The ultra popular Ultraboost from ADIDAS is back in an updated version. I have tested the running shoe, which offers more BOOST than ever before. Learn more about the new ADIDAS Ultraboost 21 here.
ADIDAS Ultraboost 21 - VIDEO
ADIDAS Ultraboost 21 – More running, less fashion
The new Ultraboost 21 from ADIDAS has been re-designed from top to bottom, and it is quite difficult to spot any similarities with the predecessor, the Ultraboost 20. For the last couple of weeks, I have been testing the Ultraboost 21, and in this video, I will be looking at all the changes to this legendary shoe.
First of all, the Ultraboost 21 is significantly more focused on the performance-running, compared to the other Ultraboost models. It is more running – less fashion.
Naturally, some people would still be using the Ultraboost 21 as an everyday sneaker as it’s cool-looking shoe, I think. But this IS a proper running shoe, if anyone should wonder, and it is actually a really great running shoe!
Neutral running shoe with maximum comfort
The ADIDAS Ultraboost 21 is a neutral running shoe for everyday training to give you maximum shock-absorption and comfort. It is an everyday trainer that is great for the long and easy runs where comfort is the top priority.
Sock-like upper in sustainable materials
The upper is a sock-like one-piece upper, which ADIDAS call Primeknit+. It is incredibly elastic and more tight-fitted than other versions of the Ultraboost. It feels like putting on a sock, and it hugs around your foot in a way that almost allows me to run without tightening the shoelaces.
I am the same size as with the Ultraboost 20, and that is the right size for me in terms of the length. I think the fit is incredible on my feet. However, if you are not a fan of the very tight-fitted shoes, I would recommend you go up half a size.
The upper is also made with Primeblue, which is a recycled material that is partly made with Parley Ocean Plastic – plastic waste picked along the beaches and coasts. I think it is great to see such a big brand like ADIDAS to lead the way when it comes to sustainability. I got a feeling this is a trend that we will be seeing more of in the future.
At the back, we got the renowned ADIDAS feature which is the soft and flexible piece around the Achilles tendon.
It is very stable and firm along the sides and down the middle around the back thanks to the external heel cap. However, as I mentioned, it is nicely soft and flexible around the back of the Achilles tendon. I think it is very comfortable to wear.
And if you tend to have problems with your Achilles tendon, or your shoes are irritating your Achilles tendon, I will nominate this shoe to bea great buy for you.
More BOOST in the midsole of ADIDAS Ultraboost 21
Compared to the Ultraboost 20, this Ultraboost 21 has 6% more BOOST material in the midsole.
And talking about the amount of BOOST, the heel looks more loaded than it actually is. This is because the BOOST sole encapsulates the heel on both sides to form something akin to a bowlaround the back of the foot. So actually, inside the shoe, the foot is somewhere down here.
With BOOST in the shoe, it is all about comfort and return of energy. And you really do get that with this shoe.
Another big upgrade is the shoe’s new “Torsions system” design. That’s the yellow plate under the sole, which gives the soft BOOST sole and the entire shoe a bit more structure, control, and stability.
When I carefully knock on the plate, I can feel how stiff the material is. The plate, which ADIDAS call the “Linear Energy Push”, or simply LEP, extends all the way out to the front foot and helps to strengthen the bending stiffness with 15%. Reportedly, this should provide a springier, more energised, and responsive toe-off. And compared with the Ultraboost 20, this is differently a noticeable difference.
Durable outsole with Continental-rubber
Again, the outsole is totally different from the Ultraboost 20. It is a so-called Stretchweb outsole with rubber from German Continental, who are probably best known for making car tyres. I have not had the chance to run enough kilometres to truly test the durability of the shoe. However, the grip with the surface is great and it does feel very durable.
A protective and springy running shoe
Even though the Ultraboost 21 is a soft and protective running shoe, it is not nearly as soft as shoes like the FuelCell TC from New Balance or the Bondi from Hoka One One. It is not nearly as soft as a shoe like the Asics GEL-Nimbus.
In terms of the feeling with the surface, it is quite similar to the Saucony Triumph. Very shock-absorbing and protective, but the shoe is still more springy rather than marshmallow soft.
Stability in ADIDAS Ultraboost 21
The Ultraboost 21 is also quite stable – without being a stability shoe. Runners who normally opt for shoes with mild stability can easily run in this shoe.
A quite heavy running shoe
The only thing that affects the overall impression of the Ultraboost 21 is the weight. BOOST is a relatively heavy material, and with even more BOOST in the sole it is affecting the overall weight of the shoe. In a size 42 2/3, the shoe weighs 353 grams, which makes it one of the heavier shoes on the market.
However, the weight does not matter to me. You have to remember what the shoe is designed to be and what it is great at. It is a MAX comfort running shoe to ensure a comfortable run every single time… and it truly delivers on that promise. Then the few extra grams don’t make the big difference.
A reliable workhorse for everyday training
If you want to run at a high pace and set new personal records, you will need to look for a different shoe. And for this, ADIDAS offer plenty of great options! But if you are looking for a reliable workhorse for your everyday training that can protect and help you on all your runs, then the new ADIDAS Ultraboost 21 is an incredible running shoe.
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