Adidas has a variety of different collections with “Boost” and Boost-like designs. However, don’t confuse lower priced models, that look like Boosts, with shoes that have actual Boost technology in the soles.
If you’ve ever tried some of the entry-level Adidas models, they often resemble the company’s upper end sneakers, just as they’re intended to. But beware they’re not the same thing for less money. They’re less shoe for less money. Moreover, the lower priced Adidas running style shoes are typically stiffer, making them much less comfortable, and use lesser quality materials that do not last as long. That’s fine for some, however, if you want footwear that will last — Nike, Adidas, and other big shoes brands, typically make you select from their higher priced tiers.
After trying numerous of the $50 to $100 range Adidas runners, over the past 10 years, none of them had the comfort or durability I expected, none were overly comfortable, and they all wore out quickly. In stark contrast, the pairs that have retail prices around $100 to $200, tend to be far more comfortable, and durable, lasting 4X to 5X longer (in my experience) than lower priced pairs. This means, investing in one good pair is probably a better bet than two entry level pairs, because one good pair should significantly outlast two lesser pairs.
How do the Ultraboost 1.0s wear? Really well. Bear in mind, this style has a sock like fit, that feels tight at first, and if you select the proper size, that tightness will loosen quickly as you break them in and should generally feel great from that point on. You may even want to significantly loosen, or even fully remove the laces, and even if you do, they still stay secure on your feet for more daily tasks.
When putting the Ultraboosts on, it seems like accidentally tearing the sock-like upper could occur, and you may prefer none sock-style shoe entry as I do. Yet, Adidas seems to have mastered it with it’s core classic Ultraboost 1.0 model. And for casual shoes, that are not intended to actually run in, this type of closure is fine.
Final Thoughts
As far as style, the Ultraboost 1.0 has a look that people will likely love or hate. In my mind, these are better looking than your typical Nike or New Balance runner, and aesthetically, the Ultraboost 1.0 design is subtle, you know, no neon hues, or big Swoosh (or ‘N’) logos.
In previous testing, this style of shoe can definitely support running, but it’s got no where near the energy return of proper running shoes (read RunRepeat’s highly technical report), even if it’s overall silhouette resembles true runners.
Adidas’ Ultraboost 1.0 looks impeccable, is super comfortable, and tends to last a very long time, even with heavy use, thanks to more care in material selection, design, and quality control.
