Skip to main content
SoleFeedSF
Buyer's Guide

adidas Ultraboost Review & Sizing Guide

Published Updated

The Ultraboost is worth it for 2015 Boost history and comfort, but running durability depends on miles.

Shop all

Key facts

Popularity
Post-hype but still one of the most comfortable lifestyle shoes made
Comfort
Legendary Boost cushioning with 90%+ energy return past 300 miles
Fit
True to size; Primeknit stretches to accommodate wide feet
Value
Often found below retail; the 5X is the best running version
Use case
Daily comfort, travel, easy runs, all-day standing
Risk
Boost compresses after 400-600km; hype premium no longer justified

Full breakdown

When the Ultraboost debuted in 2015, adidas marketed it as the greatest running shoe ever made, built on the Boost foam it had introduced two years earlier on the Energy Boost. The springy TPU midsole and sock-like Primeknit upper caught on far beyond running, and Kanye West cosigning the silhouette helped push it into everyday rotations. It became the defining shoe of adidas' Boost era and a lasting comfort staple.

FAQ

How does the Ultraboost fit?

Generally true to size, though the Primeknit upper stretches and molds to the foot over time. The 1.0 runs slightly large so some size down, the 4.0 is snug, and the 5.0/5X fits true to size for average feet. Wide-footed buyers should go half a size up, and removing the insole is a common workaround owners trade Ultraboost fit and water-resistance advice.

Is the Ultraboost still the most comfortable sneaker?

For many buyers, yes. The Boost midsole delivers soft, springy cushioning that holds up well for easy runs, recovery days, and all-day standing testing details the foam's energy return. The limitation is lifespan: the foam compresses and the ride flattens after heavy mileage, so rotating pairs extends how long it stays comfortable.

Is the Continental rubber outsole worth the hype?

Yes, and it is a real reason to buy. The tire-derived Continental rubber grips well on dry and wet pavement and resists wear better than most sneaker outsoles reviewers rate the outsole among the most durable on the market. Buyers who walk or run heavy mileage get the most value from it, since the outsole usually outlasts the Boost cushioning.

What is the best Ultraboost version?

For running, buy the lighter 5X with Light Boost foam, the best Ultraboost for daily training miles reviews favor the 5X for everyday running. For casual wear, choose the 1.0 retro colorways, which carry the most cultural cachet, or the traditional-lacing 4.0 that some long-distance runners prefer. Pick the version that matches whether you want a runner or a lifestyle shoe.

Is the Ultraboost good for running?

For easy and recovery runs it is comfortable, but it is too heavy and soft for tempo work or racing reviewers place its strength in relaxed daily mileage. Buy it for daily training, commuting, and travel; skip it if you want a fast race shoe. Runners chasing speed should size their expectations to its relaxed cushioned ride.