adidas Men's Taekwondo Karate Martial Arts Shoes - Lightweight PU Fit

Our review of these adidas Men's Taekwondo Karate Martial Arts Shoes finds them best suited to athletes who prioritize speed, a snug fit and minimal interference during sparring or forms. The single biggest reason to buy is the sock-like ankle construction and slim, elastic sole that let the foot move naturally and quickly; combined with very light PU construction they feel almost like wearing a protective sock rather than a bulky shoe. They are sold as the official shoes of the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, which signals a competition-oriented design.

Key Features

• Official Olympic design: Built to the same contest-minded standards used at the 2020 Tokyo Games for competitive comfort and low profile.
• Lightweight PU upper: The PU material keeps the shoe very light, reducing leg fatigue during long sessions or tournaments.
• Sock-style ankle: Elastic ankle support lets you apply the shoe like a sock while holding the heel securely for quick footwork.
• No-lace fit: Absence of laces gives a snug, uniform fit and prevents loose lace interference during sparring.
• Slim elastic sole: A thin, flexible sole enhances ground feel and control for kicks and pivots common in taekwondo and karate.

Who It's For

These shoes suit competitive taekwondo and karate practitioners, coaches, and martial artists who want a lightweight, low-profile trainer for contests and practice. The design favors speed, close-to-floor contact, and an easy on/off experience, making it a good choice for athletes who value agility and foot protection without bulk.

Customers who need a roomy toe box, heavy-duty durability for rough outdoor use, or a traditional lace closure should look elsewhere. Also, those who require extensive longevity beyond light indoor training should consider more robust training footwear.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent comfort from the elastic ankle and sock-like fit for quick movement and reduced pressure points.
• Very lightweight construction that supports speed and agility in sparring and drills.
• Clean, contest-ready appearance and adequate foot protection for indoor martial arts.
• No laces reduces distractions and potential tripping hazards during matches.

Cons

• Durability concerns reported by some users who experienced early wear after repeated use.
• Narrow toe box may not suit users who need extra width or have wider forefeet.

Specifications

Brand	adidas
Material	PU
Closure	No laces, elastic sock-style ankle
Use	Taekwondo, Karate and other martial arts
Sole	Slim, elastic sole for ground feel
Competition	Official shoes of the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo

Our Verdict

These adidas martial arts shoes are a solid pick for competitors and practitioners who want a lightweight, low-profile trainer that supports fast footwork and a close fit. They deliver strong value when used for indoor training and contests, but buyers seeking a wider fit or maximum longevity should consider alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes suitable for sparring?
Yes, they are designed for competition and training use with a slim sole and protective PU upper that work well for indoor sparring.

Do they have laces or a slip-on fit?
They use a no-lace, elastic sock-style ankle to provide a snug, slip-on fit and avoid loose laces during practice.

How durable are they?
They are lightweight and contest-focused; some users report limited durability with heavy or frequent use, so they are best for indoor training and competitions.