Is the Adidas Ultra Boost uncaged the most comfortable running shoe ever?

Adidas Ultra Boost Uncaged Facts:

Features Boost Technology.

Ultra Boost is seen as Adidas’ best running shoe.

A lot of colourways released however most sell out straight away.

10mm Drop.

Primeknit Upper.

Weighs around 304g.

Tight knit all around the shoe.

Padded Ankle collar.

Three stripes detail on the toe.

£130 RRP.

What is Adidas Boost?

Adidas Boost may just look like polystyrene packaging but is way more than that. Adidas’ Boost technology was created at NASA, giving you comfort which is out of this world. Adidas Boost is made up of lots of little pebbles of a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). The TPU absorbs the stress of your foot hitting the ground and, instantly goes back into its original shape. Adidas says this allows you to use less energy, allowing you to run further and faster. Adidas now have added various versions of the boost midsole on many of their products such as the Yeezy and NMD range.

Adidas Ultra Boost Uncaged Review

When I picked up my Adidas Ultra Boost Uncaged, there was a few colourways available but I was drawn towards the burgundy colourway. The shoe's upper is burgundy with navy also threaded into it. The shoe also features Adidas’ three stripes on the toe of the shoe in a material that's plastic like, which is also used for the eyelets. The plastic heel cup is navy with ultra boost written in silver. Adidas have released a lot of other colourways of the ultra boost uncaged (all selling out in minutes), such as the collaboration with the brand parley. The parley ultra boost uncaged collaboration was all white and featured recycled plastic from the ocean as the heel cup. In my opinion, they are the nicest ones they have made to date and I wish I was able to get them before they sold out.

When I first put my feet into the ultra boost uncaged, I knew straight away that these were going to be as or even more comfortable than my other pair of ultra boosts. The new and updated version of the primeknit gave a more snug, sock like fit than I was expecting. The shoe is like a compression sock attached to a cloud. It's so comfortable.The shoes feel very durable and if they’re anything like my previous pair, I won’t be needing to get a new pair anytime soon. I haven't been able to properly test them in wet conditions, however I wore them as a lifestyle shoe on a rainy day, and my socks stayed nice and dry.

The main reason people buy this shoe and other adidas products is Boost. When a shoe uses rocket science, you have to be intrigued. Adidas Boost technology allows you to have a very comfortable ride, but may not give you the support and stability some runners need. However, Adidas have other running shoes that feature boost and that are more stable or, better suited to different running styles.The shoe has Boost which is different to the Yeezy Boost or NMD range. Adidas put different amount of Boost in each model according to what they are meant for. For example, Adidas NMD’s are meant as a lifestyle shoe. I’m lucky enough to have the original model and they are a comfortable shoe although when I first put them on I was disappointed as I assumed the Boost technology would be the same as my ultra boost. Unfortunately I’m not lucky enough to own a pair of Yeezy Boost’s although, I have tried a pair on and they are very close to an Ultra Boots comfort.

The sole of the shoe is in the shape of Adidas’ Stretchweb design, allowing the sole to stretch and move whilst you run. The sole is also made of continental rubber, which is the same as car tyres. The sole gave me great grip on road and pavement in dry conditions but, I as mentioned earlier, I am yet to try wet conditions.

Adidas Ultra boost Caged Vs Adidas Ultra Boost Uncaged

Since I have been using the  Adidas ultra boost (2.0) with the plastic cage for nearly a year now, I compared the two models.

With both Adidas Ultra Boost models, I have found that they fit perfectly. In the adidas ultra boost uncaged, I went a size down as my usual size (UK12) was sold out. At first I thought this was going to be a problem but after running in them for a while, the new technology used in the primeknit proved it’s there for a reason, stretching slightly making it more comfortable for my oversized feet. The primeknit on the ultra boost uncaged model felt a lot nicer on my feet than the normal model. I found that the ultra boost uncaged model felt more like a sock rather than a mesh type material. The ultra boost uncaged version also has a sock like part where you put your foot into the shoe rather than the more traditional shoe. This along with the padded ankle stopped my foot from slipping and moving about in the shoe whilst running at quicker speeds.

After using them both for a while, I found them so comfortable that I didn't feel the need to tie the laces when I was jogging. With the normal ultra boost, This wasn’t a problem, I used the gaps between the three stripes in the cage to use as extra eyelets. However, the ultra boost uncaged doesn't have extra cage to wrap your laces round. Although, It does have extra eyelets on one side of the shoe to accommodate other lacing methods. But after trying many methods of having my laces, I decide to loosen them and just tie the remaining lace into a small knot. The small knot bounces around a bit but isn't really noticeable when running.

If I had to choose between adidas ultra boost caged or ultra boost uncaged, I would be slightly more inclined to choose the uncaged model. The latest ultra boost (3.0) features a different primeknit but isn’t as nice as the uncaged ultra boost. Also, the uncaged ultra boost can double as a lifestyle shoe due to its minimalist look.

The Verdict

Adidas Ultra Boost uncaged is my favourite running shoe I have ever had. The super comfortable primeknit upper, boost midsole, and the minimalist look makes me want to wear them 24/7, and I have started to wear them as a lifestyle shoe as well. The super high price tag and the availability in my size are the only thing stopping me from getting a few more pairs. 

GRIPPY SHOES BUILT FOR TRAIL RUNNING.

I have been looking forward to testing the 2017 update of the adidas Kanadia for quite some time. The adidas kanadia 8 features claims their men's running shoes and innovative design gives you traction and stability on the trail. The durable and supportive runner features a cloudfoam midsole that provides ample cushioning. A tough TRAXION™ outsole gives you multi-directional grip.

• Weight: 275 g (size UK 8.5); Runner type: neutral; Midsole drop: 8 mm (heel: 27 mm / forefoot: 19 mm)
• Synthetic and air mesh upper for maximum breathability
• Durable forefoot overlays
• Breathable mesh lining
• cloudfoam midsole for step-in comfort and superior cushioning; Enjoy the comfort and performance of OrthoLite® sockliner
• TRAXION™ outsole for maximum grip in all directions

8th generation shoe from Adidas. After 8 generations you may question what is left to improve.

Fit

I have purchased the same size as my kanadia 7. And the length is just fine, however the front of the shoe is definitely pulling tight on my big toe area. I have fairly narrow feet. Photographed side by side the version 7 and 8.

They look almost identical from the bottom but I didn’t every have a problem with the 7s. Parking this issue aside they fit the back / heel area of the foot incredible well.

Photographed above. The adidas Kanadia 7 and Kanadia 8 (below - pre run clean!)

Cushioning

I have been reading what other adidas reviewers have posted about the kanadia 8 and I have been surprised to people saying they do not have enough cushioning. When running on hard surfaces I could not believe how much spring there is with each strike. I do not heel strike, more of a forefoot runner so maybe that is where some of the complaints have been, but for an off road shoe the cushioning is truly amazing.

Photographed above their generous Cloudfoam sole. Plenty of technology into the cushioning more than enough for most runners. 

Comfort

I guess comfort comes down to everything else. Fit, cushioning heel support. As the shoes feel like I need to move to the next size up I am reluctant to say they are uncomfortable. But I don’t think adidas would like a return of these now I have put them through their paces.

Grip

To test the grip, you need some really slippery surfaces. In their 2016 version I really put them through the paces and I will continue to update this post as I test harder.

Overall

So for me trail running is all about versatility. The kanadia 7 testing included ice, hard surfaces. Sand. Even a Nuclear race. And if you don’t know the Nuclear races are where you are in and out of ditches and bogs, the biggest test to be if they stay on as you frag your legs out of knee deep bogs.

Running Surfaces

A typical off-road run for British countryside includes gravel pathways, concrete pathways, soft mud, grass and short sharp hills. Of course the beauty is for every run you can make it your own track.

Test one for the Kanadia 8 included ultra soft rained hills. Hard surfaces and gravel. Flat bogy ground. And slipy canal paths. I think for most runners these sorts of terrains will cover off your day to day.

Running on hard surfaces for Trail Running Shoes is maybe the greatest challenge. A shoe with spikes is arguable the best sole / grip to deal with soft mud. But as soon as you hit something solid then you will slip straight off it.

The sole of the shoe is where their years of development really take things with off road running to a new level.  Their tough TRAXION™ outsole gives you multi-directional grip. Designed and developed (as we covered in our review of the Kanadia 7) to work in all directions. That covers up, down and on flat hard surfaces.

Testing Surfaces

The biggest test for off road shoes is maybe pathways

Short, steep downhills on soft wet mud. The staple diet of trail running shoes

Wet Woodland. Puddles and soft slippy mud

Soft slippy mud

Upgrade?

As an upgrade of the 7 to the 8 do you notice? On soft ground I would say there is not that much of a difference, but on hard ground the newer kanadia 8 feel like a softer run. Less like you are wearing a barefoot shoe with no padding, to a more of a cushioned run that you would expect from a typical road shoe.

There are some amazing offers online for the kanadia 8. Especially if you are not fussy about the choice in colour. Finish off your run with some Sundried Roteck leggings for that perfect, sweat wicking performance keeping you running your best in all conditions.

It's that time of the year when suddenly it is a good time to go off road. Maybe you switch your road bike to a mountain bike. And maybe you hang up your trusted road shoes for some trail running shoes. If you have not spent anytime running off road then it is definitely a great experience. We recommend you give it a go. 

Read our review of the 2017 Kanadia 8 

We review Adidas Kanadia 7 Trail Running Shoes. And if you care the colour is Indigo/White/Yellow and they look like this:

Firstly let's get the price out the way. You can pick up a pair of these trainers for about £50 and you get a lot of shoe for your money.

Read on below... but why not join the Sundried mailing list.

The sole and grip

The outsole features a special Adidas mud guard and their own high-grip Traxion technology. The grips feature a lock technology designed to offer a tight grip in all conditions. They have taken into account running on hard surfaces by somehow staggering the lugs for higher ground penetration and tight locks for soft ground. So what does that mean? Well on wet, slippy grass how we tested the trainers, you can be running at a strong pace without the slipping and sliding feel; enabling you to push harder and move faster than usual. Up and down hills on soft ground. They really do stick to the floor. 

On man made flat surfaces however the stability is lost. If you are running a course that is on and off road then these trainers may not be the best choice. It is very hard to get the stability on and off road from a single pair of shoes. These are very much trail shoes and on a stony trail they are ideal. 

The sole is very firm and stony ground is not a problem. If you are used to taking a road shoe on the occasional off-road run then the stability and protection from uneven ground will be a welcome surprise. 

Overall it is a lot of shoe for not much money. And if you can stretch to a dedicated off-road shoe this is definitely a contender. But if you do need to have a multi-purpose on and off-road shoe for very occasional trail running then a softer soled pair of trainers that work better on road conditions may be a more appropriate choice. 

Multi-Surface Testing

These trail shoes are developed to offer support and performance on all the typical surfaces you will come across. From grass and typical gravel tracks. TO the beach for the ultimate stability test on loose shingle. Watch our short YouTube video to see some of the surfaces we test the shoes on. 

An update as we test more

When you test a new product you always find things at a later date. You may find problems with something, or hidden gems that you really like. Here are a few post review features we would like to share.

Surface Testing

Beach / Shingle

Most runners will steer clear of running on lose shingle, or the beach. Running on compacted sand is typically quite nice, but on very lose shingle the return with each stride is completely lost. Great HIIT training as your feet sink into the surface. Also good if you  have injuries caused from heel striking. As long as you are careful you can build your muscles with almost no impact at the knees. But you will need a good pair of trail running shoes with plenty of ankle support. If your ankles are not appropriately supported it would be easy to twist your ankle from placing your foot down at an angle. The Adidas Kanadia trainers offer plenty of support and really help injury prevention. 

Grass

A lot of trail running in on grass surfaces. But grass running itself is such a broad topic and so closely related to the weather. The Kanadia on dry grass are completely fine. But then most shoes on dry grass are fine. The real test is on wet grass. And apart from getting a bit soggy, they grips offer enough support to really provide a solid run.

Gravel Path

Some shoes on gravel seem to pick up every stone and when you switch to a solid surface you clip clop away and risk sliding and falling. These do not pick up stones like some training shoes do, but the same is not said for wet mud

Concerete Pathways

When running on concrete you really notice the change from the natural cushioning of the grass for example. I would defiantly not like to run too far on the road in the Kanadia. Limited cushioning and your feet seem to search for a safe place to root. Fine for a few K but anything more switch to road shoes. 

The Laces

Running shoes typically have a thick, circular lace, or a flat lace similar to the Adidas Kanadia 7 trainer. I have found the laces are very textured and although not highlighted as a feature by Adidas, they really do grip once tied. That means without any double knots or extra tight bows these trainers stay put once done up. That certainly is not a bad thing for any runner, especially when you are off road and may not actually see a lace that has come untied. The last thing you want when running down a steep hill in the rain is to discover your laces and flapping in the wind. Not only do they seem to be super functional, I have really grown to like their two tone colouring. 

The magical Loop

Most trainers do not bother with the loop at the back to help put on your shoes. Unless you are in a triathlon speed is not normally a consideration for getting your footwear on in a hurry. The loop on heel to help put on your trainers I do think is missing from some footwear and for a pair of trail running shoes it is very useful. You may have driven to an off-road spot, and you are standing in the rain switching from your 'car shoes' to your 'trail shoes'. For me, it has certainly got some use. 

So the mesh in these shoes is going to hold your feet still and let them breathe. But it certainly will not keep out the water. Some off-road shoes do offer a certain amount of waterproofing - but I typically find they end up holding the water in as your feet turn to water weights. Your feet will get wet in soggy conditions, but they will also dry out nice and quickly. And at the moment, it seems we can not escape the rain!

Adidas technical info

• Weight: 238 g (size UK 5.5)
• Air mesh upper for maximum ventilation
• Waterproof bottom mud guard helps keep water and mud out
• Comfortable textile lining
• Engineered 3-Stripes panel for optimum linear and lateral support
• TRAXION™ outsole for maximum grip in all directions

Adidas Kanadia 7 Review

It is certainly thumbs up and feet down on the ground for these trainers. Nice quality, stylish and fast. Well as fast as your legs can move. They stick to wet ground enabling all that power to drive you forward. 

As we move into the dryer months you may be looking for a trail shoe that does not work as well on wet ground. The versatile Kanadia with its grip to tackle multiple surfaces is an all year round appropriate pair of trainer. 

The Ultimate Test

Mud runs... There are many of these out there now under various names. Tough Mudder. Nuclear Races. Bear Grills. Etc. A mix of very wet, boggy ground and obstacles. The perfect place to test the grip. On almost vertical wet mud banks straight into boggy water. 

Two things that I was happy with. When walking through, well dragging your limbs through, waste-deep mud water the shoes stayed on. Excellent. I saw plenty of people with their footwear missing.

And secondly when climbing out of the bogs via a rope, or some kind person boosting you from below not sliding straight back in. Seeing someone sliding like they are ice skating is not uncommon. Many people opt for old footwear so they do not ruin their favourite running shoes. I say buy some new trail shoes for the occasion. They will wash up just fine and may just save your sliding face first into a ditch. 

The History

Adios Boost 1

Advertised as neutral shoes that have been designed for marathon running. The technology of the moment was ADIPRENE®+ in the forefoot to fuel your stride.

• Weight: 7.8 ounces (size 9)
• Lightweight mesh upper; ADIPRENE®+ in the forefoot maintains propulsion and efficiency; Non-slip lining
• TORSION® SYSTEM for midfoot integrity; Compression molded EVA midsole; Molded EVA sockliner for anatomical fit and great step-in comfort
• ADIPRENE® under the heel for superior cushioning at impact
• ADIWEAR™ outsole offers the ultimate in high-wear durability

Adios Boost 2

The Boost 2 introduced the energy-returning boost™ foam midsole, a super-breathable Coolever mesh upper with earth-friendly synthetic suede overlays, and extended TORSION® SYSTEM support in the midfoot.

• boost™'s energy-returning properties keep every step charged with an endless supply of light, fast energy
• Coolever mesh upper for maximum breathability
• Extended TORSION® SYSTEM for energy return in the forefoot and natural integrity in the midfoot
• Coolever mesh shoe lining; Moulded responsive EVA sockliner for anatomical fit and great step-in comfort
• QUICKSTRIKE outsole decreases weight and increases flexibility and durability; Continental™ Rubber for optimal grip in wet conditions

Adizero Adios 3 - Boost 3 - The Claim

Again developed for marathon-running and in keeping with the heritage of the style. Low profile for a neutral runner featuring a breathable mesh upper and full boost™ midsole.

• Weight: 230 g (size UK 8.5)
• boost™'s energy-returning properties keep every step charged with an endless supply of light, fast energy
• Open mesh upper for maximum breathability; Synthetic overlays for durable support
• Coolever mesh lining for superior moisture and heat exchange between the foot and the outside air; TORSION® SYSTEM for midfoot integrity
• ADIWEAR™ outsole offers the ultimate in high-wear durability; Continental™ Rubber outsole for extraordinary grip in wet and dry conditions
• Runner type: neutral; Stack height: 27 mm / 18 mm (9 mm differential)

So the new feature introduced on paper seems to be the partnership with Continental™. No one can argue with Continental’s ability to sell us rubber. Let’s hope they work as well in footwear as they do in our car and bike tyres.

What is the Boost Technology?

Adidas say their boost technology features thousands of visible energy stores that store and unleash endless energy every-time your foot hits the ground.

On the Adidas website there are some very positive reviews from Adidas customers. This is a pair of training shoes I am looking forward to running in.

Why the Adizero Adios 3?

These are trainers that are designed or a neutral foot position / foot strike. This means when you run your heel is the not first point of contact and is arguably a better, more efficient way of running.

To test yourself if you should let your heel strike when you run get a skipping rope. When you skip you are (more than likely) bouncing up and down on you toes. If you try and land on your heels it is likely your mind will stop you. If your heel strikes first the impact will shoot right up your body, through your knees on the way up. If your toes or forefoot hit the floor first then it will absorb a lot of the impact from the foot strike and save your keens and cartilage giving you more healthy, pain free years in the future.

The Adidas running shoes we have to test are colour Bright Royal/Core Black/Ftwr White (AF6555)

The adidas adizero Adios 3 running shoes have arrived. Time to run and time to review.

Adidas Adizero Adios 3 Running Shoe Review

Adidas full boost midsole

The low-profile design when sitting the trainers next to other pairs of shoes do not seem too low-profile. But I think they are classing them as low-profile compared with a typical air cushioned / cushioned running shoe. Not necessarily a neutral shoe.

Their Boost technology is also a new addition and a groundbreaking innovation in cushioning. Adidas claim more energy return than any other foam cushioning in the industry. When it comes to running, however, typically your feet are not firing back in the air direct where they land. They are travelling under your body for a split second. So if there is a special energy system maybe it will work better for skipping.

Running in these shoes however, the cushioning is definitely noticeable. They feel very padded with each strike, but I can not say I feel my feet firing into the air with their energy return. The thousands of energy capsules can been seen in the following photos. They look like a bit of natural sponge. They definitely do offer a lot of support.

Adidas full boost midsole

Size and Fit

When it comes to size options Adidas have them all. That’s right. UK half sizes that seem to be getting forgotten about more and more by most brands as the dominance of the Euro sizing kicks in. It has been a while since I have hand the option of ordering a half size, so I go for the 9.5 UK. The length is spot on, but trying these shoes on for the first time I haven’t had my feet so crammed in on the width for a long time. Day to day I wear VivoBarefoot shoes. So plenty of room to move. But even compared against the New Balance Vazee Pace shown below the Adidas are about 1.5 cm narrower. This may be fine for you if you are not used to a particularly wide fit trainer, but if you want your feet to have space to flex then it may be a deal breaker.

These shoes are advertised as a neutral shoe and most people I know who run with a forefoot strike do prefer a wide shoe.

Style

The adidas adizero Adios 3 running shoes have a typical ‘adidas’ originals look about them. Even though they are running shoes. They have that type of look about them that will only be enhanced once they are a little muddy and tatty from all your road running. These are definitely cooler looking than the New Balance but you should be buying a running shoe for function over style. YES you should!