Adidas Ultrarun 5 have zero bounce, yet they are really solid running shoes. Let's discuss this in detail.
The mesh used here is double-layered. I mostly used these shoes during a cold winter, and this structure was well appreciated. They do not offer high ventilation, meaning they keep your feet warm during cold periods. However, I anticipate it will be a challenge during warmer seasons.
Comfort, thanks to the double-layered mesh, additional heel collar on the sides, and extra thickness on the tongue, is superior. There is almost no chance of blisters forming. On top of that, these shoes feature an Ortholite insole, which helps maintain a high level of comfort.
Yet, let’s talk about the positive aspects of these shoes. The first one is cushioning—there’s plenty of it. The stack height is increased, and the overall stiff foam can support even the heaviest runners. No, you won’t feel like you’re running on clouds, but that’s not the point. It’s not about sensation; it’s about function. And I can confidently call these shoes ultra-cushioned.
The second positive aspect of these shoes is stability. Thanks to the stiff foam, there is no wobbling—every step feels predictable and controlled. It’s important to note that this point isn’t about overpronation correction, which these shoes don’t offer. Instead, we’re talking about stability for neutral pronation runners—those who may not have well-developed stabilizing muscles and ligaments. In conclusion, these shoes are ultra-stable.
The lockdown in these shoes is quite solid, thanks to the reinforced elements on the sides and on the heel. On top of that, additional lacing holes allow for a runner’s knot, ensuring a secure fit even for the most demanding runners.
When it comes to transition, these shoes offer a classic, old-fashioned feel. They provide a solid landing on both the heel and forefoot without any special rocker or propulsion features. Personally, I’m a big fan of this type of transition for training, as it allows you to focus on your running form and other aspects of running.
The grip is also solid. These shoes feature a generous amount of rubber on the outsole, ensuring no slippage on various surfaces. Durability is equally impressive. In fact, these shoes simply can’t lose their bounce properties—because they don’t have any to begin with.
In conclusion, these shoes are really good. Increased Cushioning and increased stability is an amazing combination, perfect for any beginner runner. I highly recommend them to anyone looking to start running. The only caution would be the ventilation—if you live in a hot region, expect to sweat a lot. As for the bounce, you’ll only find it in the name of these shoes, not in the feel. I hope you can leave with it.