and a lower profile ride.

The Good Stuff: What the Experts Are Saying

Reviewers seem pretty chuffed with several aspects of the Boston 13 EQT Edition:

• Enhanced Cushioning and Responsiveness: That extra Lightstrike Pro foam appears to be doing the trick. WearTesters noted a proper "bounce" in the forefoot, which is just what you want for speed work. Road Trail Run described the overall ride as more dynamic with a noticeable "snappy flex," all thanks to that increased foam depth up front. Believe in the Run found the ride firmer but still responsive, hitting that sweet spot for tempo runs where you want a bit of ground feel without sacrificing cushioning.
• Improved Upper Comfort and Fit: Hallelujah! The addition of padding to the tongue and collar seems to have made a real difference in overall comfort. The redesigned engineered mesh upper is also being praised for offering better structure and support, hopefully ironing out some of the lacing niggles of the previous model. Plus, the return to a more traditional padded heel counter is likely to be welcomed by those who found the Boston 12's more minimalist design a bit lacking.
• Reliable Traction: The LightTraxion and Continental rubber outsole combo is generally getting the thumbs up for providing good grip across various surfaces. If it's good enough for the Adios Pro 4, it should be able to handle our UK roads and trails, right?
• Versatility is Key: This seems to be a real strength of the Boston 13 EQT Edition. Reviewers suggest it's a genuine all-rounder, happy clocking up the daily miles, tackling tempo sessions, and even a decent option for race day, especially if you're after something a bit more budget-friendly than a dedicated racer. Believe in the Run even called it the most versatile shoe in Adidas' current lineup, potentially your "one-and-done" trainer.
• Solid Stability: For those who tend to land on their heels, the Boston 13 is being noted for its stability. That generous amount of Lightstrike foam in the heel, combined with a wider base, particularly in the forefoot, should offer a more planted feel. WearTesters described it as a "stable-neutral" shoe, potentially a good shout for larger runners needing a bit more support.

A Word of Caution: Potential Downsides

Of course, no shoe is perfect, and reviewers have flagged a few potential areas of concern with the Boston 13 EQT Edition:

• Outsole Durability: This is perhaps the biggest red flag raised. WearTesters reported noticeable wear in the toe-off area after only around 65 kilometres (40 miles). This suggests that while the grip might be decent, the longevity of that LightTraxion rubber could be a limiting factor for high-mileage runners. It sounds like the midsole might outlast the outsole on this one.
• Fit Quirks: While some reviews suggest an improved fit with more room in the toebox - potentially good news for those with wider feet - there's conflicting feedback. One early impression on Reddit described the fit as noticeably narrow, suggesting some might need to size up by half a size. Road Trail Run also hinted that those with narrower feet might need to consider sizing down for a secure fit. This mixed bag highlights that fit is a very personal thing, and trying before you buy is definitely recommended.
• Ride Feel: While generally positive, some reviewers noted aspects of the ride that might not appeal to everyone. Road Trail Run mentioned it could feel a bit "mechanical." And the reviewer from Believe in the Run, Thomas, found that increased Lightstrike Pro in the forefoot a touch firmer than expected. One YouTube review even preferred the Adidas Evo SL, suggesting the Boston 13 might not offer the plushness or responsiveness some are after, especially considering the price.
• Lacing System: Believe in the Run pointed out that the lacing could be a bit fiddly to get just right for a secure lockdown. They mentioned it might take some experimenting to find the optimal configuration, and the laces were potentially a tad short when using the runner's loop for extra ankle security.
• Weight: While not exactly heavy, at around 278 grams (9.8 oz) for a UK size 8.5 (US 9), Believe in the Run noted it's on the heavier side for a shoe that could potentially be used for racing. Road Trail Run also expressed a wish for it to be a bit lighter, given its construction.

Boston 13 vs. Boston 12: What's Changed?

The general consensus is that the Boston 13 is a positive step forward from its predecessor, the Boston 12, with improvements focused on comfort and fit:

• Upper Overhaul: The Boston 13 boasts a more comfortable and secure upper thanks to a padded tongue, collar, and heel counter. This should address some of the comfort complaints about the Boston 12, particularly around the heel and tongue. The redesigned engineered mesh also aims for a better overall fit and should help with those occasional lacing issues.
• Midsole Tweaks: While the Boston 13 packs in 13.8% more Lightstrike Pro foam, aiming for a softer and more responsive ride, reviews suggest the overall feel remains fairly similar to the Boston 12 - still leaning towards the firmer and more responsive side, making it well-suited for those faster training sessions.
• Slight Drop Adjustment: The heel-to-toe drop has been nudged down to 6mm from the Boston 12's 7mm, a subtle change that might appeal to those who prefer a slightly lower offset.
• Outsole Refinement: The Boston 13 now features LightTraxion rubber on the lateral side, alongside the familiar Continental rubber in the forefoot. This combination likely aims to shave off a bit of weight while still providing decent grip.

If you liked the performance of the Boston 12 but were hoping for a more comfortable upper, the Adidas Boston 13 looks like a worthwhile upgrade.

How Does It Stack Up Against Other Adidas Runners?

When you're considering the Boston 13 EQT Edition, it's worth seeing how it fits into the wider Adidas running shoe family:

• Adidas Adizero Evo SL: Several reviewers drew comparisons here. Believe in the Run's Meaghan said she'd likely pick the Evo SL for a softer and bouncier ride. A YouTube reviewer echoed this, suggesting the Evo SL might offer a better overall experience, possibly at a lower price point. Solereview's take on the Evo SL highlights its versatility, high energy return, and roomy fit, making it a serious contender within the Adidas stable.
• Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4: The Boston 13 is clearly positioned as a training partner to Adidas' top-tier marathon racer. This suggests it's designed to offer a similar feel, albeit with more durability for those daily miles and harder workouts, preparing you for the Adios Pro 4 on race day. WearTesters noted the visual and underfoot motion similarities between the Boston 12's midsole and the Adios Pro 3, implying a similar relationship with the latest Adios Pro.
• Wider Market Comparison: Road Trail Run placed the Boston 13 alongside popular models like the Puma Deviate Nitro 3, Saucony Endorphin Speed 4, and Nike Zoom Fly 6. This helps us see that the Boston 13 sits in that competitive category of versatile, moderately cushioned, and uptempo training shoes.

These comparisons show that while the Boston 13 EQT Edition offers a specific blend of features and performance, you might also consider the Evo SL for a potentially softer ride or the Adios Pro 4 for an out-and-out racing experience. Looking at how it stacks up against other brands also helps to understand its place in the broader running shoe landscape.

What's the Word on the Street? Community Insights

Beyond the formal reviews, what are everyday runners saying about the Adidas Boston 13 EQT Edition?

A Reddit thread focused on first run impressions revealed a real mix of opinions on the fit. While the initial poster found it narrow (a sentiment echoed by some commenters), others reported a more accommodating fit compared to the Boston 12. This really highlights how subjective shoe fit is and underscores the importance of considering your own foot shape and volume. It sounds like the fit might not be universally consistent.

Another Reddit thread announcing the official release showed some disappointment in the community regarding the limited availability of the EQT edition, drawing parallels with the Evo SL launch. This suggests that getting your hands on this special colourway might be a bit of a challenge. There was also some chatter about the specific type of Lightstrike Pro foam used, with some speculating it might be firmer than what's found in the Adios Pro 4. This level of detail shows how engaged and knowledgeable the running community is!

These community insights from platforms like Reddit offer a valuable real-world perspective, complementing the more formal reviews. The differing opinions on fit are a crucial reminder to try before you buy, while the discussions around release strategies and foam characteristics show the active interest in new running tech.

Our Verdict

The Adidas Boston 13 EQT Edition emerges as a solid and noticeably improved all-round trainer, building nicely on the reputation of the Boston line. The upgrades, particularly in the upper comfort and the increased Lightstrike Pro foam, address previous concerns and contribute to a more refined running experience.

The Wins:

• The comfier upper, with its added padding, provides a more secure and enjoyable fit.
• The extra Lightstrike Pro foam enhances cushioning and responsiveness, making it versatile for various training paces.
• Its versatility means it can handle daily miles, tempo runs, and even step in as a race-day option on a budget.
• The stable ride, especially for heel strikers, broadens its appeal.
• The LightTraxion and Continental rubber outsole generally provides good grip.

Things to Consider:

• Potential durability issues with the LightTraxion rubber on the outsole could be a concern for high-mileage runners.
• The fit seems to be a bit of a lottery, with conflicting reports of narrowness versus accommodating width - definitely try before you buy!
• Some runners might find the ride a touch mechanical or firmer than their preference.
• The lacing system could be improved for a more consistently secure lockdown.

Ultimately, the Adidas Boston 13 EQT Edition is a strong contender in the versatile performance trainer category. We reckon it's well worth considering, but definitely try them on if you can, given the mixed feedback on sizing. And if a softer, potentially more budget-friendly ride is top of your list, the Adidas Evo SL might also be worth a look.

What are your thoughts on the Adidas Boston 13 EQT Edition? Have you had a chance to try them out? Let us know in the comments below!