The Tubular’s namesake comes from the outsole. The single loop that runs the perimeter of the shoe is constructed from lightweight and flexible EVA, a common material for running shoes and sneakers. The loop is built like a rubber tire, flexing and changing shape based on where your weight falls. It means the shoe is extremely comfortable, with a similar squishiness to the Boost line of sneakers.
The Radial takes that technical expertise, and redresses it in a low-top, lightweight format for the spring and summer. Suede on the toe and upper isn’t the right choice for the winter, but will stay clean and breathable on those hot summer days. It also allows for some more advanced color blocking, even if Adidas plays it safe with minimal colorways.
Also worth noting are the cages on the side. Made from stretchy but solid neoprene, they serve the dual purpose of providing support on the side, and mirroring the brand’s three stripe logo. It’s a more subtle take on branding, one that Adidas has adopted in the wake of the Yeezy and UltraBoost success.
A few colorways of the Tubular are already available on the Adidas website, but the best is yet to come, with new white and grey models coming February 24th, with pre-orders available now. All of the pairs cost just $110, a reasonable price for a sneaker that’s likely to be on the feet of many when the warmer months roll around.
