adidas Ultraboost 5

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87%
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adidas Ultraboost 5: Review

“A running shoe designed for enhanced energy return and supreme comfort.”

Overview


The adidas Ultraboost 5 is a running shoe designed to enhance energy return and comfort. This shoe is known for its innovative Boost technology, which has been a hallmark of the adidas Ultraboost family since its inception.

Key Features:

  • Boost Midsole: Provides enhanced cushioning and energy return.
  • Primeknit Upper: Offers a snug, sock-like fit with improved breathability.
  • Torsion System: Ensures stability from heel to toe.

The adidas Ultraboost 5 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize comfort and energy efficiency in their footwear. Its advanced cushioning offers a smooth ride, making it suitable for both short and long-distance runs.

With an average review score of 87%, it's in the lowest rated 20% of similar running shoes. Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 20% of running shoes today.

Verdict

The consensus on the adidas Ultraboost 5


The adidas Ultraboost 5 is praised for its comfort and energy return, thanks to the revamped Boost midsole that adds more foam for cushioning. This shoe is particularly suitable for runners who value a comfortable ride, as the Primeknit upper provides a snug fit and improved ventilation. The Torsion system enhances stability, making transitions smoother. However, some users have noted irritation over longer distances, suggesting it may not be the best choice for marathon runners. While it offers a balanced ride, it lacks standout qualities in terms of speed or plushness compared to other models like the New Balance 1080 v13. The Ultraboost 5 is a reliable option for everyday training and gym activities, but it may not be the go-to choice for serious runners seeking performance-driven features. Overall, the Ultraboost 5 is a solid choice for those prioritizing comfort and stability in their daily runs.

Updates to adidas Ultraboost 5


The adidas Ultraboost 5 introduces significant updates from previous models in the adidas Ultraboost line. The most notable change is the addition of 9 mm more Boost foam, enhancing cushioning and energy return. This update provides a softer feel compared to the Ultraboost Light, appealing to runners who prioritize comfort. The Primeknit upper has been redesigned for improved breathability, while the Torsion system has been refined to offer better stability. These enhancements make the Ultraboost 5 a more comfortable and efficient option for runners.

Comparable Shoes


The Hoka Clifton 9 is another option for runners who prioritize cushioning and comfort. It offers a similar level of cushioning to the Ultraboost 5 but with a lighter weight, making it ideal for those who want a more agile shoe. The Clifton 9's design is particularly beneficial for runners who need additional support and stability during their runs.

The Brooks Ghost 14 is a reliable choice for runners seeking a balanced and comfortable ride. It offers a similar level of cushioning to the Ultraboost 5 but with a more traditional design. The Ghost 14 is known for its durability and support, making it a great option for runners who need a dependable shoe for daily training.

The Asics Gel-Nimbus 24 is a premium running shoe that offers excellent cushioning and support. It competes with the Ultraboost 5 in terms of comfort but provides a more structured fit, making it ideal for runners who need additional stability. The Gel-Nimbus 24 is particularly suitable for long-distance runs, offering a smooth and comfortable experience.

The Nike React Infinity Run is a versatile shoe that competes with the Ultraboost 5 in terms of comfort and support. It features a React foam midsole that provides a smooth and responsive ride, making it suitable for both short and long-distance runs. The Infinity Run's design focuses on reducing injury risk, appealing to runners who prioritize safety and comfort.

7 adidas Ultraboost 5 Pros & Cons


4 Pros

Excellent cushioning and energy return.
Breathable Primeknit upper for improved ventilation.
Good traction with Continental rubber outsole.
Stable ride with Torsion system support.

3 Cons

Irritation reported over longer distances.
Lacks standout qualities in speed or plushness.
Not the best choice for serious runners seeking performance-driven features.

In Depth


Upper

The adidas Ultraboost 5 features a Primeknit upper, which is designed to provide a snug, sock-like fit. This material is known for its breathability, allowing air to circulate and keep feet cool during runs. The upper also includes a softer, moulded cage on the midfoot to enhance comfort and reduce irritation. This design is particularly beneficial for runners who experience discomfort from traditional shoe constructions.

Midsole

The Ultraboost 5's midsole is equipped with the LIGHT BOOST technology, which is lighter and offers more effective cushioning than previous versions. According to adidas, this midsole provides a 2% increase in energy return, making it ideal for runners who want to maximize their efficiency. The additional foam in the forefoot and heel enhances the shoe's responsiveness, providing a cushioned yet stable ride.

Outsole

The outsole of the Ultraboost 5 is made from a Continental rubber compound, known for its excellent traction on various surfaces. This feature enhances the shoe's stability, making it suitable for road running and other terrains. The torsion bar integrated into the outsole further improves midfoot support, ensuring a smooth and stable ride.

Size/fit

The Ultraboost 5 runs true to size, with a standard toe box that accommodates most foot shapes. The Primeknit upper provides a snug fit, cradling the foot comfortably. However, some users have reported irritation in the toe area during longer runs, suggesting that the fit may not be ideal for everyone. It's recommended to try the shoe on to ensure the best fit.

Comfort

Comfort is a standout feature of the Ultraboost 5, thanks to its plush Boost midsole and Primeknit upper. The shoe offers a cushioned ride that reduces foot fatigue, making it suitable for daily running and gym activities. However, some runners have experienced irritation over longer distances, indicating that comfort may vary depending on the individual's foot shape and running style.

Cushioning

The Ultraboost 5 excels in cushioning, with its Boost midsole providing a soft and responsive feel. This cushioning is particularly beneficial for runners who prefer a comfortable ride. The additional foam in the forefoot and heel ensures that each step is absorbed efficiently, minimizing impact and enhancing the overall running experience.

Breathability

Breathability is enhanced in the Ultraboost 5 with its Primeknit upper, which allows for better air circulation. This feature is crucial for keeping feet cool and dry during intense workouts, making the shoe suitable for runners who prioritize ventilation in their footwear.

Stability

Stability is a key feature of the Ultraboost 5, thanks to the integrated Torsion system. This technology provides support from heel to toe, ensuring a smooth transition with every stride. The shoe's design is particularly beneficial for runners with neutral pronation, offering the necessary support without compromising flexibility.

Durability

The Ultraboost 5 is built to last, with high-quality materials used in its construction. The Continental rubber outsole is known for its durability, providing excellent traction and wear resistance. This makes the shoe a reliable choice for runners who need a durable option for their daily training sessions.

Grip

The grip of the Ultraboost 5 is enhanced by its Continental rubber outsole, which offers excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces. This feature is particularly beneficial for runners who train on varied terrains, ensuring stability and confidence with every step.

Flex

Flexibility in the Ultraboost 5 is achieved through its Primeknit upper and Boost midsole, which work together to provide a responsive and adaptive ride. This flexibility allows the shoe to move naturally with the foot, enhancing comfort and performance during runs.

Who should buy the adidas Ultraboost 5?


The adidas Ultraboost 5 is ideal for runners who prioritize comfort and energy return in their footwear. It's particularly suited for those who engage in daily running or gym activities, offering a cushioned and stable ride. Runners with neutral pronation will find the shoe's support beneficial, while its breathability makes it suitable for warmer climates. Intermediate to advanced runners who train regularly and participate in races will appreciate the shoe's energy efficiency and comfort.

Who should not buy the adidas Ultraboost 5?


The Ultraboost 5 may not be the best choice for runners seeking a lightweight, performance-driven shoe for speedwork or racing. Those who prefer a more plush or responsive ride might find the cushioning lacking compared to models like the New Balance 1080 v13. Runners who experience irritation over longer distances should consider alternatives with a wider toe box or different upper construction. If you're looking for a shoe with standout features for serious running, the adidas Supernova franchise might be a better fit.

adidas Ultraboost 5: What's it good for?


The adidas Ultraboost 5 is well-suited for daily running and gym workouts, offering a comfortable and stable ride. Its road running capabilities make it ideal for urban environments, while the durable outsole provides excellent traction on various surfaces. The shoe's cushioning and support are beneficial for short to mid-distance runs, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. However, it may not be the best choice for high-speed training or long-distance races, where more specialized footwear might be required.

5 adidas Ultraboost 5 FAQs


What makes the adidas Ultraboost 5 suitable for daily running?

The adidas Ultraboost 5 is designed for daily running with its comfortable Boost midsole and breathable Primeknit upper. These features provide a cushioned and stable ride, making it ideal for regular training sessions.

How does the Ultraboost 5 compare to previous models?

The Ultraboost 5 features a revamped Boost midsole with 9 mm more foam, offering enhanced cushioning and energy return compared to previous models. The Primeknit upper has also been improved for better breathability and fit.

Is the Ultraboost 5 suitable for long-distance running?

While the Ultraboost 5 offers good cushioning and support, some runners have experienced irritation over longer distances. It may be more suitable for short to mid-distance runs rather than marathon distances.

What type of runner would benefit most from the Ultraboost 5?

Runners who prioritize comfort and energy return will benefit from the Ultraboost 5. It's ideal for those with neutral pronation and those who engage in daily training or gym activities.

Does the Ultraboost 5 offer good traction on different surfaces?

Yes, the Ultraboost 5 features a Continental rubber outsole that provides excellent traction on various surfaces, making it suitable for road running and other terrains.

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Weight
Weight
M: 258 g
W: 227 g
M: 278 g
W: 249 g
M: 283 g
W: 264 g
283 g
M: 306 g
W: 261 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
28 mm
28 mm
31 mm
44 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
10 mm
10 mm
10 mm
10 mm
9 mm
5 mm
Heel
Heel
39 mm
38 mm
38 mm
40 mm
49 mm
Usages
Usages
Daily running
Daily runningDaily runningDaily runningDaily runningDaily runningSpeed training
Brand
Brand
adidas
BrooksBrooksBrooksNikeHoka
Breathable
Breathable
Carbon fiber plate
Carbon fiber plate
Rocker
Rocker
Techs
Techs
adidas Ultraboost
Brooks BioMoGo DNA
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
SustainableVegan ⓋVegan ⓋSustainable
Vegan Ⓥ
0

adidas Ultraboost 5: what the experts say (3 reviews)

adidas Ultraboost 5: 6 Expert video reviews

adidas Ultraboost 5: 3 Manufacturer videos

adidas Ultraboost 5 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2049)
TerrainRoad (+1362)
UsagesDaily running (+1132)
Brandadidas (+292)
Support TypeNeutral (+1603)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1578)
Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike (+1116)Heel strike (+1097)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1525)
Shoe TypeComfortable (+239)Maximalist (+428)
FitWide toe box (+273)
FeaturesBreathable (+753)Orthotic friendly (+456)Removable insole (+439)
MaterialsKnit (+212)
Techsadidas Ultraboost (+42)
ColorwaysBlack, Black / Grey, Black / Zero Metallic / Spark, Blue, Grey, Orange, Pink, White, White / Glory Grey / Lucid Pink, Yellow / Grey
Specificationsvs Average
Model
5
Released
Dec 2020
Measurements
Heel to toe drop
10 mm
Heel
39 mm

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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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