Adidas Ultraboost 5X Introduction
The latest Ultraboost model has been released by Adidas and officially goes by the name Ultraboost 5X. When researching past Ultraboost models, I was instantly confused by the almost random naming conventions. It was easier to search by the year than figure out the previous models.
Regardless of name, there have been some constants with the Ultraboost over the years. They are a premium priced, daily trainer that are known to have a stylish appeal. Many will argue that they’re more well known for being a casual lifestyle shoe rather than a devoted runner.
New for the 5X is a lighter version of Light BOOST, said to have the most energy return yet. PRIMEKNIT offers a light, airy upper that provides a sock-like feel. The outsole consists of CONTINENTAL rubber and added support in what Adidas calls the TORSION system. Needless to say, there’s no lack of features in the Ultraboost 5X.
Weighing in at 9.7 oz in size 9, this model drops 17 grams from last year’s Ultraboost Light. You’ll end up paying $180 which is $10 less than the Ultraboost Light as well.
Adidas Ultraboost 5X First Impressions
I was quite impressed when I received these shoes. Out of the box, they felt lighter than expected. There’s a lot of midsole but they don’t have the feel of a max cushion shoe. The Light BOOST foam is quite flexible, making it easy to flex and contort the shoe in various ways.
On my feet, the shoes felt more like slippers than something you’d run in. The upper was very stretchy and hugged the different contours of my feet. The laces almost seemed optional at first with how snug the PRIMEKNIT felt.
During my first run, I was thankful they indeed had laces. I was hesitant to tighten these shoes the way I tie most all other running shoes. Within the first half mile, I had to stop and tie the shoe tighter.
I found that the elastic upper produced some extra movement that made the shoes feel unstable. Once I re-tied the laces the issue immediately went away.
After the run was over I felt like they performed better than I expected.
Adidas Ultraboost 5X Upper
Primeknit is the elastic, textile upper that molds to your foot to give you a custom fit and feel. It is seamless and soft so there’s no need to worry about rubbing, hot spots or blisters.
Lacing is simple and smooth so it doesn’t take much effort to get a solid lockdown every time. The laces work through plastic sections that are stitched into the upper. Since the 5X doesn’t have a traditional tongue the laces cinch down either side and the Primeknit causes it to contract where the tongue would be located.
Primeknit is on the thinner side when it comes to upper materials. This makes it a great option for those steamy summer days when you need all the breathability you can get. I was particularly impressed with how the box has held up. I initially had concerns about wear and tear in the area where my big toe contacts the upper, but the elasticity of Primeknit allows it to stretch and avoid abrasion.
This is a high quality upper that is comfortable and durable while still looking good.
Adidas Ultraboost 5X Sole Unit
There’s way more than just good looks to the Ultraboost 5X.
The heel design starts with a beveled angle which reduces impact and helps guide your foot into each stride. Also contributing to a consistent gait is the Torsion System. For this newest model, Adidas sandwiches an “X” in the midfoot between midsole and outsole. A molded external heel support rounds out the back of the shoe and keeps your foot secure and locked in.
Not only is this newest version of Light Boost lighter than before, but there’s also more of it. With much of the industry moving towards more stack, the Ultraboost 5X now joins in on the fun. 38mm in the heel and 28mm in the forefoot makes the shoe feel more like a max cushion shoe while still maintaining the 10mm heel to toe drop. Because of the foam compression, the drop height is not as noticeable as other trainers. It feels more like a 8mm drop which I really liked.
I can’t say enough good things about the ride and responsiveness of the 5X.
For neutral runners, they are smooth, enjoyable and approachable. Fun for a leisurely 5k but can also endure a half marathon.
Light Boost does more to keep your legs feeling fresher for longer. What else could you ask for in a daily trainer?
Adidas Ultraboost 5X Conclusions
Up to now, I’ve mostly considered the Ultraboost line as a leisure or lifestyle shoe. My opinion has definitely changed after reviewing the 5X. They are legitimate training shoes which I really enjoyed.
Those looking for a serious daily trainer won’t have to look far to find a more budget friendly option.
But if you like a bit of style and can afford to spend some extra coin, the Ultraboost 5X won’t disappoint!
