The Adidas Ultraboost 21 Shoes Review

Are these worth the buy?
By: agnes
February 10, 2022

Let’s be honest – sports shoes are not cheap! Furthermore, there are so many types of sports shoes out there that it confuses us. There are various shoes that fit different types of exercise that it’s not easy to find an all-rounder. However, when you do, it’s difficult to tell if it’s worth the purchase. Moreover, everyone has their own opinions on certain sports shoes. Nevertheless, if you’re thinking of purchasing a shoe from Adidas, we definitely recommend the Ultraboost 21. Because not only is it one of the best Adidas running shoes, it is also perfect for beginners. With that, here is our full Ultraboost 21 Shoes review to help you decide!

Introduction

With a pair of thin jeans and a fitting T-shirt, is there any running shoe that looks better than the Ultraboost? That’s unlikely, to say the least. Running shoes aren’t designed to look good in the mall; they’re made to be worn while running. However, there has never been a clear cut distinction between the Ultraboost and an everyday sneaker until now.

An enlarged midsole shape and stylistic tweaks on the upper make the new Ultra stand out visually. The ride nature has changed significantly as a result of the events that have taken place beneath the surface. The Ultraboost 21 is a heavier shoe, weighing in about 12 ounces or 340 grammes, which makes running a work. The forefoot is stiffer because of the redesigned outsole and Torsion plate, which helps guide the foot through the transitions better. 

But, the Ultraboost 21 offers a more stable and firmer ride than the UB-20. Exaggerated midsole sidewalls and a wide forefoot base make that feasible. Furthermore, it allows the foot to be cupped around the heel and toe-offs. Thus, in our Ultraboost 21 Shoes review, we definitely think it’s worth the purchase.

Why We Love It

1. Perfect For Long Runs

Even just looking at the weight, it’s obvious that this is a shoe meant for long, steady runs. Therefore, we highly recommend it to marathon runners in our Ultraboost 21 Shoes review. In terms of comfort, the shoe’s heaviness and cushioning stood out as standout features. Although the Ultraboost is a moneymaker for Adidas, they still enjoy playing around with it. Each version is always unique from the one produced before. And they will keep changing it up, which is great. This new model has a thicker midsole, a new torsion control system, and an updated upper.

2. More Rigid

If you’re looking for a stiffer ride and an easier time picking up the pace, the Ultraboost 21 is for you. One thing you should know in our Ultraboost 21 Shoes review is the LEP. This stands for Linear Energy Push and is a plastic insert under the midsole. However, many people think that the Ultraboost tends to struggle at the end of its lifetime. Despite that, the LEP is why heavier runners are able to wear the shoe. Not only does it provide them comfort, but firmness and security as well with each landing. 

3. Eco-friendly Shoe

The fabrication of the Primeknit upper is made from recycled ocean plastic. This is part of Adidas’ long-standing cooperation with Parley ocean plastics. Eco-friendly shoes had traditionally been feared for being scratchy, hot, or technological failures. Furthermore, many testers who hadn’t previously tried a shoe with strong eco-credentials mentioned that they had some concerns about attempting it. However, if consumers don’t object, firms will be more likely to pursue environmentally friendly production practices in future. Thus, this is one point that we truly appreciate in our Ultraboost 21 Shoes review. Nevertheless, we believe that runners might consider eco-friendly shoes only if it doesn’t affect their experience. 

What Can Be Improved

1. Increase Responsiveness

The negative of the Ultraboost 21’s mattress-like cushion underfoot is that it has a hard time keeping up with you when you want to speed up or slow down. Therefore, we feel like it’s important that we highlight it in our Ultraboost 21 Shoes review. During tempo or interval exercises, the shoe fails to gather up any energy. Though this isn’t something new, today’s shoe companies are trying to be everything to everyone with their flagship models.

2. Difficult Heel Locking

A plastic heel clip is located at the back of the shoe to keep your heel in place and to provide structure and support. It begins in the middle of the foot and wraps around the heel to the other side before continuing forward. However, one thing we noticed in our Ultraboost 21 Shoes review is that the Ultraboost 21 employs a bootie construction. Thus, heel lock lacing is impossible because there are no last row double eyelets. In order to secure your foot, you must cinch the laces very tightly after they are tied. There is also a lack of heel lock lacing. Therefore, this makes heel lockdown less secure than in other shoes with heel lock lacing.

3. Too Heavy For Some People

While this might be great for heavier people, some may not like it. We realised in our Ultraboost 21 Shoes review that this pair is heavier than most. A 12-ounce weight in the golden age of PEBA-foam midsoles is a shame. It’s a slog to run in the UltraBoost because of the extra weight and drag it creates. Nevertheless, we believe this is what makes it long-lasting. And who knows, maybe the extra weight might help us in building strength. 

Alternatives To Ultraboost 21

1. Puma Ultraride FM Xtreme Shoes

The PUMA Ultraride is the best pair of men’s running shoes in Malaysia since it is both sporty and stylish. High-intensity training makes it suitable for long runs on the track or on the road. The shoe has a soft mesh sole, a small footbed, and a classic lacing system. Additionally, To keep the shoes more sturdy, they include an EVA midsole. It’s also worth noting that the bottom of the shoe isn’t particularly high. In exchange, it supports the runner in improving their pace and making their steps more pleasant.

Price: RM311.40

Where to buy: Shopee

2. Under Armour Men’s HOVR Infinite 2

As a runner, you require shoes that are both comfortable and robust if you want to succeed at long distances. Men’s UA HOVR Infinite running shoes can help you achieve just that. It’s the greatest men’s running shoes in Malaysia because of their digital technology. It has an outside heel counter to keep the bottom of the foot in place. For added comfort, the EVA sockliner has been die-cut to fit the feet and avoid slipping.

Price: RM299.50

Where to buy: Shopee

3. Nike Pegasus Trail 3 GORE-TEX

Ultraboost 21 Shoes Review

It’s possible to go off the beaten path with the Nike Pegasus Trail 3 GORE-TEX. Cushioned comfort is still present, but the midfoot design has been improved and there is a more secure grip on the soles. The waterproof upper keeps you moving even on difficult terrain. Even in the face of adverse conditions. On rainy days, these are the highest selling shoes for guys in Malaysia. Don’t be deterred by the rain!

Price: RM689

Where to buy: Nike website

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