Adidas Ultraboost vs Nike Pegasus: Which One? (2025 Comparison)

adidas ultraboost 5 vs nike pegasus 41

These two flagship shoes are often compared due to their similar setups and mainstream success.

However, the Ultraboost started out as a mix between a sneaker and a running shoe, but Adidas has recently shifted it entirely toward running, resulting in a lighter and more technical configuration.

As a result, it’s just slightly heavier than the Nike Pegasus 41 (about 10 g).

Both shoes offer a high level of cushioning with a classic setup: no plate and a moderate rocker.

Still, the underfoot feel is a bit softer on the Pegasus. If you don’t like firmness, it will be a better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer more structure for better stability, the Ultraboost might be a better fit.

In terms of responsiveness, the Nike Pegasus performs slightly better, but again, both models are quite close.

Finally, foot lockdown is equivalent on both models: breathable, flexible, and well-fitted, the mesh is comfortable and secure.

Ultraboost or Pegasus: Which One Should You Pick?

As you’ve seen, these two running shoes are evenly matched (in fact, we gave them the same overall rating).

Our advice: go with the brand you’re most used to, since the choice here mainly comes down to personal preference.

Side-by-side comparison

9
Adidas Ultra Boost 22 Check Prices
9.3
Nike Pegasus 41 Check Prices
Overview
Description The Nike Pegasus 41 is a very good, versatile and affordable daily trainer for all your runs.
Comfort
Responsiveness
8
Foot lockdown
9
Stability
9.5
Durability
9.5
Value
9
Design
9
Comfort
9.5
Responsiveness
9
Foot lockdown
9
Stability
9
Durability
9
Value
9
Design
9
Facts
TerrainRoadRoad
Support NeutralNeutral
Heel stack height31 mm37 mm
Forefoot stack height21 mm27 mm
Heel-to-toe drop10 mm10 mm
Weight (men)333 g270 g
Weight (women) 285 g251 g
Features Wide feet, Recycled materials, Rocker
Athletes
Release year20222024
Technologies
Outsole Blown rubber
Midsole Zoom Air, ReactX
UpperEngineered Mesh, Flywire
Cushioning
Cushioning Balanced Balanced
ResponsivenessLow Medium
Use
DistanceMid|10K|Half marathon|Long|Marathon Short, 5K, Mid, 10K, Half marathon, Long, Marathon
Speed Slow|Moderate Slow, Moderate, Fast
WorkoutsDaily running Daily running
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.