Following on from my adidas lyll socks review, I’m continuing my feet inspired theme (award winning foot blogger, remember) to talk about adidas running shoes, and specifically the adidas Made with Nature range. While I no longer run (never say never) and while I have significantly reduced my running shoes collection, I still have a love affair with the adidas Ultraboost and the adidas Made with Nature Ultraboost 22 is my latest addition.
The Green (Flash) Evolution of Running Shoes
If Mother Nature were to choose a running shoe, the adidas Made with Nature Ultraboost 22 would definitely be on her shortlist as the most stylish. Combining style, innovation, sustainability, and the performance we all crave, this eco-friendly shoe is here to show that style and performance can be found in a sustainable running shoe. And I’m here to show you why I have chosen the Made with Nature Ultraboost 22 over other shoes (although it does help that they were gifted to me by adidas).
Green is the New Black
This environmentally-conscious adidas Made with Nature Ultraboost 22 is crafted using recycled materials, making it a shoe you can truly feel good about wearing. With the Made with Nature Ultraboost 22, adidas has successfully merged style with sustainability, offering earthy colorways that will make even the most fashion-forward sneakerhead proud to wear their green heart on their sole.
Going againt my better judgement, I opted for the natural looking cream colourway. I’ve resigned myself to not wearing them in wet and dirty (sadly, it is) Glasgow and instead, making them my summer shoes and specifically my Califiornia Summer shoes. Yes, despite the steps I’ve taken this year to reduce my plastic use, to recycle and to cut back on spending, one thing I can’t resist is visiting the US (blogs to come soon about last summer’s trip). If I am to get serious about my carbon footprint, I need to seriously curtail my long haul flights. But back to the adidas Made with Nature Ultraboost 22s.
Cushioning That Cares
The legendary Boost midsole remains the star of the show and incorporates innovative cushioning technology that utilizes elastic thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) pellets. These are formed into elliptical shapes, which are then steam-bonded and molded into a midsole that offers exceptional energy return and foot cushioning. This unique design ensures better shock absorption, and the shoes quickly regain their shape after each stride, allowing runners to go farther and faster while using the same amount of energy (and I do like conserving energy). I also like conserving our planet’s resources, so I was pleased to read that adidas uses recycled TPU making it more eco-friendly (but let’s not stop improving). Having worn Ultraboosts from around 2015 (pure boost the year before) I’ve yet to find a pair of running shoes that put such a bounce in my step.
Get a Grip with The Made with Nature Ultraboost 22
With the Continental™ Better Rubber outsole, you’ll be tearing around the race running track, and supporting sustainable rubber production. The outsole is designed for maximum grip and durability, with a plush and cushioned feel to every step. Suited to pathways and parks, and runners of all abilities. With collapsed arches having a durable sole is important to me, as is the stability offered by the shoe. Having tried a lot of shoes, I’ve found that when wearing Ultraboost shoes, calluses take longer to form on my right foot (I really should get some orthotics and do some physio).
A Perfect Fit, Naturally
The adidas Made with Nature Ultraboost 22’s Primeblue upper is a testament to adidas’ commitment to sustainability and comfort. This eco-friendly Primeblue fabric provides a soft, snug, and breathable sock-like fit that hugs your feet like a warm embrace. Crafted from Parley Ocean Plastic, the material is made from upcycled plastic waste intercepted from coastal communities before it reaches the ocean. I’ve been open about my concerns about the phrase “ocean plastic” and it is great to see both adidas and Parley being transparent about how and where the plastic is collected.
Not all Plastic is Equal
Ocean plastic is often contaminated with organic matter, salt, and other debris, which requires thorough cleaning before it can be processed. Additionally, the exposure to harsh ocean conditions may cause the plastic to become brittle or degraded, making it more challenging to process and repurpose into the high-quality materials that adidas would need to maintain its high standards. Plastic bottles intercepted before they get to the ocean are arguably more suitable for their needs.
Egually, by promoting the use of Parley Ocean Plastic in the Made with Nature Ultraboost 22 and other products, adidas has created a ripple effect throughout the industry, encouraging other brands to consider their environmental impact and embrace sustainable practices. By supporting products made with Parley Ocean Plastic, consumers can make a tangible difference in the fight against plastic pollution. Each purchase not only contributes to cleaner oceans beaches, but also sends a powerful message about the importance of sustainable choices in fashion and beyond.
By choosing products made with Parley Ocean Plastic, you can be part of the movement for a cleaner, healthier planet, while enjoying high-performance, stylish, and sustainable products like the Made with Nature Ultraboost 22.
The Verdict
While shoes like the Degenerative from Unless Collective are completely circular (they can be decomposed), the adidas Made with Nature Ultraboost 22 is the ultimate running shoe for the modern eco-conscious runner. With its sustainable materials,high-performance features, and effortlessly stylish design, it’s a shoe that’s got it all. It will appeal more to those wanting to shop more sustainably, but without sacrificing quality or performance. Whether you’re looking for a personal best, running to save the planet or strutting your stuff on a Santa Monica beach, these running shoes are just the fit. So, lace up those Made With Nature Ultraboost 22s and prepare to unleash your inner eco-warrior.
If you would like to see more of the Made with Nature range, including the t-shirt above that I’ve just ordered, at adidas, be sure to check the adidas website for the latest releases. In my next adidas blog I’ll be sharing how you can recycle and earn money towards your next adidas purchase with Made to be Remade
