Shoes comfort is decided by both of its upper and sole but the overall impression is probably more on what’s below our feet. If you like cushioning, the Adidas Ultra Boost Vs Nike React are ideal options to consider. The sole is made to be both supportive but without letting you fall behind in speed thanks to the specific material in their sole and overall design. For those who plan to buy one of these shoes, let’s see which seems to fit you better here.
In this comparison, we are going to talk about:
- How to Choose for Running Shoes
- What are Adidas Ultra Boost and Nike React
- How are the Look of Adidas Ultra Boost and Nike React
- How are the Upper of Adidas Ultra Boost and Nike React
- How are the Sole of Adidas Ultra Boost and Nike React
- How are the Run with Adidas Ultra Boost and Nike React
- Adidas Ultra Boost Vs Nike React
Selecting for a Pair of Running Shoes
We consider running as one of the most practical and easy to access exercises because given the space, almost everyone can run with or without footwear. Just like with most sports, there will be some necessary gear or at least accessories to improve the experience or overall making the activity more bearable and running shoes is almost like a staple for runners. Most runners have worn more than one and each shoe can give a different impression too. The abundant amount of options also makes it harder to browse around.
For runners, we recommend to start from the type of terrain they will be running most often because just like our cars, the proper traction is needed for different terrains and this can be easily separated by road and trail shoes. Road shoes are the most familiar, chances you have one already. They tend to have more cushioning or very light and thin for racing purposes and focusing on shock absorption. Trail shoes on the other hand are more prominent on their tread depth to provide better traction on uneven terrain.
Most people are probably better with neutral running shoes and this is also what often matches with beginner and typical runners but, if you are more serious we can also analyze the gait to find the best running shoes available. Many stores offer free gait analysis based on the video of your running to get a more informed overview on what you need. This is one of the best advantages to visit physical stores and we can try the shoes first to see whether they are actually comfy.
Besides neutral running shoes, there are motion control running shoes, stability shoes, and lightweight running shoes. Motion control shoes are for people who are overpronate, the cushioned shoes are typically good for runners who are underpronate while the lightweight types are great for fast pace runners; they can be cushioned or minimalist depending on the material being used.
Additionally, the distance matters as well because not all shoes are made for long distance. In general shoes made for long distances can be used for short distances without a problem but not the opposite. If you will be bumping up the speed, lightweight, minimalist shoes can be a great choice but for a more laid back running or recovery and long distance use, the cushioned type will be a better choice to provide enough support during the activity or long travel.
| Adidas Ultra Boost | Nike React | |
|---|---|---|
  |   |
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| Product Dimensions | 12.2 x 8.6 x 5.2 inches | 13 x 8.2 x 4.4 inches |
| Shipping Weight | 11.6 Ounces | 1.32 Pounds |
| Best offer | Check price | Check price |
About Adidas Ultra Boost and Nike React
Up till here it seems like the sole is the most important on your running shoes but, it is not the only one that made up the experience because their upper matters too. The combination of comfortable cage and supportive bottom are what makes the overall performance from the shoes. You can shop based on anything, from the budget range, brands, sole types, or the more general shoe types like what we mentioned above if none of the previous factors matters.
Each company who specializes in running shoes or sport footwear usually have their own technology and different names to calls such as what Adidas and Nike are doing with many of their shoes. A technology can be used only in one shoe or applied on some series to answer the customer demands and match with what runners need. Both companies understand that people are unique hence they invented new tech from time to time as well as continuously updating the products.
If you are the type of runner who are looking forward to having comfy shoes, still supportive, and are great for a prolonged application, Adidas Ultra Boost and Nike React are two great options to consider. As the name suggests, the Ultra Boost is using the Boost tech from the brand and currently one of the most popular running shoes from the brand as well. We have talked about the shoes before in Adidas Ultra Boost Vs Nike Pegasus.
The Ultra Boost for example was first released in 2015 but the Boost itself has been used by both Energy Boost and adiZero adios Boost respectively two years prior. Today, these shoes are more of a blend between running shoes and lifestyle choice so you may see more people wearing them casually. On the other hand React is similar, it is a foam name rather than a specific pair of shoes and currently it is used by tons of Nike running and basketball shoes from the lineup.
Adidas Ultra Boost and Nike React Appearance
For the comparison, we will be focusing on the running shoes only and we pick the Epic React Flyknit 2 which is one of the most popular options but you can opt for other shoes as well such as the React Miller 2 or the Infinity Run Flyknit 2 which also use the same React foam. Talking about how these shows look, we are sure most people will agree that they are stylish enough for everyday use. This is one of the best things from Adidas Ultra Boost and Nike React, making the two versatile for sport or casual events.
They are very similar in fashion as well, as you can see the two have a single piece of upper material which we will talk about more later. There are lots of shades and color combinations to choose from and our favorite part is neither of them are heavy, in fact the two are probably among the lightest shoes made with adequate cushioning but Epic React Flyknit 2 is lighter for about 40 grams than Ultra Boost which is around 283 grams.
Adidas Ultra Boost and Nike React Upper
Now for the most important part, let’s see what Adidas Ultraboost and Nike React can offer starting from the upper. In this area the two are using their own lightweight, mesh material with enough perforating surface to keep your feet comfy inside. Adidas uses Primeknit 360 on the 2020’s version which is quite tight when new but this way it can provide enough support. It is not thick either so winter application is not recommended. The highlight here is the 3D frame to lock the heel and cage that acts as both additional support and shoelace anchor.
The similar mesh in Nike is called Flyknit which is not a new tech but it seems to get improved from the older design. It feels like a very robust and sturdy sock rather than typical plush shoes upper and the prominent feature here is both the Nike logo which somehow embroidered onto the material and the solid plastic plate around the heel. This feature seems to help with stability and fit while making the shoe more responsive.
Adidas Ultra Boost and Nike React Sole
Next is for the sole of Adidas Ultra Boost and Nike React which becomes the reason why they are very popular. For the Ultra Boost, they are called this way because it is an improved Boost which is claimed to be 20% more boost. What’s unique is this shoe also has a floating torsion spring which gives the noticeable push when you hit the ground and give a springy impression especially when you up the pace a little bit. It has an adequate height of 27mm under the heel and 17mm on the forefoot.
Nike React on the other hand is based on the idea of combining what once to be impossible because this foam is designed to fulfill cushioning, energy return, lightweight, and durability. Their chemist and mechanical engineering has been testing over 400 combinations of ingredients to create this material. In real-life, React is something very interesting because despite being made of whole foam, this shoe gives a springy effect; almost like rubber.
Adidas Ultra Boost and Nike React Experience
Lastly on the feel of these Adidas Ultra Boost and Nike React, we do think they are great for everyday running. The impression is almost similar but at just 1mm taller than Ultra Boost, the React has this springy texture made of different material. In comparison the upper feels the same and rather tight on our feet so runners may want to up the size if they want more room inside. The sole feels great for more casual running and soft but not mushy, also pretty stable thanks to the upper supports.
Adidas Ultra Boost vs Nike React
We do think both of them are good running shoes or just daily shoes for your casual activities such as going to school or work. They are exceptionally well designed as a lifestyle option but the running with them is not exceptional. You can get adequate traction and support with bounciness which feels very similar between two shoes. The Ultraboost probably has firmer midfoot support however, if you prefer tighter shoes due to the TFP combined with the shoelace anchor.
Conclusion
There is no bad option between the two so it is all about personal preference. If you like more robust and tight fitting shoes, we recommend trying the Ultraboost but if you need lightweight running shoes, it is Nike React, especially the Epic React Flyknit 2 will be an ideal choice.