Adidas Ultraboost 5 review: run happy, look snappy

I have always been a fan of Adidas’ Ultraboost franchise. The first one I tried was the Ultraboost 19, and I’m pretty sure I've run in all of the shoe’s successors since then. The Adidas Ultraboost 5 is said to be the biggest update since the franchise was created in 2015, so I was curious to see how the running experience evolved with new changes.

Most of the marketing material about the shoes focused on how the Ultraboost 5 provides the highest energy return of any Ultraboost shoes to date, which gave me the impression that the Ultraboost 5 will change its sneaker-style running shoe approach.

This is certainly not the case; the new iteration provides a very similar experience to older Ultraboosts but with a modern twist. It might not be the best running shoe, but if you need a good-looking, energetic trainer, the Adidas Ultraboost 5 is an excellent option. Read my full review below for more information.

Adidas Ultraboost 5 review

Price and availability

The Adidas Ultraboost 5 is available in-store and online directly from Adidas for €180 from 18 July 2024, with Early Access for members of the adidas adiClub from 11 July 2024. It launches for both men and women in a white and grey base with ‘Spark Orange’ and ‘Lucid Pink’ colours.

Specifications

• Best for: daily training, jogging, walking
• Stack height: 39mm (forefoot), 29mm (heel)
• Offset/drop: 10mm
• Support: neutral 
• Tested weight: 323g/ 10.4oz (UK10)
• Fit: True to size

Design and materials

The silhouette of the Ultraboost 5 reminds me of the Ultraboost Light 1, one of my favourite entries in the franchise. It has a ton of foam underfoot; in fact, Adidas says the re-engineered Light Boost midsole is packed with 9mm more foam under the heel and forefoot compared to Ultraboost Light 1.

Between you and me, I’m not sure where the extra 9mm is, as the Ultraboost 5 isn’t that much taller than the Ultraboost Light 1. Both shoes are supposed to have a maximum stack height of 39mm, but the drop is different (Ultraboost 5: 10mm, Ultraboost Light 1: 31mm)

More interestingly, the new shoes are lighter (my men’s UK 10 weighs 323g/ 10.4oz) and have 2% more forefoot energy than the Light 1 while looking very similar to the Ultraboost Light 1. This isn’t a bad thing, though; I liked those shoes and like the way the Ultraboost 5 looks and feels, too.

The Ultraboost 5 features Adidas’ Torsion System technology, which adds a bit of rotational stiffness to the midsole. It’s not as stiff as a carbon plate and is also placed differently – sandwiched between the Continental outsole and the Light Boost midsole – but it helps you control your stride better, which otherwise might be difficult, given the softness of the foam.

Performance and comfort

One thing I haven’t mentioned above is the Primeknit upper, which is very similar to (I’d say) most Ultaboost shoes in the past. However, I found the section just above the toes a little less roomy compared to the Ultraboost Light 1. I was wondering if I should size up, based on my recent experience with the Adidas Dropset 3, but apart from the toe vertical space issue, the shoes fit well.

The Ultraboost 5 isn’t about chasing PBs and going fast and hard. It’s a bouncy, fluffy trainer that’s aimed at yonder runners wanting to have a good time. It helps you move forward just fine and looks dapper on the feet. The white Primeknit upper got dirty straight away, needless to say, so be careful if you like your trainers to look box-fresh.

As for the 2% better forefoot energy return, that’s as impossible to verify as you can imagine. The Ultraboost 5 certainly doesn’t feel much faster than other Ultraboosts I’ve tried, but at the same time, I didn’t expect it to replace my Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 or Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 10.

One thing that prevented me from running faster in the shoes was the looser heel construction. The lack of solidity in this area is perfect for keeping things comfortable, but you can definitely feel the rear of your foot travelling in and out slightly as you run.

That said, I often reach for the Ultraboost when I go out for walking or jogging or just don’t feel like punishing myself with my running sessions. The Ultraboost 5 continues the good tradition of providing a comfortable experience when out and about. If that’s the sort of thing you need, boy, have I got a running shoe recommendation for you!

Verdict

The Ultraboost 5 by Adidas echoes the design of the Ultraboost Light 1, featuring a re-engineered Light Boost midsole with 9mm more foam for added comfort. This shoe isn't designed for setting personal bests but excels as a bouncy, comfortable trainer ideal for casual runs and walks. For those seeking a stylish and comfy running shoe, the Ultraboost 5 is a solid choice.

Also consider

It might not look as cool, but ASICS' Gel-Nimbus 26 is just as comfortable as the Ultraboost 5. It offers improved traction, enhanced midfoot support, and plush cushioning, making it ideal for recovery runs and slower paces. Perfect for those seeking a comfortable, cushioned running experience. Read my full ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26 review.