adidas 4D Run 1.0 Performance Review

The adidas 4D Run 1.0 takes the elastomeric polyurethane 3D-printed midsole that adidas created with Carbon, a Silicon Valley based tech company, and applies it to an everyday running shoe. Since its initial introduction in 2017, adidas’ 4D midsole technology has decreased in price. The 4D Run 1.0 is priced at $200. It’s still pricey, but much better than the $300-400 price tag of earlier 4D models. Now that it’s affordable, let’s find out how it performs.

Cushion

The main draw of the adidas 4D Run 1.0 is the 3D-printed lattice pattern midsole. It looks amazing and feels soft to the touch. But it doesn’t compress enough on foot strikes. The adidas 4D midsole feels a lot like standard EVA. For impact protection, I prefer adidas’ Lightstrike, Boost, or Bounce.
So while the 4D concept is super cool, the base material isn’t soft enough or elastic enough to compete with today’s top of the line cushioning. I’d recommend using the 4D Run 1.0 for running shorter distances, working out, and cross training. Adidas needs to make the 4D midsole softer before I’m comfortable recommending it for running longer distances.

Traction

The traction is lattice-patterned to match the look of the midsole. I didn’t get any rainy days while training in the 4D Run 1.0 but the traction bit the pavement and asphalt well. The outsole rubber is on the softer side but I’m not seeing much wear on my pair. I’d expect average durability if you’re running in these regularly.

Support

The support starts at the heel where adidas gives us both an internal heel counter and external heel clip. The heel area feels secure with no side to side movement. It’s not necessary, but the heel also features a fuse overlay. The toes also have fuse overlays and a foam sidewall built-in to the upper. The fuse and the foam sidewall serve two purposes, helping the toe of the shoe retain its shape and preventing the foot from sliding off the footbed.
Honestly, it’s already more support than a running shoe needs. But kd 13 isn’t done yet. The midsole flares outward to act as an outrigger all the way around the foot. On top of a 360° outrigger, the midsole material doesn’t compress too much so you stay in place. It’s a really stable platform that won’t roll over. It all adds up to one of the most supportive running shoes on the market.

Materials

The upper is made of a dual layer mesh with average breathability. Comfort is added with tons of padding at the heel and a squishy tongue that’s not too thick or too thin. As I previously mentioned, there are fuse overlays for structure, the logo, and the lace loops. There’s also 3M touches (depending on your colorway). Adidas also threw in some high quality laces. At $200, I expected more high end materials. But the materials adidas did use are comfortable so I can’t complain too much.

Fit

The 4D Run 1.0 fits like a traditional running shoe. Lengthwise, it feels just a touch shorter than the adidas Ultraboost 19 or adidas Ultraboost 20. I went true to size. Go with your preferred adidas size. Preferred adidas sizing will also work for wide footers as there’s plenty of width. The upper’s fit provides all day comfort for casual wear while working or walking around. It’s very comfortable for a non-knit sneaker.

Overall

The adidas 4D Run 1.0 is a little too heavy and the cushion too stiff to use as your daily running shoe. But it’s a very comfortable and supportive shoe. You can use it for light running, lifting weights, and cross training. And the 4D Run 1.0 is an awesome, attention-getting casual shoe that gets people talking about the 3D-printed midsole. It’s value will depend on how you plan to use it. If your intended usage mirrors my recommendations, you’ll enjoy the 4D Run 1.0.