Boosting My Workout: adidas Boost Running Shoe Review

adidas’ Boost running shoe performs like a cushiony dream.

As I mentioned previously, I headed into NYC recently to check out the launch of adidas’ latest addition to the legions of running shoes out on the market. They swore that this shoe would change the running world, but don’t all companies make that claim with each shoe they introduce? So what did I do? Put the shoes to the test, of course!

I’m in an adidas state of mind lately, as the last pair of shoes I reviewed were also adidas. Compared to the ClimaCool’s, these shoes are much more comfortable. (And you don’t get your feet soaked should you step in a small puddle). They are more supple, flexible and all-around felt less rigid than the others. The reason they’re so comfortable is the company’s  new Boost cushioning foam, which it says provides the highest energy return in the industry—meaning exceptional cushion and a springy bounceback in each stride.

The shoes are miCoach compatible so you can check your workout data on your computer.

The company demonstrated the foam by showing video of metal balls bouncing on the different surfaces. The difference between standard shoe foam and the Boost foam is definitely noticeable, and while being a cool bit of marketing, I do think it translates into a more comfortable shoe that supports the soles of your feet when you’re pounding the pavement. The company also said the foam is extremely durable—meaning that whether it’s your first run or your 100th in the shoes, the foam should still hold up. It’s nice to know the comfort will last—but only time will tell for me on that front!

The rest of shoe consists of a stretchy mesh, which fits like a glove…or sock…while still providing support to the front of the foot. The bottom is enclosed unlike the ClimaCool, but the mesh should allow breathability for the hot-footed folks. Great for a run, these shoes provided enough support for whatever activity I did. The shoes are also compatible with the adidas miCoach system, which is a wireless system that syncs your running data to your PC.

The new foam is the hallmark of the adidas Boost running shoe.

And can we talk about the look of the shoe? Comfort and performance matters most, but these are just killer cool to look at. I think black shoes look almost as fast as red ones, and the three silver stripes are perfection. They also come in a bad-ass teal, too, so check that out.

What do you look for in your running shoes? Comfort? Technology? Or something else altogether? —Erin