Adidas Ultraboost Light Review: How the Newest Version Stacks up to Its Predecessors

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Adidas’ Ultraboost line produces some of the best running shoes I’ve used. Over the last few years, I’ve owned three iterations of Ultraboosts, and each version improves on the previous one.

After testing the Adidas Ultraboost Lights on multiple runs over a two-week period, this is my favorite iteration yet. As the name implies, the Ultraboost Lights are a bit lighter than previous Ultraboosts. I love the way they fit: snug in the mid and forefoot, keeping my foot locked in place, even during springs. The Ultraboost Lights also have a thick cushion on the heel that encourages me to strike heel-first during my stride. More details below.

Adidas Ultraboost Light at a Glance

• Fit: True to size
• Cushion: High
• Upper Material: Adidas Primeknit
• Outsole Material: Continental rubber
• Weight: 10.5 ounces (men’s 9)
• Drop: 10mm
• Colors: 13 options
• Price: $190 (select colorways often on sale)

Running in the Adidas Ultraboost Light

I’ve taken these shoes for 15 miles of test runs, splitting the miles between a treadmill, an indoor track, and the sidewalk around my neighborhood. Overall, the Adidas Ultraboost Light is one of the best running shoes I’ve tried. They fit more like a sock than a typical running shoe, which I love because I find it locks my forefoot in place, even when I sprint.

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Indoor Running

Before trying the Ultraboost Light, I read several Reddit threads and online reviews. One common complaint is the lack of cushion in the midsole. I’m a midfoot striker, so I expected to notice some discomfort immediately, but that was not the case on my first two runs on the treadmill.

I didn’t just feel more cushion than I expected, the Boost midsole also gave me a noticeable energy return—sort of like a platform that pushed off of the ground with my foot during my stride. Typically, I don’t run far enough to notice the difference between a springy sole and a supportive one, but on the treadmill, the Ultraboost Lights made me feel comfortable enough to add an extra half mile to my run.

Outdoor Running

Running on the sidewalk and road around my neighborhood was a different experience than running on the treadmill. On my first outdoor run, I felt pressure in my right knee joint that worried me because I start feeling pressure in my knee anytime I use a shoe that doesn’t have enough cushion in the midsole. I was able to finish my run, but if you’re a distance runner with a midsole strike, the lack of cushion is something to consider.

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In the Gym

I know the Ultraboost line is not designed to be a daily trainer, but I decided to wear them during my regular workouts to see if they could double as workout shoes. Unfortunately, these shoes are not very comfortable when you’re standing still, and I felt unstable when trying to do any dynamic movements like cleans, step-ups, or burpees. After 15 or 20 minutes in the gym, I could feel how off-balance I was because of the thick heel counter on the Ultraboost Lights. Great running shoe, not recommended for the gym or casual wear.

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Weight

Even though these shoes are called the “Ultraboost Light,” they’re not as lightweight as I expected them to be. The specs list says a pair of men’s size 9 Ultraboost Lights weigh 10.5 ounces, my size 11s weighed in at 11.4 ounces. I don’t think this is a big deal if you’re a casual runner, but long-distance runners will want to consider the heavier weight when choosing running shoes.

Durability

The shoes look as good as new after 15 miles. There are a few scuff marks on the outsole, but it seems difficult to damage despite feeling very soft to the touch. I even tried scraping the outsole with a rock I found in my driveway, and it didn’t leave a mark.

I’ve owned two pairs of Ultraboosts in the past, and my big toe wore a hole in the upper of both. However, the knit upper of the Light seems stronger than previous versions, so I am interested to see how they hold up over time.

Breathability

I expected the Ultraboost Lights to be very breathable, but I was disappointed. My outdoor runs were in 70- to 80-degree weather which left my feet very sweaty and hot, which is not unexpected, but my indoor treadmill runs felt the same. I’ve inspected the PrimeKnit upper material, and it seems like a tighter pattern than previous Ultraboost versions—great for durability, not so much for breathability.

Pros:

• Boost foam sole that offers springy support for easy runs
• Socklike fit that keeps your foot locked in place
• Durable construction that won’t wear and tear on casual runs
• Thick heel counter that offers strong cushion to heel strike runners

Cons:

• Not very breathable
• Heavier than many running shoes in the same price range

Who Should Buy the Adidas Ultraboost Light

• Those who go on short to medium daily runs
• Heel strikers
• Runners looking for a well-cushioned shoe

Who Should Not Buy the Adidas Ultraboost Light

• Runners looking for the lightest racing shoes
• Runners who need a wide toe box
• Distance racers with a midfoot strike

Adidas Ultraboost Light vs. the Competition

Adidas Ultraboost Light vs. Nike InfinityRN 4

The Ultraboost Light and Nike InfinityRN 4 are very similar running shoes on paper. The InfinityRN4 costs a little less at $160 (the Ultraboost Light costs $190). Both shoes are designed with thick heel counters that encourage a heel-to-toe stride and have similar color patterns. However, the Ultraboosts are a full two ounces lighter (10.5 ounces compared to 12.5 ounces), and based on online reviews, the Ultraboost Light seems more durable.

Adidas Ultraboost Light vs. Hoka Clifton 9

I used the Hoka Clifton 9 for several months before trying the Ultraboost Light, and I really like both shoes for different reasons. The Clifton 9 has a thicker cushion from heel to toe, especially in the midsole, plus they are one ounce lighter than the Ultraboost Light. I think I will continue to use the Clifton 9 for longer outdoor runs. However, the Ultraboost Light has a snugger fit, which keeps my foot from sliding around, especially in the toe box. I also think the Ultraboost Light will prove more durable than my Clifton 9s, which began showing wear on the outsole almost immediately.

Adidas Ultraboost Light FAQs

Does the Adidas Ultraboost Light Run Small?

I found the Ultraboost Light to fit true to size. The shoe features a snug, socklike fit that hugs your midfoot and forefoot, so I wouldn’t recommend sizing up because then your foot might slide. These shoes are narrow, so you may need to size up if you have wide feet.

How Much Lighter Are the Ultraboost Lights?

The Ultraboost Light weighs 10.5 ounces (men’s size 9), which is about half an ounce lighter than the Ultraboost 21, which weigh 10.9 ounces for a men’s 9. However, they are a full ounce heavier than the Adizeros (a men’s 9 weighs 9.5 ounces). The Ultraboost Lights are not the lightest running shoes, but they make up for their weight with exceptional durability.

Who Are the Ultraboost Light Running Shoes Good For?

After wear-testing them, I’d suggest the Ultraboost Lights are good for casual daily runners, short- to medium-distance runners, and heel strikers who need a thick, cushioned heel counter to maximize their comfort during their stride. The Ultraboost Light doesn’t have much support in the midfoot, and the shoes weigh more than most long-distance runners will like.

Is the Adidas Ultraboost Light Right for You?

The Adidas Ultraboost Light is a durable, comfortable running shoe. The snug fit keeps your feet secure and provides strong energy return, thanks to the Boost foam sole. The midsole foam is much thinner than the heel counter, but that didn’t cause me any problems when running on a treadmill. If you’re a long-distance racer, you may want a more supportive option, but these shoes are a great choice for casual runners.

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.

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