Adidas Universal
Manufacturer:
Adidas
Price:
$110
Reviewed in:
Jan 2004 Shoe Guide
The Universal takes most of the cushioning elements of the Cushion--the same midsole, cushy outsole, open-mesh upper, and fit--but it's slightly more stable. Like the Supernova Control, the Universal has a two-density midsole, and its Torsion Bar adds support on both the medial and lateral side. The other difference: The Universal has a softer, smoother rearfoot at heel-strike.
Recommended For: Efficient runners with high arches, forefoot-strikers, and mild overpronators with normal arches who want good midsole cushioning and mild medial stability.
Bottom Line: The Universal performs well for bigger runners who need a touch more cushioning and stability than the Supernova provides. But in a side-by-side comparison with either the Supernova Cushion or Control, both Supernova shoes come out on top of the Universal.
Lab Report:
Responsiveness: Moderate (well-cushioned, but not as responsive as Supernova Cushion)
Cushioning: Moderate (adiPRENE pads in rearfoot and forefoot)
Wear-test reports:
"I like the Universal's narrow heel and roomy toebox. But the tongue slid around."
--Ursula Rains/San Diego
"The Universal is lighter, roomier in the toebox, and feels more cushioned than my Supernovas. I also liked the lacing system, which allowed me to snug up the upper better than my Supernovas."
--Teri Fitzgibbons/San Diego
"The Universal has a smooth transition from heel to toe. The forefoot is very well-cushioned and the toebox is roomy."
--Josh Metzger/East Lansing
 |
| Gender: |
Female |
| Shoe Type: |
Neutral-Cushioned |
| Sizes: |
5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, 10, 10.5, 11 |
| Midsole Characteristics: |
Two-density midsole |
| Weight: |
11 oz. |
| Essential Technology: |
Torsion Bar |
| Foot Biomechanics: |
Neutral |
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