Pro cyclists demand the best gear for getting every little advantage they can. Adidas have developed a new shoe, the AdiStar Ultra that is currently being used by Thor Hushovd, Jaan Kirsipuu, Nicolas Jalabert and Sebastien Hinault in this year’s Tour de France to deliver that advantage.
The key feature of the show, and common with most top-end shoes these days, is the Pro-lite Carbon sole. They have kept the sole slim to reduce the stack height, made the cleat area stiffer and used a ‘special’ grip treatment around the cleat area. The Anatomical Energy Frame offers support where it’s needed while adapting to individual foot shapes. Two novel straps eliminate pressure points by spreading out the support, by using two small Velcro straps to tension the cords hooked on the side of the shoe. The third strap uses a ratchet to keep it all snug.
There’s plenty of venting around the toe box and the heel, and Climacool fabric is used for its wicking properties. An anti-microbial based treatment on the inside of the shoe should prevent the build up of smelly odours, and is environmentally friendly.
We’ll get a pair to test soon and let you know what they’re like.
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