adidas Ultraboost 5X Performance Review

The adidas Ultraboost 5X is the latest in the long-running Ultraboost line, a staple of modern sneakers since it was originally released in 2015. Since that initial Kanye-fueled release, the Ultraboost has gone through a ton of iterations (a lot more than the five used to signify this model). And we’ve reviewed most of them.

We reviewed the original Ultraboost, the Ultraboost Uncaged where adidas removed the TPU cage for the first time, the beloved Ultraboost 19, the one and done Pulseboost HD line extension, compared another one and done line extension the Ultraboost PB, with the Ultraboost 20, the Ultraboost 22 that was almost exactly the same as the Ultraboost 21, and even the Ultraboost Golf. And that’s not even all of them.

Needless to say, we’ve worn and tested A LOT of Ultraboost products over the years both from performance and casual points of view. We even helped Running Warehouse cover the history of the Ultraboost line in a YouTube video last year. So we’re familiar with the complete history of a shoe line that has bounced back and forth from high performance to meh performance to casual wear.

Where does the adidas Ultraboost 5X fit in the ever expanding tapestry of Ultraboost? Let’s find out.

What’s different between the Ultraboost 5 and 5X?

Confusingly, there’s two Ultraboost models this year. The Ultraboost 5 and the Ultraboost 5X. The difference? Not much actually and nothing that will affect performance except maybe a small weight difference. The biggest divergence is that the Ultraboost 5X is uncaged while the Ultraboost 5 sports the typical plastic cage.

We discuss all the differences in this video:

The adidas Ultraboost 5X will be the the most commonly available everywhere in the world, especially in North America. The Ultraboost 5 will be available in Europe and make occasional appearances elsewhere. This performance review will focus on the Ultraboost 5X because that’s what most people will have access to buy.

However, if the Ultraboost 5 is available where you live and you want a detailed review, watch this video:

Performance

The adidas Ultraboost 5X is a solid running shoe. It’s light and agile enough to pick up speed for strides, fartleks, and other occasional injections of speed. The Ultraboost 5X is in the goldilocks zone for anyone looking for a capable running shoe that also delivers strong casual appeal.

The big change from the previous adidas Ultraboost Light is the use of a Light Boost v2 midsole and extra foam underfoot. The drop stays the same at 10mm but both the forefoot and heel get 8mm more of foam underfoot. Despite that change, the Ultraboost 5X is 5% lighter than the Ultraboost Light. The extra cushion is immediately noticeable, especially in the forefoot. While I wouldn’t call the adidas Ultraboost 5X a soft shoe, its impact protection is much better than the past three models.

It’s not marshmallowy underfoot, but the Ultraboost 5X is bouncy and stable with a good rocker motion. The midsole makes it a fun shoe.

The outsole makes it a reliable (and durable) shoe. The typical Continental rubber outsole grips well across most conditions and is thick enough to last for whatever you consider the typical amount of miles.

But despite all that tech underfoot, the upper may be the best part. As normal, it’s a stretchy, comfortable Primeknit. Unlike other Ultraboost models, the Primeknit on the adidas Ultraboost 5X is accommodating but reinforced enough to make fast turns or occasional uneven terrain easy to navigate. It’s a very well thought out and executed upper that’s immediately recognizable as an Ultraboost.

Pros

• Extra Lightboost underfoot vs previous model
• Solid combination of bounce and stability
• Comfortable and accommodating sock-like upper
• Long term durability
• Casual appeal

Cons

• Midsole plushness compared to other best running shoes
• Breathability

Is the adidas Ultraboost 5X wide foot friendly?

Yes, the adidas Ultraboost 5X is quite accommodating for wide footers as the Primeknit upper will stretch to match most foot shapes. Just make sure you’re not pouring over the edge of the midsole as that would compromise the stability of the shoe.

Is the adidas Ultraboost 5X worth $180?

As a running shoe only, the adidas Ultraboost 5X would slot in better at the $160 price point. That said, $180 is reasonable if you plan to rock the Ultraboost 5X casually just as much as you run in them. It’s way more comfortable than most retro running and basketball product that have $180 or higher price points.

adidas Ultraboost 5X Summary

The adidas Ultraboost 5X is the best Ultraboost since my personal favorite, the Ultraboost 19. It easily transitions from being a good running shoe to a great looking casual shoe. When the Ultraboost line is at its best, it’s equal parts casual banger and capable performer. It’s nice to see adidas once again capture the true spirit of the Ultraboost and give us a shoe that’s all around fun.

How does the Author Run?

Drew Whitcomb (age 42, 6’6″ 195lbs): Runs daily with a once a week rest day. Runs a lot of miles due to testing needs and a growing affinity for long-distance races. Regularly competes in marathons, half-marathons, 10k, and 5k races.

Disclosure

While adidas did send a pair of the adidas Ultraboost 5X to facilitate this review, the company had no involvement in this review, didn’t receive an advance look at it, and has not attempted to influence it.