Adidas Ultra Boost 22 vs. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 (2022)
Runners often compare these two flagship shoes due to their similar configurations and mainstream success. However, while the Adidas UltraBoost 22 is halfway between a sneaker and a running shoe, the Nike Pegasus 38 is a full-fledged running shoe with no ambitions for fashion.
In practice, the Pegasus thus offers a more technical configuration – read lighter: with more than 1.7 oz/50 g difference, the shoe of Nike is more lightweight.
The P38’s stack is lower 28 mm in the heel compared to 31 mm for the UB22. Both shoes have a 10-mm drop. Nevertheless, the underfoot feel is softer on the Pegasus. Testers agree that the UltraBoost platform is firmer. There’s no discussion about energy return: without being itself very responsive, the Pegasus is snappier than the Ultra Boost.
The Adidas still has a significant advantage over its rival: its stability. Its firmness and reasonable structure make it a good option for runners looking for a stable ride without opting for a shoe for overpronation.
Finally, the foot lockdown is equivalent on both models: breathable, flexible, and well fitted, the mesh is comfortable and secure. Be careful, though: the Ultra Boost has a slightly narrow fit, which may not suit athletes with wide feet.
Ultra Boost or Pegasus: which one to choose?
Overall, the Pegasus does better in almost every way. It’s lighter, more responsive, more comfortable, and even cheaper!
The only reason you might prefer the Adidas Ultra Boost is its firm, stable cushioning.
Side-by-side comparison
+ Precise foot lockdown and a better fit for women
+ Stylish shoe
+ Rugged design made to last
+ Fully recycled upper
– Still heavy
– Not very responsive
– High price
+ Cushioning that absorbs shock well
+ Well-fitting mesh upper with secure lockdown and roomier than previously
+ Versatile model
+ Sturdy build
– Some users report signs of creasing on the sole
Adidas Ultra Boost 22
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38
Technical Specs
Terrain | Road | Road |
Pronation type | Neutral | Neutral |
Drop | 10 mm | 10 mm |
Heel stack height | 31 mm | 28 mm |
Forefoot stack height | 21 mm | 18 mm |
Weight (men) | 333 g/11.7 oz | 275 g/9.7 oz |
Weight (women) | 285 g/10.1 oz | 235 g/8.3 oz |
Features | Recycled materials | |
Release year | 2022 | 2021 |
Technologies
Outsole | Continental, Stretchweb | Rubber compound |
Midsole | BOOST, Linear Energy Push | React, Zoom Air |
Upper | Parley Ocean Plastic, Primeknit | Engineered mesh, midfoot webbing, tongue in foam, wider forefoot |
Cushioning
Softness (1-5) | 3 – Moderate | 3 – Moderate |
Bounce (1-5) | 2 – Low | 3 – Moderate |
Use
Speed | Slow, moderate | Slow, moderate |
Distance | Mid, long, 10k, half marathon, marathon | Mid, long, 10k, half marathon, marathon |
Workout | Daily runs | Daily runs |