I declared the Adidas Ultra Boost as the best running shoes I ever worn when I reviewed it last year.

Most running shoes use midsoles made of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam. But Adidas' Boost series of shoes has midsoles made of thermoplastic polyurethane, which is said to be three times more resistant to temperature changes than EVA. Thus, more energy is stored instead of being dissipated as heat.

And the Ultra Boost's midsole packs 20 per cent more cushioning foam than normal Boost shoes.Not only was it the most responsive running shoes I've used, I also love its comfort, ventilation and support.

Apparently, many runners around the world felt the same. But according to reports from sneakerhead blogs and running websites, they went an extra mile. To make their Ultra Boost shoes lighter and show off its pretty upper, many runners have cut off its plastic mid-foot cage.

So Adidas have decided to come up with its own Uncaged version - the Ultra Boost Uncaged.

The shoes have an upper made from the same soft knit material of its predecessor, which expands naturally with your foot during running.

The Uncaged's new sock-like construction, though, makes the shoes fit even better.

The Uncaged also uses the original Ultra Boost's dual-density Torsion System, which is embedded in its base, allowing better independent movement between the heel and forefoot for more stability and control.

I am delighted to see the Uncaged retaining the original external heel counter. It cups my injury-prone ankle securely without restricting movement or comfort.

During my runs with the Uncaged, which ranged from 2.4km to 6km, the energy return on every stride was evident, whether I landed on my heels or mid-foot. The shoes also felt more comfortable than the original.

Looks-wise, the Uncaged is also more attractive and stylish than the original.

The review unit's upper comes in a blend of grey and black finishes, with the subtle three stripes ending near the big-toe section.

This is one pair of running shoes that will not look out of place on a fashion runway.

Trevor Tan

• Verdict: The Adidas Ultra Boost Uncaged is the ultimate manifestation of both fashion and function in a pair of running shoes. Price be damned.