@@grandam.neutral fan of both and I say Nike shoes like the Pegasus and invincible shoes are better for running but the ultra boost are good too and they look way better imo than all the Nike running shoes.
Thank you Kofuzi, that was helpful. Very good review and straight to the point. I don't think this shoe is for me. I prefer to continue training in my Boston 9 shoes for speed workouts. The shoe looks like it's more suitable for heel strikers.
Nothing can beat running down Lake Shore, anyone living in Chicago knows what I’m talking about. Great footwear review as always! Love the high quality content.
I love boost but cant afford them because ı live in a 3rd world country so ı watch all the videos about boost lol thanks for this great review ı watched this video like 6 times
@@thekinection424 You are so incredibly wrong and stupid. 2nd world countries exist but haven’t been referred to as such since the Soviet Union disbanded. 2nd person perspectives also exist and is extremely common. This entire conversation where I’m talking to you is in 2nd person. The two concepts have nothing to do with each other
Great review! I just got mine last week in triple black. I had to size up half a size compared to my usual Ultraboost sizing. While just walking around it gives the impression that it's a lighter shoe (even though we know that it's not) than the Ultraboost 20, maybe due to the LEP or the slightly firmer boost. It doesn't have as much "squish" as the 20.
I'm glad you still occasionally reviewed Adidas Boost shoes, despite the midsole apparently being relegated to the lifestyle sneaker lineup by Adidas. I'm still using my Solar Glides as my recovery shoes, even after 300+ miles. The outsole won't last much longer, but Boost never seems to lose its Boostiness, and the first year upper was very durable, and comfortable in cold weather. Can't say I ever notice the little extra weight over my other shoes, at least for recovery and daily trainer running. And Boost is great for walking when I've strained or bruised my heel, Achilles tendon or metatarsals. Easily the most comfy shoe in my closet for those conditions. There hasn't been an interesting new Adidas *running* shoe with Boost since they stopped using it in the Takumi Sen, Adizero and Boston lineup a couple of years ago. I had hopes for the Supernova, but the pair I tried at a local shop seemed a little off somehow, not quite a lifestyle leisure shoe, but not quite a running shoe either. Unless Adidas introduces something interesting in Boost I'll probably buy a new old stock pair of Solar Boost, or maybe one of the Adizero Boston or Takumi Sen shoes from a few years ago. Those still show up on Amazon occasionally, for a fraction of the original price. Otherwise, maybe I'll switch to something like the Saucony Triumph. The midsoles in my Endorphin Speed and Pro feel like super-Boost, so maybe the Triumph 19 or 20 will do as replacement for my aging Solar Boost.
Finally! Someone pointing out what I've thought for a long time! Proper running form is generally on the mid foot. How then is the heel portion of a shoe important beyond a certain point? Obviously, comfort is key. But, I've owned a number of top-rated running shoes including the Nike Next % and where I felt the biggest difference was when WALKING not running. Additionally, whatever negligible difference I felt with regards to speed was short-lived given how quickly the shoe lost its "snap."
The foam (which really doesn’t reduce impact anyways) seems to be the sell here but it’s all in the back where they don’t really want you to land, but if you land on the outside of the forefoot (4&5 meta) the toe box is narrow and sloped inward. Back asswards
Hey, i like to take long walks and now that i passed 40yo my feet hurts, probably cause of my flat feet too. Do you say this are comfortable for walks? I have a Nike Airmax 95 and they have a very hard sole, walking more than 5km in them is not very good! Bought the Solar Boost 19 which is way way more comfortable than the Nike Airmax 95 and i like how they feel and now that i see that the Ultraboost 21 have more boost and thicker sole i would love to try one.
I absolutely loved the Ultraboost 19 but due to injury I was forced to stop running last year so I missed out on the Ultraboost 20. Glad to know that if you liked the 19 you will enjoy the 21.
@@prod1gy305 Hurt the dogs up the hills. I got suckered into the Energy Boost. Was hoping UB was better. Still no forefoot cushion. Never again! Cliftons are working well.
I love my UB 20 and purchased another pair just recently. Some really good deals at Adidas lately. Glad I stuck with last years model. Thanks for the video.
Your review is on point. I just tried this out last night and I like the chunkiness but the forefoot is lacking. Primeblue feels meh for sure. Just subbed. Excited to see more of your reviews. Keep it up bro!
I am running with the new Solar boost 3 and the main difference with the UB is the propulsion top sole rail technology. Seems like the Solar has the most of all the new technologies from Adidas running shoes.
My first running shoe was adidas duramo (one of their entry level, budget lines), and it had that midfoot cage, looking pretty similar to this. I loved that about the shoe!...they still make those duramo shoes, but it seems like they made it more of a speedy budget line...before, it was more like a budget ultraboost
I'm still getting used to the weight. I'm a mid foot striker and I can somewhat feel the weight of all that boost in the heel, especially after mile 3-4 when I start to get sloppy with my strikes. The design is 🔥 though.
Great review, informative and has attention to details. I thoroughly enjoyed watching it. I have four pairs of UB 19's i'm considering buying a new UB but haven't decided yet which route to take, the UB 20 or UB 2. Or maybe i just wait for some months and see what UB22 will bring to the table, i'll be here watching the review.
Ultraboost are like the ultimate everyday walking / casual shoes for me? Definitely not the ultimate running shoes out there. Saucony, Brooks, Asics, even Nike puts out better running focused shoes but imo Ultraboosts are some of the most comfortable shoes in the market just not the runners dream
The same feeling based on my experience with UB 19. Very heavy and it feels like it pulls you to step on the heel. So I do not recommend them for midfoot and forefoot strikers
Τhat's the problem the're to heavy for the majority of runners and there are many other cheaper options out there from Nike, Mizuno,New Balance etc. IMHO the whole Boost line is just an overpriced casual line of shoes(I own the boost 18). From Adidas shoes I prefer the pulse boost for a daily trainer. Yes the're heavy as well but the more dense boost foam works better and produces a more versatile shoe. Just run 900 km with my first pair and currently I started to run with my second pair and they are awesome at least for 5 or 10k
Update, I just got the UB 21 today and so excited to take it out on a run. Will see if it compares to the Boston 10 on my run shoe rotation roster. The video above influenced me to get the UB 21s.
Lightstrike Pro is incredible with the carbon plate and rods. Much much lighter than boost, more responsive than Lightstrike. I'd like Pro to utilised in shoes width and heights to gage how relative it is in comparison. I've run 300+kms in my pros and they're still good. Only thing that Adidas needs to work on is the durability of the tread. Wears out quickly on the heel. Forefoot tread is still in good nick though.
@@Badmansband Thanks for the insight! Did you find that the cushioning itself is durable? Does it bottom out quickly at all? Also, I do believe the heel wasn't made to be as durable as they expect much less heel strike running at the upper level of running. Cheers!
@@nicovdesigns5155 oh yeah, I'm still going strong in them. The carbon prevents the compacting of the foam. I found them good in the wet too. I would like a redesign of the heel so it doesn't wear as fast but I'd imagine that's coming in the 2nd generation. I ran all through winter up to -22°c and didn't suffer any coldness issues or a stiffening of the foam.
I've been wearing the Ultra 20 and have almost 300 miles on them and the sole shows little wear. I really like this shoe and since it's winter, the weight doesn't make much of a difference because I'm just putting in the steady mileage. After reading this review, I doubt I'll spend the $ 180 for this new version of the UB. Probably go to the Nimbus 23 for a daily/easy run trainer.
Although it certainly is impressive looking for me as a mid/forefoot striker all that boost in the heel is pretty much just dead weight. That coupled with the price will have me sticking with my Solar boosts for my easy/long runs.
@@deon.zoldyck Luckily nothing serious, I had pain in the extensor tendonitis. it was resolved in 2 weeks of physical therapy. it is due to poor arch support in Ultraboost 20. shame. I loved how comfortable the shoe was as a daily trainer.
Nice comparison between the two. I have the UB19 which I don't use too much as I find it abit heavy. I did have a pair of UB20 but sold them as just didn't use them after I got my Triumph 18's. I'm a big fan of Adidas so really wanted the UB21 to be good.
The heel stack on this UB21 model reminds me of the Apha boost models way back 2018, I just noticed that boost is harder if it were molded that way. I have tried the Supernova 2017 and the Pureboost Go 2018 whilst running. They provide great energy return with the molded responsive boost pattern.
I just got those after wearing my ultraboost 19 for over 2 years and the Ultraboost 21 feels stiffer when walking but more springy while running and the ultraboost 21 feels like it wraps around your feet more and I feel like it’s definitely going for more performance. Still love my ultraboost 19 as it stills looks as good as new after a clean expect for the yellowing on the stripes as I got the og color when it just came out
I think they way it feels to me is the amount of boost on heel helps with stability and I did find it more bouncy the 20 it’s pretty responsive to me but heavy shoe 👍😬 I also love their upper better then other ultra boost making it better fit and comfy
great review, I just wore off the sole of one of my 19s which I really liked. So I just ordered a pair of 21s based on your conclusion. 99€ on amazon so no risk. Oh and I work in plastic. Besides PET bottles hich have a dedicated collection and recycling stream, the rest of chemically recycled, bio based, bio circular, ocean waste plastics are just based on certificates traded by the petro chemical companies. There might be no actual atoms coming from ocean plastic in the shoe but a bit of oil getting into the steam cracker of the refinery have come from recycled source.
adidas has some strange math when it comes to measuring stack heights. The SL20.2 very clearly has more foam all around than the original, but they claim otherwise. It's similar here: the numbers put the 21 at almost double the stack of the 20. Side-by-side, judging by the front stack, they are clearly within 3 mm or less. Also, the 6% more Boost seems to be mostly in heel sculpting.
This shoe looks great! I actually don't mind a heavier shoe for training. But Adidas practically gives away the SL20 and then charges a fortune for the Ultraboost!🤪
@@ciaranbuckley1321 depends on what you are looking for. If you want a minimal quick tempo/stride shoe that resembles a soccer cleat fit, then yes, it is good. If you want a long run/recovery day/cushioned shoe, then probably not a good shoe.
@@ciaranbuckley1321 ehh, it would work for treadmill but would prob cause some foot fatigue during a longer effort due to its lack of cushioning. I don't run on treadmill so my advice is general. However, if i had to run on treadmill, i'd stick to a daily trainer option. That way, if you want to journey out onto the streets you would be covered as well. Daily trainers i'd consider would be Saucony Ride or Kinvara, New Balance 880 or 1080, Nike Pegasus or Infinity Run, Asics EvoRide or Nimbus...the list goes on. All offer something different but are much more versatile than the SL20. Hope that helps.😁
Great review. I'm an ultraboost fan so I don't need a lot of convincing but hearing you about the grip is a good thing. Lep sounds like another marketing spin for me but, okay lol. Thank you.
This shoe I had to get because it’s so beautiful and wanted to use it for easy days but I find it perform better at tempo pace as it’s not squishy enough for my easy days so I use it for tempo runs on TM
The yarn in the ub 21 is more fine and less pronounce than the ub 20,19, especially the og. But actually its most comfortable among them, it feels thin, minimal, less bulky and ventilate better.
I appreciate you comparing this to the UB19 and UB20 ‘cos you are one of the few reviewers who actually dig BOOST. I had my doubts about the heel, but it looks amazing. The entire shoe design is 🔥🔥🔥 I, too, am happy to see adidas move away from the ZX torsion system (Gosh, that’s been around a long time) towards the systems they employ in the adizero range. Even the new stretchweb resembles the Boston outsole. Converting the cage to more of a “gated” situation is wise as we get the security without the restriction (sometimes digging in) of past iterations. The UB19 pk is nice, but I didn’t feel quite secure enough unless I tied the cage tight. The UB20 pk is much more technical and the cage has more give. This pk has me curious as it seems engineered to address past challenges without straying too far. It illustrates a genuine interest in getting the shoe right. I’ll try it when I score a promo code. My Bostons are fine for now. ✌🏽🖤✌🏽
I like the Primeknit of the 19 more than the 20's and the 21's I like the most. As for the boost, the majority of the people will run the way you're running, landing on the front and basically not using most of the boost and the heel which means that all that additional boost is pretty much useless or simply not required. My pair doesn't even look like I've been running in them, and I've been using them for runs for almost 2 months. They look the best, though, but that's a matter of personal taste. As for my favourite pair for running, and this is strictly my pov, I love my ZX 2K. I like them for everyday use also. They're really comfortable and definitely more so than the Ultraboost lineup, but again, strictly from my perspective.
From reviews, they seem to be a bit heavy, so they haven't learnt lessons from the 20. I'll be sticking to the 19, the best in the range still IMO and the best running shoes I've ever had. When the 21 come down from £160 I'll probably buy them tho. I've had every other version lol.
Saucony triumph and ultra boost have same foam technically. But saucony feels bouncy. Ultra boost feels heavier than it is and not bouncy enough. May be it is torsion plate or may be the continental rubber, is absorbing the bounce. Not really sure. It has been consistent in 20 and 21. Not sure why adidas haven’t improved it.
With the UB20's I could feel the pavement and the outsole in the forefoot and not in a good way. Weight is mostly centered in the heel area, gets really noticeable after a long run. Finally saw the UB21 in person, after my experience with the 20's I'll pass after seeing that big chunk of boost were it doesn't really belong. Also think the shoe is colour sensitive, looks best when when the boost midsole is painted in dark colours to hide the imbalance.
Darn. Major bummer especially for forefoot/midfoot striker folks. I think it would've been great if they added actual carbon fiber plate instead of just tweaking their torsion control system, then there will probably be a better ride. I think I'll stick with my Hoka and Nike running shoes, as well as my Ultraboost 4.0 and UB 19.
Ever since the UB19 and later iterations, Adidas has been just putting as much Boost as possible in the back, thus increasing the quantity of it but it really doesn't matter how much they put couse if it ain't functional it ain't good. Just make a less of a drop and out some of it to the front. Also..dont put a lot of foam left/right of the shoe it probably doesn't help the runner accept for saying more boost (and upping the weight)
I've always liked the UB, just wish they would make them more for people that run with good form. That chunk of boost in the heel is huuuuuge. And they should be removing weight with each version, not adding it. The '20 was/is a better shoe I think.
Thanks! Excellent review. I am glad that you addressed the issue of whether to get the 21 if you have the 20's and waiting for a price drop. I have the 20's and have been trying to figure out if I should get the 21's. I use these shoes for working out and I do a lot of walking exercises videos so I am looking for shoes that allow for daily comfort and side to side movement etc. Do yo think this shoe fits that bill? It seems like the lateral movement may have diminished based on the shape of the shoes. Your thoughts? And also have you done a review on the Solarboost 3 because I am thinking about that rather than the 21's. Thanks and I hope I see a response.
Hard to justify this shoe (at this price) as a max cushion running shoe when there are better (and cheaper) options available out there from New Balance, and Asics (haven't tried Hoka yet). In India the price of this model ranges from $245 to $260 - makes it an instant no overall.
Honestly if you're looking for a high end long distance running shoe I'd just go for Nike or Asics if you can find them for good prices. Ultra boost is okay for daily wear and all that but i don't find it that good compared to other models. I did run a 10k in them and i found after a certain distance they become more useful because like its said in the video your strides start landing closer to your heel
I always feel like the Ultra boost lineup is just for style. Not really any of Adidas's pro athletes wear them for training or races, and any pair I've had were disappointing.
forefoot stack should increase. i don't see the point of adding bulk to the heel for each iteration. i'd love to try it with the fore-foot/heel stacks reversed.
@@kofuzi increased forefoot stack? really?! after getting the ub19 I stopped buying for a while. Never saw it in the literature since adidas always states more boost every year... at the heel. i think the only difference with ub19 and ub20 is the upper construction.
they're all pretty different, especially when considering the carbon x2 - that's a different kind of shoe intended for a different kind of running. there are differences in the squish, the response, and in the densities of these foams and shoes.
I only run on UB since I’m a heavy, you say this aren’t Max cushion as 19-20’s will you still recommend them towards heavy runners? Should I get them as a heavy runner used to run on UB DNA, 19, ATR, energy boost, will 21’s have a different effect?
I recently interviewed Olympic miler Nick Willis and we discussed whether the Ultraboost is a running shoe. He says he recently went on an 18 mile run in them (I think an older model, but a UB nevertheless). and this run was on a trail, no less.
Not sure if it is the weight, but every time I tried to run on my UB19, it felt sluggish and firm. Not sure where is the energy return everybody is talking about. So far I only ran less than 30 miles on my UB19 compares to 350 miles on my Skechers hyper Max Road.
I’ve had a pretty good time running in my UB19 shoes, but these don’t look worth the money. When I need a new daily trainer I’m going to look for something less bulky.
Sooo, for 2021, MOST OF THE MAX CUSHION SHOES ARE NO LONGER CUSHIONY, THEY HAVE BEEN MADE FIRMER AND although the foam appears to be there it doesn't feel like it is there functionally. This been the general review of almost all the 2021 versions from most top players including Hoka Bondi 7, New Balance 1080 V11, Glycerine 2021, Nike Vapor Fly Next%?
there's been a shift (or perhaps a subsegment) of the max cushion category away from mushiness. I would say though that the Bondi 7 is still classically max cushion
I am considering ascis nimbus 23 or this one from adidas.I want something that is durable and can be used on road or trail running.any idea which would be good and durable?
Such a classic, good-looking, comfy shoe! -Massive Nike fan
They remind me of the Zoom Flight 95
I am a nike fan too, order these a couple days ago. 2nd pair of addias I owned, the other being some nmd and they were nice.
@@grandam.neutral fan of both and I say Nike shoes like the Pegasus and invincible shoes are better for running but the ultra boost are good too and they look way better imo than all the Nike running shoes.
When will they make a boost shoe that doesn't ignore the forefoot cushion? Yeah you have a ton of stack in the back, but what about the forefoot?
adHEELdas
Their basketball shoes do it too😔
It will be great if the heel to drop 4-6 mm. I think
definitly
Amatuer runners strike with the heel, gotta catter to them!
Finally the review I was waiting for
SAME!
@@mr1derful83 ditto
Engineer: how much more boost should we add to every Ultraboost model?
Adidas: yes
Engineer: How much weight should we reduce to every Ultraboost model?
Adidas: NO
@@tetaykanatach7073 next ultraboost will be 2.3 kg each shoe
It is a beautiful shoe to me, was superb on the 13.1 effort last weekend. It does now look like a grey than the white it was!
Great channel ED 👍🏾👍🏾
Seems you are tilting more towards Adidas shoes on your channel. Good one.
@@hectorcortes1980 Thanks Hector 👊
@@bolajibadmus175 Any shoe is a good shoe. Unless it’s not a good shoe. 😂
Just a little heavy for me. Very stable but it’s growing on me. For my easy days it’s the perfect shoe.
Each shoe has its purpose ed
Thank you Kofuzi, that was helpful. Very good review and straight to the point. I don't think this shoe is for me. I prefer to continue training in my Boston 9 shoes for speed workouts. The shoe looks like it's more suitable for heel strikers.
Nothing can beat running down Lake Shore, anyone living in Chicago knows what I’m talking about. Great footwear review as always! Love the high quality content.
chicago is for runners
I love boost but cant afford them because ı live in a 3rd world country so ı watch all the videos about boost lol thanks for this great review ı watched this video like 6 times
Just because you live in Canada doesn’t mean you are in a 3rd world country
@@whysoenvious 🤣🤣🤣 hope your not American saying this
I live in a 3rd world country and I just get the ub20 in 80usd. You just have to search in outlets 🤷🏻♂️
@Mohammed Raidan 1st and 3rd world countries are like 1st/3rd Person. A 2nd world country wouldn't make sense.
@@thekinection424 You are so incredibly wrong and stupid. 2nd world countries exist but haven’t been referred to as such since the Soviet Union disbanded. 2nd person perspectives also exist and is extremely common. This entire conversation where I’m talking to you is in 2nd person. The two concepts have nothing to do with each other
Great review! I just got mine last week in triple black. I had to size up half a size compared to my usual Ultraboost sizing. While just walking around it gives the impression that it's a lighter shoe (even though we know that it's not) than the Ultraboost 20, maybe due to the LEP or the slightly firmer boost. It doesn't have as much "squish" as the 20.
I'm glad you still occasionally reviewed Adidas Boost shoes, despite the midsole apparently being relegated to the lifestyle sneaker lineup by Adidas.
I'm still using my Solar Glides as my recovery shoes, even after 300+ miles. The outsole won't last much longer, but Boost never seems to lose its Boostiness, and the first year upper was very durable, and comfortable in cold weather. Can't say I ever notice the little extra weight over my other shoes, at least for recovery and daily trainer running.
And Boost is great for walking when I've strained or bruised my heel, Achilles tendon or metatarsals. Easily the most comfy shoe in my closet for those conditions.
There hasn't been an interesting new Adidas *running* shoe with Boost since they stopped using it in the Takumi Sen, Adizero and Boston lineup a couple of years ago.
I had hopes for the Supernova, but the pair I tried at a local shop seemed a little off somehow, not quite a lifestyle leisure shoe, but not quite a running shoe either.
Unless Adidas introduces something interesting in Boost I'll probably buy a new old stock pair of Solar Boost, or maybe one of the Adizero Boston or Takumi Sen shoes from a few years ago. Those still show up on Amazon occasionally, for a fraction of the original price.
Otherwise, maybe I'll switch to something like the Saucony Triumph. The midsoles in my Endorphin Speed and Pro feel like super-Boost, so maybe the Triumph 19 or 20 will do as replacement for my aging Solar Boost.
Just got into running and I liked my first pair so much I bought another. Great shoe for me
Great review thx. I wish shoe companies would put more cushion in the forefoot.
You helped me make up my mind. It'll be a second pair of UB 20s for me 👍🏼. Great video. Thanks.
The heel is incredible looking. I need to get me a pair and see if it can perform physically for as good as it looks.
Finally! Someone pointing out what I've thought for a long time! Proper running form is generally on the mid foot. How then is the heel portion of a shoe important beyond a certain point? Obviously, comfort is key. But, I've owned a number of top-rated running shoes including the Nike Next % and where I felt the biggest difference was when WALKING not running. Additionally, whatever negligible difference I felt with regards to speed was short-lived given how quickly the shoe lost its "snap."
The foam (which really doesn’t reduce impact anyways) seems to be the sell here but it’s all in the back where they don’t really want you to land, but if you land on the outside of the forefoot (4&5 meta) the toe box is narrow and sloped inward. Back asswards
if you're using it for running and not a heel striker, it's not a great option. running heel striker or using it for fast pace walking it is great 👍
Hey, i like to take long walks and now that i passed 40yo my feet hurts, probably cause of my flat feet too. Do you say this are comfortable for walks? I have a Nike Airmax 95 and they have a very hard sole, walking more than 5km in them is not very good! Bought the Solar Boost 19 which is way way more comfortable than the Nike Airmax 95 and i like how they feel and now that i see that the Ultraboost 21 have more boost and thicker sole i would love to try one.
I absolutely loved the Ultraboost 19 but due to injury I was forced to stop running last year so I missed out on the Ultraboost 20. Glad to know that if you liked the 19 you will enjoy the 21.
Sold my UB19s after 1 run.
@@filoIII Why? I really enjoyed my 19’s
@@prod1gy305 Hurt the dogs up the hills. I got suckered into the Energy Boost. Was hoping UB was better. Still no forefoot cushion. Never again! Cliftons are working well.
I love my UB 20 and purchased another pair just recently. Some really good deals at Adidas lately. Glad I stuck with last years model. Thanks for the video.
Glad you found shoes that you love!
Your review is on point. I just tried this out last night and I like the chunkiness but the forefoot is lacking. Primeblue feels meh for sure. Just subbed. Excited to see more of your reviews. Keep it up bro!
thanks for watching!
Subscribed for your honesty 🥸😎🥶
I am running with the new Solar boost 3 and the main difference with the UB is the propulsion top sole rail technology. Seems like the Solar has the most of all the new technologies from Adidas running shoes.
best sneaker in depth review channel. Subscribed
thanks for watching!
I just love my 19's!
My first running shoe was adidas duramo (one of their entry level, budget lines), and it had that midfoot cage, looking pretty similar to this. I loved that about the shoe!...they still make those duramo shoes, but it seems like they made it more of a speedy budget line...before, it was more like a budget ultraboost
I'm still getting used to the weight. I'm a mid foot striker and I can somewhat feel the weight of all that boost in the heel, especially after mile 3-4 when I start to get sloppy with my strikes. The design is 🔥 though.
“More boostier” well played 🙌🏾
Great review, informative and has attention to details. I thoroughly enjoyed watching it. I have four pairs of UB 19's i'm considering buying a new UB but haven't decided yet which route to take, the UB 20 or UB 2. Or maybe i just wait for some months and see what UB22 will bring to the table, i'll be here watching the review.
Ultraboost are like the ultimate everyday walking / casual shoes for me? Definitely not the ultimate running shoes out there. Saucony, Brooks, Asics, even Nike puts out better running focused shoes but imo Ultraboosts are some of the most comfortable shoes in the market just not the runners dream
makes me not regret purchasing the sl20's a week ago one bit
Nice Review! Makes me wanna get a pair or two!
I love the Ultraboost from last year, just not as a running shoe. Too heavy for my taste.
The same feeling based on my experience with UB 19. Very heavy and it feels like it pulls you to step on the heel. So I do not recommend them for midfoot and forefoot strikers
Τhat's the problem the're to heavy for the majority of runners and there are many other cheaper options out there from Nike, Mizuno,New Balance etc. IMHO the whole Boost line is just an overpriced casual line of shoes(I own the boost 18). From Adidas shoes I prefer the pulse boost for a daily trainer. Yes the're heavy as well but the more dense boost foam works better and produces a more versatile shoe. Just run 900 km with my first pair and currently I started to run with my second pair and they are awesome at least for 5 or 10k
I tell people “great walking shoe”
@@chrisrose3967 pulse boost felt hard asf
@@getstrongby4038 yes it is stiff but that's ok for daily training some 5 or 10k's
Update, I just got the UB 21 today and so excited to take it out on a run. Will see if it compares to the Boston 10 on my run shoe rotation roster. The video above influenced me to get the UB 21s.
How does lightstrike pro feel? Any guesses on durability? I feel like saucony with pb is what adidas should have done.
Lightstrike Pro is incredible with the carbon plate and rods. Much much lighter than boost, more responsive than Lightstrike. I'd like Pro to utilised in shoes width and heights to gage how relative it is in comparison. I've run 300+kms in my pros and they're still good. Only thing that Adidas needs to work on is the durability of the tread. Wears out quickly on the heel. Forefoot tread is still in good nick though.
@@Badmansband Thanks for the insight! Did you find that the cushioning itself is durable? Does it bottom out quickly at all? Also, I do believe the heel wasn't made to be as durable as they expect much less heel strike running at the upper level of running. Cheers!
@@nicovdesigns5155 oh yeah, I'm still going strong in them. The carbon prevents the compacting of the foam. I found them good in the wet too. I would like a redesign of the heel so it doesn't wear as fast but I'd imagine that's coming in the 2nd generation. I ran all through winter up to -22°c and didn't suffer any coldness issues or a stiffening of the foam.
I wish adidas would bring back the supernova boost from back in the day..... best shoe ever for me! You ever wore them?
I love my pair of my ultraboost 4.0 even though its not that light i love using it during my long runs, its comfortable, breathable and responsive.
I've been wearing the Ultra 20 and have almost 300 miles on them and the sole shows little wear. I really like this shoe and since it's winter, the weight doesn't make much of a difference because I'm just putting in the steady mileage. After reading this review, I doubt I'll spend the $ 180 for this new version of the UB. Probably go to the Nimbus 23 for a daily/easy run trainer.
Although it certainly is impressive looking for me as a mid/forefoot striker all that boost in the heel is pretty much just dead weight. That coupled with the price will have me sticking with my Solar boosts for my easy/long runs.
since you dont care about foam in the heel i assume all of your running shoes are 0drop?
@AkatsukiSasuke923 I just has a traditional torsion system I believe
@@janieowaa No they are not 0 drop but from the wear pattern on the outsole of my shoes you can see I dont heel strike at all.
be aware. The Ultraboost 20 was the same in terms of the forced arch landing and it caused me an injury.
Same.
@@deon.zoldyck Luckily nothing serious, I had pain in the extensor tendonitis. it was resolved in 2 weeks of physical therapy. it is due to poor arch support in Ultraboost 20. shame. I loved how comfortable the shoe was as a daily trainer.
@@deon.zoldyck not at all. it's super comfortable and soft around the ankle
Nice comparison between the two. I have the UB19 which I don't use too much as I find it abit heavy. I did have a pair of UB20 but sold them as just didn't use them after I got my Triumph 18's. I'm a big fan of Adidas so really wanted the UB21 to be good.
the Triumph 18 is the UltraBoost that Adidas really should have made
I can't unsee the Orville now 😂
The heel stack on this UB21 model reminds me of the Apha boost models way back 2018, I just noticed that boost is harder if it were molded that way. I have tried the Supernova 2017 and the Pureboost Go 2018 whilst running. They provide great energy return with the molded responsive boost pattern.
They made the UB21 boost more firmer compared to the previous iterations.
I just got those after wearing my ultraboost 19 for over 2 years and the Ultraboost 21 feels stiffer when walking but more springy while running and the ultraboost 21 feels like it wraps around your feet more and I feel like it’s definitely going for more performance. Still love my ultraboost 19 as it stills looks as good as new after a clean expect for the yellowing on the stripes as I got the og color when it just came out
Same here with yellowish stripes, quite annoying thing
Great review!
Great review! Pure aesthetic ⚡🔥🔥🔥.
Taking “train heavy, race light” very far. I hope they use the LEP for some lighter, SL20-esque speed shoes
Boston and Adios should be very interesting this year
@@kofuzi have you seen the leaked images of all the new adidas shoes this year? Adizero X, Boston 10, Adios pro 2, all look really great
@@kofuzi I'm excited to see them!!!
Generally I do not concern myself with the weight of a shoe but really, at some point, you have crossed over from a daily trainer to a daily walker.
I was having the same thought! too much weight isn't it
I was waiting for it
I think they way it feels to me is the amount of boost on heel helps with stability and I did find it more bouncy the 20 it’s pretty responsive to me but heavy shoe 👍😬 I also love their upper better then other ultra boost making it better fit and comfy
Its a great shoe Nathalie :)
@@EDDBUD thanks edd love the shoe. Got the yellow version 😜👍
great review, I just wore off the sole of one of my 19s which I really liked. So I just ordered a pair of 21s based on your conclusion. 99€ on amazon so no risk.
Oh and I work in plastic. Besides PET bottles hich have a dedicated collection and recycling stream, the rest of chemically recycled, bio based, bio circular, ocean waste plastics are just based on certificates traded by the petro chemical companies. There might be no actual atoms coming from ocean plastic in the shoe but a bit of oil getting into the steam cracker of the refinery have come from recycled source.
adidas has some strange math when it comes to measuring stack heights. The SL20.2 very clearly has more foam all around than the original, but they claim otherwise. It's similar here: the numbers put the 21 at almost double the stack of the 20. Side-by-side, judging by the front stack, they are clearly within 3 mm or less. Also, the 6% more Boost seems to be mostly in heel sculpting.
This shoe looks great! I actually don't mind a heavier shoe for training. But Adidas practically gives away the SL20 and then charges a fortune for the Ultraboost!🤪
Is the sl20 good ?
@@ciaranbuckley1321 depends on what you are looking for. If you want a minimal quick tempo/stride shoe that resembles a soccer cleat fit, then yes, it is good. If you want a long run/recovery day/cushioned shoe, then probably not a good shoe.
jackash1975 do u reckon it would be any good on a treadmill and if not what would u recommend for treadmill running ?
@@ciaranbuckley1321 ehh, it would work for treadmill but would prob cause some foot fatigue during a longer effort due to its lack of cushioning. I don't run on treadmill so my advice is general. However, if i had to run on treadmill, i'd stick to a daily trainer option. That way, if you want to journey out onto the streets you would be covered as well. Daily trainers i'd consider would be Saucony Ride or Kinvara, New Balance 880 or 1080, Nike Pegasus or Infinity Run, Asics EvoRide or Nimbus...the list goes on. All offer something different but are much more versatile than the SL20. Hope that helps.😁
jackash1975 thanks for the advice, is react good for running, or zoom technology( zoom on a budget btw)
Reminds me a bit of the novablast when seen from the outsole 🤔
revisiting again this video.. I think I'm getting this (the GTX version) just as a walking shoe.
Great review.
I'm an ultraboost fan so I don't need a lot of convincing but hearing you about the grip is a good thing. Lep sounds like another marketing spin for me but, okay lol.
Thank you.
This shoe I had to get because it’s so beautiful and wanted to use it for easy days but I find it perform better at tempo pace as it’s not squishy enough for my easy days so I use it for tempo runs on TM
The yarn in the ub 21 is more fine and less pronounce than the ub 20,19, especially the og. But actually its most comfortable among them, it feels thin, minimal, less bulky and ventilate better.
the back is like so cushioned, but when we run is like hardly hit that spot lol
Run until past 50km and you will notice the boost
I appreciate you comparing this to the UB19 and UB20 ‘cos you are one of the few reviewers who actually dig BOOST. I had my doubts about the heel, but it looks amazing.
The entire shoe design is 🔥🔥🔥
I, too, am happy to see adidas move away from the ZX torsion system (Gosh, that’s been around a long time) towards the systems they employ in the adizero range. Even the new stretchweb resembles the Boston outsole. Converting the cage to more of a “gated” situation is wise as we get the security without the restriction (sometimes digging in) of past iterations.
The UB19 pk is nice, but I didn’t feel quite secure enough unless I tied the cage tight. The UB20 pk is much more technical and the cage has more give. This pk has me curious as it seems engineered to address past challenges without straying too far. It illustrates a genuine interest in getting the shoe right.
I’ll try it when I score a promo code. My Bostons are fine for now.
✌🏽🖤✌🏽
Ended up with injuries running in prior boost, between the weight and the design these didn’t work for my running. I love them for daily wear tho.
My UB20's became my daily walkers...
I like the Primeknit of the 19 more than the 20's and the 21's I like the most. As for the boost, the majority of the people will run the way you're running, landing on the front and basically not using most of the boost and the heel which means that all that additional boost is pretty much useless or simply not required. My pair doesn't even look like I've been running in them, and I've been using them for runs for almost 2 months. They look the best, though, but that's a matter of personal taste. As for my favourite pair for running, and this is strictly my pov, I love my ZX 2K. I like them for everyday use also. They're really comfortable and definitely more so than the Ultraboost lineup, but again, strictly from my perspective.
Great job!
thanks John!
I feel like the drop should be more 6-8 mm instead of 10 just because of the types of runs you would most likely do in them
From reviews, they seem to be a bit heavy, so they haven't learnt lessons from the 20. I'll be sticking to the 19, the best in the range still IMO and the best running shoes I've ever had. When the 21 come down from £160 I'll probably buy them tho. I've had every other version lol.
Yes!
yo!
Saucony triumph and ultra boost have same foam technically. But saucony feels bouncy. Ultra boost feels heavier than it is and not bouncy enough. May be it is torsion plate or may be the continental rubber, is absorbing the bounce. Not really sure. It has been consistent in 20 and 21. Not sure why adidas haven’t improved it.
With the UB20's I could feel the pavement and the outsole in the forefoot and not in a good way. Weight is mostly centered in the heel area, gets really noticeable after a long run.
Finally saw the UB21 in person, after my experience with the 20's I'll pass after seeing that big chunk of boost were it doesn't really belong.
Also think the shoe is colour sensitive, looks best when when the boost midsole is painted in dark colours to hide the imbalance.
Darn. Major bummer especially for forefoot/midfoot striker folks. I think it would've been great if they added actual carbon fiber plate instead of just tweaking their torsion control system, then there will probably be a better ride. I think I'll stick with my Hoka and Nike running shoes, as well as my Ultraboost 4.0 and UB 19.
I suspect we will see a lot of not-for-racing carbon in the near future. I’m not so sure it will be well-executed though
SOLD!
Ever since the UB19 and later iterations, Adidas has been just putting as much Boost as possible in the back, thus increasing the quantity of it but it really doesn't matter how much they put couse if it ain't functional it ain't good. Just make a less of a drop and out some of it to the front. Also..dont put a lot of foam left/right of the shoe it probably doesn't help the runner accept for saying more boost (and upping the weight)
I've always liked the UB, just wish they would make them more for people that run with good form. That chunk of boost in the heel is huuuuuge. And they should be removing weight with each version, not adding it. The '20 was/is a better shoe I think.
There is no point for a cushion system in the heel.
All modern running shoes feature a cushion system in the forefoot.
It still looks cool :)
Thanks! Excellent review. I am glad that you addressed the issue of whether to get the 21 if you have the 20's and waiting for a price drop. I have the 20's and have been trying to figure out if I should get the 21's. I use these shoes for working out and I do a lot of walking exercises videos so I am looking for shoes that allow for daily comfort and side to side movement etc. Do yo think this shoe fits that bill? It seems like the lateral movement may have diminished based on the shape of the shoes. Your thoughts? And also have you done a review on the Solarboost 3 because I am thinking about that rather than the 21's. Thanks and I hope I see a response.
lol no response
3 months later
Can you compare solar-boost 3 with ultra-boost 21? Thanks
I hate that they don't put more cushion in the forefoot....they really just need to put a rocker like skechers does in the max road 4....
Nice 1 bro
Hard to justify this shoe (at this price) as a max cushion running shoe when there are better (and cheaper) options available out there from New Balance, and Asics (haven't tried Hoka yet). In India the price of this model ranges from $245 to $260 - makes it an instant no overall.
Honestly if you're looking for a high end long distance running shoe I'd just go for Nike or Asics if you can find them for good prices. Ultra boost is okay for daily wear and all that but i don't find it that good compared to other models. I did run a 10k in them and i found after a certain distance they become more useful because like its said in the video your strides start landing closer to your heel
I always feel like the Ultra boost lineup is just for style. Not really any of Adidas's pro athletes wear them for training or races, and any pair I've had were disappointing.
👍🏻 solado com geometria do Hoka TenNine! 🤷♂️ UB de peso Adidas!
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻🇧🇷
baleaf.., give this man the endorsement deal
I’m a heel striker what shoe should I get ?
forefoot stack should increase. i don't see the point of adding bulk to the heel for each iteration. i'd love to try it with the fore-foot/heel stacks reversed.
they did exactly that last year in the UB20
@@kofuzi increased forefoot stack? really?! after getting the ub19 I stopped buying for a while. Never saw it in the literature since adidas always states more boost every year... at the heel. i think the only difference with ub19 and ub20 is the upper construction.
@Kofuzi what the brand of the shirt 👕 u have on in this review ? ? .. .
Thanks for the video. One question, How do you compare cushioning between ultraboost 21 and clifton 7-8? And with carbon x2? Thanks!
they're all pretty different, especially when considering the carbon x2 - that's a different kind of shoe intended for a different kind of running.
there are differences in the squish, the response, and in the densities of these foams and shoes.
@@kofuzi Thanks!!! Do you think maybe Ultraboost 21 got more cushion than clifton 7-8?
Hi, what about the size, you choose the same as the 19 and 20? Whats your size and whats the length of your foot in cm?
I only run on UB since I’m a heavy, you say this aren’t Max cushion as 19-20’s will you still recommend them towards heavy runners? Should I get them as a heavy runner used to run on UB DNA, 19, ATR, energy boost, will 21’s have a different effect?
In my opinion the 20s look better just me?
19 and 20 for me any day,the 21 is kinda too aggressive but looks like a boat to me.
I always wonder why shoe companies make most shoes with the most cushion on the heel. Maybe the vast majority of runners are heel strikers.
I've had the EB2. 2 Pair. I got caught in the hype. Had the UB19, & sold them after one run. Just got the UB21. Your last chance, adidas!
I don't think boost series were made for runners...its more for daily use as casual use.
I recently interviewed Olympic miler Nick Willis and we discussed whether the Ultraboost is a running shoe. He says he recently went on an 18 mile run in them (I think an older model, but a UB nevertheless). and this run was on a trail, no less.
Not sure if it is the weight, but every time I tried to run on my UB19, it felt sluggish and firm. Not sure where is the energy return everybody is talking about. So far I only ran less than 30 miles on my UB19 compares to 350 miles on my Skechers hyper Max Road.
BOOST is LIFE!
Boost is illegal in Wyoming
I’ve had a pretty good time running in my UB19 shoes, but these don’t look worth the money. When I need a new daily trainer I’m going to look for something less bulky.
I think they need to stick the Ultraboost 20 PB upper on the Ultraboost 21, the PB upper just made the thing look a whole lot sleeker!!
that PB upper did look nice. my favorite of the last few years is probably the 19 though. reminded me of cake or Neapolitan ice cream
Sooo, for 2021, MOST OF THE MAX CUSHION SHOES ARE NO LONGER CUSHIONY, THEY HAVE BEEN MADE FIRMER AND although the foam appears to be there it doesn't feel like it is there functionally. This been the general review of almost all the 2021 versions from most top players including Hoka Bondi 7, New Balance 1080 V11, Glycerine 2021, Nike Vapor Fly Next%?
there's been a shift (or perhaps a subsegment) of the max cushion category away from mushiness. I would say though that the Bondi 7 is still classically max cushion
What's the beat at the beginning i love it
for you ' what shoe is the best ? nike zoomX invincible run, new balance 1080, asics novablast or adidas ultraboost 21?
I am considering ascis nimbus 23 or this one from adidas.I want something that is durable and can be used on road or trail running.any idea which would be good and durable?
nimbus 23 is the best...durable and comfortable