Details
Brand
Adidas
Heel To Toe Drop
10mm
Breathability
7.5/10
Latest Version
Yes
Terrain
Road
Type
Neutral
Key Features
• Unique Thermoplastic Polyurethane midsole for amazing energy return• New Techfit upper design, with better stability• Torsion system to help keep the foot on a neutral plane• 3D modeled TPU frame for the heel for better cushioning• Vibrant and tame color choices available for all
Upper
The shoes’ upper is the part that secures the foot in place from the top. A good upper will be flexible and breathable, while also ensuring the security of the foot. The upper on the Energy Boost 3s has been a source of complaint about some. Though made with Adidas Techfit technology, which offers solid flexibility, the stripes on the side have been reported as causing pressure and irritation for some. Apart from this, the upper design seems solid and has been improved from the Boost 2s to be more flexible and breathable overall.
Midsole
The midsole is the layer has the very important job of stabilizing and cushioning during impact, as well as providing responsiveness. The midsole is widely considered one of the most key elements of a shoe. Adidas offers a very unique midsole with all models of the Energy Boost line, which first debuted in 2013. The midsoles are all unique in that they feature TPU or Thermoplastic Polyurethane foam within them, and were some of the first to offer this material. TPU offers an excellent level of energy return, making the Energy Boost a very springy and responsive shoe. This responsive midsole has been a trademark of the Energy Boost series since its inception, and the Boost 3 is no exception.
Outsole
The outsole of a shoe is a very important piece when considering the lifespan of a shoe, as the outsole is basically the bottom of the shoe. The Energy Boost 3 has had some complaints for not featuring the Adiwear design from some of Adidas’ previous running shoe models. The Adiwear outsole was exceptionally durable and led to a long lifespan on all of the shoes it was featured in, so the fact that the Energy Boost 3 does not include it is a bit strange. Adidas reports that the outsole of the Energy Boost 3 does feature more grip and cushioning, however, so those are certainly positives. Overall the outsole of the Energy Boost is solid but leaves a bit to be desired when considering previous Adidas outsoles.
Breathability
Breathability is definitely something that should be looked at with any pair of running shoes. Bad breathability leads to cramped feet, sweat, and worst of all, blisters. These offer decent breathability, with standard mesh design providing ventilation. The Energy Boosts should definitely not have any major breathability issues, though they aren’t particularly exceptional here either.
Comfort
Every runner has probably worn uncomfortable shoes before, and understands that comfort is a very important factor when purchasing training shoes, especially when considering how frequently they will be used. As a whole, the Energy Boost 3s offer great comfort from the EVA foam cushioning within the shoe, the outsole, and the unique midsole response. The only major knock on the Energy Boost 3 is the aforementioned issue with the upper. The plastic strips on the outside of the upper have been reported as causing issues for some runner and discomfort.
Style
The style is certainly an area where Adidas has experience, and Adidas is no slouch when it comes to stylish shoes either. The Energy Boost 3s are probably not the most stylish shoe Adidas has to offer, but they are still a very solid looking pair of shoes in terms of design. They are also offered in a variety of different colors ranging from a vibrant red to a tame black.
Durability
Durability is something to always consider when looking at new shoes. Most people don’t really want to be making repeated trips to the store to buy new shoes, especially during training season. The Energy Boost 3s are quite a shoe, based on the build of the outsole, however, they do not feature the Adiwear outsole. The Adiwear outsole was featured on some of Adidas other shoes, as well as the original Energy Boost, and shoes that had it were some of the most durable shoes of their time. The fact that the Energy Boost 3s do not include it is a bit disappointing, as it is likely less durable than those shoes. That said, the Energy Boost 3s are still great in their own right, and most runners should find good use from them for a solid period of time. In particular, the midsole continues to be very responsive even after heavy usage which is a great feature.
Protection
The Energy Boost 3s offer solid protection. The overall design of the shoe’s midsole and cushioning contribute to a stability that protects feet from minor slips and stumbles. The upper of the shoe is also very solid and well constructed to provide a layer of protection from impacts that could be harmful. in all, the Boost 3 provides good protection.
Responsiveness
Responsiveness describes the rebound and response whenever it impacts the ground, or during the runner’s stride. A better energy return promotes a more efficient stride and safer running. The Energy Boost 3s excel here, through their uniquely designed TPU midsole. The shoe responds extremely well to every step and has a springy feel that makes running in them very enjoyable. For those looking for a responsive shoe, the Energy Boost 3s are top of the line.
Support
The Boost 3 offers solid support through the design of its midsole and upper. The upper has an improved design from the Energy Boost 2s, using Adidas’ Techfit technology, which provides more stability and without compromising flexibility. The midsole has a special system, dubbed Adidas’ Torsion system, which helps keep the foot in a neutral plane, via the EVA midsole rim. Through these traits, Adidas offers a well supported shoe in the Boost 3s.
Terrain
The Energy Boost 3 is usable on almost all terrains, though it does not particularly excel in any terrain. The only areas to possibly watch out for are more extreme cases, such as ice or extremely rocky terrain. The Energy Boost 3s should also be usable in rain with caution, though it is important to note that water tends to seep through the Boost 3s more quickly than other running shoes.
Price
Price is another factor that should always be considered when buying trainers. The Energy Boost 3s definitely sport a higher price tag than a lot of shoes on the market. Though probably not overpriced, considering the unique features they bring to the table, it is important to note that many trainers can be found for a bit cheaper. Though pricey, the Boost 3s certainly offer a good return on their value.
Drop
The drop, or measurement of heel size of a shoe, on these Energy Boost 3s is 10mm. A 10mm drop is very standard in terms of trainers of this size, so there aren’t many major points of contention in terms of the drop for the Boost 3s.
Stability
The shoe’s overall stability indicates how supportive the model really is, which in turn is useful in preventing injuries. These shoes offer great stability, through the previously mentioned Torsion System, which stabilizes the foot by keeping it in a neutral plane. It does this through an EVA midsole rim. In turn, the Boost 3s are an overall well-stabilized shoe.
Flexibility
Flexibility is vital in preventing bad twists and possible strains, and in facilitating good natural movement. The Energy Boost 3s are decently flexible, with the Techfit upper, which is designed to incorporate a sock-like fit, and promote stability. Though probably not as flexible as lighter or more minimalist shoes, the Energy Boost 3s are a decently flexible shoe.
Traction
The shoe’s traction refers to the grip they have on various surfaces. The traction on these shoes is fairly solid, as the outsole is constructed of a gripping rubber. The outsole is prone to a bit of wear, however, which over time decreases overall traction, though this tends to occur after a long period in most shoes anyways. The traction experienced with the Boost 3s is solid, being neither a point of weakness or point of strength.
Bottom Line
Overall, these are a very safe and solid choice of running trainers. Their patented TPU midsole offers greater energy return and spring than most shoes on the market. This, along with the support and stability of the Torsion system, and the styling of the shoe, creating a solid and well-rounded pair of shoes. The only issues worth noting are the plastic straps on the upper which may cause discomfort for some and the price tag. The Energy Boost 3s are definitely a bit pricier than the average pair of runners, though they do make up for it by providing unique and well-designed features. Overall, if you are looking for a very responsive and stylish shoe for running, other athletic, or even everyday use, and don’t mind spending a bit more, the Energy Boost 3s are a great option.
