Adidas Ultra Boost 5 First Impressions: Boost Is Back, But Is It Enough?

Introduction

The Ultra Boost name carries a lot of history, and for years many runners filed the older Boost models under fashion shoe rather than serious running shoe. The Adidas Ultra Boost 5 sets out to change that perception. Built on a reworked Light Boost formula, a bigger midsole stack, and a new Primeknit upper, it aims to be a comfortable, balanced daily trainer that also looks good for everyday wear.

After three initial runs, including easy 5Ks and a 10K with some faster efforts mixed in on hot London roads, the picture is of a shoe that is easy to live with, if not exactly thrilling.

What’s New in the Ultra Boost 5

The headline change is the Light Boost foam, first seen in last year’s Ultra Boost Light. Adidas says it has been re-engineered here to offer reduced weight, significantly higher cushioning, and 2% more energy return than the Ultra Boost Light. The idea is that the midsole springs back quicker as your foot hits the ground, putting more energy back into your runs.

A lighter foam also means you can have more of it underfoot. The midsole gains 9mm more foam across the foot, bringing the stack to 39mm at the heel and 29mm at the forefoot, with a 10mm drop. Because bigger stacks can mean less stability, Adidas has added a new torsion system with an X-shaped plate through the midfoot to support the roll from heel to toe, plus a molded external heel counter for extra control.

Up top there is a new Primeknit upper with varying levels of structure in the yarn across the foot, aiming for support where you need it and breathability where you do not. The outsole carries a generous covering of durable Continental Rubber, split into two sections, with extra grip where the toes land and additional coverage in the heel.

Fit and Sizing

Fit proved a pleasant surprise. A UK 8, half a size down from the usual size, worked reasonably well. On most Adidas shoes that would be too narrow, but the very flexible upper across the toe box creates a roomy, malleable feel. Even half a size down, the fit was snug in a race-fit way rather than cramped.

That said, true to size is still the recommended route. Going with your regular size should give the roomier daily trainer feel rather than the hugging, snug fit of sizing down.

How It Runs

Stepping comfort is a genuine strength. This is an easy shoe to lace up and feel immediately at home in, run-ready from the first few strides.

The overall ride is that of a competent, safe, nicely balanced daily trainer. It is soft but not too soft, has a bit of energy but nothing to shout about, and ticks along with light enough ease and good road protection. It disappears into the background and lets you get on with the run, in much the same way as the Nike Pegasus 41 or Saucony Ride 17. Nothing noticeably wrong, maybe slightly warm upper in big summer heat, but nothing particularly wow either.

The honest takeaway: it is a film you enjoy watching once rather than a classic you keep returning to. Perfectly happy to run in it, just not compelled to rush back for another round straight away.

Who It Suits and Buying Advice

The big question is whether competent is enough at this price. At £180 or $180, the Ultra Boost 5 goes up against serious competition: the Nike Pegasus 41, the Saucony Ride 17, the Superblast 2, the Endorphin Speed 4, and even Adidas’s own Supernova, which arguably offers a more versatile and exciting ride for £30 less.

Where this shoe does make sense is as a crossover pick. It will appeal to people who want something that looks good for everyday wear but can also log the odd casual run or handle gym-to-cardio duty. It is a nice-looking shoe that performs adequately.

If you want a daily trainer purely for running and you care about value, the competition at and below this price point deserves a close look first. If style and versatility across running and daily life matter most, the Ultra Boost 5 fits that brief well.

Conclusion

The Adidas Ultra Boost 5 is a comfortable, competent, well-put-together daily trainer that is easy to run in and largely unremarkable. The reworked Light Boost midsole, bigger 39/29mm stack, and flexible Primeknit upper make it a pleasant companion on the road. The main hurdle is the £180/$180 price tag in a crowded daily trainer market, including strong alternatives from Adidas itself. For crossover wearers who value looks as much as performance, it is an easy recommendation. For pure runners hunting max value, compare carefully before committing.