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Review: Adidas Ultra Boost

$210

Drop ratio: 10 mm

Weight: 323 g (11.4 oz.)

This shoe is the cumulation of two key technologies that Adidas has been eager to forge for some time: their wildly successful Boost midsole, and the fashion-forward Primeknit upper. The German shoe giant is boldly claiming that the Ultra Boost is the “greatest running shoe ever.” If you’re a fan of an incredibly soft, flexible ride and stretchy, sock-like fit, this shoe will certainly impress. Adidas’s move away from traditional EVA to an entirely Boost sole with a cleverly designed (and very malleable) rubber outsole produces something akin to running on a memory foam mattress. The squishy, bouncy return is great for daily mileage, although not as desirable for intervals or race day.

The upper is where the Ultra universally shines. The first incarnation of this shoe sports a low-profile, black and purple colourway. Adidas has already indicated that it is going to go after sneakerheads with this design. The Ultra Boost is a blank canvas for all sorts of aesthetic possibilities, and it’s sure to be a big hit for those who are looking for a stylish, yet entirely functional everyday trainer. The upper is a touch narrow, but the knit construction allows for all sorts of foot types, which will bode well for making the Ultra the flagship runner for Adidas. Coupled with a firmer, performance model from the Adizero Boost line-up, this shoe will fit right in for the neutral, everyday runner.

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