AE 1 Adidas Review: Anthony Edwards’ First Signature Basketball Shoe

When it comes to basketball footwear, the Men’s AE 1 Adidas basketball shoes are making waves as one of the hottest recent releases. As the first signature sneaker for NBA star Anthony Edwards, the AE 1 shoes aims to deliver the stability, and the aesthetic flair Edwards brings to every game. Designed for explosive movements and all-around court performance, the AE 1 Adidas shoes combine functionality and style in one package.
But do these Adidas shoes live up to the hype? In this review based on user feedback, we’ll explore the highs and lows of these Adidas basketball shoes, from their design to traction and overall durability, helping you decide whether the Adidas AE 1 belongs in your rotation.
Adidas AE 1 review: Pros, Cons & Ratings

Design & Look
Eye-Catching
Add your description here…
Pros:
The Men’s Adidas AE 1 stands out with its eye-catching design. The signature Anthony Edwards branding makes it a collector’s item for fans. From their red-black-and cloud white “Pure Ruby” Adidas AE 1 colorways to more vibrant options, these shoes capture a bold, sporty aesthetic. Whether you’re wearing these as basketball shoes or off-court lifestyle sneakers, they bring a modern and stylish flair.
Cons:
This basketball shoe looks better online than in person for some buyers. There are some concerns about the shoes appearing cheap and lacking the same appeal in person. The “Rudy Red” color, for instance, was described as looking faded.
Additionally, getting the right fit can be tricky. Its narrow fit may not suit everyone and look awkward on the foot. Especially those with wider feet.
Several users also reported the shoe is bulky, stiff and takes time to break in. For some, the shoe maybe too heavy for fast-paced gameplay. Still, the overall design remains highly rated for its aesthetics and impact.
Design Summary: Bold, But Not Without Flaws
The AE 1 Adidas sneakers has an eye-catching design, but subjective preferences vary across users.

Sole
Herringbone Pattern
Add your description here…
Pros:
The AE 1 basketball shoes feature a BOOST midsole combined with Lightstrike cushioning and a herringbone rubber outsole that provides reliable support & grip on the hardwood. Players praised the excellent grip and court feel, describing the soles as a perfect match for guards who rely on quick movements.
Cons:
The shoes are on the heavier side, and some found the added weight noticeable during fast-paced games. Despite this, the quality of the robust outsole construction ensures stability, making the shoes a solid option for high-level competition and long-term use.
Sole Summary: Grippy, Yet Heavy:
While the soles are grippy and durable, the weight of these shoes are a notable downside.

TREAD & TRACTION
Top-Tier Grip
Add your description here…
Pros:
When it comes to traction, the Men’s adidas AE 1 doesn’t disappoint. Casual and competitive players frequently reported top-tier grip, with no heel slippage even during explosive moves. This makes the AE 1 basketball shoes ideal for guards who need secure foot placement for aggressive cuts, sprints and changes of direction.
Cons:
The rubber tread traction may require breaking in to reach its full potential. This could be inconvenient for those looking for immediate out-of-the-box performance. But once broken in, the shoes provide exceptional grip across various court surfaces.
Tread & Traction Summary: Outstanding for Guards:
Outstanding traction makes the AE1 perfect for aggressive on court play.

MATERIALS & DURABILITY
Textile Upper & Textile Lining
Add your description here…
Pros:
Constructed with a textile upper and textile lining, the Men’s adidas AE 1 shoes showcase a high level of durability during casual wear and non-competitive use. The rubber outsole also adds durability for both indoor and outdoor use. The high-quality materials contribute to a premium feel upon first impression, and most customers have been satisfied with their longevity.
Cons:
Opinions on materials & durability are mixed. There are some concerns over the material wearing down quicker than expected for some users. While many praised the quality, a few customers experienced the shoe ripping during hard stops or wearing down after a few months.
The shoes are best suited for indoor play, as the textile material may not hold up well under extended outdoor use. Despite these issues, most feedback suggests that the AE 1 shoes hold up well over time, especially considering their price point.
Materials & Durability Summary: Mixed Results:
While the materials initially feel high-end, durability issues were reported by several users.

CUSHIONING & COMFORT
BOOST Technology & Lightstrike Cushioning
Add your description here…
Pros:
Features a hybrid midsole, combining BOOST technology with Lightstrike cushioning. The Adidas Anthony Edwards 1 offers responsiveness, comfort and bounce, ideal for absorbing impact during explosive movements.
Cons:
Some users may find the AE 1 too narrow or its cushioning a bit firm. Compared to other models like the LeBron 21 or GT Jump 2, the AE 1 offers less bounce, which could disappoint those looking for a softer, more responsive feel.
Additionally, some wearers noted fitting challenges—such as a narrow entry—make it difficult for some players to put the shoes on comfortably. The upper feels tight, and the interior stitching, tongue, and laces can cause irritation—making precise adjustments essential for comfort around the top of the foot.
Cushioning & Comfort Summary: Responsive Yet Firm:
When it comes to cushioning, the AE 1 basketball shoes provide a mixed bag. Comfortable overall, but limited by a narrow fit and cushioning that’s too firm initially for some. However, once broken in, many players appreciate the shoe’s overall padding, with several praising its performance both on and off the court.

Ankle Support
Improved Stability
Add your description here…
Pros:
The Adidas AE 1 provides solid ankle support, with some users reporting improved stability and reduced soreness during play. Players have praised the shoe’s ability to lock the foot securely in place, especially during lateral movements. Reviewers noted that once properly laced, the fit feels snug and reliable, making the AE 1 a great option for athletes prone to ankle issues.
Cons:
The fit may be too tight for some, especially around the ankle and the front of the shoe, which may make it challenging to put on. This can cause discomfort if not properly sized. Despite this challenge, many players reported feeling stable and protected during competitive play.
Ankle Support Summary: Secure Fit for Competitive Play

Ventilation
Serviceable
Add your description here…
Pros:
Textile upper provides some breathability. Adequate for casual play or short sessions.
Cons:
The AE 1 features lightweight upper materials, but ventilation isn’t its strongest attribute. While the textile upper allows some airflow, users noted that the shoes can feel warm, especially during intense games. This might not be an issue for casual wear or short sessions but could become uncomfortable during extended play. Additionally, the narrow toe box limits airflow for players with wider feet. Those prioritizing breathability in Adidas basketball shoes may want to consider other models.
VentilationSummary: Limited Breathability
Ventilation is serviceable but not ideal for long, intense games.

Price
Offers Solid Value
Add your description here…
Pros:
One of the biggest selling points of the Adidas AE 1 is its competitive price. These sneakers strike a solid balance between style and performance without stretching your budget. As a signature model featuring Adidas’ top-tier technology and endorsed by rising NBA star Anthony Edwards, the AE 1 offers impressive value. Whether you’re a player looking for quality footwear at an affordable price or a fan and collector of Edwards’ gear, these shoes are an appealing choice.
Cons:
Compared to other high-end basketball shoes, some users felt the shoe’s performance doesn’t justify the price due to the narrow fit, heavier weight and comfort challenges.
Price Summary: Great Value for Performance
While it offers solid value, performance-focused buyers might prefer alternatives.
Overall Score
With its stylish design, exceptional traction, support and responsive midsole, the Adidas AE 1 basketball shoe offers great value for basketball players and casual wearers alike. However, the weight, occasional durability issues and narrow fit may not suit everyone, especially those with wider feet or players preferring ultra-lightweight shoes. If you can get the right size and don’t mind a short break-in period, the Adidas AE 1 is a solid performer on the court and a stylish option off it.
Who Shouldn’t Buy the AE 1 Shoes?
If you’re a player who values ultra-lightweight shoes with maximum cushioning or someone with wider feet, these adidas AE 1 sneakers may not be the best fit. The narrow construction and extra weight can cause discomfort, particularly during fast-paced or high-intensity games. Additionally, those who prioritize ventilation may want to explore other adidas basketball shoes with more breathability.
Who Are the Adidas AE 1 Shoes Best For?
The Men’s adidas AE 1 is perfect for guards and wings who value traction and stability. It’s also a great option for players who like a snug, locked-in fit. Beyond the court, these sneakers double as stylish lifestyle shoes, appealing to fans of versatile adidas AE 1 colorways. If you appreciate high-performance adidas basketball shoes that balance aesthetics and functionality, the AE 1 won’t disappoint.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros:
Cons:
Final Verdict
The Anthony Edwards 1 makes a bold statement. It’s a visually striking shoe with great traction, stability, and versatile use both on and off the court. However, the shoe’s weight, fit issues, and occasional durability concerns might be drawbacks for some. If you’re a fan of Anthony Edwards or prefer stylish shoes that also function well on the hardwood, The Adidas AE1 “Pure Ruby” basketball shoe could be a solid addition to your collection.
Buying from a reputable source can you help avoid authenticity issues and find the perfect pair of basketball shoes.
Take Our AE 1 Adidas Quiz
SHARE ON SOCIAL MEDIA
LEGAL DISCLAIMER
Squad, LLC is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Squad, LLC also participates in affiliate programs with the NBA Store, ShareASale, Clickbank, CJ Affiliates and other sites. As an affiliate Squad, LLC earn from referring traffic, business and qualifying purchases.