Adidas Alphaedge Performance 4D Review
By Kareem Hamwi on 11 Jun,2019
OFOUR does its best to stay stocked with all the current sneakers, and this article further showcases that. Today, we have the Adidas Alphaedge Performance 4D in black for you. It was just launched a couple weeks ago – May 31st, 2019 to be exact – and it highlights Adidas’ push for futurism in the sneaker industry. Nike has its HyperAdapt BBs [OFOUR also did a review of the older model – HyperAdapt 1.0 ;)] and Adidas has the 4D.
Before we get into the details, I just have to say how awesome these shoes are. Adidas really took into consideration the affect running has on an individual as well as the twists, turns, and balancing performed when running.
It’s called 4D because of the 3D printing of the midsole and the 4th dimensional aspect of the comfort, stability, and cushioning it provides. Adidas has this to say: “Cutting-edge 4D design combines comfort, stability and cushioning in these men’s running shoes. The Alphaedge4D midsole is precisely tuned for controlled energy return, providing long-lasting cushioning and stability. The sleek build feature a stretchy heat-pressed upper that adapts to the shape of your foot as it moves, with areas of support for a stable ride.”
In your hand, you’ll immediately realize that these are a bit heavier than your regular boosts, but not by that much. It’ll still feel light on your feet and when you step down and feel that comfortable compression, you won’t mind as much anymore.
The upper is the ever-present Adidas Primeknit but with Forge Mesh technology, as is found in the Adidas AlphaBounce. Forge Mesh is the tougher ridged material found along specific places on the upper. After over a decade and a half of research, Adidas located the precise points where the foot needs the most support. Forge Mesh is essentially the upgraded version of ForgeFiber used in the older model released in November of 2018. ForgeFiber uses Thermoplastic Polyurethane-coated yarn to maximize performance that adds layers for ultimate strength in motion, flexibility, and lockdown.
The upper hasn’t changed too much from previous versions apart from the mesh technology used, and the design is pretty simple and unassuming. The main focus has and always will be the midsoles.
The midsole is proprietary technology designed by a California-based company, Carbon. The 3D-printed midsole is made using a process called Digital Light Synthesis. It’s made by using oxygen and programmable liquid resins as the material molded into the shape you see here. The result is material that’s firm to the touch, but when force is applied, becomes contouring and flexible. It’s definitely more absorbent than boost, and runners typically choose these over any other styles for long distance running or general active sports.
All colorways have the same color midsole – this ash green sort of color. The design resembles a mesh cage or something… reminds me of a cave or spider webs, I don’t know. What I do know, is I like it. Despite the porous nature of the midsole, there shouldn’t be any worry of dirt or gunk getting caught in between the gaps; and if that does happen, a simple rinse will get it right back to looking great. No more need to brush using your old toothbrush or for expensive shoe cleaners (though I recommend you still spray it with a protective coating).
The outsole is made by Continental – the tire company. It’s meant to be extremely resistant to the weather and wear, ensuring these are long lasting. It also adds another layer of comfort when running outside. It’s also dotted with bumps to increase grip on all surfaces.
I took a trip recently somewhere where they actually had my size. I ended up buying 3 pairs of shoes – two boosts and a pair of Jordans. I also had the older Alphaedge 4Ds in my hands, but unfortunately, the new Alphaedge only came out as soon as I got back. Plus they didn’t even have my size of the older models, so an ultimate loss on both ends. What I’m trying to say is, if you’re an active person and/or really like to be connected to the rapid pace of technology, I highly recommend these kicks. They’re hot on the market right now and deserve a place in your collection.
As always, check out OFOUR’s website – www.ofour.com – to purchase your own pair to be the path to the future.