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Adidas' Ultraboost series makes some of the best running shoes I've ever used. Over the last few years, I've owned three versions of the Ultraboost, and each version improves on the last.
After trying the Adidas Ultraboost Lights multiple times over the course of two weeks, I can say that this is my favorite version of the shoe. As the name suggests, the Ultraboost Lights are lighter than previous Ultraboosts. They fit my foot perfectly, keeping my foot in place even during sprints. The Ultraboost Lights also have thick cushioning in the heel area that encourages me to prioritize my heel when stepping. More on that below.
Adidas Ultraboost Light Overview
- To place: True to size
- Cushion: High
- Top Material: Adidas Primeknit
- Outsole Material: Continental rubber
- Weight: 10.5 ounces (men 9)
- Dropping: 10mm
- Colors: 13 options
- Price: $190 (select colors often on sale)
Running with Adidas Ultraboost Light
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I took these shoes on a 15-mile test run, splitting the distance between the treadmill, indoor track, and my neighborhood sidewalk. The Adidas Ultraboost Light are one of the best running shoes I've tried. They fit more like a sock than a typical running shoe, which I love because they lock my forefoot in place even as I run.
Indoor Running
Before trying the Ultraboost Light, I read a few Reddit threads and online reviews. A common complaint was the lack of cushioning in the midsole. I'm a midfoot striker, so I expected to feel some discomfort right away, but that wasn't the case during my first two runs on the treadmill.
I didn't feel any more cushioned than I expected; the Boost midsole also gave me a noticeable energy return, like a platform pushing off the ground with my foot as I took a step. I don't usually run far enough to notice the difference between a springy sole and a supportive sole, but on the treadmill the Ultraboost Lights made me feel comfortable enough to add another half mile to my run.
Outdoor Running
Running on the sidewalk and road in my neighborhood was a different experience than running on a treadmill. On my first outdoor run, I felt pressure in my right knee joint, which worried me; this happens when you wear a shoe that doesn't have enough cushioning in the midsole. I finished my run, but if you're a long-distance runner with a midsole strike, the lack of cushioning is something to consider.
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In the gym
I know the Ultraboost series isn’t an everyday training shoe, but I wore them during my regular workouts to see if I could use them as training shoes as well. Unfortunately, these weren’t going to be good shoes for standing all day, and I felt unstable when trying to do dynamic moves like cleans, step-ups, or burpees. After 15 or 20 minutes at the gym, I could feel how unstable I was due to the Ultraboost Lights’ thick heel support. They’re a great running shoe, but they’re not recommended for the gym or everyday wear.
Weight
Despite being called “Ultraboost Light,” these shoes aren't as light as I expected. The spec sheet says a pair of men's size 9 Ultraboost Lights weigh 10.5 ounces; my size 11 weighed 11.4 ounces. If you're a casual runner, I don't think this is a big deal, but long-distance runners will want to keep the heavier weight in mind when choosing running shoes.
Durability
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The shoes look like new after 15 miles. There are a few scuff marks on the outsole but it seems hard 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 left no marks.
I’ve owned two pairs of Ultraboosts before, and my thumb ripped a hole in the top of both. But the Light’s knit upper seems sturdier than previous versions, so I’m curious to see how they’ll hold up over time.
Breathability
I was expecting the Ultraboost Lights to be breathable, but I was disappointed. The weather outside was 70 to 80 degrees, and my feet were sweaty and hot. That wasn’t unexpected, but it was the same when I ran indoors on a treadmill. I checked out the PrimeKnit upper, and it appears to have a tighter pattern than previous Ultraboost versions; it’s great for durability, but not so great for breathability.
Pros:
- Boost foam sole provides springy support for easy runs
- Sock-like fit keeps your foot in place
- Durable structure that will not wear and tear in daily running
- Thick heel support provides runners with strong cushioning at heel strike
Cons:
- Not very breathable
- Heavier than many running shoes in the same price range
Who Should Buy Adidas Ultraboost Light?
- Those who go on short and medium distance daily runs
- Heel strikers
- Runners looking for a shoe that provides good cushioning
Who Should Not Buy Adidas Ultraboost Light?
- Runners looking for the lightest racing shoes
- Runners who need a wide toe box
- Long-distance racers who use a midfoot strike
Adidas Ultraboost Light vs. Its Competitors
Adidas Ultraboost Light and Nike InfinityRN 4
On paper, the Ultraboost Light and the Nike InfinityRN 4 are very similar running shoes. The InfinityRN4 is a bit cheaper at $160 (the Ultraboost Light is $190). Both shoes feature thick heel counters to encourage a proper heel-to-toe step, and they offer similar color patterns. However, the Ultraboosts are a full two ounces lighter (10.5 ounces compared to 12.5 ounces), and according to online reviews, the Ultraboost Light appears to be more durable.
Adidas Ultraboost Light and Hoka Clifton 9
I wore the Hoka Clifton 9 for a few months before trying the Ultraboost Light, and I like both shoes for different reasons. The Clifton 9 has thicker cushioning from heel to toe, especially in the midsole; they are also about an ounce lighter than the Ultraboost Light. I will continue to use the Clifton 9 for longer outdoor runs. However, the Ultraboost Light has a tighter fit, which keeps my foot from slipping, especially in the toe area. I also find the Ultraboost Light to be more durable than my Clifton 9s, which tend to show wear on the outsole pretty quickly.
Adidas Ultraboost Light FAQ
Is the Adidas Ultraboost Light Size Small?
I found the Ultraboost Light to be a true fit. The shoe offers a tight, sock-like fit that hugs your midfoot and forefoot, so I wouldn't recommend sizing up as you might slip. These shoes are narrow, so if you have wide feet, you may want to size up.
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 size 9. However, they are a full ounce heavier than the Adizeros (men's size 9 weighs 9.5 ounces). The Ultraboost Lights aren't the lightest running shoes, but they make up for their weight with their exceptional durability.
Who Are Ultraboost Light Running Shoes Good For?
After wear testing, I can say that the Ultraboost Lights are good for everyday runners, short- to mid-distance runners, people who need shoes for flat feet, and heel strikers who need a thick, cushioned heel support to maximize their comfort as they stride. The Ultraboost Lights don’t have much support in the midfoot, and the shoes are heavier than most long-distance runners would like.
Is 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 this didn’t give me any trouble while running on the treadmill. If you’re a long-distance runner, you may want a more supportive option, but these shoes are a great choice for the everyday runner.
Prices are correct and are for items in stock at the time of publication.