Adidas Adizero Prime SP 3 Strung Review: Elite Sprint Spikes
The Adidas Adizero Prime SP 3 Strung represents the cutting edge of sprint spike technology. With the distinctive Strung upper (a robotic weaving process that creates a completely seamless, ultra-lightweight structure) and an aggressive spike plate, these are designed for one thing: maximum speed over short distances. I have tested them across 100m, 200m, and 400m sessions. Here is what you need to know.
The Strung Upper
The headline technology is the Strung upper, where Adidas uses data-driven robotic manufacturing to create a single-piece woven upper. Each thread is placed based on motion data from sprinters, providing support where needed and flexibility where it is not. The result is an upper that feels like a second skin — there are no overlays, no stitched panels, and virtually no waste material. It wraps around the foot with a precision that traditional construction cannot match.
On the Track
Lacing up the Prime SP 3 and stepping onto the track, the first thing you notice is the aggressive forefoot angle. The spike plate positions your foot in a pronounced forward lean that forces a forefoot strike. This is designed to maximise power application during the drive phase of sprinting. For experienced sprinters, it feels purposeful and fast. For less experienced runners, it can feel uncomfortable and unstable at slower speeds.
At full sprint, the energy return is exceptional. The spike plate is stiff enough to channel all your force directly into the track without flex loss, and the Lightstrike Pro foam provides a small but noticeable amount of energy return on each ground contact. The grip from the pin configuration is confident on all-weather track surfaces.
Who Are These For?
These are elite-level sprint spikes. They are designed for competitive sprinters running 100m to 400m at high intensity. The aggressive plate geometry, minimal cushioning, and tight fit make them unsuitable for jogging, training, or anything other than maximal-effort sprinting. If you are a club-level sprinter looking for your next race spike, or a serious athlete training for competition, the Prime SP 3 delivers at the highest level.
Strengths
- Strung upper: Exceptionally light, seamless, and precise fit. The best sprint spike upper currently available.
- Energy return: The spike plate and Lightstrike Pro combination maximises power transfer to the track.
- Weight: Ultra-light construction. Every gram saved matters at sprint distances.
- Track grip: Confident pin placement on all-weather surfaces.
Weaknesses
- Price: At around £200 to £250, these are a serious investment. Only justified for competitive sprinters.
- Sizing: The Strung upper does not stretch. Getting the right size is critical — try before you buy if possible.
- Single-purpose: These are sprint race spikes only. No warm-up, no training, no jogging. The aggressive geometry makes them uncomfortable at slower paces.
- Durability: Sprint spikes are inherently low-mileage items, but the Strung upper shows wear faster than traditional spike uppers.
The Verdict
The Adidas Adizero Prime SP 3 Strung is one of the best sprint spikes money can buy. The Strung upper is a genuine innovation that delivers a fit and weight advantage over conventional spikes, and the plate delivers the stiffness and energy return that competitive sprinters demand. If you race on the track and want every possible advantage, these deliver. For everyone else, the price and aggressive design make them hard to justify.