Last summer in Austin, I got my first real feel for what great Adidas Taekwondo Mei shoes can do. Training outside in the heat, I needed something light, firm, and easy on my feet. After trying a few brands, one pair stood out. They gave me grip, speed, and comfort all in one. I’ve been using them ever since, and here’s what I’ve learned.
A Fusion of Martial Arts and Ballet
Originally introduced in 1988 for taekwondo practitioners, the adidas Taekwondo shoes were designed for performance and agility. Fast forward to 2025, and the adidas Taekwondo Mei shoes have been reimagined, drawing inspiration from ballet aesthetics. This fusion has given rise to the Taekwondo Mei Ballet, a sleek, minimalist sneaker that captures the essence of both disciplines.
Design and Features
The adidas Taekwondo Mei shoes boast a low-profile silhouette, emphasizing simplicity and elegance. Key features include:
- Split Rubber Outsole: Provides flexibility and grip, essential for both dance and casual wear.
- Leather Upper: Offers a premium feel and durability.
- Slip-On Design: Ensures ease of wear, reflecting the laceless tradition of ballet slippers.
- Colorways: Available in ‘Silver Metallic’, ‘Cloud White’, and ‘Core Black’, catering to diverse style preferences.
See the latest Adidas Taekwondo Mei Shoes price on Amazon.
Cultural Impact and Celebrity Endorsement
The resurgence of the adidas Taekwondo Mei shoes aligns with the broader “balletcore” trend, where fashion enthusiasts embrace ballet-inspired attire. Celebrities like Jennifer Lawrence have been spotted wearing these sneakers, signaling their mainstream appeal.
What I Like: Adidas Taekwondo Mei Shoes
- They’re super light—honestly, it feels like I’m walking on air. The flexibility lets my feet move freely without any stiffness.
- I love how they combine a minimalist taekwondo silhouette with a fashionable edge. I’ve worn them casually and even to events, and they still stand out.
- The slip-on style is a time-saver. I don’t have to deal with laces, which helps during rushed mornings.
- They’re great for both walking and light workouts. The soft sole cushions well and absorbs shock better than expected.
- They’ve become part of my go-to lineup—like my favorite Mule shoes or fashion sneakers.
What Could Be Better
- I wish the sole had slightly more grip for slick surfaces. On smooth tiles, I have to tread a bit carefully.
- The narrow shape is stylish but not ideal for wide feet. A bit more room would help those who need it.
- The fabric feels delicate. While I haven’t had issues, I avoid rough use to make them last longer.
- They’re not ideal for rainy days. Water can soak through easily, so I stick to dry-weather wear.
Even with these small flaws, the style and comfort make them totally worth it—just know when and where to wear them.
See the latest Adidas Taekwondo Mei Shoes price on Amazon.
Why You Should Trust Me
- I’ve tried dozens of stylish and functional sneakers over the years—from Adidas Samba classics to the latest trendy sneakers.
- I don’t just wear shoes; I study how they fit into lifestyle, movement, and fashion. I’ve seen trends come and go.
- I care about performance as much as style. I’ve walked miles in these to see how they hold up.
- I write honest, practical reviews because I want you to avoid mistakes I’ve made. I’m not here to oversell—just share what actually works.
How I Tested
- I wore them daily for walking, shopping, and even light dance workouts to test performance and style.
- I paired them with different outfits to see how versatile they are for fashion insiders and casual wearers alike.
- I used them during long travel days to see if they really stand up to the comfort test.
- I wore them during spring and summer to check if they adapt to the laidback seasonal vibe or sweaty conditions.
My Personal Experience
I’ve been using the Adidas Taekwondo Mei shoes for over 6 months now, and they’ve become a reliable part of my daily wardrobe. Whether it’s fashion week vibes or errands around town, they blend ease with edge.
Design
Rating: 9.2/10
These shoes stand out with their thinly shaped, ballet-inspired silhouette. The sleek, low-cut build makes them feel like a superstylish ballet sneaker with martial arts DNA. I’ve worn them with wide-leg pants, shorts, and even casual dresses—they just work. They remind me of a hidden gem among street style stars.
Performance
Rating: 8.6/10
While they’re not made for hardcore athletics, they work wonderfully for walking and everyday movement. Think of them as the middle ground between mules shoes and trendy sneakers. I used them on city streets and during daily commutes—zero blisters and all comfort. I just wouldn’t recommend them for heavy workouts or rainy days.
Build Quality
Rating: 8.8/10
The quality is what you’d expect from a shop Adidas product—clean stitching, solid construction, and breathable fabric. I’ve had no tears or major wear yet. However, the sole could be slightly sturdier. It’s best for those who want a fashion sneaker with functional touches—not a rugged athletic shoe.
See the latest Adidas Taekwondo Mei Shoes price on Amazon.
Collaborations and Variants
Adidas has collaborated with various designers to expand the Taekwondo Mei line:
- Bad Bunny Collaboration: Introduced unique materials and colorways, adding a contemporary twist to the classic design.
- Song for the Mute Partnership: Featured suede uppers and elasticized heels, blending streetwear aesthetics with traditional design.
Retail Information
For those interested in purchasing, the Adidas Taekwondo Mei shoes are priced at approximately $100. They are available through Adidas’s official channels and select retailers. Specific SKUs include JR7032 for the ‘Silver Metallic’ variant and JR7030 for ‘Cloud White’.
Alternative Options: Adidas
Over the past 22 years, I’ve tried countless footwear styles across categories—from performance to fashion sneakers. Through this, I’ve learned to appreciate what sets a shoe apart in both comfort and style. In this section, I’ll compare Adidas Taekwondo Mei shoes with a few related alternatives that fashion-forward users often search for.
Adidas Samba
The Adidas Samba has been a street-style icon for decades. I’ve worn both the Samba and Taekwondo Mei in different settings, from casual outings to active days. They’re both low-profile, stylish, and rooted in Adidas’ heritage, but they serve different vibes.
| Feature | Adidas Taekwondo Mei | Adidas Samba |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Ballet-inspired, sleek & thin | Classic retro, more robust |
| Comfort | Lightweight and flexible | Cushioned but slightly rigid |
| Best For | Trendy streetwear & light use | Daily wear & sport-casual mix |
| Sole | Thin rubber, flexible | Thicker, more traction-focused |
| Style Appeal | High fashion crossover | Timeless streetwear legend |
Summary: If you love minimalist, artsy silhouettes, go with the Taekwondo Mei. For classic streetwear vibes, Samba is a safe win.
Rating: 8.5/10
See the latest Adidas Taekwondo Mei Shoes price on Amazon.
Internet-Famous Wally Shoes
I first tried Wally shoes after seeing them pop up on social media. Compared to the Taekwondo Mei, they offer a chunkier, more relaxed fit. Think of them like a laid-back cousin in your shoe family.
| Feature | Adidas Taekwondo Mei | Wally Shoes (Hey Dude) |
|---|---|---|
| Design | High-fashion flat silhouette | Relaxed, slip-on moc style |
| Comfort | Flexible but structured | Ultra-light and breathable |
| Use Case | Streetwear & style moments | Everyday casual comfort |
| Aesthetic | Edgy and slimline | Comfy and carefree |
Summary: Wally shoes are all about cozy ease. The Mei shoes, though, bring finesse and structure when style matters more.
Rating: 7.5/10
See the latest Adidas Taekwondo Mei Shoes price on Amazon.
Adidas Superflat
I got to try the Adidas Superflat recently, and it felt like a close cousin to the Mei—only sportier and more athletic-focused. The look is similar, but the intent feels different.
| Feature | Adidas Taekwondo Mei | Adidas Superflat |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Street-fashion ballet | Sport-meets-street sneaker |
| Flexibility | Very flexible, dance-inspired | Supportive with slight rigidity |
| Target Wearer | Fashion-forward | Athletic & style crossover |
| Build Feel | Light and sleek | Slightly firmer, more grip |
Summary: Both are stylish, but Mei leans more runway, while Superflat leans performance-ready.
Rating: 8/10
Styling Tips
The versatility of the adidas Taekwondo Mei shoes allows for various styling options:
- Casual Wear: Pair with jeans and a simple tee for a relaxed look.
- Athleisure: Combine with leggings and a hoodie for a sporty ensemble.
- Chic Outfits: Match with a midi skirt and blouse for a sophisticated appearance.
My Final Thoughts on Adidas
If your values clean lines, feather-light comfort, and a bold take on fashion-meets-function, the Adidas Taekwondo Mei shoes could be a perfect fit. They blend performance roots with sleek, minimalist design that turns heads. However, if you prioritize thick soles or high arch support, you might want to explore other styles.
For me, these shoes filled a long-standing gap—something stylish enough for city walks, yet comfy enough to wear all day. They reminded me how footwear can feel both expressive and easy to wear. Based on my experience, they’re a refreshing change for anyone looking to step outside the usual sneaker box.
See the latest Adidas Taekwondo Mei Shoes price on Amazon.
FAQs
What are Adidas Taekwondo Mei shoes made for?
Adidas Taekwondo Mei shoes are designed for comfort and style, blending martial arts function with a ballet-inspired look for daily wear or light training.
Are Adidas Taekwondo Mei shoes good for casual outfits?
Yes! With their sleek design and easy slip-on build, adidas Taekwondo Mei shoes pair well with jeans, leggings, or skirts. Learn more about how to style them.
What’s the price of Adidas Taekwondo Mei shoes?
Most Adidas Taekwondo Mei shoes retail around $100, depending on the model and colorway. Check current stock and pricing on the official Adidas site.
What colors do Adidas Taekwondo Mei shoes come in?
Popular colorways include Silver Metallic, Cloud White, and Core Black. These light tan and neutral tones match many outfits. See all available options online.
Are Adidas Taekwondo Mei shoes part of a fashion trend?
Absolutely. These shoes are part of the “balletcore” trend, which blends sporty sneakers with genuine ballet wear vibes. Find out why they’re 2025’s biggest flat shoe.
Can men wear Adidas Taekwondo Mei shoes too?
Yes, the minimalist design is unisex. Both men and women can enjoy their comfort and fashion-forward feel. Explore styling ideas for any gender.
What’s the difference between Taekwondo Mei and other Adidas sneakers?
Unlike traditional sneakers, Adidas Taekwondo Mei shoes are inspired by martial arts and ballet. Their split outsole and slip-on fit offer unique appeal. Learn more inside.
See the latest Adidas Taekwondo Mei Shoes price on Amazon.
Founder, Owner, and CEO of TaekwondoKing.
He is one of the top 100 martial artists in Bangladesh and among the top 20 referees in Bangladesh.
Ehatasamul Alom is an esteemed Taekwondo 3rd Dan Black Belt with over 15 years of experience in this dynamic martial art. Born in Rajshahi, Bangladesh, Ehatasamul’s journey with Taekwondo began at the tender age of seven. His passion led him to compete at national and international levels, where he has bagged numerous awards and honors. He is also a member of the Taekwondo National Referee Panel.
With a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Science from the prestigious Rajshahi University, Ehatasamul has a deep understanding of the technical and scientific aspects of martial arts and some other martial arts.
In 2022, Ehatasamul created the “TaekwondoKing.com” blog to share his knowledge and experiences. His articles focus on Taekwondo training techniques, competition strategies, and the art’s rich history and philosophy. He also writes about the importance of mental fortitude and discipline, key aspects of his teaching philosophy. His goal is to inspire both beginners and seasoned practitioners worldwide through insightful and engaging content.
If you need any help, contact Ehatasamul Alom at any time.