For most people the Adidas Ultraboost 5 is the one to buy: it is the best balance of comfort, performance and value in this group. If it is not quite right for you, the Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 is the strong runner-up that suits a slightly different stride or budget.
Choosing a training shoe online is hard because every brand calls its foam responsive and every model is the most cushioned yet. What actually matters is a much shorter list, and we have done the legwork so you can skip straight to the pick that fits how you move. There is a lot to like across Adidas's lineup, but not every model suits every runner, so we narrowed it to the Adidas training shoes that genuinely stand out. Wet weather demands a waterproof build and reliable grip, which shaped every choice below.
Below are the options that consistently rise to the top across independent lab measurements and large pools of verified owner reviews. We have grouped them by the job each one does best, so you can jump to the right pick rather than reading all six.
Quick comparison
The picks, in detail
Adidas Ultraboost 5
More lifestyle than racer now, but the Boost foam still makes it a plush, durable do-it-all cushioned shoe.
- Very durable
- Plush, energetic Boost
- Looks good casually
- Heavy
- Pricey for performance
Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3
Adidas' record-setting marathon shoe with Lightstrike Pro foam and energy rods for relentless rebound.
- Outstanding energy return
- Race-proven
- Light
- Narrow
- Expensive
Adidas Adizero Boston 12
Energy-rod-equipped daily-trainer-meets-tempo shoe: firm, fast, and durable for high mileage.
- Durable and fast
- Great for workouts
- Stable
- Firm ride
- Narrow
Adidas Terrex Swift R3
A fast, athletic hiking shoe with Continental rubber grip for day hikes and scrambling.
- Excellent Continental grip
- Athletic, light feel
- Durable
- Snug fit
- Less cushion
Adidas Dame Certified
An affordable Lillard signature shoe with Bounce cushioning and reliable outdoor-friendly grip.
- Affordable
- Durable for outdoor
- Good traction
- Firm
- Basic look
Adidas Harden Vol. 8
A cushioned step-back machine with Boost and a wide, stable base for crafty guards.
- Plush Boost cushioning
- Stable wide base
- Good grip
- Bulky
- Heavy
How to choose
- Stability for lifting. A flat, firm, wide base keeps you grounded under load. Avoid soft, tall running foam for heavy lifts.
- Flexibility for cardio. HIIT and class work need some forefoot flex; pure lifting shoes feel stiff for jumping and running.
- Durability. Rope climbs, burpees and box jumps destroy weak uppers, so look for reinforced, tough materials.
- Versatility. If you do mixed workouts, a do-it-all trainer beats a specialist. Match the shoe to your main activity.
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Related guides
Frequently asked questions
Can I run in training shoes?
Short cardio bursts are fine, but training and lifting shoes have firm, flat soles that feel harsh over longer runs. Use a running shoe for real mileage.
Lifting shoes vs flat trainers?
Raised-heel lifting shoes help squat depth and Olympic lifts. Flat, stable trainers suit deadlifts, CrossFit and general gym work better.
Is the Adidas Ultraboost 5 worth it?
For most buyers, yes. The Adidas Ultraboost 5 earned our top spot for offering the best overall balance in this group, which is why it is our first recommendation.
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