Both are proven marathon-podium hardware at the same $250 retail. The Vaporfly 3 scores 93 to the Adios Pro 3's 92, is 5g lighter (187g vs 192g), and returns more energy (87% vs 84%) from softer foam (18 HC vs 20 HC). The Adios Pro 3 answers with Adidas's EnergyRods — a rod-based plate system many runners find more stable and less aggressive than Nike's full carbon plate — plus a slightly roomier 90mm toebox (vs 88mm) and frequent street-price discounts that the Vaporfly rarely sees.
Nike Vaporfly 3 | Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $235 | $220▲ Best |
| Weight | 187g▲ Best | 192g |
| Heel drop | 8mm | 8mm |
| Heel stack | 40mm | 39mm |
| Midsole feel | 18 HC | 20 HC |
| CoreScore | 93▲ Best | 92 |
| Arch support | neutral | neutral |
| Best for | Racing, PR attempts, Fast tempo runs | Marathon racing, Half marathon, Tempo runs |
| Not ideal for | Daily training, Wide feet | Daily training, Beginners |
Who should buy which
Choose the Vaporfly 3 for maximum measured performance — lighter, bouncier, and the more aggressive race feel that rewards efficient form at goal pace.
Choose the Adios Pro 3 if you find plated shoes unstable (the EnergyRods ride is noticeably more forgiving), need those extra 2mm of toebox, or find it discounted — at equal street price it's a coin flip; at $40 off it's the value play.
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