Diadora Frequenza 2 are shoes that combine Italian style with running comfort. But that’s not all. They are also shoes that combine lightness with dynamic rebound. You won’t find carbon here, but that’s its advantage – more natural and safer performance. Although it has a lot of dynamics, it can also be a great shoe for everyday running. That is, if you prefer lighter and more resilient constructions.
Basic info
Tech specs
Purpose
The Diadora Frequenza 2 is a training and competition shoe designed for faster training and more dynamic running on hard surfaces. It combines speed and responsiveness, making it ideal for intense training and competition, from 5Ks to marathons. It is also a great choice for lighter runners of all levels who are looking for a lightweight and dynamic shoe for everyday running.
Pros
- very good dynamics
- smooth transition from heel to toe
- pleasant flexibility of the midsole
- flexible, breathable upper
- good fit of the upper
Cons
- not as “fast” as carbon racing shoes
- can be unstable when running “from the heel”
Diadora running shoes – lineup
Diadora Frequenza is one of two fast shoes in the brand’s lineup. The fastest option is the Gara, an advanced race shoe with a carbon plate, and the Frequenza 2, which combines the features of a race and training shoe, offering lightness and responsiveness with a high level of safety.
Want to know more about each model? Check out our complete Diadora running shoe guide!
| RACING | TRAINING AND COMPETITION | |
|---|---|---|
| maximum dynamics |  Gara Carbon 2 | |
| high dynamics |  Frequenza 2 |
Alternatives to Diadora Frequenza 2
Alternatives to the Frequenza can be divided into two groups. The first group includes shoes without a carbon plate, which, like the Frequenza, offer excellent dynamics, not much inferior to models with carbon. The second option includes training and competition models with a carbon or other type of plate that provide even greater energy return.
Which option should you choose? It depends on your personal preferences. If carbon is not quite right for you, it is worth trying something without the technology. Both options have their advantages and are worth a try.
Learn more about alternatives to Frequenza in our Training and Competition Shoe Guide.
| MODEL | STACK HEIGHT (mm) | DROP (mm) | WEIGHT MEN'S (grams) | WEIGHT WOMEN'S (grams) | REGULAR PRICE (€) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| adidas Adizero Boston 12 | 37/30,5 | 6,5 | 267 | 227 | 160 |
| Asics Magic Speed 4 | 43,5/35,5 | 7 | 242 | 207 | 180 |
| Asics Noosa Tri 16 | 34,5/29,5 | 5 | 215 | 185 | 150 |
| Brooks Hyperion Max 2 | 36/30 | 6 | 255 | 193 | 150 |
| Diadora Frequenza 2 | 36/28 | 8 | 220 | 175 | 175 |
| Hoka Mach X 2 | 44/39 | 5 | 266 | 227 | 190 |
| Nike Zoom Fly 6 | 42/34 | 8 | 265 | 214 | 180 |
| Nike Pegasus Plus | 35/25 | 10 | 245 | 205 | 180 |
| Saucony Kinvara 14 | 36/28 | 4 | 198 | 198 | 145 |
Light and soft cushioning
In terms of construction, the Frequenza 2 is almost identical to the first version. The key is the ANIMA N2 foam – one of the most responsive and dynamic foams used by Diadora. Its unique properties are due to the addition of nitrogen (hence the symbol N2), which results in a lightweight, resilient structure and excellent energy return.
In practice, Frequenza 2 offers a very interesting combination of three characteristics. First, there is the softness – so pronounced that even heavier runners (up to 90 kg) or those who run a little slower will feel comfortable. In this respect, the shoe is no different from a pure training shoe. The second is responsiveness – the foam’s pleasant springiness is noticeable, especially in the forefoot and metatarsus, which promotes dynamic push-off. Finally, it is flexibility, which is a result of the fact that this shoe does not have a carbon fiber plate. It is this aspect that distinguishes the Frequenz from carbon training and competition shoes. While running, the shoe behaves very naturally and does not force you to change your running technique.
But what is an advantage for some can be a disadvantage for others. Softness and flexibility come at a cost – stability. If you land heavily on the heel, the shoe may feel too flexible, even slightly unstable. So if you are looking for a shoe for light training only and often run “off the heel,” this may not be the best option. Training shoes with more stability will be a better choice. Among the Diadora models, look for the Nucleo or Volo.
The midsole thickness of the Frequenza 2 is typical for well cushioned running shoes. It is 36mm under the heel and 28mm under the forefoot. This is enough to provide comfort and softness while running. The drop is 8mm, which is also standard for running shoes.
Grip and durability – how does the midsole perform?
The outsole of the Diadora Frequenza 2 is almost identical to the first edition of this model. It is made of Duratech 5000 rubber, strategically placed in key areas for increased durability. Wherever the weight of the shoe can be reduced, the outsole is simply omitted.
The texture of the midsole is moderately aggressive and the tread depth (texture of the rubber elements) is a maximum of 1.4mm. This is more than enough for running on hard surfaces like asphalt.
The Soft Rubber marking on the front of the shoe indicates the use of a softer rubber. This material often improves grip and provides better contact with the ground. This is important if you are running faster and using the front of your foot more. And that’s what the Frequenza is designed to do – make you faster. The harder rubber in the back of the midsole means increased durability under the heel, which extends the life of the shoe.
Breathability and fit – that’s what we expect from an upper
Unlike the outsole, the upper of the Frequenza 2 has undergone significant changes from the first edition. It is no longer a loosely woven, openwork “curtain” – it is now a more classic, tighter construction. It still provides good ventilation, although it is not as breathable as the previous version. Subtle reinforcements have been added to the material that serve both an aesthetic and structural function, increasing the durability of the upper. Although it has lost some of its breathability, it is now better able to withstand long training sessions and intensive use.
In terms of spaciousness, the interior of the shoe offers a fairly standard amount of room. In my size 12 US, the width of the upper is 102.8mm, which is slightly below average. In practice, the shoe is not very roomy, but it feels comfortable. It fits a little better than its predecessor, but the difference is not significant. For most runners with fairly standard feet, it will be a good fit. The softness of the upper also makes for a comfortable fit. In terms of feel, this shoe is more comfortable for training than racing.
The heel counter is a classic stiffener that prevents excessive heel roll. This is one of the solutions, along with the wide midsole, that contributes to overall stability. However, it should be noted that the midsole in the Frequency is very soft and flexible, and for runners who roll their ankles a lot, this shoe will not be enough. It will not provide optimal grip.
Lightweight as it should be
According to Diadora, the men’s version of the Frequenza 2 weighs 220 grams and the women’s version 175 grams, which is slightly less than its predecessor and very low for running shoes. In my size 12 US, the shoe weighs 265g, which is also slightly less than its predecessor. This is also slightly less than the average for training and competition shoes. In this segment, the Diadora Frequenza 2 is one of the 28% lightest shoes. So it’s good and light!
Summary
Diadora Frequenza 2 is a dynamic, lightweight training and competition shoe that combines excellent cushioning with high responsiveness for a natural and flexible roll. The biggest advantages are the comfortable ANIMA N2 foam, which provides a good balance between cushioning and responsiveness, the good fit, and the low weight, which makes the shoe feel even lighter on the foot. The downside may be less stability for runners who land heavily on their heels, and a slightly less breathable upper compared to the first edition.
