We know this is a massive statement to make, but the Adidas NMD S1 is a game changer. Back in 2015, the German sportswear company took the wraps off of its NMD R1 silhouette. Revealed during a mysterious event in New York City, the lifestyle model redefined the meaning of hype, with sneakerheads paying up to four figures for the two original colourways, and queuing for hours and hours on end to hopefully get their hands on a pair. While popularity surrounding Adi’s NMD line is far from what it used to be, they’re hoping to reinvigorate it with the NMD S1, and by the looks of things, it’s totally working.
Since its introduction in the summer of 2022, it’s already been blessed with countless coveted colourways and collaborations. If you desperately want a pair in your rotation, then you’ve come to the right place. Here, we’ll be covering everything from the design, the fit, and so much more. So keep it locked right here to find out everything that you need to know!
As the latest entry to Adidas’ legendary NMD line, the NMD S1 has a lot to live up to. Flawlessly fusing the past, present, and future, the the avant-garde trainer borrows design elements from classic shoes of the ’70s and ’80s, and gives them an ultra-contemporary rework.
In general, the NMD S1 fits true to size (TTS). While the midfoot panels are a little on the narrower side, the rest of the upper is quite roomy. If you have wide feet you might be tempted to size up, but strangely, even if you go up by only half a size it’ll be too long, so we’d recommend that you stick to TTS.
The NMD series has been around for almost 8 years, and in this time, the Herzogenaurach-based company has experimented with hundreds of different prototypes and samples to create the most comfortable kicks out there – the NMD S1 is no different. If you’re a fan of the original NMD R1, then you’re going to love this. Boasting a sock-like Primeknit construction that’s extremely flexible and versatile, this has been specifically designed so that it can be easily stowed away in a backpack or bag for travel (hence the name, nomad). Monofilament mesh across the lateral and medial sidewalls offer unrivalled ventilation, and the stretchy collar surprisingly provides a lot of support.
Of course, you can’t talk about the NMD S1 without mentioning its chunky midsole. Infused with Adidas’ critically-acclaimed Boost technology, this is, without a doubt, the bounciest unit on any Three Stripes trainer. Honestly, every step feels like you’re walking on a plump cloud.
While the NMD S1 is the spiritual successor to the NMD R1 (where “R” stands for “runner”), we really wouldn’t recommend running in these. While they are indeed very comfortable and supportive, they are a little on the chunkier and heavier side, so even a light jog might require a lot of effort.
At the end of the day, the NMD S1 is a lifestyle sneaker. If you’re looking for a shoe that you can wear everyday for walking, this should be on your radar. For those who want something for running, be sure to check out the Ultraboost 21 silhouette instead.
The NMD S1 is becoming more and more popular by the minute. Luckily, it’s generally widely available, so you don’t need to join raffles or camp outside stores to cop a pair:
The Adidas NMD S1 is unlike anything else out there. Even though it’s only been around for a year, we’ve been blessed with hundreds of colourways and plenty of hyped collaborations from the likes of Pharrell Williams, Rimowa, and many more. Combining the past, present, and future, this sneaker fits true to size and is extremely comfortable, especially for walking. So, what are you waiting for? Secure your pair right now before somebody else does it for you!