New Balance 1080 vs Adidas Ultraboost Shoes

New Balance 1080 and Adidas Ultraboost are premium running shoes with distinct differences.

The 1080 features Fresh Foam X cushioning that provides a firmer, more structured feel, while Ultraboosts use Boost technology for springier, more responsive cushioning.

New Balance shoes typically offer better durability with reinforced uppers and more robust outsoles that withstand extended mileage, whereas Ultraboosts prioritize comfort with their sock-like Primeknit uppers.

The 1080s are generally priced slightly lower ($150-160 range compared to Ultraboost’s $180-200). Style-wise, Ultraboosts have a more modern, streetwear aesthetic that’s fashionable for casual wear, while New Balance offers a classic athletic look with more width options.

The 1080s excel in durability and stability for serious runners, while Ultraboosts edge ahead in comfort and style versatility.

New Balance 1080 vs Adidas Ultraboost Shoes

The main difference between New Balance 1080 and Adidas Ultraboost shoes is their cushioning technology. New Balance 1080 uses Fresh Foam X for a firmer, more supportive feel suited for long-distance running, while Ultraboost features Boost foam that provides springy, energy-returning cushioning ideal for both running and everyday wear.

Before comparing the specifics, here is an overview of New Balance 1080 vs Adidas Ultraboost Shoes:

Feature	New Balance 1080	Adidas Ultraboost
Cushioning	Fresh Foam X (firmer, structured)	Boost foam (bouncy, responsive)
Fit	Wider options available	Snug, sock-like fit
Upper	Engineered knit	Primeknit (stretchy)
Weight	Slightly heavier	Lighter
Price	$150-160	$180-200
Best for	Serious runners, longer distances	Running and casual wear
Durability	More durable outsole	Less durable, wears faster
Style	Classic athletic look	Modern, trendy design

In summary: New Balance 1080 shoes are better for serious runners who need support for long runs. They last longer but don’t look as cool. Adidas Ultraboost shoes feel bouncier and look more stylish for everyday wear.

They’re more comfortable right away but cost more money and wear out faster. Choose New Balance for running and Adidas if you want shoes for both running and looking good.

The History of New Balance 1080 and Adidas Ultraboost

New Balance 1080 History

The New Balance 1080 is part of New Balance’s premium cushioned running shoe line. The 1080 has been around for several years, but it gets updated almost every year with new technology and improvements. The latest version is the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 (v13 means it’s the 13th version).

New Balance designed the 1080 to be their top-of-the-line cushioned running shoe. They wanted to create a shoe that would feel super soft and comfortable but still work well for running long distances. Each new version tries to make the shoe even better than before!

Adidas Ultraboost History

The Adidas Ultraboost has a more recent but very exciting history! It was first released in 2015, and it quickly became one of the most popular running shoes ever. Adidas created the Ultraboost to be both a serious running shoe and a stylish everyday shoe.

The name “Ultraboost” comes from the special “Boost” cushioning technology that Adidas developed. This cushioning was different from anything else on the market at the time, and it made the shoes super comfortable and bouncy. Since 2015, there have been many versions of the Ultraboost, with the latest being the Ultraboost 23.

Durability: Which Shoes Last Longer?

New Balance 1080 Durability

The New Balance 1080 is built to be durable for a running shoe. It uses strong rubber on the bottom in high-wear areas, and the midsole foam is designed to keep its cushioning even after many miles of running.

Most runners find that a pair of 1080s will last between 300-500 miles of running, which is pretty good for running shoes! The upper part (the fabric that covers your foot) is strong but lightweight, and it usually holds up well over time.

Adidas Ultraboost Durability

The Adidas Ultraboost is also built to last, especially the Boost midsole, which keeps its cushioning properties for a very long time. The Continental rubber outsole (that’s the rubber on the bottom) is made by a tire company, so it’s designed to be super durable, just like car tires!

However, some people find that the knit upper of the Ultraboost can stretch out over time, especially if you wear them every day. For running, Ultraboosts typically last around 300-450 miles before the cushioning starts to break down.

Overall, both shoes offer good durability, with the 1080 possibly lasting a bit longer for running, while the Ultraboost’s Boost material might keep its bouncy feeling longer.

Breathability: Keeping Your Feet Cool

New Balance 1080 Breathability

The New Balance 1080 uses an engineered knit upper that’s designed to let air flow through. This knit material has areas with larger holes where your feet tend to get hottest, like the toe box and midfoot. This helps heat and moisture escape while letting fresh air in.

The latest versions of the 1080 have improved breathability compared to older models. Your feet should stay relatively cool and dry even on hot days or during long runs.

Adidas Ultraboost Breathability

The Adidas Ultraboost is known for excellent breathability! It uses a special knit material called “Primeknit” that’s designed to be stretchy and breathable at the same time. The knit pattern has lots of tiny spaces for air to flow through, keeping your feet cool.

Many people find that Ultraboosts are great shoes for hot weather because of how well they let air pass through the upper. If keeping your feet cool is super important to you, the Ultraboost might have a slight edge here.

Cushioning: How They Feel When You Walk and Run

New Balance 1080 Cushioning

The New Balance 1080 uses Fresh Foam X cushioning, which is a soft but responsive foam that runs the full length of the shoe. This foam feels plush under your foot but still gives you some energy return when you push off.

The 1080 has more cushioning in the heel and a bit less in the forefoot, which works well for heel strikers (people who land on their heel first when running). The cushioning feels soft and comfortable but not mushy – you don’t sink in too much.

Adidas Ultraboost Cushioning

The Adidas Ultraboost is famous for its Boost cushioning technology! Boost is made up of thousands of tiny foam pellets fused together, which creates a super bouncy, energetic feeling when you walk or run.

The Boost cushioning in the Ultraboost is very responsive, meaning it gives you back energy with each step. Many people describe it as feeling like you’re bouncing slightly with each step, which can make walking or running feel easier.

Both shoes offer excellent cushioning, but they feel different. The 1080 has a more traditional soft, plush feel, while the Ultraboost has a more springy, energetic feel.

Shoe Fit: Finding Your Perfect Size

New Balance 1080 Fit

The New Balance 1080 tends to have a roomier fit in the toe box (the front part where your toes go), which many runners appreciate. It provides a secure fit in the midfoot and heel while giving your toes room to spread out naturally.

One great thing about New Balance is that they offer multiple width options. The 1080 comes in narrow, standard, wide, and extra-wide widths, so almost anyone can find a good fit. This is super helpful if you have wider or narrower feet than average.

Adidas Ultraboost Fit

The Adidas Ultraboost has a more snug, sock-like fit. The Primeknit upper stretches to conform to your foot shape, creating a secure feeling that many people love. However, the Ultraboost only comes in standard width, which can be a problem if you have wide feet.

Many people find they need to go up a half-size in Ultraboosts for the best fit. The shoe has a special cage on the midfoot that helps lock your foot in place, and a heel counter that keeps your heel secure.

If having width options is important to you, the New Balance 1080 is definitely the better choice. If you have narrow to average width feet and like a snug, sock-like fit, you might prefer the Ultraboost.

Stability: Keeping You Steady on Your Feet

New Balance 1080 Stability

The New Balance 1080 is classified as a neutral running shoe, which means it doesn’t have special features to correct your running form. However, it still provides good stability through its secure fitting upper and a relatively wide base that gives you a stable platform.

The 1080 isn’t designed for runners who overpronate (when your foot rolls inward too much), but it offers enough stability for most neutral runners. The shoe provides a good balance between cushioning and stability.

Adidas Ultraboost Stability

The Adidas Ultraboost also falls into the neutral category but has some unique stability features. The plastic cage around the midfoot helps lock your foot in place, and the heel counter provides good rear-foot stability.

However, some runners find that the softness of the Boost cushioning can make the shoe feel less stable, especially during quick side-to-side movements. The Ultraboost is primarily designed for forward motion (running straight ahead) rather than cutting and changing direction quickly.

For overall stability, the New Balance 1080 might offer a slightly more stable platform, especially for activities other than running straight ahead.

Comfort: How They Feel All Day Long

New Balance 1080 Comfort

The New Balance 1080 is designed with all-day comfort in mind. The plush Fresh Foam X cushioning provides a soft yet supportive feel that works well for both running and walking. The stretchy knit upper moves with your foot and rarely causes blisters or hot spots.

Many people who stand all day for work (like nurses and teachers) choose the 1080 because it stays comfortable for hours. The roomy toe box also helps prevent foot pain during long periods of wear.

Adidas Ultraboost Comfort

The Adidas Ultraboost is widely considered one of the most comfortable shoes ever made! The Boost cushioning maintains its softness and bounce all day long, and the Primeknit upper feels like wearing a comfortable sock.

The Ultraboost was designed to feel good during both exercise and casual wear. Many people who try Boost cushioning for the first time are amazed at how comfortable it feels compared to regular foam.

Both shoes rank among the most comfortable sneakers available, so you can’t really go wrong with either one for all-day comfort. Your preference would depend on whether you prefer the plusher feel of the 1080 or the bouncier feel of the Ultraboost.

Quality: How Well They’re Made

New Balance 1080 Quality

New Balance is known for making high-quality shoes, and the 1080 is one of their premium models. The materials are top-notch, and the construction is carefully done. You’ll rarely find loose stitching or gluing issues with a pair of 1080s.

New Balance makes some of their shoes in the USA, though the 1080 is typically made in other countries. Still, their quality control is very good, and the 1080 is built to high standards.

Adidas Ultraboost Quality

The Adidas Ultraboost is also a premium quality shoe. The Primeknit upper is precisely engineered, and the Boost midsole is consistently well-made. The Continental rubber outsole is high quality and built to last.

Adidas puts a lot of attention into the details of the Ultraboost, from the way the upper is attached to the midsole to the careful placement of support features. The overall quality matches what you’d expect from a shoe in this price range.

Both shoes offer excellent quality that matches their premium price point, with careful attention to materials and construction.

Style: Looking Cool While Staying Comfortable

New Balance 1080 Style

The New Balance 1080 has a modern, somewhat chunky look that’s become popular in recent years. The thick midsole gives it that cushioned appearance that many runners and casual wearers like. It comes in a variety of colors, from simple black and white to brighter options with colorful accents.

The 1080 has a sleek knit upper that looks current and stylish. While it’s primarily designed for performance, many people wear it casually because it looks good with jeans or athletic clothes.

Adidas Ultraboost Style

The Adidas Ultraboost is a style icon! It was one of the first running shoes to become super popular as a fashion sneaker. Celebrities and influencers helped make it popular, and its distinctive look is recognized everywhere.

The Ultraboost has a sleek, modern design with the signature Boost midsole, plastic cage, and heel counter. It comes in countless color options, from basic black and white to limited edition colorways. Many people buy Ultraboosts primarily for style rather than running.

If style is very important to you, the Adidas Ultraboost might have an edge, as it’s more established in fashion and streetwear cultures. However, New Balance has been gaining popularity in the fashion world too.

Size Range: Finding Shoes That Fit You

New Balance 1080 Size Range

The New Balance 1080 comes in a wide range of sizes for both men and women. Men’s sizes typically run from 7 to 15, while women’s sizes go from 5 to 12. As mentioned earlier, they also offer multiple widths (narrow, standard, wide, and extra-wide).

New Balance is known for consistent sizing, so if you know your size in other New Balance shoes, the same size will likely work in the 1080. However, some people find they need to go down a half-size in the 1080 compared to other brands.

Adidas Ultraboost Size Range

The Adidas Ultraboost also offers a good size range, with men’s sizes from 4 to 14 and women’s sizes from 5 to 12. However, as mentioned earlier, they only come in standard width.

Many people find they need to go up a half-size in Ultraboosts for the best fit, as they tend to run a bit small. If you’re between sizes, it’s usually best to size up rather than down with the Ultraboost.

For the best range of sizes and widths, the New Balance 1080 has a clear advantage, especially for people with wide or narrow feet.

Materials: What Are They Made Of?

New Balance 1080 Materials

The New Balance 1080 uses modern, high-tech materials throughout. The midsole is made of Fresh Foam X, which is a lightweight yet durable foam compound. The outsole (bottom of the shoe) uses blown rubber for grip and durability.

The upper is made of an engineered knit material that’s stretchy, breathable, and lightweight. Inside, there’s a soft fabric lining and a removable insole made of foam. All these materials are chosen to balance comfort, performance, and durability.

Adidas Ultraboost Materials

The Adidas Ultraboost uses several signature materials. The midsole is made of Boost foam, which is actually thousands of tiny TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) pellets fused together. The outsole uses Continental rubber, the same company that makes car tires!

The upper is made of Primeknit, Adidas’s special knit fabric that’s stretchy and breathable. The midfoot cage is typically made of plastic or fabric, and the heel counter is a firm plastic material. These premium materials contribute to the shoe’s higher price point.

Both shoes use high-quality, modern materials, though the technologies and approaches are quite different.

Weight: How Heavy They Feel On Your Feet

New Balance 1080 Weight

The New Balance 1080 is moderately lightweight for a cushioned running shoe. The men’s version typically weighs around 9.3 ounces (264 grams) for a size 9, while the women’s version weighs about 8.1 ounces (230 grams) for a size 8.

This weight puts it in the middle range for premium cushioned shoes – not super lightweight like a racing shoe, but not heavy either. The 1080 feels reasonably light on your feet despite its substantial cushioning.

Adidas Ultraboost Weight

The Adidas Ultraboost is slightly heavier than the 1080. The men’s version typically weighs around 10.9 ounces (310 grams) for a size 9, and the women’s weighs about 9.5 ounces (270 grams) for a size 8.

The extra weight comes from the dense Boost material and the various support features like the plastic cage and heel counter. While the Ultraboost isn’t the lightest running shoe, most people don’t find it to feel heavy when wearing it.

If having the lightest possible cushioned shoe is important to you, the New Balance 1080 has an advantage in this category.

Flexibility: How They Bend With Your Foot

New Balance 1080 Flexibility

The New Balance 1080 offers good flexibility, especially in the forefoot (the front part where your foot bends when you push off). The Fresh Foam X material is naturally somewhat flexible, and the shoe has flex grooves on the bottom that help it bend in the right places.

The knit upper also moves and flexes with your foot rather than restricting it. The 1080 strikes a nice balance between cushioning (which can sometimes make a shoe stiff) and flexibility.

Adidas Ultraboost Flexibility

The Adidas Ultraboost is known for being very flexible! The Boost midsole, despite being quite thick, flexes well with your foot. The Primeknit upper moves naturally with every step, and the outsole is designed with flex grooves to allow natural foot movement.

One of the goals of the Ultraboost design was to create a shoe that would move with your foot rather than restricting it, and most wearers agree that it succeeds in this area.

Both shoes offer good flexibility, though the Ultraboost might have a slight edge in terms of how natural the shoe feels when your foot flexes during running or walking.

Water Resistance: Keeping Your Feet Dry

New Balance 1080 Water Resistance

The New Balance 1080 isn’t designed to be waterproof, but the knit upper does offer some light water resistance. It can handle a light drizzle or running through dewy grass without getting your feet soaked immediately.

However, in heavy rain or puddles, water will eventually seep through to your feet. This is actually by design – running shoes need to be breathable, and truly waterproof shoes would make your feet too hot and sweaty.

Adidas Ultraboost Water Resistance

Similarly, the Adidas Ultraboost is not waterproof. The Primeknit upper provides minimal water resistance – enough to handle light moisture but not heavy rain or puddles.

In fact, the Primeknit material can sometimes absorb water more readily than some other materials, which means your feet might get wet faster in the Ultraboost compared to some other running shoes.

Neither shoe has a significant advantage in water resistance; both will keep your feet reasonably dry in light moisture but aren’t meant for really wet conditions.

Sole: What’s On The Bottom Of The Shoe

New Balance 1080 Sole

The New Balance 1080 has a full-length Fresh Foam X midsole that provides cushioning throughout the shoe. The outsole (the very bottom part that touches the ground) uses blown rubber in a pattern designed for road running.

The outsole pattern includes flex grooves to help the shoe bend naturally and small lugs (raised rubber patterns) for traction. The rubber is strategically placed in high-wear areas like the heel and forefoot, with some exposed foam in other areas to reduce weight.

Adidas Ultraboost Sole

The Adidas Ultraboost has a distinctive sole design. The full-length Boost midsole is visible from the sides and provides the shoe’s signature cushioning. The outsole uses Continental rubber in a web-like pattern called “Stretchweb” that’s designed to flex and provide excellent grip.

The Ultraboost also has a plastic piece called a “torsion system” between the heel and forefoot that helps provide stability while still allowing the shoe to flex naturally. The outsole pattern is designed to provide good traction on roads and sidewalks in various weather conditions.

Both shoes have high-quality soles designed for cushioned road running, though they take very different approaches to achieve this goal.

User Reviews and Ratings

Shoe Model	Overall Rating	Comfort	Durability	Style
New Balance 1080v13	★★★★★	★★★★★	★★★★☆	★★★★☆
Adidas Ultraboost 23	★★★★★	★★★★★	★★★★☆	★★★★★
New Balance 1080v12	★★★★☆	★★★★★	★★★★☆	★★★☆☆
Adidas Ultraboost 22	★★★★☆	★★★★★	★★★☆☆	★★★★★

Pricing

Shoe Model	Regular Price	Sale Price (Common)	Best For
New Balance 1080v13	$160	$120-$140	Running, wide feet, all-day comfort
Adidas Ultraboost 23	$190	$130-$160	Lifestyle, casual running, style
New Balance 1080v12	$150	$100-$120	Budget option, still great cushioning
Adidas Ultraboost 22	$180	$110-$140	Budget option, very similar to newer model

Pros and Cons

New Balance 1080 Shoes

Pros	Cons
Come in many different widths for all foot types	Not as stylish or trendy looking as Ultraboost
Better for serious running and sports	Fewer cool color options
More room in the toe box for your toes to spread	Not as popular with celebrities and famous people
Lighter weight so your feet don’t get as tired	Less bouncy feeling when walking
Usually cost less money than Ultraboost	Don’t look as good with jeans or casual clothes
More stable for PE class and sports	Not as soft and stretchy around the ankle
Last longer for running many miles	Less exciting to show your friends
Better for people with wide feet	Not as popular on social media

Adidas Ultraboost Shoes

Pros	Cons
Super stylish and look cool with any outfit	Only come in standard width (not for wide feet)
Very bouncy cushioning that feels fun	More expensive than New Balance 1080
Stretchy sock-like fit that hugs your foot	Not as good for serious running or sports
Great for casual wear and looking cool	Heavier than the New Balance 1080
More popular and trendy with kids	Less stable for quick side-to-side movements
Many exciting color choices and special editions	Can feel too tight if you have wide feet
Soft, comfortable feel like wearing socks	Wears out faster when used for running
Worn by many celebrities and athletes	Not as good for growing feet that need space

Conclusion

After looking at all these features, which shoe is best for you? Here’s what I think:

Choose the New Balance 1080 if:

• You’re a serious runner looking for a daily training shoe
• You have wide feet or need specific width options
• You prefer a roomier toe box
• You want a slightly lighter shoe
• You like a softer, more traditional cushioning feel
• You need excellent stability for a neutral shoe

Choose the Adidas Ultraboost if:

• Style is very important to you
• You prefer a sock-like, snug fit
• You love the unique bouncy feeling of Boost cushioning
• You want a shoe that’s great for both running and casual wear
• You have narrow to average width feet
• You like the latest trendy sneakers

Both the New Balance 1080 and Adidas Ultraboost are excellent premium cushioned shoes that many people love. They have different approaches to cushioning and fit, but both deliver outstanding comfort and performance. Your personal preferences and foot shape will determine which one works best for you!

Frequently Asked Questions