The adidas Supernova 2 Is the Running Shoe for Beginners That Keeps You Moving

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Put simply, a supernova is the explosion of a star in space. It happens when a star has reached the end of its life and dies in a brilliant explosion — the biggest explosion that humans have ever seen. Since most stars can live for billions of years, it’s perhaps not surprising that when adidas launched their new running model in 2013 after 30 years of research, testing and reviewing, they dubbed it the Supernova because it was built for long-distance running and comfort.

This summer, adidas improved upon the award-winning running shoe with the launch of its next-gen iteration, the Supernova 2 shoe. Considering how beloved the OG Supernova is, the marathon runner in me knew that I needed to test the latest and greatest model. Keep reading to check out our review of the adidas Supernova 2 running shoe, one of our favorite new adidas running shoe styles.

How I Tested the adidas Supernova 2 Running Shoes

I took my new Supernova 2s out for four runs. Each one was about five miles long, spanning around 45 minutes. I also wore them to walk my dog around Prospect Park for a total of three miles.

Stats

• Price: $100
• Weight: 9.8 oz
• Heel: 32mm heel/23mm full stack height
• Upper: Made from recycled materials
• Colorways: 8

Pros

• Excellent value at $100
• Great for beginner runners, heel strikers and those looking for long-distance comfort
• Boost foam heel and Bounce front section
• Provides super stable, well cushioned foundation for long-distance running
• Smooth and secure upper with long laces for double and triple knotting
• 12% lower carbon footprint than the original

Cons

• Can start to feel heavy after logging several miles
• Low to moderate energy return

The Design + Fit of the Supernova 2

The Supernova 2 Running Shoe launched in July 2022 and was constructed for long-distance running, comfortable to wear through any race or terrain.

Durable rubber swaths the entire outsole, making it comfortable on both dry and wet roads. I can attest to the Supernova 2’s versatility, as I went for a run after a rainstorm and regardless of splashes from large puddles, my feet remained dry.

Recycled fibers make up the eco-friendly upper, which fits snugly across the top of your foot. Personally, I prefer to run with sneakers tied tight with a great heel lockdown, and the Supernova 2 delivered just what I was looking for. The laces were also the perfect length so I could double and triple knot for extra security.

Overall, the shoe felt secure with a firm structure and wide toe box. Running shoes are not known for their pretty appearance, so I also appreciated the neon green accents on my pair of Supernova 2s, but also the delightful colorways seen throughout the Supernova 2 collection.

How Do the adidas Supernova 2 Running Shoes Compare to the Ultraboost?

To be honest, they’re a bit apples and oranges, but there’s room for both in your routine. The Ultraboost running shoes provide incredible energy return, and while the Supernova 2 did put some pep in my step, it was firmer and more stable than super bouncy. In fact, it was designed to provide optimal comfort for runners looking to log high mileage, encouraging them to settle into their comfort zone for the long haul.

My Impression of the adidas Supernova 2 Running Shoes

With an expertly balanced mix of Bounce and increased Boost technology in the midsole, to the new padded tongue and heel patch design (perfect for heel strikers like me), I felt like I could run for a billion years before gassing out.

There’s a time and a place for super cushioned running shoes, but I really liked the firmer sole the Supernova 2 offered, even if it did start to feel slightly heavy for that last mile. I can also see why this model could be an ideal choice as one of the best running shoes for beginners or runners trying to increase their weekly mileage. Too much energy return can sometimes feel unsteadying, and instead of the “go, go, go” or “push, push, push” mentality, the Supernova 2 seems to encourage anyone who wears it to just lace up and go at their own pace, which is exactly how a newbie runner builds confidence and endurance.

The Supernova 2 incorporates leaps in shoe technology, but also in sustainability, which is an important quality for me when considering new shoes and clothes. This new iteration has a 12% lower carbon footprint for the female version and 10% carbon footprint for the men, compared to the original Supernova.