Does more Lightstrike Pro make the Boston 13 softer
Both shoes combine Lightstrike Pro with a firmer Lightstrike 2.0 base and EnergyRods. The Boston 13 reportedly adds 13.8% more Lightstrike Pro, concentrated mainly under the forefoot. That changes the foam balance without removing the structure underneath.
The Run Testers and Believe in the Run still describe the Boston 13 as firm and controlled. Boston 12 feedback is more divided: some runners find it harsh initially, while Solereview’s review summary describes a more forgiving daily-training ride. The evidence does not establish a dramatic softness improvement from one generation to the next.
For a Boston 12 owner, the useful question is whether you want refinement of that feel. If the stiffness itself is what you dislike, buying the Boston 13 for extra foam alone is a gamble.
Upper comfort is the clearest reason to upgrade
The Boston 12’s minimal collar and thin tongue can leave some runners balancing heel security against pressure across the foot. The Boston 13 adds collar and tongue padding, addressing those contact points directly.
The Run Testers review reports better step-in comfort and less lace pressure. However, Believe in the Run still reports heel lift and short laces, while Runner’s World describes a fiddly lockdown requiring a heel-lock knot. Extra padding improves the design without guaranteeing a secure fit for every foot.
Try the Adidas Adizero Boston 13 if the Adidas Adizero Boston 12’s collar rubs or its laces press uncomfortably. During fitting, check whether the heel stays seated without overtightening the midfoot. If your Boston 12 already achieves that balance, this update offers less practical benefit.
Sizing and width need a fresh try-on
Most Boston 13 reviews summarised here recommend the usual size, but Ben Parkes sized down. Width feedback also conflicts: some describe a more accommodating fit, whereas others report a snug midfoot or less usable room after the added heel padding.
Boston 12 reports likewise range from true to size to long and roomy. Your existing size is a starting point, not a guarantee that the newer upper will fit identically. Check both toe clearance and midfoot pressure in your running socks; a roomy toe box does not necessarily mean a wide midfoot.
Which works better for marathon training and everyday runs
Both models make sense for runners who enjoy a structured shoe for tempo sessions and longer efforts. The Boston 13 preserves that role, with upper refinements that may matter more as runs lengthen. The research provides no evidence that upgrading will make you faster.
Easy-running suitability is less clear-cut. Some Boston 13 reviewers cover relaxed mileage comfortably; others find it too firm for recovery runs. Boston 12 accounts show the same split. Neither has a universal pace at which it becomes suitable.
For a first marathon, either could serve a runner who has already found it comfortable over longer training runs. The Adidas Adizero Boston 13 is worth trying when upper irritation limits your Boston 12 use. Keep the Adidas Adizero Boston 12 if it already handles your training comfortably. Race-day suitability depends on that experience, rather than the generation number.
Grip and durability do not establish an upgrade winner
The Boston 12 uses Continental outsole rubber; the Boston 13 combines Continental with LightTraxion. The reviews generally praise road grip and durability, but they do not provide a controlled, comparable lifespan test proving that the Boston 13 lasts longer.
Boston 12 owner reports include both strong longevity and early heel wear. Boston 13 durability praise sometimes refers to previous Boston generations. That supports cautious optimism, not a guaranteed mileage figure. Replacing a serviceable Boston 12 solely for the newer outsole is difficult to justify from this evidence.
Is the Boston 13 worth paying more for
The research lists both models at US$160 and £140 retail. At a similar purchase price, the Adidas Adizero Boston 13 is the more compelling first try for someone concerned about collar or tongue comfort, provided its fit works.
A discounted Adidas Adizero Boston 12 changes the decision. If you already enjoy its ride and upper, paying extra for the newer model buys refinements you may not need. Compare the actual price in your size; the research’s historical sale examples do not establish today’s availability.
Already owning a comfortable, usable Boston 12 is the strongest reason to wait. Replace it when its condition or fit no longer meets your needs, rather than because a newer version exists.
Who should buy or skip each model
Adidas Adizero Boston 12
Adidas Adizero Boston 12: buy at a worthwhile discount when its fit works; skip if securing the heel creates uncomfortable pressure.
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Adidas Adizero Boston 13
Adidas Adizero Boston 13: buy for a familiar structured training ride with more upper padding; skip if your priority is plush recovery comfort.
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Final Verdict
For Boston 12 owners bothered by the upper, the Adidas Adizero Boston 13 is a worthwhile model to try before upgrading. For satisfied owners, keeping the Adidas Adizero Boston 12 is the stronger value decision. New buyers should weigh the Boston 13’s padding against any Boston 12 saving, with fit deciding close calls. Runners seeking a substantially softer ride should look beyond both.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Adidas Adizero Boston 13 a major upgrade over the Boston 12?
The supplied reviews describe a refinement of the same training role. More collar and tongue padding and additional Lightstrike Pro are the main changes. The evidence does not establish a large performance gain or make replacement necessary for satisfied Boston 12 owners.
Is the Boston 13 lighter than the Boston 12?
The Run Testers summary lists 258 g versus 260 g as official weights, but other supplied figures vary considerably, including 236 g and 278 g for the Boston 13. Sample size and reporting differences prevent a reliable universal weight-saving claim.
What are the stack heights and drops?
The Run Testers summary gives 36/30 mm and a 6 mm drop for the Boston 13, versus 38/31 mm and 7 mm for the Boston 12. Other summaries differ: Running Shoes Guru lists the Boston 13 at 37/30 mm and 7 mm, while the Boston 12 lab summary gives 34.5/28.4 mm and 6.1 mm. These are conflicting reported or measured figures, not one verified comparison.
Are the Boston 12 and Boston 13 carbon plated?
Both use EnergyRods rather than a conventional full-length plate. The Boston 12 research identifies glass-fibre rods. Boston 13 summaries alternate between glass-fibre and carbon-infused descriptions, so its rod material remains unresolved in this draft.
Should you buy the same size in both models?
Start by trying your existing size, but reassess toe room and midfoot hold. Most Boston 13 reviewers used their usual size; Ben Parkes went down half a size. The added padding can alter usable space, so automatically sizing down is not supported.
Does the Boston 12 need 30–50 miles to break in?
Some supplied accounts describe that period, but others are comfortable sooner. It is not a required mileage target or a reason to tolerate painful pressure. The Boston 13 has better initial comfort reports, but the research does not establish that every pair needs no adaptation.
Is the Boston 13 more stable for heel strikers?
Several supplied reviews praise its firm base and structured feel, but Running Shoes Guru reports increased inward rolling for its tester. The research does not establish a universal stability advantage over the Boston 12 or suitability for every heel striker.