There is no doubt that Adidas has amazed the footwear world with its innovative Boost line, known for perfect support, great cushioning, and excellent comfort level. The line has fledged, and a modern version of the Boost series- Adidas Ultra Boost 3.0 and Adidas Pure Boost DPR (Deconstructed Pure Racer) have been introduced.
Well, the brand has been churning out a hot deal after another but we decided to take a step back and compare these two OG boost pieces: Pure Boost Vs. Ultra Boost. Having much in common, these two shoe styles have specific features that make them exceptional and ideal for various types of activities.
First up, both models have a nice sleek, streamlined silhouette, with a toned grey knit upper and a clean white midsole. Still, if you want to know more about Adidas Pure Boost vs. Ultra Boost, below is a detailed comparison of
Table of Contents
Adidas Boost Vs. Ultra Boost Comparion
Pure Boost Vs Ultra Boost: Design
The Pure Boost DPR features a sleek silhouette, double-toned circular knit upper, a Boost midsole, and a low offset. The Ultra Boost 3.0 sneaker, on the other hand, comes with a Primeknit upper, a Boost midsole, and a TPU cage on the sides.
Speaking of the upper, the Ultra Boost features a Primeknit upper that allows for breathability, comfort, and flexibility to enhance movements. In contrast, the Pure Boost comes with a one-piece knit upper. With Pure Boost, the upper has engineered zones for an adaptive fit and is similar to Primeknit, only that it is stiffer and more durable when in terms of wear.
The insole found in Pure Boost DPR lacks padding; therefore, sometimes, the metatarsals may feel bruised. The Ultra Boost 3.0, meanwhile, is designed with a removable insole that gives extra cushioning.
One notable similarity between these two shoe styles is the midsole. Both sneakers boast a boost midsole, which is made of 3000 TPU capsules. The midsole is meant to provide perfect responsiveness along and good shock absorption. Based on research, the boost midsole shows a 10-15% improvement in energy retention compared to EVA.
For the outsole, the Pure DPR has been designed with a webbed outsole, which flexes quite. However, it is not made of continental rubber, as in the case of Ultra Boost 3.0. The Ultra Boost comes with a stretchweb outsole, which is made from the stated Continental Tire rubber. It provides good traction and is relatively more durable.
Pure Boost Vs Ultra Boost: Overall Comfort
The Pure Boost DPR features seamless construction for excellent comfort and a suede lining to reduce the risk of irritation. That said, the stiff circular-knit upper and the padding are only in the heel area make the Pure Boost not as comfortable as the Ultra Boost model.
This is because the Ultra Boost 3.0 has padding around the heel, extending to the midfoot area. Plus, the Primeknit uppers add to the overall comfort.
However, the cushioning on the Ultra 3.0 is focused on the forefoot area. As such, the midsole is firmer compared to that of Pure Boost. The Pure Boost features responsive cushioning and attenuates the excessive shock of each strike.
Pure Boost Vs Ultra Boost: Breathability and Flexibility
With the Primeknit upper, the Ultra Boost 3.0 is well ventilated as it provides maximum airflow. The Pure Boost DPR is also breathable due to the plenty of midfoot and forefoot pores. So as far as breathability goes, both styles are comparatively great.
For flexibility, the stretchy Primeknit upper featured by the Ultra Boost 3.0, as well as the Boost midsole, ensures good flexibility. The Pure Boost DPR features a flexible outsole, but the upper is stiff. This makes the shoe to be less flexible in comparison to the Ultra Boost.
Pure Boost Vs Ultra Boost: Support
Coming down to support, Ultra Boost offers more containment and a more agreeable fit around the midfoot, especially when you lace up tighter. There’s also ample padding all around the shoe and toe guard area that comes in handy for safety. You will also get a molded heel counter that facilitates a natural fit while keeping your feet from wobbling.
The tongue of the Pure Boost DPR is double folded and is meant to adapt to different foot shapes and help reduce pressure. There’s also the molded heel counter that comes in handy for support while promoting a natural fit. That said, the midfoot comes with only four lacing rows. No inner sleeve, meaning the lacing system isn’t really the best.
The Pure Boost DPR shoe comes with an 8mm heel-toe drop, meaning you will have your fit lower and closer to the street. The Ultra Boost 3.0, meanwhile, is designed with a 10mm heel-to-toe, which is a very common style among conventional running shoes.
The Bottom Line
All things considered, we suggest choosing Ultra Boost 3.0 over the Pure Boost because of the following reasons:
First, the Ultra Boost model offers a better value for money (price/quality ratio). The shoe has been designed for long running sessions, yet it’s ideal for short runs and casual wear. But with the Pure Boost, its area of application is narrower, considering that it’s only great for short runs and casual wear.
Featuring the continental outsole, which provides more traction and durability, the Ultra Boost 3.0 is more reliable in terms of wear. On the other hand, the Pure Boost DPR is well rated as a city running shoe, with its stretch web outsole, which is less durable.
You’ll note that while the Pure Boost DPR circular knit upper is durable, it lacks elasticity, thereby limiting flexibility. The Ultra Boost 3.0 meanwhile has a Primeknit upper, which makes it lightweight, stretchy, breathable, and durable.
Lastly, the Ultra Boost has more capsules, which improves responsiveness and overall comfort. It offers better security and support with its TPU cage compared to the lacing system on the Pure Boost, which is not as secure as you might expect. Plus, you will get a wider range of colorways with Ultra Boost than with Pure Boost shoes.