adidas Ultraboost

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+7
Matt FlahertyTim ReedPablo Villa GonzálezIskander Yadgarov

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adidas Ultraboost: Review

“A versatile running shoe with exceptional cushioning and energy return.”

Overview


The adidas Ultraboost is a versatile running shoe designed for both performance and style. This model is part of the adidas Ultraboost family, known for its innovative use of Boost foam technology, which provides exceptional energy return and cushioning.

Key Features:

  • Boost Midsole: Offers high energy return and cushioning for a comfortable run.
  • Primeknit Upper: Ensures a snug, adaptive fit and excellent breathability.
  • Continental Rubber Outsole: Provides superior grip and durability on various surfaces.

The adidas Ultraboost is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize comfort and cushioning for daily running. Its breathable upper offers excellent ventilation, making it suitable for long runs and everyday wear.

With an average review score of 72%, it's in the lowest rated 10% of similar running shoes. Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 30% of running shoes today.

Verdict

The consensus on the adidas Ultraboost


The adidas Ultraboost is a well-rounded running shoe that excels in comfort and cushioning, thanks to its Boost midsole. Reviewers appreciate its breathable Primeknit upper, which provides a snug fit and excellent ventilation. However, some find the shoe to be on the heavier side, which may not suit those looking for a lightweight option. The Continental rubber outsole offers great grip and durability, but the high price point of the shoe is a common concern. Overall, the Ultraboost is a solid choice for runners seeking a comfortable and cushioned shoe for daily running, though it may not be the best option for those who prefer a lighter shoe. Its combination of comfort, durability, and style makes it a popular choice among runners and casual wearers alike.

Comparable Shoes


The Hoka Clifton 9 is known for its maximal cushioning and lightweight design. It features an EVA midsole for a plush ride and a breathable mesh upper. While the Clifton is lighter and offers more cushioning, the Ultraboost's Boost midsole provides a more responsive and durable option for daily running.

Special versions of adidas Ultraboost


The adidas Ultraboost All Terrain is designed for off-road running, featuring a water-repellent Primeknit upper and a rugged outsole for enhanced grip on various surfaces. It retains the Boost midsole for cushioning and energy return, making it suitable for trail running and outdoor adventures.



The adidas Ultraboost Guard offers additional protection against the elements with a water-resistant upper and reinforced overlays. It maintains the comfort and cushioning of the standard Ultraboost, making it ideal for running in wet or cold conditions.



The adidas Ultraboost Reflective features reflective elements on the upper for increased visibility during low-light conditions. It retains the Boost midsole and Primeknit upper, making it a great choice for runners who train early in the morning or late in the evening.



The adidas Ultraboost Multicolor stands out with its vibrant, multicolored Primeknit upper. While it offers the same cushioning and comfort as the standard Ultraboost, its unique design makes it a popular choice for those who want a stylish running shoe.



The adidas Ultraboost Mid features a mid-cut design for added ankle support and a snug fit. It retains the Boost midsole and Primeknit upper, making it suitable for runners who prefer a bit more coverage and support around the ankle.

The adidas Ultraboost Light is a lighter version of the standard Ultraboost, featuring a new Light Boost midsole that reduces weight while maintaining cushioning and energy return. This makes it a great option for runners who want a more lightweight shoe without sacrificing comfort.

The adidas Ultraboost ST is designed for stability, featuring a dual-density Boost midsole that provides additional support for overpronators. It retains the Primeknit upper and Continental rubber outsole, making it a good choice for runners who need extra stability during their runs.



The adidas Ultraboost X is specifically designed for women, featuring a unique floating arch that adapts to the shape of the foot. It offers the same Boost cushioning and Primeknit upper as the standard Ultraboost, providing a comfortable and supportive fit for female runners.



The adidas Ultraboost Parley is an environmentally friendly version of the Ultraboost, featuring an upper made from recycled ocean plastics. It retains the Boost midsole and Continental rubber outsole, making it a sustainable choice for eco-conscious runners.



The adidas Ultraboost Leather offers a premium look with a leather upper, while maintaining the comfort and cushioning of the standard Ultraboost. This version is ideal for those who want a stylish and versatile shoe that can be worn both for running and casual occasions.

10 adidas Ultraboost Pros & Cons


5 Pros

Exceptional cushioning and energy return from the Boost midsole.
Breathable Primeknit upper provides a snug and adaptive fit.
Durable Continental rubber outsole offers excellent grip.
Versatile design suitable for both running and casual wear.
Comfortable for long-distance running and daily training.

5 Cons

Heavier than many other running shoes on the market.
Primeknit upper may feel tight for those with wider feet.
High price point may be a concern for some runners.
Limited stability features compared to other models.
Durability of the Primeknit upper may be an issue.

In Depth


Upper

The adidas Ultraboost features a Primeknit upper, which provides a snug and adaptive fit. This material is known for its excellent breathability, making it ideal for daily running. The upper also includes a midfoot cage for added support, though some reviewers find it a bit restrictive. Overall, the Primeknit upper offers a comfortable and secure fit, but may feel tight for those with wider feet.

Midsole

The Ultraboost's midsole is made from Boost foam, a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material that offers high energy return and cushioning. This makes the shoe particularly suitable for heel strikers. The Boost midsole provides a soft and responsive ride, though some reviewers note that it can feel a bit heavy compared to other running shoes.

Outsole

The outsole of the adidas Ultraboost is made from Continental rubber, known for its durability and excellent grip on various surfaces. This makes the shoe a reliable choice for road running. The outsole features a Stretchweb design, which enhances flexibility and allows for a smooth transition from heel to toe.

Size/fit

The adidas Ultraboost generally fits true to size, but its Primeknit upper can feel tight for those with wider feet. The shoe features a medium toe box, which provides enough room for most runners but may feel constricting for some. The snug fit of the upper ensures a secure lockdown, but it's advisable to try the shoe on before purchasing to ensure the best fit.

Comfort

Comfort is a standout feature of the adidas Ultraboost, thanks to its plush Boost midsole and soft Primeknit upper. The shoe offers excellent cushioning, making it ideal for long runs and everyday wear. However, the snug fit of the upper may cause discomfort for those with wider feet, and the shoe's weight might be a drawback for runners seeking a lighter option.

Cushioning

The Boost midsole in the adidas Ultraboost provides exceptional cushioning, making it a great choice for runners who prioritize comfort. The high energy return of the Boost foam ensures a responsive ride, while the soft cushioning helps absorb impact during runs. This makes the Ultraboost suitable for long-distance running and daily training.

Breathability

The Primeknit upper of the adidas Ultraboost offers excellent breathability, making it a great choice for well-ventilated running shoes. The knit material allows for good airflow, keeping the feet cool and dry during runs. This feature is particularly beneficial for long-distance runners and those who run in warmer climates.

Stability

The adidas Ultraboost provides moderate stability, thanks to its midfoot cage and heel counter. These features help keep the foot in place during runs, though the shoe is primarily designed for neutral runners. While it offers some support, it may not be the best choice for those who require additional stability features.

Durability

The Ultraboost is known for its durability, particularly due to its Continental rubber outsole. This material provides excellent grip and withstands wear and tear over time. However, some reviewers have noted that the Primeknit upper may show signs of wear more quickly than traditional mesh uppers. Overall, the shoe offers good durability for daily running and casual wear.

Grip

The Continental rubber outsole of the adidas Ultraboost provides excellent grip on various surfaces, making it a reliable choice for road running. The Stretchweb design enhances flexibility and allows for a smooth transition from heel to toe. This feature ensures that runners can maintain traction and stability during their runs, even on wet or slippery surfaces.

Flex

The adidas Ultraboost offers good flexibility, thanks to its Stretchweb outsole design and Primeknit upper. The shoe allows for natural foot movement, making it comfortable for long runs and everyday wear. However, the midfoot cage may feel restrictive for some runners, affecting the overall flexibility of the shoe.

Who should buy the adidas Ultraboost?


The adidas Ultraboost is ideal for runners who prioritize comfort and cushioning in their running shoes. It's a great choice for those who engage in daily running and need a shoe that can double as a casual sneaker. Runners with a heel strike pattern will benefit from the high energy return of the Boost midsole. Additionally, those who appreciate a snug, adaptive fit will find the Primeknit upper to be a good match.

Who should not buy the adidas Ultraboost?


The adidas Ultraboost may not be the best choice for runners who prefer a lightweight shoe, as it is heavier than many other running shoes on the market. Those with wider feet might find the Primeknit upper too constricting. If you require additional stability features, you might want to consider other models like the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22. Runners who prioritize breathability in hot climates may also want to look for alternatives.

adidas Ultraboost: What's it good for?


The adidas Ultraboost is well-suited for daily running and long-distance runs, thanks to its exceptional cushioning and comfort. Its breathable Primeknit upper makes it a good choice for well-ventilated running shoes. The shoe's durability and grip make it reliable for road running. Additionally, its stylish design allows it to double as a casual sneaker, making it versatile for everyday wear.

8 adidas Ultraboost FAQs


Is the adidas Ultraboost suitable for daily running?

Yes, the adidas Ultraboost is well-suited for daily running. Its Boost midsole provides excellent cushioning and energy return, making it comfortable for long runs and everyday wear. The Primeknit upper offers a snug and breathable fit, enhancing overall comfort.

How does the adidas Ultraboost fit?

The adidas Ultraboost generally fits true to size, but its Primeknit upper can feel tight for those with wider feet. The shoe features a medium toe box, providing enough room for most runners. It's advisable to try the shoe on before purchasing to ensure the best fit.

Is the adidas Ultraboost good for heel strikers?

Yes, the adidas Ultraboost is a great choice for heel strikers. The Boost midsole provides excellent cushioning and energy return, particularly in the heel area. This helps absorb impact and provides a comfortable ride for runners who predominantly strike with their heels.

How durable is the adidas Ultraboost?

The adidas Ultraboost is known for its durability, particularly due to its Continental rubber outsole. This material provides excellent grip and withstands wear and tear over time. However, the Primeknit upper may show signs of wear more quickly than traditional mesh uppers.

Can the adidas Ultraboost be used for casual wear?

Yes, the adidas Ultraboost is versatile enough to be used for both running and casual wear. Its stylish design and comfortable fit make it a popular choice for everyday use. The Boost midsole provides cushioning and support, making it suitable for all-day wear.

Is the adidas Ultraboost suitable for wide feet?

The adidas Ultraboost may feel tight for those with wider feet due to its snug Primeknit upper. It's recommended to try the shoe on before purchasing to ensure a comfortable fit. If you have wide feet, you might want to consider other models with a roomier fit.

How does the adidas Ultraboost compare to other running shoes?

The adidas Ultraboost stands out for its Boost midsole, which provides exceptional cushioning and energy return. Compared to other running shoes, it offers a more responsive and comfortable ride. However, it is heavier than some alternatives, which may not suit runners looking for a lightweight option.

Is the adidas Ultraboost good for long-distance running?

Yes, the adidas Ultraboost is suitable for long-distance running. Its Boost midsole provides excellent cushioning and energy return, making it comfortable for extended runs. The Primeknit upper offers a snug and breathable fit, enhancing overall comfort during long-distance runs.

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productAthletes
Pro athlete users

+9
Pablo Villa GonzálezIskander Yadgarov
Weight
Weight
M: 303 g
W: 266 g
M: 258 g
W: 227 g
M: 283 g
W: 264 g
M: 278 g
W: 249 g
283 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
12 mm
28 mm
28 mm
31 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
10 mm
10 mm
10 mm
10 mm
10 mm
9 mm
Heel
Heel
22 mm
39 mm
38 mm
38 mm
40 mm
Brand
Brand
adidas
BrooksadidasBrooksBrooksNike
Strike Type
Strike Type
Heel strike
Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeHeel strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
ComfortableComfortableMaximalistComfortableMaximalistComfortableMaximalistComfortableMaximalist
Breathable
Breathable
Removable insole
Removable insole
Carbon fiber plate
Carbon fiber plate
Rocker
Rocker
Techs
Techs
adidas Boostadidas Ultraboost
Brooks BioMoGo DNAadidas Ultraboost
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
SustainableVegan Ⓥ
SustainableVegan Ⓥ
0

adidas Ultraboost: what the experts say (4 reviews)

adidas Ultraboost: 36 Expert video reviews

adidas Ultraboost characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2049)
TerrainRoad (+1362)
UsagesDaily running (+1132)
Brandadidas (+292)
Support TypeNeutral (+1603)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1578)
Strike TypeHeel strike (+1097)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1525)
FitMedium toe box (+855)
FeaturesBreathable (+753)Orthotic friendly (+456)
MaterialsKnit (+212)
Techsadidas Boost (+16)adidas Ultraboost (+42)
ColorwaysBlack, Blue / Red / White, Core Black / Core Black / Core Black, Grey, Hi Res Blue, Legend Ink, Pink / White, Szary, White, White / Orange
Specificationsvs Average
Released
Feb 2015
Measurements
Weight
M: 303 g
W: 266 g
Heel to toe drop
10 mm
Heel
22 mm
Forefoot
12 mm

11 pro athletes who've used adidas Ultraboost

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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