adidas Taekwondo Karate Martial Arts Shoes - Lightweight (Style PQ7L)

In this review of the adidas Taekwondo Karate Martial Arts Shoes the bottom line is simple: these are purpose-built, lightweight contest trainers best suited to fighters who value speed and a snug, sock-like fit. The shoes stand out as the official footwear of the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo and deliver a slim, elastic sole that helps with quick footwork. They are made of PU material with no laces, offer excellent ankle support through an elastic ankle sock style, and include back pockets that make slipping them on fast and easy - ideal for sudden match prep.

Key Features

• Official Olympic model: Being the official shoes of the 2020 Tokyo Games indicates a design focused on competition-level performance and reliable fit.
• Lightweight construction: The very light PU upper and slim sole reduce foot mass for faster pivoting and less fatigue in long training sessions.
• Sock-style fit: The elastic ankle support and no-lace design provide a snug, secure feel that acts like a sock for close, responsive contact with the mat.
• Easy on/off: Back pockets at the heel help the shoe slide on quickly, useful between rounds or during rapid gear changes.
• Protection-minded shape: The design gives a protective cover for the foot while preserving flexibility for kicks and transitions.

Who It's For

These trainers are best for taekwondo and karate competitors, martial arts students who need a slim, responsive shoe for sparring, and anyone who prefers a laced-free, ankle-supported fit for speed work. The official competition lineage and lightweight feel suit contestants and serious hobbyists who prioritize agility and a close fit.

Shoppers who need a wide toe box, heavy-duty daily training footwear, or long-term durability above light competition performance should look elsewhere. People who prefer adjustable laces for a customizable lockdown may also find the fixed sock fit limiting.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Very light and slim sole enhances speed and natural foot movement.
• Elastic ankle sock style delivers a snug, supportive fit without laces.
• Back heel pockets make the shoes easy to slip on quickly between matches.
• Good foot protection and a clean, competition-ready aesthetic.

Cons

• Sizing is mixed; the toe box can feel quite narrow for some wearers.
• Some users report durability concerns after repeated wear, so they may not suit heavy daily training.

Specifications

Brand	adidas
Material	PU upper
Closure	No laces, elastic ankle sock
Use	Taekwondo, Karate, martial arts
Design note	Back heel pockets for easy slipping
Notable fact	Official shoes of the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo

Our Verdict

These adidas martial arts shoes are a smart pick for competitors and sparring practitioners who want a lightweight, close-fitting trainer that supports fast footwork and easy donning. They offer strong value as a contest shoe thanks to the Olympic design and sock-like fit, but buyers who need a roomy toe box or maximum long-term durability should consider alternative training footwear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes true to size?
They run mixed in sizing; many find them true but some report a narrow toe box so consider sizing carefully if you have wider feet.

Can they be used for jujitsu or grappling?
They provide foot protection and a slim profile that some users have used for jujitsu, but durability under heavy ground use may be limited.

Do they have laces or adjustable closures?
No, the shoes use an elastic ankle sock style and have no laces, which creates a snug, slip-on fit.