The adidas Adizero Evo SL takes its design cues from the Adios Pro Evo 1, one of the most ambitious racing shoes adidas has produced. You can see the influence in the oversized three stripes, lightweight mesh upper and sculpted midsole. There's proper running technology beneath that distinctive shape too, which has helped the Evo SL find an audience beyond the runners it was originally developed for. The men's adidas Evo SL trainers collection brings that performance-led design into everyday footwear, including the original model and the more structured EXO edition.
adidas Adizero Evo SL: Lightstrike Pro and the Original Design
The standard Adizero Evo SL uses a lightweight mesh upper with reinforcement around key areas of the foot. Large three stripes run across the sides, following the shape of a substantial Lightstrike Pro midsole. It's the same foam family adidas uses across its premium Adizero running range, developed to provide lightweight cushioning and energy return.
Unlike adidas's carbon-plated racing models, the original Evo SL uses a small nylon stiffening element rather than a full-length carbon plate. That gives it a different construction from an Adios Pro, while retaining the responsive foam and running-focused geometry that make the Adizero family recognisable. Continental rubber is used in the outsole for traction, alongside additional rubber sections.
The design feels particularly different from the slimmer adidas Originals range. Where Samba and Gazelle use relatively low rubber soles, the Evo SL has a much deeper foam midsole and an upper built around lightweight running materials. It's an option for anyone who prefers a modern technical trainer, whether they're wearing it for everyday use or heading out for a run.
adidas Evo SL vs Evo SL EXO
The adidas Evo SL EXO builds on the original design with a different approach to the upper. Its EXOSKELETON fit system adds a more structured supporting framework, while a woven outer shell gives the shoe additional coverage and a more technical appearance. The familiar oversized three stripes remain, alongside Lightstrike Pro cushioning beneath the foot.
That upper construction is the main distinction worth considering. The standard Evo SL keeps the more open, lightweight mesh design, while the EXO introduces additional material and structure around the foot. Both retain their running origins, so choosing between them comes down to the upper design, individual fit and finish you prefer.
Men's adidas Evo SL Colours and Sizing
Black and white adidas Evo SL trainers make the oversized three stripes particularly noticeable, especially when the contrasting branding runs across the midsole. Grey and silver editions bring out the curved shape of the sole, while brighter colours give the technical design a different finish. Look closely at the upper materials too, particularly when comparing standard and EXO releases.
adidas recommends your usual size for the standard Evo SL and the EXO editions checked, although the different upper constructions may affect how each feels around the foot. Check the individual size guide and allow enough room through the toes, particularly if you're planning to use the shoes for running as well as everyday wear.
Browse men's adidas Adizero Evo SL trainers at Pro:Direct Lifestyle by colour and UK size, or explore our wider men's adidas trainers collection. For more detailed running advice, take a look at the adidas Evo SL running shoes range at Pro:Direct Running.
