# Marathon Training Shoe Families adidas Offers Three EVO SL Uppers on One Lightstrike Pro Platform By Adam Harrie | Written with AI assistance | Published 2026-10-22 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/marathon-training-shoe-families References: [sneakernews](https://sneakernews.com/2026/10/21/adidas-evo-sl-2026-nyc-marathon)  adidas is expanding the 'EVO SL' family for runners preparing for the 26.2-mile New York City Marathon, offering three versions with the same 'Lightstrike Pro' cushioning and different uppers. The original EVO SL, 'EVO SL EXO,' and 'EVO SL Zip' provide first-time marathoners and returning racers distinct training options on a single ride platform. The base EVO SL uses a lightweight upper for daily miles, while the EXO adds an outer frame for extra stability. The Zip borrows a zip-front upper from the adidas 'Demolisher' spike, hiding much of the lacing for a sleeker profile. All three are now available through adidas' New York City Marathon destination. A shared Lightstrike Pro platform across three uppers broadens the line without requiring runners to change cushioning as their preferences shift during a training block. It gives adidas a single, recognizable setup that can serve both newer marathoners and repeat entrants. Image Credit: Shutterstock/Ron Adar ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.7/10 - Popularity: 25% | Activity: 17% | Freshness: 100% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Modular Running Platforms:** Shared cushioning systems paired with interchangeable upper designs create room for footwear brands to personalize performance without rebuilding an entire shoe line. - **Marathon-specific Product Families:** Race-focused training collections can deepen loyalty by matching different experience levels, stability needs, and style preferences within one recognizable performance ecosystem. - **Hybrid Performance Aesthetics:** Zip-front uppers and hidden lacing signal a shift toward shoes that blend elite racing cues with everyday training functionality. ### Who This Affects Most - **Athletic Footwear:** Platform-based shoe development enables faster assortment expansion while preserving consistent ride characteristics for consumers. - **Sports Retail:** Event-linked product destinations give retailers a way to connect major marathons with curated gear selections and localized demand. - **Endurance Sports:** Training products tailored to first-time and repeat marathoners reflect growing segmentation within recreational racing communities. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Featherweight Marathon Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/adizero-adios-pro-evo-3.md) - [One-Piece Marathon-Minded Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/on-lightspray-cloudboom-strike-2.md) - [Glow Running Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/adizero-evo-sl-gsnk.md) - [Bold Split-Logo Runners](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/adizero-evo-sl-3.md) - [Elite Marathon Racing Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/adizero-adios-pro-evo.md) - [Hybrid Training Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/dropset-pro.md) - [Superior Ultramarathon Sneaker Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/adidas-adizero-prime-x-evo.md) - [Lofty Long-Distance Running Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/adidas-supernova-glide-and-rise-3.md) - [Chicago Marathon Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chicago-marathon-sneakers.md)