Adidas_1 DLX Runner updated, less fugly

Adidas has decided to expand its line of "smart" shoes with the Adidas_1 DLX Runners. Even though these shiny new versions might look and perform better than the first iteration, they still won't tear us away from our desks -- of course, exercise isn't exactly our bag (unless you count typing as a work out). Regardless of how horrid they appeared, we must admit that the originals performed as advertised, using an embedded microprocessor, motor, and sensor to automatically adjust cushioning to the ideal level by sensing shifts in pace and movement. The new DLX Runners sport a lighter motor mechanism and customize to each individual's needs more effectively by recognizing running style and remembering personal requirements. Most importantly, they actually look like normal shoes and less like miniature spaceships. These hi-tech trainers are all yours for a steep £149 (about $288), but we're still not convinced (you know, since we jog every morning) that expensive 'puter-shoes are necessary for a good run.

[Ray-- @ Mar 8th 2007 1:01PM]

a real smart shoe would detect your weight, determine how far you have walked/run and calculate the amount of calories you have burned off per day using it's internal calendar.... your shoes should then be able to report back to you how much you have excerted yourself throughout the day via wireless to your PC/PDA/Mobile.

Adjusting firmness (something they have been doing in skiis now for years) is slightly interesting but nothing revolutionary imo...

[pagercam @ Mar 8th 2007 1:15PM]

I guess that "less fugly" is in the eye of the beholder.

[Mike on a Bike @ Mar 8th 2007 1:19PM]

I run about 5k a day in $75 New Balance. The high tech cushioning computer I use is by Dr. Scholls. Are you Gellin'?

[Pipeline2112 @ Mar 8th 2007 2:04PM]

Not bad, but they still use lithium batteries. I'd be interested if they could harness kinetic energy for power instead of relying on cells (which will eventually end up in the landfill with the shoes).

[mike @ Mar 8th 2007 4:22PM]

it only has to power that tiny microprocessor and a few leds. A battery probably last as long as your watch does... ie years.

[AustinRoepke @ Mar 8th 2007 7:37PM]

I don't think you'll have to worry about the battery dying in these things. A good shoe only lasts about 300 miles on average (about a track year, if you run HS long distance track). These shoes are (supposedly) aimed at the hardcore runner. But, as Mike said, a pair of $75 dollar shoes will do the same as a pair of $300 shoes. Sure, the controlled cushioning for your needs is nice, but companies such as Nike, Adidas, Asics, Mizuno create shoes for individual types of runners with different needs. 15-20 minutes at a Footlocker and a little study is all you need to get the type of shoes you need. The "variable cushoning" isn't needed then. I personally would go to runnersworld.com and use their shoefinder to find the shoe right for you. Sites, such as eastbay.com or roadrunnersports.com use the results from that test (cushioned, mid-arch, overpronation etc.) to display shoes right for you. After that, go to your shoe store of choice and try out those shoes. That way you have the right shoe for you.

Personally, I use a pair of old, worn Adidas Megarides (now Megabounce) and a pair of Nike's 1st Air Max 180's, but the glue came undone on one of the shoes right before track season this year, and now it rides funky.

[robotrock @ Mar 8th 2007 9:59PM]

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for not spelling "automatically" as "automagically."

[Eriq @ Mar 9th 2007 12:05AM]

Screw the BS. They just need to bring back the Reebok Pumps.

[E71 @ Mar 10th 2007 11:35AM]

a) They're still fugly
b) It's Sneakers not Trainers, ya limey-talker.