Every single time an adidas AE 1 hits shelves, it sells out almost immediately. As Anthony Edwards’ first signature shoe ever, this sneaker has captured the attention of basketball fans all over the globe. Beyond its association with the rising NBA star though, the futuristic silhouette has gained a loyal following thanks to its bold design and range of colourways, which adidas has truly nailed this time around.
If you’re thinking of adding the adidas AE 1 to your collection, you might have a few questions in mind. So in this sizing guide and review, we’ll be taking a closer look at the fit, comfort, and performance of the AE 1, ensuring you have all the details you need before making your decision. So, let’s get started!
The AE 1 offers a snug, supportive fit, especially around the heel, where padding ensures secure lockdown. For most wearers, going true to size should be sufficient, but those with medium to narrow feet might prefer going half a size down for a more precise fit. Adjusting the laces or wearing thicker socks can also help achieve a more secure fit for narrower feet.
On the other hand, the AE 1 is quite accommodating for wide feet, offering more room than many other basketball shoes. While the midfoot fits regularly, some wearers may find the toebox to feel slightly longer.
The AE 1 offers a high level of comfort, largely due to its full-length Jet Boost cushioning. This setup delivers a springy and responsive feel that helps players stay light on their feet. Impact protection is particularly solid in the heel and midfoot areas, making it great for players who need extra support during quick cuts and sudden movements. The cushioning is soft but not overly so, striking a nice balance between comfort and performance without feeling too mushy.
However, the forefoot cushioning may not be as supportive for heavier players, who might experience some discomfort during hard flexing. The material in the toe area could cause slight soreness after long periods of wear, especially in fast-paced games. Despite this, the AE 1 remains a well-rounded option for those looking for a comfortable yet responsive sneaker that can handle the demands of a high-intensity game.
The AE 1 definitely leans toward the heavier side, especially when compared to other basketball shoes. The TPU wrap around the sole adds some noticeable weight, which can impact speed and agility on the court. While the upper part is quite minimal, the extra heft becomes more apparent after extended play. For shorter sessions, it might not be an issue, but during longer games, players could experience foot fatigue as the weight begins to affect lift and first-step explosiveness.
Though heavier in hand, the AE 1 doesn’t feel as cumbersome once you’re actually playing. However, the added weight may affect players who rely heavily on quick movements and agility. The heavier construction might provide more stability and support, but it could come at the cost of speed and energy over time.
The AE 1 is best suited for indoor courts, thanks to its durable outsole and reliable traction pattern. Indoor surfaces allow the shoe to truly shine, offering excellent grip for sharp cuts and quick movements. However, while it’s primarily designed for indoor play, it can handle outdoor surfaces as well. Just be mindful that aggressive outdoor use could lead to faster wear, especially around the outsole’s wave-like structure, which may fray over time.
Players who prefer outdoor courts will still benefit from the shoe’s solid performance, but frequent outdoor play might result in uneven wear on the outsoles. For those balancing between both environments, the AE 1 provides versatility, but indoor courts are where it performs at its best in terms of durability and traction.
The AE 1 performs well on the court, especially in terms of traction. Its herringbone pattern offers reliable grip, although it may take a few minutes to break in, especially on dusty surfaces. Once warmed up, the traction helps players execute sharp cuts and quick stops without slipping. This feature works effectively on both indoor and outdoor courts, offering players dependable support during intense movements.
The shoe also provides solid lateral and medial support, thanks to the wide forefoot base and TPU wrap. While these elements add some weight to the AE 1, they play an essential role in keeping players stable during high-energy gameplay. The padded heel ensures the ankle is locked in, reducing the risk of injury during rapid directional changes. Though not the lightest option available, the AE 1 makes up for this with durability and reliable support, which is critical for frequent and high-intensity play.
The adidas AE 1 brings solid performance to the court, but there are a few considerations. Its herringbone-patterned traction offers reliable grip, though it may need a bit of break-in time, especially on dusty surfaces. Once that’s out of the way, the traction holds strong, allowing players to make sharp cuts and quick stops without slipping.
In terms of support, the wide forefoot base and TPU wrap provide excellent lateral and medial stability, keeping you secure during high-intensity movements. However, these features do add noticeable weight, which might slow down players looking for a lighter, faster shoe. Despite this, the padded heel ensures good ankle lockdown, reducing the risk of injury during rapid direction changes.
How does the adidas AE 1 fit?
The AE 1 offers a snug, supportive fit, particularly around the heel. It’s recommended to go true to size, but those with medium to narrow feet might consider going half a size down for a more precise fit.
Does the adidas AE 1 require a break-in period?
The AE 1 may feel slightly stiff at first, but after a short break-in period, the shoes soften up, particularly in the forefoot and traction areas.
Is the adidas AE 1 lightweight?
No, the AE 1 is slightly heavier due to its supportive features like the TPU wrap and padding, which provide stability but add to the weight.
How comfortable is the adidas AE 1?
The AE 1 provides excellent comfort thanks to full-length Jet Boost cushioning, which offers a springy, responsive feel, even during long games.
