I tried Adidas' reflective Boost sneakers designed for night-time joggers — here's how they've held up over the last year

When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

• Adidas launched a new sneaker designed for nighttime runners, aptly named the Nite Jogger.
• Inspired by a sneaker of the same name from 1979, today's version features a full-length Boost midsole, a cut-and-sewn upper, and plenty of reflective accents for nighttime visibility. 
• Priced at $100-$160, the Adidas Nite Jogger is one of the most affordable Boost sneakers. 
• UPDATE on 5/29/2020: It's been a year since I first reviewed my Nite Joggers and they're still one of my go-to shoes for working out. As Adidas continues to release more versions, select colorways can be had for less than the already-affordable retail price, which makes them a really great deal now. 

Product Embed:
Product Name: Adidas Nite Joggers
Card Type: small
https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5e5ed5b1fee23d0e6d3fd6d6&type=small&live=true
Width: 100%
Height: 150%

Running is often regarded as a sport with endless bounds. Requiring nothing more than the clothes on your back, the shoes on your feet, and the path in front of you, it can provide an exhilarating sense of freedom. But for some, that freedom can be stripped away after sunset. City runners tend to reserve their strides for daylight for fear of not being seen.

Visibility has always been a major concern for urban runners, so Adidas just launched a shoe to help solve their problem.

Separated from the original 1979 Nite Jogger by more than 40 years of innovation, this updated Nite Jogger model is completely redesigned. It features a full-length Boost midsole, OrthoLite sock liners, and a mesh ripstop nylon, plus a combination of reflective accents for nighttime visibility.

While I'm personally not a devout night-time runner, Adidas releasing an all-new Boost silhouette for $130 was reason enough for me to show interest in them. Having worn a handful of more expensive Boost sneakers including Ultra Boosts, Ultra Boost 19s, NMDs, and Yeezys, I decided to see how the affordably-priced Nite Jogger stacked up — and how it performed at night. 

First impressions

The first thing that caught my attention was how great the overall style of the sneaker is. I'm constantly impressed with how Adidas can create all-new sneakers that are fit for modern times, but still pay homage to the brand's heritage. In contrast to most modern sneakers that use fused synthetic uppers and modern manufacturing techniques, the Nite Jogger has a cut-and-sewn upper that's reminiscent of 1979 version and other silhouettes from that era.

While reflective accents have long been used on footwear, the Nite Jogger manages to use a lot of it without looking tacky. The signature Three Stripes, heels, lateral side of the toe box, and laces all shine brightly at night.

What they're like to wear

I've yet to come across a Boost sneaker that was uncomfortable and the Nite Jogger is no exception. However, the bottom is rather flat — similar to the NMD.  I wouldn't say the Nite Jogger is as performance-based as the Ultra Boost, but at $50 less, it's also understandable. I still found them to be exceptionally comfortable and perfectly suitable for walking long distances, casual runs, and other activities that require you to be on your feet a lot.

Although they're not specifically intended for strength training, I also found the flat bottoms to be a pretty sturdy platform for weightlifting. When I wear my Ultra Boosts in the gym, I sometimes feel myself balancing to compensate for the arched shape of the sole. They're an all-around good sneaker for training, but if you're specifically looking for speed and higher energy return when running, definitely go for the more expensive Ultra Boost. 

In terms of fit, I strongly recommend going with your true size. Adidas didn't have my true size available, so they sent me a half size larger and they're noticeably bigger than other Boost sneakers I've consistently gone up a half size in. If I were to buy another pair, I'll definitely go with my true size.  If I were to buy another pair, I'll definitely go with my true size. My girlfriend, who has also worn a handful of Boost sneakers, went with her true size and was happy with the fit. 

Update after one year of ownership (May 2020)

It's been about a year since Adidas launched the updated Nite Jogger sneaker and the brand hasn't let up on releasing new and interesting colorways. Now that some colorways are hitting the sale section of the website, you can get them for an even better deal.

The pair I tested last year is still one of my go-to shoes to wear to the gym. They've held up well and are still very comfortable. My girlfriend is a registered nurse and wears her pair to work for comfort during 12-hour shifts and then to the gym at night. Even with long hours of wear, she still finds them to be comfortable. 

The bottom line 

For about $140 a pair, there really isn't anything to complain about with the Adidas Nite Jogger. It's lightweight, comfortable, and has a retro-inspired look that's still fresh and modern. Athletes who thrive at night, general comfort seekers, and people into sneakers strictly for style will all find great utility in the Nite Jogger.

While it's not the very best performance runner from Adidas, it's definitely one of the best looking, commanding attention whether it's day or night. 

Shop men's and women's Adidas Nite Jogger for $100-$160 at these retailers: Adidas | Finish Line | Nordstrom