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

Bottom Line
Pros
Cons
Adidas Ultra Boost 22 score
Adidas Ultra Boost 22
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A popular shoe for runners looking for comfort and stability
+ Comfortable and stable cushioning
+ Precise foot lockdown and a better fit for women
+ Stylish shoe
+ Rugged design made to last
+ Fully recycled upper
– A little narrow
– Still heavy
– Not very responsive
– High price
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 score
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38
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A popular running shoe that offers comfort and versatility for daily runs
+ Great comfort
+ Cushioning that absorbs shock well
+ Well-fitting mesh upper with secure lockdown and roomier than previously
+ Versatile model
+ Sturdy build
– Testers unanimously note the lack of responsiveness when it comes to the cushioning
– Some users report signs of creasing on the sole

Adidas Ultra Boost 22

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38

Technical Specs

TerrainRoadRoad
Pronation typeNeutralNeutral
Drop10 mm10 mm
Heel stack height31 mm28 mm
Forefoot stack height21 mm18 mm
Weight (men)333 g/11.7 oz275 g/9.7 oz
Weight (women)285 g/10.1 oz235 g/8.3 oz
FeaturesRecycled materials
Release year20222021

Technologies

OutsoleContinental, StretchwebRubber compound
MidsoleBOOST, Linear Energy PushReact, Zoom Air
UpperParley Ocean Plastic, PrimeknitEngineered mesh, midfoot webbing, tongue in foam, wider forefoot

Cushioning

Softness (1-5)3 – Moderate3 – Moderate
Bounce (1-5)2 – Low3 – Moderate

Use

SpeedSlow, moderateSlow, moderate
DistanceMid, long, 10k, half marathon, marathonMid, long, 10k, half marathon, marathon
WorkoutDaily runsDaily runs
Kevin Le Gall

Kevin Le Gall

Kevin is the founder and editor of Runner's Lab. He started running in 2015 and completed his first marathon in Rotterdam in 2016. He's also worked for Under Armour from 2016 to 2018 and helped launch their running collection in Europe (in particular the HOVR shoes). In addition, Kevin is a 300-hour certified yoga teacher (Sivananda) and uses this experience to run more mindfully with a focus on well-being over performance.