The Gara Carbon, Frequenza and Cellula make up Diadora's running rotation for the roads. The Gara is an absolute blast. The Frequenza offers flexible fun. What does the Cellula bring to the table?
Diadora Cellula: Doing Daily Duties
Ivan: Diadora presents the Cellula as a versatile neutral trainer suitable for daily runs no matter the distance, complementing the lighter Frequenza for swift workouts and the Gara Carbon designed specifically for racing. With the unveiling of this trio, Diadora presents a selection that addresses the varied needs of runners, all while upholding a consistent design language throughout the lineup.
Specs:
US 8.5 (EU41): 275g / 9.7oz
Drop: 5mm
Price: $170/ €160
Diadora Cellula Upper: Cool Comfort
Ivan: The medium-thick upper boasts a straightforward yet sufficiently structured design, providing a secure hold. Its stability is reinforced by light suede-like overlays and a toe bumper, while the robust, well-padded heel counter prevents any heel slippage. Despite the non-gusseted tongue, it stays put, complemented by standard laces that do their job. In my standard size 8.5 (equivalent to a smaller EU 41), the Cellula offers a snug fit without discomfort.
Overall, the upper delivers a fine experience, characterised by its simple but functional design and durable, high-quality construction. Personally, I appreciate the design language and don’t mind wearing it for everyday use as well, which isn’t something I can say about most running shoes.
A Traditional Fit
Andy: I won’t delve more into the technical aspects of the Cellula’s upper as Ivan has described it very accurately. I will add that, much like the Frequenza’s upper, it is a little warm for me. It is a well built shoe with plenty of comfort, there is a good amount of padding around the ankle and heel areas of the shoe which ensures that lockdown is easy to achieve and remains firm throughout the run.
During my runs in the Cellula so far, I have not encountered any rubbing or hotspots from the upper. It has been nothing but comfort. Overall, the fit is more traditional than the Frequenza which feels more tapered to the toe. The laces, as Ivan says, are far more standard in comparison. Missing are the saw teeth with Diadora instead opting for simpler laces which do the job. Each side of the tongue has a sliver of padding which prevents lace bite and helps it stay where it’s put. Finally, as Ivan says, it’s a good looking shoe particularly in the light colourways.
Midsole: Plush Stability
Ivan: According to Diadora’s specifications, the midsole of the Cellula exceeds 40mm, although the exact stack height is not mentioned. However, it appears to be closer to the 30-35mm range from my perspective. Nonetheless, this doesn’t mean it lacks cushioning, thanks to the ‘Anima’ midsole compound (an EVA blend). The initial step-in feel was surprisingly soft, but upon removing the insole, I discovered that much of the softness comes from the heavily padded insole, particularly under the heel (which should be appreciated by runners with heel spurs) and providing some arch support. The so-called ‘DDATTIVO’ insole technology ensures a high level of added comfort and protection.
Regarding the ride, I would describe it as plush and stable. While it may not offer significant energy return, it provides a pleasantly dampening sensation, which suits my preference for an easygoing daily trainer. Additionally, the slight rocker enhances the smooth transition for my midfoot strike. However, if you prefer the super squishy midsoles found in many daily trainers nowadays, you might want to look elsewhere.
As for stability, it is achieved not only through the sturdy heel counter but also via a fairly wide platform and extended side walls, both medially and laterally at the rear part.
Tame But Not Boring
Andy: For me, the Cellula feels thick. It is not a shoe which offers much ground feel. As Ivan, I am sceptical about the over 40mm claims from the Diadora website. That being said, with the DDATTIVO midsole, the specs may be a little padded (if you’ll pardon the pun). When removed, it is clear to see how Diadora have added a feeling of extra softness to the Cellula. Underneath the heel is a thick red pad which, when added to the rest of the insole, must add at least 3-4mm to the cushion of the shoe.
On the run, it is certainly tamer than either of the other Diadora shoes which I have tried. The Anima compound here is far denser and more stable than the Animan N2 found in the Frequenza. Obviously, as a daily shoe, it is also lacking the pure energy return and pop of the PEBA based Anima PBX. Although, it does share a 5mm drop with its speedier sibling.
As Ivan points out, I am one of those people who prefer a bouncier, squishier midsole. The Cellula offers none of the bounce and rebound of something like the Nike Invincible or the poppy toe off of the Triumph. However, it is a very dependable shoe which will soak up the miles and leave you feeling protected and comfortable.
Diadora Cellula Outsole: Quiet Coverage
Ivan: The fairly thick layer of Duratech 5000 rubber outsole provides excellent coverage over high-wear areas and appears to be highly durable. So far, I haven’t noticed any signs of wear. Grip has been satisfactory during several runs in damp Scandinavian conditions. While I wouldn’t classify it as the absolute best-in-class in terms of grip, it likely falls above average.
Andy: I have not much to really add to what Ivan has said here. The Duratech is the same compound as found on the Gara Carbon and the Frequenza. In all three shoes, it appears to be durable and I have no gripes about the grip on offer. It also has the benefit of being quite a quiet rubber compound on the roads. This adds to the dampened feeling of the Cellula as a whole.
Diadora Cellula Conclusion: Restrained Comfort With a Dash of Class
Ivan: The Diadora Cellula is a neutral and fairly stable daily trainer that seamlessly complements the other two more dynamic releases, Frequenza and Gara Carbon, in rotation. Alternatively, it stands strong as a “one-shoe-only” choice for many runners, catering to their needs for easygoing weekly runs and occasional fitness or casual wear purposes as well. While the ride might not offer the same level of fun or propulsion as many other daily trainers nowadays, it provides ample comfort and protection in a finely designed “package,” as expected from the Diadora brand.
Andy: Whilst it is not my favourite of the Diadora shoes on offer thanks to my preference for a more lively shoe, I can see the Cellula finding a place in my rotation. The stability and denser foam offered by the midsole make a healthy change to my usual choices and give my feet a bit of a break. It is an easy shoe to run in and I can imagine it being very durable which only adds to the value. As Ivan says, this value is also added to by the style and comfort of the Cellula making it a daily shoe and a casual trainer too. Although, the height of the midsole would probably put me off using it for general gym work.
Ivan
49 years old
180cm (5’9″) – 63kg (138lbs)
Midfoot striker – Cadence runner
Mild pronator
