adidas Boost Review

adidas claims to change running with it revolutionary technology called Boost. It may look like Styrofoam but adidas Boost is built to provide great cushioning and high energy return. Here’s my review of the adidas Boost.

adidas Boost Unboxed

I’ve worn adidas Boost for short distances so far and about 20 KM of mileage before writing this review. You can read more about adidas Boost from my previous articles below.

• adidas Will Boost Your Run This Coming February 2013
• adidas Boost Event Launch

I wasn’t able to take photos of the shoe while it was still clean and unused. I apologize of the dirty look of the shoes in the photos that follow. 😀

The insoles screams “energy boost”

adidas Boost Features

• Energy-returning boost™ midsole keeps every step charged with an endless supply of light, fast energy
• TORSION® SYSTEM for midfoot integrity
• techfit™ technology for lightweight and flexible upper support
• Flexible textile upper with welded synthetic overlays for support and stability
• External heel counter for maximal heel fit and running comfort
• miCoach® compatible
• ADIWEAR™ outsole offers the ultimate in high-wear durability
• BOOST™ foam is three times more temperature-resistant than standard EVA material (from +40  to -20 degrees Celsius)

PROs

Very distinctive energy “capsules” at the midsole

Very bouncy. Just as promised, adidas Boost provides high energy return. You can really feel the bounce in every stride. I like the feeling that my feet just springs back up during toe off.

Lightweight. Most cushioning shoes tend to be heavy but adidas Boost is made of a lightweight material. Thus, it provides the cushioning like traditional shoes. It even feels lighter compared to their adiZero line.

Durable midsole. Unlike other shoes made of EVA, the adidas Boost bounces back and retains its shape. I compared with with the adiPrene midsole and you can tell the difference. adidas claims that the Boost can last up to 300 miles.

Crumpled midsole  after 40KM+ mileage on adidas F50 with adiPrene

adidas Boost still looking new after 20+KM

CONs

Tight Fit. The upper material uses Techfit which is also found in their compression apparel. As a result, I find the shoe too tight on the toebox. I can’t wear socks when I use the adidas Boost.  Techfit has a breathable material.  Just like Techfit compression wear, it will provide a snug fit.  Thus, it is recommended that you get a shoe that is half size bigger if you prefer the usual fit.

This techfit also means tight fit.

SUMMARY

Overall, the adidas Boost meets its expectations as being a light and responsive shoe. The bouncy feel when you wear the shoe is very pronounced.  It’s like having tiny springs on the shoe.

I also like how the Boost foam returns to its original state after every run. It doesn’t crumple or crease like the adiPrene. It eventually will degrade but it looks much more durable compared to the EVA compound.

adidas Boost is best for runners who are looking for a good cushioning shoe that’s lightweight.  This shoe is recommended for normal to mild pronators.

The techfit provides a sung fit at the toe box. Get a shoe that is half size bigger if you want a more traditional fit.

More Photos of adidas Boost

adidas Boost is also miCoach compatible

adidas Boost with adiWear outsoles

adiWear at the heel