Last year's Adidas Ultra Boost, with its excellent energy return ability, was the best running shoe I have tried. I was, therefore, excited to try out the new Adidas Pure Boost ZG Prime.

Most running shoes use midsoles made of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam, but the ZG Prime's Boost midsole is made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), 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.

The upper uses Adidas' Primeknit technology that is said to expand naturally with your foot during runs, for a more comfortable fit.

The review unit has a grey upper with the white Boost midsole visible, and a blue outsole. It looks stylish and can easily double as a pair of casual sneakers.

Despite its good looks, the ZG Prime is close to being a traditional running shoe with a 10mm heel drop. Traditional running shoes usually have a heel drop of 12mm.

I was recommended by the folks from Adidas to get the shoes half a size bigger than my usual. And you should do the same.

When I slipped on the shoes, I was immediately impressed by the snug fit and how comfortable they felt. My feet felt secure and my toes had enough room to wiggle. Ventilation is great, and my feet did not sweat when I was wearing them.

The external web-like heel counter is superb in keeping the ankles in place - great if, like me, you have injury-prone ankles.

I could feel the energy return on every stride, whether when landing on the heel or mid-foot. Although the bounce was not as pronounced as the Ultra Boost, it still felt good. I did several 5km runs in them and neither my feet nor ankles felt any pain.

Trevor Tan

•Verdict: The Adidas Pure Boost ZG Prime looks stylish as a sneaker but works exactly like a running shoe.