Diadora continues to expand its running shoe lineup with the Diadora Frequenza, an Italian-made shoe crafted for runners who demand performance and style. Positioned between the Gara Carbon, built for speed, and the Cellula, designed for recovery runs, the Frequenza offers a blend of responsiveness, comfort, and versatility.
I took the Frequenza on several test runs, including 20 km long runs, easy-paced efforts, and fartlek sessions. This Diadora Frequenza review dives into its features, strengths, and areas where it might fall short.
Key specifications:
- Weight: 8.1 oz (229 g) for US M9
- Stack Height: 35mm (heel), 27mm (forefoot)
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm
- Best For: Tempo runs, daily training, and light races
- Price: $180
Upper: Breathable and Comfortable
The Frequenza’s upper features Nylon Air Mesh with a unique diamond pattern. This design keeps the shoe breathable, while the microfiber enhances durability. The thin, non-gusseted tongue stays secure thanks to a suede-like material, adding to the snug fit. Inside, the anatomical insole made of printed EVA offers additional comfort and support. Combined with the sleek Italian design, the Frequenza stands out visually while delivering functionality.
Midsole: Soft and Responsive
Diadora uses its Anima N2 EVA foam for the midsole, delivering a soft and bouncy ride. This super-critical EVA provides a responsive feel that’s not overly firm or squishy, making it versatile for various training paces. However, the soft cushioning might not suit heavier runners who need more support or stability. The flexibility of the midsole could also be a drawback for those who prefer a firmer platform.
Outsole: Durable and Reliable
The Duratech 5000 outsole combines anti-wear rubber with exposed midsole cutouts to reduce weight. It performs well on multiple surfaces, including gravel and light trails, without significant wear after testing. The rubber coverage ensures durability, while the cutouts add flexibility and reduce bulk.
Who Should Buy the Diadora Frequenza?
The Frequenza is ideal for experienced runners who prefer lightweight shoes for faster-paced runs or daily training. It suits light-to-medium weight runners (up to 85 kg) with a neutral stride and a fondness for an 8mm drop. If you value Italian craftsmanship and a shoe that transitions effortlessly between training speeds, this is worth considering.
Comparable shoes
The Diadora Frequenza shares similarities with other popular models, including:
- ASICS Novablast 4: Both offer a lightweight, bouncy ride, though the Novablast has a slightly firmer feel.
- New Balance Rebel v4: The Rebel feels lighter and softer but lacks some of the Frequenza’s versatility.
- Nike Invincible Run: This model offers more cushioning but feels bulkier in comparison.
- hylo Impact: Both have flexible midsoles, but the Frequenza feels more stable.
Verdict
The Diadora Frequenza is a well-rounded shoe that caters to runners seeking a lightweight and responsive trainer. While its $180 price tag is higher than some competitors, its Italian craftsmanship and versatile performance justify the cost for many.
It excels as a daily trainer capable of handling faster paces, making it a great addition to a shoe rotation. Though marketed for tempo runs and speed workouts, it works equally well for long runs or casual miles.
With the Frequenza, Diadora reinforces its commitment to performance and innovation, proving they’re serious about competing in the running shoe market. Stick to your usual size and enjoy smooth, enjoyable miles with this impressive shoe.
