REASONS TO BUY
Inexpensive
Durable
Stable sole
REASONS TO AVOID
Wide fit
Uncomfortable arch
Lacking cushion
Adidas Race TR23 Review
A durable walking shoe but lacks cushion and support for long use
Good enough traction for light trail use.
Credit: Travis Reddinger
By Travis Reddinger ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ January 28, 2025
RELATED: The Best Walking Shoes for Men
Our Verdict
The Adidas Race TR23 is a middle-of-the-pack walking shoe offered at a fair price. Although they have average cushioning and support, we found that these durable shoes provided a wider, flatter platform for stability. The rubber sole resists wear and features a shallow tread pattern that provides good grip on both concrete and blacktop. The toe box is roomy, but the upper felt loose, allowing for heel lift. Initially comfortable, they caused some foot pain with lengthy wear. These shoes would be ideal for individuals with wider feet who prefer a flatter sole. We found that the cushioning and support are good for short use, but not the best option for prolonged wear.
Our Analysis and Test Results
The Adidas Race TR23 boasts the appearance and construction of a reliable walking shoe, offering acceptable cushioning and support. A durable rubber sole provides traction and stability with an angled heel for smooth transition into the step.
Along with real-world tests, we shipped a pair to our lab to get cut in half and measured.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Comfort
The Adidas Race TR23 is a walking shoe that provides a flatter and wider feeling platform than many in our group. Made with a 40mm heel stack and 21mm measured drop, the impact absorption is sufficient, but not for all-day wear. The heel-to-forefoot movement is smooth with a firm effect, unlike the plush feel of the soft foam midsoles. Underfoot, the TR23 struggles to provide sufficient cushion for longer use.
Shoe Exterior Shoe Interior
Once cut open, we could measure the heel-to-toe drop, among many other components of this shoe.
Out of the box, the shoes didn't require a break-in period, but I had some issues with fit. Throughout the testing period, I experienced intermittent plantar discomfort and could have benefited from a little more arch support in the TR23. The shoe size is normal width, but it felt a little larger than normal and had more volume than would typically be found in a regular-width shoe. The laces had to be tightened a fair amount to achieve a snug fit and good heel lock. When they were tightened adequately for our liking, the material in the arch puckered and bunched, which was noticeable and would rub. The soles felt stiff when walking and remained so over time. I also experienced problems with my foot sliding around and could not stop it unless the laces were uncomfortably tight.
The material above the arch tends to pucker up and rub.
Credit: Travis Reddinger
The shoes are a traditional lace-up style and not meant to be hands-free, but slide on easily enough. The tongue moves up and out of the way to make way for your foot. The laces slide through the eyelets easily, and a heel loop provides added assistance. The tongue could be a little wider to fit under the eyelets for a better, more secure fit.
Lacing up the Adidas Race TR 23 is a fairly standard experience.
Credit: Travis Reddinger
Support
The Race TR23 performed average in the support category, but not without a valiant effort. During the twist test, the sole was firm in the midfoot but twisted significantly in the forefoot. When flexing the shoe, the bend was at the toe box, which is preferred for a walking shoe. Lateral support was sufficient, but support inward on the medial side was found to be lacking.
These have a firm midsole with a more flexible toe box.
Credit: Travis Reddinger
The laces consist of four loop-style eyelets on each side to adjust tension, and the tongue features optional lace loops for secure attachment. I found the lacing system didn't provide a snug enough fit and would cause discomfort across the instep when tightened more. I was also unable to get the shoe tight enough around the ankle and secure the collar to the foot. The laces remained tight over time, but I continued to experience issues with the foot and heel slipping. There is no additional eyelet for the heel lock, which would have been preferable for securing the shoe.
Without the eyelet for a heel lock, I found my foot sliding around in these shoes.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
The decreased cushion feel of the Race TR23 and its stable sole would be best suited for a neutral to pronating gait type who could benefit from additional stability and control. As these shoes do not offer a lot of arch support, they should be avoided by those who may tend to supinate or anyone requiring more arch support.
After measuring the heel and toe stack height, we calculated a difference of 21 millimeters.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Traction
The sole of the Adidas Race TR23 features a minimal tread pattern and decent traction across all surfaces. For surfaces like linoleum, carpet, and gravel, there was sufficient grip without excessive slipping or movement. On pavement, the shoes earned above-average marks for their improved grip, thanks to the rubber sole that provides plenty of contact for friction.
The tread pattern of these shoes shines on concrete, though they aren't the best on loose terrain.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Weight
Weighing in at 13.5 ounces per shoe for a men's size 10.5, the Race TR23 is the second heaviest shoe in the test group. The weight of the shoe, combined with its loose fit, becomes noticeable over time, and some fatigue and foot discomfort begin to creep in.
At 13.5 ounces per shoe, these are on the heavier side.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Durability
Durability is where the Race TR23 seemed to hit its stride and do a little better. Listed as having a flexible textile upper, it offers decent abrasion resistance and shows no signs of wear. The foam midsole is covered with a rubber sole that extends forward as a toe cap. The midsole didn't exhibit any signs of cracking or wrinkling, and the sole showed no signs of wear or breakdown. The stitching and fabric are even and show no signs of misalignment or poor craftsmanship. Users have reported poor build quality, but I didn't note any issues with the build.
Adidas Race 23 strolling on pavement during our in-depth walking tests.
Credit: Travis Reddinger
The shoe's textile upper, in a lighter color, absorbs dirt easily and requires cleaning. Recommended care for these shoes is to brush off any loose dirt, then hand wash with gentle soap and water. Rinse the shoes thoroughly and air-dry them in the shade. Some Adidas running shoes can be placed in the washing machine, but hand washing is a gentler method.
The shoes handled the trail well but do absorb dirt.
Credit: Travis Reddinger
Should You Buy the Adidas Race TR23?
The Adidas Race TR23 should be considered a budget-friendly shoe for quick wear. These should work best for someone with a wider foot who doesn't require a lot of cushion or arch support. If you plan on spending hours on your feet, we recommend searching elsewhere.
This walking shoe is not meant for all day use.
Credit: Travis Reddinger
What Other Walking Shoes Should You Consider?
If needing a walking shoe for a wider foot without a lot of height, we recommend the New Balance 877 V1 Walking Shoe. The Nike Motiva provides an even mix of comfort, durability, and support. And if keeping the budget in check is a priority, the Under Armour Charged Assert 10 provides a solid shoe at a good price.
Durability testing went well but comfort didn't make the cut.
Credit: Travis Reddinger
Side-by-Side Comparison
Compare Adidas Race TR23 versus top competing products:
—Travis Reddinger
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