Adidas introduced its A3 multi-density midsole technology in the rearfoot a year ago, but it was not widely accepted by runners. For 2003, Adidas has taken the A3 rearfoot and placed it into a more conventional, anti-pronation shoe, similar to other Adidas stability and motion-control models. Thanks to a full-length second midsole density (similar to the Adidas Cairo), the adiStar Control is now more stable than the original A3 shoe. The greatest benefit of the A3 rearfoot: increased durability. However, to fully appreciate its support, you have to be a big enough runner to exert the weight required to compress the rearfoot. As a result, many of our wear-testers found the rearfoot to be too firm. The problem stems from the Control's hard, orthotic-like arch, combined with a plastic arch bridge. Our wear-testers found this unit uncomfortable, and many felt it right through the midsole. Another potential drawback: The Control is narrow, and may not fit big runners who have wider feet.
Bottom line: Adidas isn't known for its motion-control shoes, and the adiStar Control will probably not change that perception. It may meet the cushioning and stability needs of some bigger runners, but its medial (arch) side is too extreme for most overpronators.

Average Reader Rating: 2.5 stars (2 reviews)

4 stars
love these shoes. have flat feet...lots of trouble with pain in ball of foot. only shoe i do not need orthotic with. Tried supernova control. Like it but needed orthotic after a couple of long runs. This shoe held out better...
Submitted by: ob606, East Falmouth, ma

1 stars
I have had these shoes less than a week and despise them. The arch support is very hard and I have blisters on both of my arches. I definitely would not recommend these..
Submitted by: weeze, manhattan, KS