Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra 2

The Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra 2 is the racing shoe par excellence for runners who want to fly on hard-packed terrain. With a highly responsive Lightstrike Pro midsole and TPE rods (Energy Rods), this second version improves the fit and collar comfort compared with the first generation, keeping the feeling of speed that made it famous. After a long time, it seems the German brand has got it right: the ideal shoe for mountain marathons, races on fast trails and light runners who put dynamics ahead of stability.

The single-layer mesh upper with TPE reinforcements offers a snug, light fit, while the combination of very pronounced rockers and the "catapulting" midsole gives a feeling of flying at fast paces. Compared with other shoes such as the Speedgoat 7, the Agravic Speed Ultra 2 is more responsive but less stable, and compared with the Peregrine 16, it goes for speed rather than grip in mud.

In short: a very specific shoe for what it is, running fast in the mountains, especially over long distances (the "Speed Ultra" in the name was already a clue). The outsole from the well-known tyre brand Continental™ (still holding out against the almost omnipresent and almost always excellent Vibram in the little world of outsoles) with 4 mm lugs shines on hard-packed, dry surfaces, but demands polished technique on broken ground. The improved fit (now truer to size) and the more comfortable collar make it more usable than the previous version. If you are looking for a racer for long distances at a good pace on favourable terrain, the Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra 2 is a very interesting option. If you need stability or versatility, better look at other models.