adidas Taekwondo Karate Martial Arts Shoes - Lightweight (Style 91PL)

Our review looks at the adidas Taekwondo Karate Martial Arts Shoes and why they appeal to practitioners who prioritize speed and a snug, sock-like fit. These shoes are the official footwear of the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, and the most compelling reason to buy is their combination of extreme lightness and secure ankle support that lets wearers move quickly with minimal bulk. The shoe slips on like a sock, has a slim elastic sole for close-to-floor feel, and back pockets that help with easy slipping on and off - making it ideal for competition and fast training sessions.

Key Features

• Official Olympic model: Used as the official shoes of the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, indicating a competition-grade design focus.
• Lightweight construction: Very light PU upper and slim sole reduce weight for faster footwork and less fatigue during long rounds.
• Elastic ankle sock fit: The snug, sock-style ankle provides excellent support while making the shoe easy to apply and comfortable for movement.
• No-lace design: Absence of laces creates a smooth, secure fit and avoids lace interference during sparring or rolls.
• Back pocket heel tabs: Small back pockets help slip the shoe on quickly, useful between matches or drills.
• Slim elastic sole: Low-profile sole improves ground feel and control for kicks and pivots in Taekwondo or Karate.

Who It's For

These shoes suit martial artists who need a lightweight, low-profile trainer for sparring, competition, and fast footwork. They are particularly good for Taekwondo and Karate competitors and for practitioners who value a close-to-floor feel and quick transitions.

Those who should look elsewhere include athletes who need a very wide toe box or heavy-duty long-lasting footwear; customers who prioritize rugged durability for rough mat training or frequent outdoor wear may find these shoes less durable over time.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent lightweight design that enhances speed and mobility.
• Comfortable, sock-like ankle support that is easy to get on and off.
• Clean, competition-ready look with good foot protection for mat work.

Cons

• Sizing runs mixed for some users, with a narrow toe box reported by several customers.
• Durability concerns have been raised, with a few customers saying the shoes wore out after limited use.

Specifications

Brand	adidas
Intended use	Taekwondo, Karate and martial arts
Upper material	PU material
Closure	No laces, elastic ankle sock fit
Sole	Slim, elastic low-profile sole
Special features	Back pockets for easy slipping on
Notable fact	Official shoes of the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo

Our Verdict

The adidas Taekwondo Karate Martial Arts Shoes are a smart choice for competitors and training partners who want a featherweight, snug-fitting trainer that enhances speed and court feel. They offer strong value when used primarily for indoor mats and competitions, but buyers sensitive to toe width or needing maximum longevity should consider fit carefully before purchasing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes suitable for competition?
Yes, they were the official shoes of the 2020 Olympic Games and are designed for competition use in Taekwondo and similar martial arts.

Do they have laces or how do they stay secure?
They have no laces and rely on an elastic ankle sock fit and slim sole to remain snug and supportive.

How do they hold up over time?
Many users praise comfort and look, but some report durability issues after repeated wear, so they perform best for controlled mat use rather than heavy outdoor training.