The Adios Pro 5 is the more substantial redesign, but a comfortable Adios Pro 4 owner does not automatically need to upgrade. adidas reports a 23g weight reduction in the same UK 8.5 sample and 9% higher energy return. ENERGYRIM also changes the underfoot structure. These are reasons to try the new racer, not proof of a faster marathon for everyone.
Is the Adios Pro 5 a real upgrade over the Pro 4?
Yes in construction; whether it is an upgrade for your running depends on fit and ride. The Pro 4 uses carbon-infused ENERGYRODS within LIGHTSTRIKE PRO foam. The Pro 5 replaces those rods with an ENERGYRIM around the midsole perimeter. adidas says this allows more foam directly beneath the foot while tuning stiffness around it. The upper and outsole have also been redesigned.
adidas puts the Pro 5 at an average 177g in UK 8.5, around 23g lighter than the Pro 4 in its matched comparison. The listed stack changes from 39mm heel and 33mm forefoot to 39mm and 35mm; the stated drop falls from 6mm to 4mm.
Buying rule: consider the Pro 5 when you need a new racer or want to solve a specific issue with the Pro 4. A pair that already fits and works at marathon pace has earned its place.
Which has the better ride: ENERGYRIM or ENERGYRODS?
The Pro 5 changes the sensation underfoot; specifications cannot decide which you will prefer. The Pro 4's ENERGYRODS work with its rocker and responsive foam to produce a quick, directed transition. The Pro 5 moves carbon reinforcement to the perimeter, leaving a greater volume of continuous foam beneath the foot.
Published testers disagree about softness: some describe the Pro 5 as softer and bouncier, while Runner's World found it slightly firmer and snappier in use. These observations should not be flattened into a universal ranking. Compare the two at the pace you intend to race if possible.
Does the lighter Pro 5 make you faster?
It is lighter in adidas' matched comparison. A faster finish is a separate claim. adidas reports a 12% weight reduction and 9% higher energy return. Energy return is not the same as running economy or race time: neither figure promises that a runner will be 9% faster.
The 23g saving matters in a race-day shoe, but fit, stride, course and training still shape the result. If the Pro 4 already feels efficient at your pace, a laboratory percentage alone is a weak reason to replace it.
Is the Adios Pro 5 more stable over a marathon?
Its design targets greater control, but stability is personal. The Pro 4's carved midfoot and soft racing foam can feel unsettled to some runners late in a long effort. The Pro 5's perimeter rim and revised foam layout aim to create a better-planted platform; early testers have reported a more stable midstance.
That makes the new shoe worth trying if you like the Pro 4's speed but notice wobble. Neither is a corrective stability trainer. Check turns and long race-pace running before deciding that the new construction solves your own concern.
Fit and upper: which one should you try first?
Start with your usual adidas running size, then check length and arch comfort. LIGHTLOCK 2.0 adds ventilation zones, internal support bands and an updated heel. Some testers report better lockdown and more toe space. Runner's World found the Pro 5 truer to size in length than the Pro 4, but its narrow waist still produced arch-friction concerns; another tester developed a hot spot on a long run.
Reports about the Pro 4's length and toe volume also vary. Wear your race socks, compare adjacent sizes if necessary, and check heel hold without creating arch pressure. A short try-on cannot reveal every long-run hot spot.
Which is better value in the US, EU and UK?
Compare prices you can actually pay, especially when the Pro 4 is discounted. adidas announced the Pro 5 at $275 / €275, with a global launch from 22 September 2026. Research for the Pro 4 records $250 / €250 / £220 at launch. Those figures come from different launch periods, not live like-for-like listings. Check your region, size and colour before buying.
For a new buyer, a modest gap may justify trying the lighter Pro 5 and deciding on fit. A large Pro 4 discount changes the calculation. For an existing owner, the cost is a whole new pair, not merely the difference between two shelf prices.
Choose adidas Adizero Adios Pro 5 for the lighter new design
The Pro 5 is the stronger candidate when buying a fresh marathon racer and exploring its lower weight, ENERGYRIM transition and updated upper. Check the arch and heel before race day.
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Choose adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 for a proven fit or strong discount
The Pro 4 remains a credible race shoe. Keep it if your pair is comfortable and responsive, or consider a discounted new pair if you already know its fit works.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the Adios Pro 5 lighter than the Pro 4?
Yes. adidas reports 177g on average in UK 8.5, about 23g less than the Pro 4 in its comparison. Other sizes and individual pairs may vary.
Does the Adios Pro 5 have carbon rods?
No. The Pro 5 replaces ENERGYRODS with a carbon-infused ENERGYRIM around the midsole.
Is the Adios Pro 5 softer?
There is no dependable answer for every runner. Early testers describe the revised ride differently. Try it at race effort if possible.
Is the Adios Pro 5 faster?
adidas reports higher energy return, but that does not establish faster times for every runner. Fit and ride matter.
Should I replace my Adios Pro 4?
Replace it when worn, when its fit causes problems, or when a proper trial shows you clearly prefer the Pro 5. There is no automatic need to upgrade.
When was the Pro 5 released?
adidas began its global launch on 22 September 2026. Regional stock and sizes vary.
Final verdict: a meaningful redesign, a personal upgrade
Choose the Adios Pro 5 if you need a new racer and its lighter ENERGYRIM ride and updated fit work for you. Keep or choose the Adios Pro 4 if it already performs well or a substantial discount makes it better value. Specifications and first impressions do not establish a universal winner.