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Adidas’ Ultraboost line produces some of the best running shoes I’ve used. Over the past few years, I’ve had three iterations of Ultraboost and each version improves upon the last.
After testing the Adidas Ultraboost Lights on multiple runs over the course of two weeks, this is my favorite iteration yet. As the name suggests, the Ultraboost Lights are a bit lighter than the previous Ultraboosts. I love the way they fit: snug in the midfoot and forefoot, keeping my foot locked in place even during springs. The Ultraboost Lights also have a thick heel pad that encourages me to strike heel first during my stride. More details below.
Adidas Ultraboost Light at a glance
- Suitable: True to size
- Pillow: Tall
- Superior material: Adidas Primeknit
- Outsole material: Continental rubber
- Weight: 10.5 oz (Men’s 9)
- Fall: 10 mm
- Colored: 13 options
- Price: $190 (select colorways often on sale)
Running in Adidas Ultraboost Light
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I took these shoes for 15 miles of test runs, splitting the miles between a treadmill, an indoor track, and the pavement 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’m sprinting.
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Indoor running
Before trying the Ultraboost Light, I read several Reddit threads and online reviews. A common complaint is the lack of cushioning in the midsole. I’m aggressive in the midfoot, so I expected to notice some discomfort right away, but that didn’t happen on my first two runs on the treadmill.
It didn’t just feel more cushioned than I expected, the Boost midsole also gave me a noticeable energy return—sort of like a platform that pushed off the ground with my foot during my stride. Usually, I don’t run far enough to notice the difference between a rubber sole and a supportive sole, but on the trail, the Ultraboost Lights made me feel comfortable enough to add an extra half mile to my run.
Outdoor running
Running on the sidewalk and on the street 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 which worried me because I start to feel pressure in my knee whenever I use a shoe that doesn’t have enough cushioning in the midsole. I was able to complete my run, but if you’re a distance runner with midsole impact, the lack of cushioning is something to consider.
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At the gym
I know the Ultraboost series aren’t designed to be an everyday trainer, but I decided to wear them during my regular workouts to see if they could work as training shoes. Unfortunately, these shoes aren’t very comfortable when standing still, and I felt unstable when trying to do dynamic movements like cleans, step-ups, or burpees. After 15 or 20 minutes in the gym, I could feel how unbalanced I was because of the thick heel on the Ultraboost Lights. Great running shoe, not recommended for gym or casual wear.
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Weight
Even though these shoes are called “Ultraboost Light”, they are not as light as I expected them to be. The spec list says a pair of Ultraboost men’s size 9 lights weighs 10.5 ounces, while my size 11 weighed 11.4 ounces. I don’t think this matters if you’re a casual runner, but long-distance runners will want to consider the heavier weight when choosing running shoes.
Stamina
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Shoes look like new after 15 miles. There are some scuff marks on the outsole, but it seems hard to damage despite feeling very soft to the touch. I even tried scratching the outsole with a rock I found on my way and it didn’t leave a mark.
I’ve had two pairs of Ultraboosts in the past and my big toe had a hole in the top of both. However, the Light’s knit upper feels stronger than previous versions, so I’m 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.
Advantages:
- Boost Foam sole that offers elastic support for easy rides
- Sock-like fit keeps your foot locked in place
- Durable construction that won’t wear out on daily rides
- Thick heel provides strong cushioning for heel-striking runners
Disadvantages:
- He doesn’t breathe much
- Heavier than many running shoes in the same price range
Who Should Buy Adidas Ultraboost Light?
- Those who do short to medium daily runs
- heel strikers
- Runners looking for a shoe with good cushioning
Who should not buy the Adidas Ultraboost Light
- Runners looking for the lightest running shoes
- Runners who need a wide toe box
- Mid-foot strike distance runners
Adidas Ultraboost Light against 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 bit less at $160 (the Ultraboost Light costs $190). Both shoes are designed with chunky heels that encourage a heel-to-toe stride and have similar color schemes. However, the Ultraboosts are 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 thicker heel-to-toe cushioning, especially in the midsole, and is an 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 more comfortable fit, which prevents my foot from slipping, especially in the toe box. I also think the Ultraboost Light will prove more durable than my Clifton 9, which started showing wear on the outsole almost immediately.
Adidas Ultraboost Light FAQ
Does Adidas Ultraboost Light Run Small?
I found the Ultraboost Light to be true to size. The shoe has a comfortable sock-like fit that hugs the mid and forefoot, so I wouldn’t recommend going up a size because then your foot can slip. These shoes run narrow, so you may need to size up if you have wide feet.
How much lighter are 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 weighs 10.9 ounces for a men’s 9. However, it’s a full ounce heavier than the Adizeros (a men’s 9 weighs 9.5 ounces). The Ultraboost Lights aren’t the lightest running shoes out there, but they make up for their weight with exceptional durability.
Who are Ultraboost lightweight running shoes suitable for?
After testing them, I would recommend the Ultraboost Lights are suitable for everyday runners, short to medium distance runners and heel strikers who need a thick, protected heel to maximize comfort during their stride. The Ultraboost Light doesn’t have much midfoot support, and the shoes weigh more than most long-distance runners want.
Is Adidas Ultraboost Light right for you?
The Adidas Ultraboost Light is a durable, comfortable running shoe. The comfortable fit keeps your feet secure and provides powerful energy return, thanks to the Boost foam sole. The midsole foam is much thinner than the heel, but that didn’t cause me any problems when running on a treadmill. If you’re a long-distance runner, you might want a more supportive option, but these shoes are a great choice for casual runners.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of time of publication.
