Shoe Review: Adidas Barricade 13

• Price: $160
• Weight: 14.8 oz. (men’s 10.5); 12.7 oz. (women’s 8.5)
• Size Run: 6.5-14.5, 16 (men); 5-11.5 (women)
• Outsole Warranty: None

What’s New

Restructured cushioning is the most notable change in this latest Barricade. The Bounce 2.0 midsole in the previous model has been replaced by Repetitor technology. This features a dual-density foam: firmer in the forefoot for better stability, plusher in the heel for better shock absorption and comfort. The upper also has more mesh and enhanced padding in the tongue for greater breathability and comfort. The Geofit sense pods and shark skin lining in the heel have been refined for an improved fit.

What Works

Since the Barricade was reintroduced in 2021 after a brief hiatus and near head-to-toe makeover, the shoe'a ensuing updates have been incremental, which makes sense: Like a popular racquet, this allows contented users to stay committed and grow with franchise. This latest version follows suit, as it employs subtle tweaks to the shoe’s recent formula.

For starters, the upper has more mesh to increase its flexibility and hasten the break-in period. This also softens it up a bit and increases ventilation. Out of the box, it feels like it’s more comfortable and ready to play, which isn’t always something said about previous Barricades. The cut remains pretty much down the middle—not too wide, not too narrow, and the women’s model has its own specific last that better counters to female feet.

The cushioning has been revamped underneath the foot, too. The new Repetitor midsole brings a slightly different feel than Bounce foam. It does a fine job soaking up court landings, but is perhaps less springy. It may not be as propulsive, but there’s also improved court connection for smoother transitions.

The asymmetrical U-throat and off-set lacing system returns. It’s a smart, effective setup as it allows you to really cinch up the laces tight—if need be—while preventing any pressure or pinching to the top of the foot. The outrigger eyelets which promote easy lace slide through the loops also help to this end. So it’s the definition of an adaptive fit. There’s also the option of a quasi-runner’s loop on the lateral side if you want more heel security.

The Torsion System also carries over to this shoe. It provides a sturdy backbone to prevent twisting through the midfoot during explosive cuts and changes of direction. But it’s more flexible and forgiving than stabilizers of Barricades past, propeling the foot back into action without an overly stiff feel. The shoe continues to hit winners when it comes to side-to-side movement.

Toe-draggers will appreciate the heavily reinforced TPU (Adituff) that encapsulates much of the toe box and the medial side of the upper. It has the same tread as the outsole, so you even get a little grip to go along with the enhanced durability.

The Adiwear outsole has a split herringbone pattern that is thicker in high wear zones for greater durability, and more forgiving in sliding areas. I’m not a serious hard court slider—not intentionally at any rate—but the outsoles seem to have just enough give to work effectively under those circumstances. However, I did try them on clay, and being an all-court version did just fine keeping steady on an unsteady surface.

What Needs Work

The Barricade has lightened in recent generations, but it still probably falls short of being considered a spry shoe. And this one is actually slightly heavier than its predecessor. Which is not necessarily a problem for players who want a sturdy and durable shoe that holds up well in and out of corners. However, it’s not as speedy moving forward and off the jump as some lighter models.

Similarly, the shoe is greatly improved when it comes to break-in, but it’s still not ready to go out-of-the-box. For me, it was working out a little stiffness around the ankle collar over a couple of outings. Again, more of a quibble than a legitimate issue.

As is the updated cushioning. It’s plentiful in the heel and gives the slightly elevated feel that this type of shoe often possesses. Yet, the forefoot doesn’t seem quite as forgiving. Personally, I appreciate the greater court connection and responsiveness; users of the previous model may feel otherwise.

Lastly, there’s no more six-month outsole warrantee. It’s certainly built to last and shouldn’t be an issue for most players, but it was still a nice assurance.

Bottom Line

The Barricade continues to evolve to be more comfortable and user-friendly. But at its core remains a go-to choice for high-performance players looking for top-notch stability and support.