adidas Ultraboost 5X Review
Published: August 15 , 2024
Updated, Upgraded, Ultraboosted 5X
Likes
- Soft, protective midsole
- Comfortable, sock-like upper
- Updated aesthetic is awesome
Dislikes
- Slightly heavy
- Price point
What's New
The adidas Ultraboost 5X puts the BOOST in Ultraboost, seamlessly combining performance and style for a premium running experience. As a shoe known for its style and performance within the premium daily training category, the 5X model caters to runners of all levels, offering versatility to all runners who prioritize comfort, protection, and iconic adidas style. With a well-cushioned midsole featuring an increased stack height and the new LightBoost V2 foam, this shoe offers a soft yet lively sensation with every step, making it ideal for long-distance runs and daily training sessions.
One of the standout updates in the Ultraboost 5X is the enhanced Torsion System, which ensures smooth transitions from heel to toe, providing a more stable, more efficient stride. This upgrade is complemented by the revamped Mono Primeknit upper, which offers a superior fit with improved midfoot lockdown and decreased weight. The cageless upper construction adapts more easily to the runner's foot during movement, enhancing the Ultraboost's comfort and support.
The Ultraboost 5X is not just about comfort and style; it's about reliability as well. With Continental Rubber underfoot, the Ultraboost 5X offers confidence-inspiring traction in wet and dry weather conditions, providing all the bells and whistles to compete with the best in the category. With a design that balances cushioning, support, and durability, the adidas Ultraboost 5X is perfect for runners seeking a dependable shoe to meet daily training demands while offering a style that is second to none.
The Bottom Line
The adidas Ultraboost has quickly become a standout in the running world, and our RW testing team has had the pleasure of putting the Ultraboost 5X through its paces. The array of updates delivers a blend of style, comfort, and performance that will appeal to seasoned runners and those seeking a versatile everyday running shoe that can handle whatever the day may bring.
The most dramatic improvements in the Ultraboost 5X are found in the midsole. Featuring the new LightBoost V2 foam and an updated torsion system, this shoe felt soft yet responsive underfoot, providing ample protection and a fun, bouncy ride that complements any daily run. While it is not a fast-day shoe, the Ultraboost 5X can handle swifter miles when needed. It's not the lightest shoe on the market, but it's not heavy either, making it a solid option for daily or casual runs. Our testers were pleasantly surprised by the Ultraboost 5X's versatility, finding it effective across various distances and paces.
Another key highlight is the newly updated Mono Primeknit upper, which delivers a sleek, adaptive fit that our testers praised for its comfortably secure wrap. The sock-like feel is supportive without being restrictive, providing a snug hold that works well for casual wear and everyday training runs. While some testers noted that the knit upper might not be the most breathable, it did not pose significant issues, even in the hot Californian summer. The design is stylish and functional, making the Ultraboost 5X a top choice for those who appreciate a shoe that looks as good as it performs.
Traction is another strong feature of the Ultraboost 5X thanks to the Continental Rubber outsole. Our testers were impressed by the reliable grip on various surfaces, from wet roads to unpaved paths. The outsole's configuration also contributes to a smoother ride, flexing naturally with the wearer's foot. While there were some concerns about the shoe's long-term durability, the overall performance of the outsole remained solid. In short, the adidas Ultraboost 5X is a fan favorite for a reason. It offers a comfortable, cushioned ride with a stylish design that is hard to beat. Whether you are logging long miles or simply looking for a versatile shoe for everyday wear, the Ultraboost 5X provides a well-rounded package that is sure to impress both aesthetically and performance-wise. If the price tag does not intimidate you and you have tried previous versions of this shoe, then our testers highly recommend giving the 5X a try.
Specifications & Fit
Shoe Specs
| Weight | Men's: 9.6 oz (size 9) | Women's: 8.8 oz (size 8) |
| Stack Height | 38 mm (Heel), 28 mm (Forefoot) | 10 mm Heel-Toe Offset |
| Terrain | Road |
| Stability | Neutral |
| Sizing | True to size |
Our In-Depth Look
Upper
Kaleb: "The Ultraboost 5X features a Primeknit upper that is sleek and adaptive, providing a snug, sock-like fit that feels fantastic to walk around in. The material wraps around my foot comfortably, offering excellent support without feeling restrictive. It is not the most breathable upper, but it did not cause issues in the Californian heat. Here's the thing: I do not love knit uppers. I am not sure if it is because I am used to super tight, super secure soccer cleats, but I always feel like my foot is sliding when I wear a knit upper. In general, they just are not my favorite. The stylish design also adds to the overall appeal, making the 5X as suitable for casual wear as it is for running."
Risa: "I love the Ultraboost 5X upper. It has been a while since I have worn a running shoe with a knit, sock-like upper like the new Ultraboost. The Mono Primeknit material is soft and provides a secure lockdown that I found very comfortable. This was my first time running in an Ultraboost, so I cannot speak to the previous versions that featured a cage, but I think the shoe looks better without the heavily structured cage."
Midsole
Kaleb: "The midsole is where the Ultraboost has changed the most dramatically, combining LightBoost V2 foam with an updated torsion system. Because of these features, the Ultraboost feels protective, comfortable, and bouncier on the run than previous versions. The cushioning is soft but not overly soft, striking a nice balance that offers comfort on long runs without sacrificing responsiveness for some slightly faster-paced workouts. I am not using the Ultraboost for intentionally fast workouts, but it is not a slow, mushy shoe. Runners can play with pace a bit depending on their ability level and daily run schedule. The Ultraboost is not the lightest shoe either, so I recommend using this shoe for daily or fun runs."
Risa: "The LightBoost V2 foam is soft and bouncy, which, as you may know, is my favorite combination. I was surprised that I enjoyed using the shoes for tempo runs as much as cruising miles. For me, the Ultraboost did not feel too heavy for speed work, and the midsole provided some pop at swifter paces. With a 38-mm midsole stack height, the Ultraboost is plenty protective to use for my long runs."
Outsole
Kaleb: "adidas continues to partner with Continental Rubber for the Ultraboost 5X's outsole, offering impressive durability and top-notch grip. The traction is reliable on various road surfaces, from wet roads to packed trails, providing confidence with each step. The configuration of the outsole also contributes to a smoother ride, allowing the outsole to flex naturally with my foot's movements. However, like previous Ultraboost models, the outsole is somewhat prone to wear over time, especially for runners who frequently cover high mileage. Despite this, the overall performance of the outsole remains solid, ensuring a steady and stable run."
Risa: "The Ultraboost features a Continental outsole which provides great grip. I expect it to hold up for many miles."
Comparable Shoes
adidas Ultraboost 5X vs. New Balance 1080
Risa: "Both the Ultraboost 5X and the New Balance 1080 are super comfortable shoes. They have almost identical stack heights and similar weights, with the 1080 being a little lighter. The Ultraboost has a more responsive pop, and I would prefer to use it for runs incorporating speedwork. The 1080 feels more like a cruiser to me, though I do appreciate the lighter weight for running long distances."
adidas Ultraboost 5X vs. Nike Pegasus Plus
Kaleb: "This is a tough comparison, but both shoes are in direct competition with one another. Both shoes have crazy reputations that extend well beyond the running shoe industry, which is most likely because of how stylish both models are. Honestly, between the two updates, I have to give the nod to adidas and the Ultraboost. The Pegasus Plus is not as protective but delivers a very natural running experience that is great for any daily run. That said, with the extra dose of stack, improved LightBoost foam, and updated knit upper, the Ultraboost 5X offers me a bit more versatility to take on longer runs. Still, I do not agree with the nearly $180 price tag for either shoe."
Individual Thoughts
KalebOverall Score: 8.5/10
The adidas Ultraboost 5X is a fan-favorite shoe that combines style, comfort, and performance. Its updated midsole makes it ideal for runners who love a cushioned, semi-responsive ride, while the Primeknit upper ensures a snug, secure fit. The outsole provides reliable traction, though some might find the durability a bit of a concern. Whether you are logging long, easy, daily miles or simply want a stylish shoe for everyday wear, the updated Ultraboost 5X is an update that will not disappoint.
Before signing off on this review, one of my main criticisms of the Ultraboost 5X is the price tag. Don't get me wrong—this is my favorite Ultraboost to date, and the updates have definitely elevated the ride of the shoe. I just feel like there are similar enough shoes at lower price tags that would fill the same niche in my running rotation. That said, the Ultraboost 5X is very stylish, and I can understand paying a little extra for a shoe that I can wear throughout the day before busting out an evening run.
RisaOverall Score: 9.5/10
Having run in a host of different shoes over the years, I was a little surprised that the Ultraboost 5X was my first time testing an Ultraboost. Based on my knowledge of previous versions, I did not feel like I was missing out. However, with the 5X, we got a pretty significant update, and I ended up really enjoying this shoe.
It is definitely one of the best-looking running shoes out there, and I would say it is one of the most comfortable shoes I have worn in recent weeks. I absolutely love the sock-like upper. It feels very premium while providing the slip-free security I need to remain irritation-free. The midsole is quite soft underfoot, with a noticeable responsiveness.
If I had a small gripe, it would be the Ultraboost's weight, as it still falls on the heavier side compared to its competition. That said, for those familiar with the Ultraboost, Adidas did trim the weight down with the 5X. On the run, I did not really notice the weight and the shoe never felt sluggish. I thought the Ultraboost would just be a cruiser, but I was surprised that I was able to enjoy the shoe for threshold runs and longer runs, incorporating faster paces as well. The Ultraboost 5X is definitely a shoe that I will be keeping in my rotation for a variety of daily efforts moving forward.
adidas Men's Ultraboost
With a sock-like fit and all-day cushioning, the adidas Ultraboost raises the bar for comfort among premium neutral running shoes. It's great for any type of run.
adidas Women's Ultraboost
With a sock-like fit and all-day cushioning, the adidas Ultraboost raises the bar for comfort among premium neutral running shoes. It's great for any type of run.
