adidas Ultraboost vs adidas ZX + the Footshop Crew’s verdict

Let me preface this by saying that I won’t be getting into detailed comparisons such as which sneaker offers better suspension or breathability or their successful collabs, but instead comparing the series as a whole. Also, we’ve already published a whole bunch of articles about both the Ultraboosts and the ZXs, so if you’re still unsure by the end of this article, you can go ahead and check some of them out to make your mind up.

ICON VS ICON

Let’s get right into it. The main focus here is finding out whether innovation and a modern approach to sneaker creation can surpass a time-tested and stylish icon of the 80’s. The high performance ZX product line wasn’t always associated with running, although as far as historical and cultural relevance is concerned, it does have a big head start over today’s most popular adidas sneakers, the Ultraboosts.

Whether it’s the ZX 8000s, 9000s or any other for that matter, apart from professional athletes, these sneakers found a place in the nightlife. While runners appreciated the Torsion suspension system with every step they made, the technology supported ravers and techno fans from Berlin to Manchester.

The Ultraboosts were first released in 2015. Millions of active Boost particles in the midsole, protected by Continental soles, quickly made these sneakers the new favorite at running tracks worldwide.

Unlike the ZX models, Ultraboosts experienced much less nightlife. Rather than an underground silhouette, they quickly became the mainstream – which is why we get new collaborations and updated models every year, and why the silhouette is adidas’ flagship model. But this does not mean that the ZXs were forgotten. In 2020, adidas prepared a whole 24 collaborations for them.

Now, let’s take a look at what some of Footshop’s employees – who encountered both models innumerable times – think about them.

THE FOOTSHOP CREW’S VERDICT?

Pavel, Controlling – Team Ultraboost

The Ultraboosts are incredibly comfy, and they go well with almost anything. When you get up in the morning, they’re everyday sneakers to hit the town with, and in the evening, they’re great to hit the gym in.

Honza’s comment: I can personally attest to this. Although I only use them for sports, this is an ideal way to kill two birds with one stone.

Ivory, Product Content – Team Ultraboost

When we’re talking comfort, the Ultraboost silhouette is the first thing that comes to mind for me. Why? The upper is ideal for the summer and perfectly encapsulates your foot. And once you experience the Ultraboost midsole, you won’t go back. Another plus is the Torsion system and Continental sole. For me, they’re great for both everyday wear as well as running.

Honza’s comment: I’m glad you mentioned the Continental sole. If the name rings any bells, you were right – it’s the very same company that made the tires on your car.

Viktor, Marketing – Team both

adidas Ultraboost – it’s hard not to repeat yourself when you’re talking about their level of comfort, but it really is like that –  after a couple weeks of using these, you find yourself recommending them to everyone who’ll listen. Something like orthodox Apple fans. Personally, I like the 1.0 version in the OG black-purple colorway the most. And I think that the photo of Kanye levitating on stage in the triple white version is one of adidas’ most iconic moments of the new era.

adidas ZX – for me, the retro ZX models are synonymous with European sneaker culture. The 7X8000 and ZX5000 are in my all-time top ten, only rivaled by the Nike Air Max 1. Today, the ZX series is a huge family with countless silhouettes that, apart from nostalgia, cater to innovation, technology and unique lacing systems. Also, the Torsion technology in the soles really works – your feet are firmly held while being extremely comfortable.

Honza’s comment: As usual, Viktor didn’t disappoint and broke the topic down into the fundamentals. Specifically, I’m glad you mentioned the Torsion system, which is sometimes overshadowed by the Boost.

Marton, Retail Budapest – Team Ultraboost

In a couple of minutes of wearing a pair of Ultraboosts, you’ll know exactly why it’s the best-selling suspension technology on the market.

Honza’s comment: To test this yourself, the best course of action is ordering a pair of your own.

Pavel, Retail – Team Ultraboost

Unprecedented comfort with every step – that’s the reason why you absolutely should have at least a pair of these.

Honza’s comment: This sentiment has already been voiced several times so far, so there’s clearly something to it…

SUMMARY

To sum up, it would seem that Footshop’s employees have a pretty clear idea about who’s the victor here – the adidas Ultraboost. To even the score a bit, I’ll go with the ZX series. Their cultural and historical relevance completely overshadows that of the Ultraboosts. And it would seem that adidas is able to breathe new life into the series with every new release. If it was purely about comfort, I’d go with the Ultraboosts. The final verdict is up to you, and you can find tens of models on Footshop’s website to help you decide.

Also, check out the pros and cons of the Nike Blazer and Nike Air Vapormax.