adidas Alphabounce

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adidas Alphabounce: Review

β€œA versatile shoe for both running and casual wear.”

Overview


The adidas Alphabounce is a versatile shoe designed for both running and casual wear. This model is known for its stylish design and comfort, making it a popular choice among those who appreciate both aesthetics and functionality.

Key Features:

  • Bounce Technology: Provides cushioning and stability with a dual-density foam midsole.
  • Forged Mesh Upper: Offers a seamless, sock-like fit for enhanced comfort.
  • Adiwear Outsole: Ensures durability and traction on various surfaces.

The adidas Alphabounce is an ideal choice for individuals who prioritize comfort and style in their footwear. Its Bounce technology offers cushioning, making it suitable for everyday activities and light workouts.

Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the cheapest 10% of running shoes today.

Verdict

The consensus on the adidas Alphabounce


The adidas Alphabounce is a shoe that bridges the gap between performance and lifestyle footwear. While it is marketed as a running shoe, its true strength lies in its versatility for everyday activities and casual wear. The Bounce technology in the midsole provides adequate cushioning, making it comfortable for walking and light gym workouts. However, its performance as a dedicated running shoe is limited due to its non-breathable upper and average traction. The shoe's design is visually appealing, with a sleek, modern look that suits various styles. Despite its limitations in athletic performance, the Alphabounce offers good value for its price, especially for those seeking a stylish and comfortable shoe for daily use. Overall, the adidas Alphabounce is best suited for those who value style and comfort over high-performance running capabilities.

Comparable Shoes


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The adidas Ultraboost is a premium option for runners who require advanced cushioning and responsiveness. Compared to the Alphabounce, the Ultraboost offers superior comfort and energy return, making it ideal for long-distance running. However, the Alphabounce is more affordable and versatile for casual use.

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The New Balance Fresh Foam Roav is another versatile shoe that combines style with performance. It features Fresh Foam cushioning, which provides a soft and comfortable ride. While the Alphabounce offers a more structured fit, the Fresh Foam Roav excels in flexibility and breathability, making it a great choice for those who value these attributes.

Special versions of adidas Alphabounce


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The adidas Alphabounce AMS is a special version that focuses on enhanced comfort and support. It features additional cushioning and a more refined upper design, making it suitable for those who prioritize comfort in their footwear. The AMS version retains the stylish aesthetic of the original Alphabounce while offering improved performance for everyday activities.

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The adidas Alphabounce EM stands out with its engineered mesh upper, which provides better breathability compared to the standard Alphabounce. This version is ideal for those who need a more ventilated shoe for warmer climates or longer runs. The EM maintains the same cushioning and support features, ensuring a comfortable fit.

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The adidas Alphabounce Instinct offers a more aggressive design with enhanced stability features. It includes a unique lacing system and a reinforced midsole for better support during dynamic movements. This version is suitable for those who engage in more intense workouts or require additional stability in their footwear.

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The adidas Alphabounce RC is a budget-friendly option within the Alphabounce family. It retains the core features of the original model but with simplified materials and construction. The RC version is perfect for those seeking an affordable, stylish shoe for casual wear and light activities.

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The adidas Alphabounce+ introduces a more advanced cushioning system, offering a softer and more responsive ride. This version is designed for those who desire a more comfortable experience during their runs or workouts. The Alphabounce+ maintains the sleek design of the original while enhancing its performance capabilities.

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The adidas Alphabounce Beyond is tailored for athletes who require a shoe that can handle more demanding training sessions. It features a wider base for improved stability and a reinforced upper for added support. This version is ideal for those who push their limits in various sports and need a reliable shoe.

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The adidas Alphabounce Parley is an eco-friendly version that incorporates recycled materials in its construction. This model is perfect for environmentally conscious individuals who want to make a positive impact with their footwear choices. The Parley version maintains the comfort and style of the original Alphabounce while promoting sustainability.

10 adidas Alphabounce Pros & Cons


5 Pros

Versatile for both casual wear and light workouts.
Stylish design with multiple color options.
Affordable price point for a crossover shoe.
Comfortable cushioning with Bounce technology.
Durable construction with Adiwear outsole.

5 Cons

Limited breathability due to Forged Mesh upper.
Average traction on wet surfaces.
Sizing can be tricky, especially for wide feet.
Not suitable for long-distance running.
Heel grip may feel less supportive for some users.

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the adidas Alphabounce is crafted from Forged Mesh, a material that combines the flexibility of mesh with the stability of a more structured fabric. This design provides a sock-like fit, enhancing comfort and support. However, the added layers for stability compromise the shoe's breathability, making it less suitable for intense running sessions. The integrated tongue design contributes to a seamless fit, reducing irritation during wear.

Midsole

The midsole of the adidas Alphabounce features Bounce technology, which consists of a dual-density foam. This setup provides a balance of cushioning and support, making it suitable for daily running and casual activities. While not as responsive as adidas's Boost technology, Bounce offers a comfortable ride for moderate distances and everyday use.

Outsole

The outsole of the adidas Alphabounce is made from Adiwear, a durable rubber material designed to withstand abrasion. The outsole features a pattern of dot-shaped lugs that provide traction on various surfaces. While the traction is adequate for dry conditions, it may underperform on wet surfaces, limiting its use in adverse weather.

Size/fit

The adidas Alphabounce is known for its snug fit, particularly in the toe box area. It is recommended for those with narrow to regular feet, as the fit can be tight for wider feet. The shoe's sizing can be tricky, with some users needing to size up for a more comfortable fit. The sock-like upper provides a secure hold, but the heel grip may feel less supportive for some.

Comfort

Comfort is a standout feature of the adidas Alphabounce, thanks to its cushioned midsole and seamless upper design. The shoe provides a smooth, sock-like fit that is ideal for all-day wear. The cushioning is concentrated in the heel, offering support for heel strikers. However, the forefoot may feel less cushioned, which could lead to discomfort during extended use.

Cushioning

The adidas Alphabounce offers ample cushioning through its Bounce midsole technology. This cushioning is primarily focused in the heel area, making it suitable for heel strikers and providing comfort for everyday activities. While the cushioning is sufficient for short runs and casual wear, it may not be ideal for long-distance running due to its firmer feel compared to more advanced cushioning technologies.

Breathability

Breathability is a noted limitation of the adidas Alphabounce, primarily due to its Forged Mesh upper. The material, while providing stability and a snug fit, restricts airflow, making the shoe less suitable for hot weather or intense running sessions. This trade-off is common in shoes that prioritize durability and support over ventilation.

Stability

Stability in the adidas Alphabounce is achieved through its dual-density midsole and structured upper. The shoe provides a supportive platform for everyday activities and light workouts. The Forged Mesh upper helps keep the foot centered, while the external heel clip adds additional support. However, the shoe's stability may not be sufficient for high-intensity running or lateral movements.

Durability

The adidas Alphabounce is designed with durability in mind, featuring a robust Adiwear outsole and a sturdy Forged Mesh upper. These materials contribute to the shoe's longevity, making it a reliable choice for daily wear. While the outsole is not made from premium materials like Continental rubber, it still offers a reasonable lifespan for its price point.

Grip

The grip of the adidas Alphabounce is provided by its Adiwear outsole, which features a pattern of dot-shaped lugs. This design offers decent traction on dry surfaces, making it suitable for road running and casual use. However, the grip may be less effective on wet or slippery surfaces, which could limit its performance in adverse weather conditions.

Flex

Flexibility in the adidas Alphabounce is moderate, with the shoe offering a balance between support and movement. The Forged Mesh upper allows for some flexibility, adapting to the foot's shape over time. However, the dual-density midsole provides a firmer feel, which may limit the shoe's flexibility compared to more minimalist designs.

Who should buy the adidas Alphabounce?


The adidas Alphabounce is ideal for individuals who lead an active lifestyle and seek a shoe that combines style with functionality. It is well-suited for those who engage in everyday training or light gym workouts, as its cushioning and support provide comfort for these activities. Runners with a neutral pronation will find the shoe's design accommodating. Additionally, those who appreciate a sleek, modern aesthetic in their footwear will be drawn to the Alphabounce's design.

Who should not buy the adidas Alphabounce?


The adidas Alphabounce may not be the best choice for serious runners seeking a high-performance shoe for long-distance running. Its limited breathability and average traction make it less suitable for intense training sessions or wet conditions. Those with wide feet might find the fit too snug, even when sizing up. Runners who require advanced cushioning, like adidas's Boost technology, may want to explore other options for enhanced comfort and responsiveness.

adidas Alphabounce: What's it good for?


The adidas Alphabounce is well-suited for daily running and casual activities, offering a balance of style and comfort. Its design makes it a great choice for road running and light gym workouts, where its cushioning and support can be fully appreciated. The shoe's versatility extends to casual wear, making it a fashionable option for those who value aesthetics. However, it is not recommended for long-distance running or high-intensity training due to its limitations in breathability and traction.

5 adidas Alphabounce FAQs


Is the adidas Alphabounce suitable for long-distance running?

The adidas Alphabounce is not ideal for long-distance running due to its limited breathability and average traction. It is better suited for daily running and casual activities.

How does the sizing of the adidas Alphabounce fit?

The adidas Alphabounce tends to fit snugly, especially in the toe box area. It is recommended for those with narrow to regular feet. If you have wider feet, consider sizing up for a more comfortable fit.

What is the main difference between Bounce and Boost technology?

Bounce technology offers cushioning and support at a more affordable price, while Boost technology provides superior responsiveness and comfort for long-distance running. Bounce is suitable for everyday training and casual use.

Can the adidas Alphabounce be used for gym workouts?

Yes, the adidas Alphabounce is suitable for gym workouts and light training. Its cushioning and support make it comfortable for activities like weightlifting and short treadmill sessions.

Is the adidas Alphabounce breathable?

The adidas Alphabounce has limited breathability due to its Forged Mesh upper. While it provides stability and a snug fit, it may not be the best choice for hot weather or intense running sessions.

adidas Alphabounce alternatives

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released
Released
Jun 2016
Jun 2019Jun 2018Apr 2021Apr 2017
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Weight
Weight
M: 298 g
W: 258 g
283 g
M: 281 g
W: 232 g
170 g
M: 238 g
W: 190 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
12 mm
10 mm
14 mm
7 mm
M: 20 mm
W: 18 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
10 mm
10 mm
10 mm
8 mm
Heel
Heel
22 mm
20 mm
24 mm
7 mm
M: 28 mm
W: 26 mm
Brand
Brand
adidas
adidasadidasadidasMerrellNike
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
LightweightLow dropZero dropLightweight
Techs
Techs
adidas Alphabounce
adidas Alphabounce
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adidas Alphabounce: what the experts say (2 reviews)

adidas Alphabounce: 1 Expert video review

adidas Alphabounce characteristics and specifications

Specificationsvs Average
Released
Jun 2016
Measurements
Weight
M: 298 g
W: 258 g
Heel to toe drop
10 mm
Heel
22 mm
Forefoot
12 mm

Evolution of the adidas Alphabounce product family

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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