Are Adidas NMD’s Good For Running In?

We all know by now how comfortable the Adidas’ Boost cushioning technology is. Being specifically made for performance runners as it debuted with the Energy Boost in 2013. But does it have what it takes to make an Adidas Originals footwear turn into a running sneaker just because it’s equipped with a Boost sole? We take a close look at whether or not the adidas NMD is good for running in

Let’s take a closer look at the tech specs of the Adidas NMD, its origin, and other things you need to know about before deciding whether they might be the right fit for a long-distance run.

Where did the Adidas NMD originated from?

Adidas Boost is one of the top cushioning choices for performance sports, its insane impact protection and great energy return will satisfy any athlete who wants a comfortable shoe to experience less stress on their joints, especially the legs.

To continue the successful run, the Ultra Boost released in 2015, quickly becoming one of the most popular shoes in the adidas product line. During this time, another adidas shoe with boost technology also made a name for itself for non-athletes, its classic look and the utilization of Boost gave Adidas another great year of release.

Unveiled in 2015 just after 10 months since the Ultra Boost released, Adidas introduced a new Adidas Originals footwear line, the Adidas NMD.

A short abbreviation for ‘Nomad’, the NMD was inspired by older lifestyle models ‘Rising Star’, ‘Boston Super, and the ‘Micropacer’. This resulted in an innovative and fresher look that combines the Primeknit upper design with a full-length Boost midsole. The NMD is then clipped with colourful “lego style bricks” made with EVA (Ethyl Vinyl Acetate) foam that pays tribute to the Adidas Originals sneaker heritage before.

Its unique and minimalist aesthetic became another huge hit for sneakerheads during its first release in February 2015, the OG colourway becoming one of the most hyped shoes of that era. 

It’s also one of the more comfortable sneakers that released from Adidas because of its sock-like upper and unrestrictive support. Using the innovative pull tab you can slide the NMD on and achieve that sock-like fit almost immediately.

The Adidas NMD footwear line followed the path of the Ultraboost and cemented its legacy as one of the most successful sneakers sporting the Boost cushioning technology.

Over the years wev’ve seen a number of explosive colourways later on and had new versions that tweaked the upper, some versions having a higher cut without laces and some with a completely reinforced structure. But all version retain the sock-like feel and the classic Boost Outsole.

It had collaborations with other streetwear brands like Bape and Neighborhood. It’s also the base sneaker of Pharrell Williams’ very own Hu (Human) NMD sneakers that had statements placed on the upper.

But, can I run in the Adidas NMD?

Comfortable Boost midsole, EVA foam bricks on the side panel, and a low cut build. The Adidas NMD excelled as a lifestyle sneaker. It sounds like it’s a blend of features for a running sneaker.

So, does this mean it’s the adidas NMD is good for running in?

Well probably not. Sure it has a Boost midsole, sure it has a durable outsole. But that doesn’t mean you can run in them for long distances and expect a painless ride after a few hours. You can use them as an adequate gym shoe or for quick training sessions if you have no other alternative.

One of the reasons for this is that its Boost isn’t the same Boost you can feel on most Adidas running trainers, the Adidas NMD has a slightly firmer and denser Boost that allows for a more stable feeling. It’s the same reason why the EVA foam bricks are placed on the Boost midsole, it might be stable but not supportive enough to protect laterally.

The Primeknit upper is softer and loses its structure after a few years because it isn’t reinforced like the Ultraboost. Ultimately there are better options on the market and Adidas definitely has better running shoes.

The NMD may stand for ‘Nomad’ but it’s intended for the everyday urban traveller and not the hardcore road runner.

What are the best Adidas Boost sneakers for running

Now that you’ve learned that running in the Adidas NMD is a no-go, we’ve come up with a list that will help you pick which Adidas Boost running footwear can “boost” 😏 your run whether you’re a serious athlete or just an avid fan of running.

Most of Adidas’ running sneakers are equipped with Boost technology, though some recent models also feature their latest proprietary EVA foam called Lightstrike, which is supposed to create a balance of lightweight step-in comfort and responsive cushioning.

Adidas Ultraboost ‘21

The latest in the Ultra Boost footwear line, the Ultraboost 21 takes a huge leap by redesigning the core of what made Ultra Boost into an iconic trainer.

Pros:

Introducing the new Adidas LEP (Linear Energy Push) torsion system which provides a 15% increase in the forefoot’s flexibility stiffness for a spring in every stride. It works hand in hand with the optimized Boost which packs 6% more Boost capsules compared to its predecessor making the Ultraboost 21 the most “Boosted” Adidas sneaker in history.

The upper is comprised of Primeblue, a recycled upper material in collaboration of Parley for the Oceans, and Primeknit+ which is a more precise version of Primeknit for incredible support and comfortable movement.

Every Ultraboost sneaker never disappoints and this latest offering from Adidas is bound to bring the Ultraboost standard to a higher level.

Cons:

• Fit will vary depending on foot’s width
• More Boost might equate to denser Boost.

The Adidas Ultraboost line is consistent and reliable as a lifestyle and as a performance running shoe. The first few versions have been continually re-releasing with the classic and new colourways so you have a lot to choose from.

The best place to buy Ultraboost is direct from adidas here

All Ultraboost sneakers: HERE

Ultraboost 21: HERE

Adidas Adizero Pro

Where two of the best Adidas cushioning technologies meet.

An ultra-lightweight runner that combines Boost and Lightstrike foam cushioning with the use of a carbon plate, the Adizero Pro is a great quality running sneaker if you prefer anything not called Ultraboost. The Continental rubber outsole also increases your traction and outsole durability.

Pros:

• Carbon Plate that multiplies each step’s explosiveness for a faster stride.
• Celermesh Upper: A mesh upper with an internal grid pattern for a lightweight support and secure fit.
• Dual Cushion Midsole combines Lighstrike and Boost.

Cons:

• Unisex sizing might confuse some buyers.
• Upper might be too narrow for wide footers.

A straight up running sneaker that will give you what you’re looking for, the Adidas Adizero Pro is seriously a running shoe to consider.

The best place to buy Adizero Pro is direct from adidas HERE

Adidas SolarBoost 3

A shoe specifically meant for long distances and high-mileage runs, the SolarBoost 3 utilizes the LEP torsion with the Energy Rail for additional support.

Pros:

• PrimeGreen upper made with recycled materials weaved for high-performance running.
• Full-length Boost midsole for maximum impact protection and responsiveness.
• StretchWeb with Continental rubber outsole for grip and durability.

Another running-specific sneaker that gets its job done without the thrills and without the hype needed to make a shoe good. The SolarBoost 3 is another reliable Boost-cushioned runner that is meant to make you run more hours than before.

The best place to buy Adidas Solarboost 3 is direct from adidas HERE

The Adidas NMD as a lifestyle sneaker

This is where the shoe truly shines. Any adidas shoe with boost foam is known to be very comfortable, even when just standing or walking in. But the adidas NMD sits right as a casual city shoe, especially if you’re on your feet for long periods.

The Adidas NMD has an uncaged structure and a soft Primeknit upper that doesn’t restrict airflow, although there are mesh versions but they’re both comfortable either way. These sneakers don’t hug your foot tightly and are perfect as a training shoe, or a basic gym shoe.

If you’re still curious about the NMD as a casual lifestyle shoe, we recommend checking out our adidas NMD detailed page that lists all of out favourite NMD colourways current available as new releases and on sale.

it’s definitely a comfortable sneaker that will turn people’s heads, (especially if you copped any hard-to-get collabs) Bape, Neighbourhood, and Pharrell Williams, as well as recent collaborations with Consortium and even Star Wars.