Adidas’s Ultraboost shoe is marking its ten-year anniversary in 2023. In this decade, the Ultraboost shoe started out as one of the first offerings in the running shoe market focussing on energy return midsole compounds (Boost), to achieving massive popularity in the streetwear scene, in part due to its comfort. It’s true that the Ultraboost’s popularity dwindled the past few years, with some of the later models receiving critique for being heavier than some of its running contemporaries.  

However, things are set to change. Adidas has unveiled the latest member of franchise - the Ultraboost Light. The Ultraboost Light has a new material at its core - Light Boost. Adidas notes the improved Ultraboost Light benefits from 30% lighter Boost material, resulting in a performance running shoe designed to offer “epic energy, ultimate cushioning, and unrivalled comfort and responsiveness.”

The new Ultraboost Light weighs 293 g (size U.K. 8.5), compared to the previous model, the Ultraboost 22, coming in at a chunky 333 g.

The German apparel giant notes the shoe contains a  redesigned Linear Energy Point (LEP) torsion system found on the sole of the shoe, reworked to optimise responsiveness and working in conjunction with the new Light Boost material. With a pretty much average midsole drop of 10mm (heel: 22 mm, forefoot: 12 mm), this should be a comfy ride.

You’ll find PRIMEKNIT+ on the upper for an adapted fit sock-like fit. The yarn found here contains at least 50% Parley Ocean Plastic and 50% recycled polyester, which results in a minimum 10% less emissions per pair when compared to a previous version, according to Adidas.

As before, Continental natural performance rubber on the outsole provides optimum traction in all weather conditions.

Looks wise, Adidas retains the typical Ultraboost style, although noted is a special edition version of the Adidas Ultraboost Light with a dedicated colorway. The 10th-anniversary edition comes in a primarily black colorway, with black and yellow detailing – the same design that was found on the first-ever adidas silhouette with Boost technology, the Energy Boost.

Adidas Ultraboost Light - 10th-anniversary edition

The Ultraboost Light is set to retail for R3 499 and already available on early access on adidas.co.za. You will be able to fit them in store come 3 March in South Africa.