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Solar Boost Vs Ultra Boost is a very tough compare. Both of these shoes are manufactured by Adidas and they have almost the same weight and drop.

They use the same midsole material and comes with a similar upper. In a way to the inexperienced, there is virtually no difference between these two shoes.

Yet they are so different.

How is that and what are the differences?

We will provide you with all the details in this post where we have thoroughly compared, Adidas Solar Boost and Adidas Ultra Boost.

 

So, without further ado, let’s jump into the detailed comparison of Solar Boost vs Ultra Boost.

Adidas Solarboost Vs Adidas Ultraboost-min

This is our choice…

Last update on 2024-04-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

adidas Solar Boost 19

Why it is chosen?

  • Can cater to a wider set of runners due to several variations.
  • Temperature independent cushioning.
  • Energy Rails to guide the foot.
  • Stabilizing torsion system.
  • Very comfortable.
  • Good for long runs

Solar Boost Vs Ultra Boost – An Overview

Both Adidas Solarboost and Adidas Ultraboost are both neutral running shoes and provide you with an ample amount of cushioning.

In fact, the kind of cushioning that these two running shoes have is the same and provides you with a good amount of responsiveness.

Then how are these two running shoes different?

Well, let’s find out…

Adidas Ultraboost is more focused on providing you with more cushioning than Adidas Solarboost. However, Solarboost has more variations and can cater to a wider range of runners.

Although this is one of the main differences, there are still a few more. In the following sections, we will into more detail so that you can have all the information handy for your own research.

So, without further ado, let’s begin…

Solar Boost Vs Ultra Boost – Features at a glance

Adidas SolarBoost 19 Adidas UltraBoost 20
adidas Solarboost 19 Shoes Men's, Blue, Size 10.5 adidas Women's Ultraboost 20 Running Shoe, Black/Night Metallic/White, 8 M US
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Price
Type Neutral/Stability Neutral
Heel-to-toe Drop 10mm 10mm
Weight 11oz/312g 11oz/312g
Midsole Type Responsive Boost/Energy Rail Responsive Boost
Technology Solar Propulsion Rail, Stabilizing Torsion System, NASA technology inspired Yarn spun from Parley Ocean Plastic, Stabilizing Torsion System
Sizes 5.0 – 11.0 (Women)
6.5 – 14.0 (Men)
5.0 – 11.5 (Women)
7.0 – 13.0 (Men)
Use Road Running, Tradmill, Cross Training Long Distance, Road Running, Cross Training, Treadmill
Editor’s Rating 4 and a half star-92X25-min 4 and a half star-92X25-min
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The main differences between Adidas Solar Boost Vs Adidas Ultra Boost

  • Adidas Ultraboost has 20% more boost and will provide you with more energy return.
  • Along with other types of running, Adidas Ultraboost can also be used for long runs whereas Adidas Solarboost is best for shorter runs and cross-training.
  • Adidas Ultraboost has more toe-spring than Adidas Solarboost which is very evident when you look at the shoes side-by-side.
  • Adidas Ultraboost has a longer tongue than Solarboost.
  • Adidas Solarboost has a thicker cushioning than Adidas Ultraboost although the overall drop of both of these shoes is the same which is 10mm.
  • Adidas Solarboost 19 has Rail Guides to guide your foot while running whereas Adidas Ultraboost doesn’t have that.
  • The current generation of Ultraboost is 20 whereas for Solarboost it is 19.
  • Solar boost has a version for stability called Adidas Solarboost ST which caters to the overpronating runners better whereas Adidas ultra boost doesn’t have a special stabilizing version.
  • Ultraboost has a lot of styles and has exclusive designs. Solar boost sticks to the more traditional look.

Last update on 2024-04-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Solar Boost Vs. Ultra Boost – A head to head comparison

We have already covered the major differences between Adidas Solarboost 19 and Adidas Ultraboost 20 above.

However, there are some very subtle differences that will help you in making a better choice for yourself.

In the following section of the comparison of Adidas solar boost 19 vs Adidas ultra boost 20, we have taken each part, of the shoe and have done a detailed analysis.

There will be a lot of information in the following sections. If you don’t want to read, then you may as well refer to the images.

Now, let’s read on…

Outsole

The outsole of both Adidas Ultraboost and Solarboost has rubber from the company Continental.

Continental is the same company that produces world-famous tires and is known for its grip and durability.

A little history here…

In early 2007, Adidas was working on a project to improve the grip of its shoes and was looking for an expert in that area.

These two companies came together in a workshop. In a discussion between team Adidas and team Continental, it came up that, the ways the running shoes and tires react on a surface are very similar.

This sparked an idea and these two companies came together to create this outsole and the rest is history…

Due to the inherent quality of the Continental rubber, both of these running shoes have an exceptional grip on both wet and dry surfaces and comes in a stretch web pattern for better flexibility.

However, both of these shoes are meant for road running and may not be that great on the trails.

What else?

In the Adidas Solarboost, you will be able to torsion system from outside. It is marked in a different color and extends in patches from the midfoot to the tip, covering the high impact areas.

Midsole

The midsole of both Ultraboost and Solarboost is made from the boost material.

This material is the most responsive cushioning from Adidas and provides you with a very good energy return.

However, Ultraboost contains 20% more boost for an amplified boost feeling.

Also, these are temperature-independent cushioning and provides maximum comfort and energy return in all climates.

Solarboost has a thicker cushioning and both of these shoes have the stabilizing Torsion System.

This makes these running shoes more stable and will work for runners with overpronation as well.

Although, there are some variations in the midsole and Solarboost has a thicker midsole, both of these running shoes have the same amount of drop of 10mm.

Ultraboost has a heel height of 22mm and a forefoot height of 12mm whereas Solarboost has a heel height of 32mm and a forefoot height of 22 mm.

Solarboost however, also has the Energy Rail that helps to guide the foot during running.

Although they have a good amount of cushioning, you will still have a great ground feel and you will not feel like walking on the clouds.

Upper

The upper of Adidas Solarboost has engineered mesh upper. It is an air mesh that provides you with ample breathability.

Also, it is inspired by NASA technology and has stitched-in areas of reinforcement for precisely calibrated support.

It also has tailored fiber placement for midfoot support, providing you with great stability. The inner of this running shoe has a textile lining and is soft to touch.

With lace-up closure and protruded heel support, the fitting of Adidas Solaboost 19 is just right. 

The upper of  Adidas Ultraboost comes with a foot-hugging mesh upper. This running shoe also has stitched-in reinforcement that is precisely placed to give you support in the places you need it the most.

The upper has PrimeKnit+ textile and has tailored fiber placement for a locked-in fit.

It has a snug sock-like fit and provides you with a truly customized fit.

This kind of material wraps the foot with a supportive fit and enhances your movement providing you with great running experience.

Durability

The durability of these running shoes are exceptional which makes them stand apart from most of its peers.

Most of the running shoes are meant to work for around 300 to 500 miles. After that, you have no choice but to replace them.

However, if you spend around $30 extra, you will get any of these two shoes and they will last you for upwards of 700 miles.

But many runners are averse to spending that kind of money. However, if you have to replace a shoe after every 500 miles and the average cost is around $100, then you will end up spending $200 at the end of your first 500 miles.

This is an extra $20 and comes out as expensive.

Also, not only the midsole, Ultraboost, and Solarboost has exceptionally durable outsole. The forums I frequent, many runners own them for almost 1-2 years now.

Just think about the kind of durability…

Traction

Traction of both Ultraboost and Solarboost is exceptional. Both of them use Continental rubber in their outsole.

This is a similar kind of rubber for tires and is optimized for improved grip.

As a result, both of these running shoes will provide you with very good traction on both dry and wet surfaces.

You will have stable running experience, no matter the weather, and chances of having slipping mishaps are minimal.

Stability

The stability of these shoes comes by combining two factors.

First, it has the continental rubber that we previously mentioned. 

Second, is the stabilizing torsion system.

Now, what is a torsion system?

Basically, it is thermoplastic arch support that helps your forefoot and rearfoot move independently.

This helps your foot to adapt to the running surface thus providing you with more support and stability during your running.

You can think of it as a bridge between forefoot and heel. By supporting the midfoot it doesn’t allow improper flexing of the arch.

This also helps in a smoother heel to toe transition.

Terrain

Adidas Ultraboost 20 and Adidas Solarboost 19 are made for running on the roads.

They can also be used for running on the cobblestones, concrete and work perfectly on the treadmills.

However, they may not work as well on the trails. Due to its grippy nature, it may support you to some extent, but it is by no way a trail running shoe.

Purpose

This is one thing that I love about these shoes. Both Ultraboost and Solarboost are extremely versatile running shoes and can be used for various purposes.

Here are some ways that you may use these running shoes:

  • Running
  • Crossfit
  • Training
  • Treadmill
  • Tracks
  • Dailywear
  • Casual wear

Style

Style-wise, I prefer Ultraboost 20. It is edgier and crisper.

One more thing I like about Ultraboost’s design is that it is minimalistic.

Overall, it is a very sharp looking running shoe.

If we consider Solarboost 19, I find it a bit bland than the Ultraboost.

It is less pointy to look at and that edginess is missing. Nonetheless, it is a good looking shoe and will surely make you stand aside from the crowd.

Weight

Although Solarboost has a thicker sole than Ultraboost, surprisingly, both of them weigh almost the same.

The weight of these shoes is 11oz and that is very lightweight.

I expected Ultraboost to be lighter due to its thinner sole. However, when I did some research, I found that Ultraboost has more boost material.

How much more or whether it is more than Solarboost, I really don’t know.

But similar weight, makes me think that Ultraboost indeed has more boost material than Solarboost (IMO).

Price

Price-wise, there is some difference between Solar Boost vs Ultra Boost.

However, the prices fluctuate on a daily basis so, pinpointing the exact price may not possible.

If you want to purchase any of these shoes, you can keep a budget of somewhere around $180 to $200.

Also, you can keep an eye on this page for discounts. It is regularly updated and you may be able to catch it early.

However, if you want to get a better price for an awesome running shoe, then go for the previous versions of these running shoes.

Here are all the details of Adidas Ultraboost 19. I’m sure you will be able to get a great deal.

Variations

This is where things get interesting. Both of these running shoes have a lot of versions.

Some of the versions are even exclusively designed by designers.

So between Adidas Solarboost vs Adidas Ultraboost, who is the winner?

Let’s find out…

Versions of Adidas Ultraboost:

  • Ultraboost Men
  • Ultraboost Women
  • Ultraboost 20 by Stella McCartney
  • Ultraboost DNA Prime
  • Ultraboost DNA X Disney Shoes
  • Ultraboost DNA X Real Madrid Shoes
  • Ultraboost X 3D Knit Shoes
  • Ultraboost Summer.RDY Shoes
  • Now combine them with a plethora of colors, well, now the possibilities are endless…

Versions of Adidas Solarboost:

  • Solarboost 19
  • Solarboost ST 19

Environment Consciousness

Adidas is becoming more and more environmentally friendly and this time with Adidas Ultraboost 20, the company has taken a problem and turned into a solution.

This shoe is made with Primeblue, a high-performance, recycled material containing Parley Ocean Plastic and has a 78% minimum recycled material in total.

However, this is not present in Adidas Solarboost 19. We are waiting for the next version of Solarboost to find out if Adidas maintains its environment-friendly approach.

That’s all with the differences and similarities between Adidas Ultraboost 20 and Adidas Solarboost 19.

Below we have listed some running shoes that are similar to these shoes…

Similar Shoes

Running Shoes Similar To Adidas Solar Boost 19

There are a lot of running shoes that are similar to Adidas SolarBoost 19.

Here are the three most common ones:

ASICS Gel-Nimbus 22 – This is a neutral running shoe with a good amount of cushioning. It has gel cushioning in both the forefoot and rearfoot making it a very good shock-absorbent.

Also, they are very lightweight and durable and can be used as a daily trainer or for your long runs.

Brooks Glycerin 18 – This is another neutral running shoe that has exceptional cushioning. It is one of the plushiest running shoes from Brooks and is great marathons.

This is a durable running shoe that has DNA LOFT in its midsole which makes it plush yet durable. This midsole doesn’t pack out under your weight and provides you with great cushioning mile after mile.

New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v10 – This is another running shoe that can be a great alternative to Solarboost. The midsole of New Balance 1080 is made from Fresh Foam and is a single piece of foam.

This is very cushy and will provide you with a great ride every time. 

Running Shoes Similar to Adidas Ultra Boost 20

Adidas Ultraboost 20 has some very good alternatives. Some are cheaper but of excellent quality.

We are currently working on the list and we will get back to it very soon.

Conclusion

We have provided you with all the differences and similarities of “Solar Boost Vs Ultra Boost”.

If you want to make a purchase decision, you will get it all of the details in this article.

However, we found that in some places like cushioning and toe spring, Solar Boost is a tad better than Ultra Boost.

This is why we think Adidas Solarboost is a bit better than Ultraboost.

Let us know if you have any further questions.

Madhusree Basu

Madhusree Basu

Author, Admin

Blogger and a fitness enthusiast. She loves running and Yoga and everything in between. She started running to manage her weight and to eat to her heart’s content. A true foodie at heart she shares whatever knowledge she has gained throughout the years about weight management and fitness.

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