Adidas Ultraboost 5 vs Ultraboost 5X: What are their differences?

Adidas Ultraboost 5 vs Ultraboost 5X: What are their differences?
Gorka Cabañas
Gorka Cabañas
Journalist and RUNNEA content director
Posted on 04-11-2024

Since its origins (and it's been more than 23 years), the Adidas Ultraboost have been synonymous with cushioning, comfort and a design that has managed to "hook" miles popular runners. Now, they are changing their name and the German brand is launching 2 versions with the release of the Ultraboost 5X and Ultraboost 5X Ultraboost 5. Adidas is betting on regaining the lost hegemony in maximum cushioning, with 2 models that, although similar, provide details designed for different runner profiles. We will try to explain what they share and what differentiates the two models to help you decide which one best suits your needs.

adidas Ultraboost 5: support, stability and comfort with every step.

The adidas Ultraboost 5 is undoubtedly the choice for those who value the essence of what the franchise has always been about: cushioning, stability and support in your running sessions. With this version, Adidas has worked on reinforcing the upper and adding additional support elements, especially in the midfoot and heel area. The adidas Ultraboost 5 is a sturdy, secure and comfortable running shoe, perfect for neutral runners who are looking for a more supportive fit.

Adidas Ultraboost 5 vs Ultraboost 5X: slight differences for the same goal

The structure of the upper adapts well to the foot, keeping it in place during the stride, something you know is very important in medium and long distance training where fatigue can compromise stability. For runners who tend to lose their running technique as the miles go by, the extra support of the Ultraboost 5 will help minimize unwanted foot movements and reduce the risk of injury, offering a safer and more comfortable running experience.

Who is the adidas Ultraboost 5 for?

  • Distance: Medium to long distance. Perfect for long runs where stability is a priority.
  • Type of runner: Neutral runners looking for additional support. An ideal shoe for those who feel they need a little extra support to keep the foot in an optimal position throughout the run.
  • Pace: Moderate. The adidas Ultraboost 5 is not designed to be ultralight, but rather to offer prolonged comfort at steady paces. It is ideal for runners who prioritize comfort and protection over speed.

Technology and design of the adidas Ultraboost 5

Adidas has used its new Light Boost foam in the midsole, a new reformulation with which we are going to notice a softer, but at the same time more reactive cushioning. The Light Boost in the Ultraboost 5 does not sacrifice density, offering a very good balance between softness and stability. This is combined with a reinforced sock-like upper, which wraps the foot tightly without sacrificing flexibility in the forefoot. The outsole features Continental rubber, which ensures great traction and durability, allowing the model to perform well on both dry and wet conditions.

Adidas Ultraboost 5 vs Ultraboost 5X: slight differences for the same goal

In addition, the adidas Ultraboost 5 includes a heel counter that increases stability, especially interesting for runners who tend to do long runs where fatigue can cause the foot to lose alignment.

adidas Ultraboost 5X: lightness and agility for paces plus being a more versatile shoe.

On the other hand, Adidas has designed the Ultraboost 5X with runners in mind who are looking for a more versatile, lightweight and somewhat less structured shoe. This model shares the Light Boost technology, but features a more minimalist upper construction, which reduces weight and offers a greater sense of freedom in each stride. The 5X is designed for those who prefer a less robust, less structured shoe and do not need as much support, giving priority to lightness and greater dynamism.

Adidas Ultraboost 5 vs Ultraboost 5X: slight differences for the same objective

In the Ultraboost 5X, Adidas has dispensed with some of the support structures present in the Ultraboost 5. This can be seen in the plasticized structure of the 3 of the Ultraboost 5, which in the case of the 5X disappears and only shows the 3 "painted" on the upper. The result is a more flexible and agile shoe, ideal for workouts that will also include tempo or fartlek sessions where speed is more important. This model is perfect for runners looking for a versatile option that allows them to move with agility in interval training or faster sessions, but at the same time they also want it for their runs at slower paces.

Who is the adidas Ultraboost 5X for?

  • Distance: Short to medium distances. The 5X is ideal for shorter training sessions where lightness is a key factor.
  • Type of runner: Runners looking for an all-around option. A comfortable, less structured shoe, with good cushioning, lightweight yet responsive when they need it. This model will suit those looking for a more flexible shoe for varied paces.
  • Pace: Medium-Fast. The adidas Ultraboost 5X is perfect for fast paces and workouts that demand a change of speed, such as fartlek or tempo. Its lighter weight allows for a quicker transition and more dynamic movement than its sister Ultraboost 5.

Adidas Ultraboost 5 vs Ultraboost 5X: slight differences for the same objective

adidas Ultraboost 5X Technology and Design

The Ultraboost 5X introduces the same Light Boost midsole as in the 5 version. However, the big difference is in the upper, which has a lighter construction, without the reinforcements found in the Ultraboost 5 in the area that surrounds the foot on both sides of the laces. A more minimalist design that allows the foot to move more naturally and quickly, offering a feeling of lightness that is noticeable in every stride.

Adidas Ultraboost 5 vs Ultraboost 5X: slight differences for the same objective

The fit of the adidas Ultraboost 5X is less restrictive than the Ultraboost 5 model, allowing for greater freedom of movement. This model also features Continental rubber on the outsole, providing the traction and durability needed to keep pace on different types of surfaces.

Which Ultraboost is best for you?

Adidas ultra boost 5 and 5x differences

The choice between Ultraboost 5 and Ultraboost 5X largely depends on whether you're going to rely on one or multiple pairs of shoes for your workouts and competitions,

  • If you prioritize stability and support: The adidas Ultraboost 5 is the best choice. This model is designed for runners who prefer a shoe that offers a secure fit, ideal for long sessions where comfort and stability are essential. It is the shoe for those looking for that supportive feeling in the midfoot and heel.
  • If you are looking for lightness and speed in every stride: The Ultraboost 5X is your choice. With its lighter, minimalist design, this model is perfect for tempo sessions or speed training. The flexible upper and lighter weight facilitate agility, allowing runners to adapt quickly to changes in pace.
  • For long distances and moderate paces: The Ultraboost 5 is more suited to accompany you on long runs. If you enjoy running as a prolonged experience and are looking for a shoe that offers support without tiring the foot quickly, this model is ideal.
  • For those looking for an all-around shoe: The adidas Ultraboost 5X is better suited to different types of sessions, from short and fast, to medium and long runs at slower paces. Its reduced weight and fit make it the best choice for runners looking for dynamism and speed, without sacrificing cushioning.

The Ultraboost family is diversified for every type of runner.

Adidas has been able to interpret the needs of today's popular runner, and with the Ultraboost 5 and the Ultraboost 5X it offers us two alternatives within the same line. Both versions share the Boost Light technology, which will guarantee a soft and reactive cushioning, but they differ in their construction and in the details that mark the running experience.

Adidas Ultraboost 5 vs Ultraboost 5X: slight differences for the same objective

The adidas Ultraboost 5 is for those who prefer the security of a firm support, ideal for long distances and for those who want to avoid deviations in the stride when fatigue begins to take its toll. The Ultraboost 5X, on the other hand, responds to the needs of those looking for a less structured, lighter shoe geared towards speed training, where agility is key.

Are you looking for stability or a lighter feel, or do you prefer a more structured or a more flexible shoe? Whatever your style or goal, the Ultraboost family now has an option to fit your needs on the road. All that's left for you to do is choose the design and compare price. And you know we can help you find the cheapest shoe there too.

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Gorka Cabañas

Gorka Cabañas

Journalist and RUNNEA content director

Director of contents at RUNNEA. Graduate in Information Sciences from the University of the Basque Country. He has worked at El Mundo Deportivo, Grupo Vocento (El Correo) and collaborated for several specialized sports publications.