I was the first journalist in the world to try Adidas' craziest shoes yet

“Stand back,” warned the engineer. “Don’t be alarmed when I open it.”

Crouching beside the pressurized canister, he slowly twisted the valve. A long hiss filled the room, sharp and insistent. The air grew tense.

Fifty seconds passed and the anticipation mounted. Finally, the canister fell silent – matching the mood in the room.

Clemens Dyckmans, director of Athlete Solutions, eased the lid open, and I nervously joked that it felt like we were about to uncover a radioactive vial of uranium.

Gently lowering his hand ...