The adidas POD 3.1 finally dropped in a wide range of colorways this month. The new silhouette uses a mix of old technology with a modern twist, and adidas hooked us up with a pair to break down the new look and feel.
The adidas POD System 3.1 is finally here. First leaked in the early days of this year, the new Originals silhouette has been a long-awaited release for fans of the Three Stripes. The Point of Deflection System that gives the sneaker its name has returned from the 90’s with an exciting new Boost update, and many are eager to know how it holds up. With many thanks to adidas, we are happy to bring you an in-depth look at the most anticipated new Originals silhouette this year.
The most eye-catching feature of the updated adidas POD System is the retooled midsole, as well as the best place to start with this review. The Point of Deflection system was initially developed in 1994 before making its debut on the EQT Cushion 1995. The principal of the system is simple: three parts, each serving their own unique purpose for different parts of the foot. The forefoot is made of a lightweight EVA rubber to provide a stiffer and more supportive stride, countered by a Boost heel piece for all-day comfort. The two pieces are connected by a TPU midfoot plate which allows the sections to move independently and adjusts the cushioning as needed.
The retooled Point of Deflection system for 2018 is a win for adidas. With the combination of Boost and comparable yet stiff EVA, the comfort is a huge success. Personally, a stiffer forefoot is a much-needed addition to a Boost shoe, which allows for wearing the POD System for more extended periods of time. The midfoot plate feels smooth underfoot which is a nice surprise compared to the slightly bulging BYW model. While the POD System 3.1 is a great base model to premiere the advanced sole, it will be very interesting to see what the Three Stripes does with the shape going into 2019.The new adidas POD 3.1 is a refreshing new look for 2018. The upper is made from a thin, flexible knit that is reinforced in key areas for support and is built using a one-piece construction. Underneath, another single thin layer of fabric is used to provide structure to the shoe and stretches similarly to the upper to maintain a consistent feel. The tongue is cut apart from the main upper and is reinforced by a nylon strap around the eyelets to give them extra hold with the laces. Finally, the upper is complete with a suede pull tab on the heel, and an elastic strap arching over the midfoot to help lock the wearer in place, and provide a small loop to put your lace tips through.
The adaptive knit upper on the POD 3.1 was a great choice by the adidas Originals team. Using a looser knit allows for plenty of breathability throughout the shoe, which makes them a breeze to wear on hot Summer days or for extended time periods. The secondary layer underneath is a welcome addition, as the extra support it provides is much needed with the knit outer layer, and surprisingly does not obstruct flexibility or airiness whatsoever. The nylon belt around the tongue is a smooth touch in combination with the elasticised strap, locking your foot into place nicely.
The POD System 3.1 is an excellent addition to the adidas Originals lineup for 2018. The comfort between the reworked Boost midsole and knit upper is brilliant and makes the POD a hot contender for the lifestyle king of the Three Stripes. It sounds crazy, but the new System 3.1 silhouette is primed to take over as the next great NMD. The first silhouette to feature the technology is a great look, and it will be very interesting to see how adidas makes use of all the tiny bits and pieces that allow for more color blocking. Maybe, we’ll even see a release of the POD System 3.1 on Miadidas someday.
ADIDAS POD SYSTEM 3.1 RELEASE INFORMATION
The adidas POD System 3.1 became widely available as of August 1st this year. After the initial pre-launch, the POD 3.1 released in a handful of tonal colorways that are readily available in full family sizing from both adidas and select retailers for $120. Check out our in-hand and on-foot images for a better look at the new silhouette, and stay tuned to JustFreshKicks for more adidas release news and product reviews.
adidas POD System 3.1
Release Date: August 16th, 2018
Price: $130
Color: Grey/Grey-Solar Orange
Style Code: B37365
Words by Ben Serleth, images by JustFreshKicks
Disclosure: Products links may be affiliated in return for commission, and shoes were provided by adidas to review.
