When it comes to basketball sneakers, 2025 has already been an exciting year, and the Adidas Anthony Edwards 2 is a standout release that I’ve been eager to test. This shoe represents Anthony Edwards’ second signature model, and after spending time with it both on and off the court, I can confidently say it feels like a true evolution rather than just a simple upgrade.
In this adidas anthony edwards 2 review, I’ll walk you through my personal experience, covering design, fit, comfort, traction, cushioning, durability, and overall performance—while also highlighting the pros and cons that stood out to me.
First Impressions
The first thing that struck me about the Adidas Anthony Edwards 2 was its look. Visually, it feels like a true signature sneaker—unique, bold, and not just another generic basketball shoe. Compared to the first model, the AE2 balances familiarity with fresh details, making it clear that Adidas focused on refining what worked while fixing past issues.
When I first laced them up, I immediately noticed they were lighter than the AE1, though still on the heavier side compared to other basketball shoes. Surprisingly, they don’t feel clunky on foot. Instead, the weight distribution gives a solid, stable feel that adds confidence during cuts and drives.
Design and Materials
From a design perspective, the Adidas Anthony Edwards 2 is impressive. The upper has moved away from the fully rubberized TPU shell of the AE1 and instead blends breathable mesh with strategic overlays. This makes the shoe feel more flexible and comfortable while still maintaining durability where it’s needed.
One thing I appreciate is how Adidas allowed for better lace adjustment this time. The AE1 had restrictions at the forefoot that limited lockdown, but the AE2 fixes this by opening up the lacing system and incorporating nylon strands that connect deeper into the shoe. On foot, this translates into better lockdown and adjustability without feeling overly restrictive.
I also like the consistency in colorways. While the launch color didn’t tie directly to the Timberwolves, I’m glad Adidas is continuing to build recognizable, recurring themes across the line. This keeps the sneaker line feeling cohesive while also leaving room for more adventurous colorways later on.
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Fit and Comfort
Fit is always one of the biggest factors in basketball sneakers. For me, the AE2 fits true to size, just like the AE1. The toe box does feel snug, pressing slightly at the top, but it didn’t cause discomfort after breaking them in. I’d recommend going true to size unless you prefer extra space up front.
The padding around the collar is solid, and the dual heel panels provide excellent stability. I never felt any heel slip, even during aggressive movements. This is a big improvement over some models where the heel lockdown can feel questionable.
Comfort-wise, I appreciated how the shoe flexes more naturally than the AE1. Adidas modified the X-plate in the midsole, hollowing it out for greater flexibility. The AE1 sometimes felt too stiff underfoot, but the AE2 allows smoother transitions when running, cutting, and jumping.
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Cushioning and Responsiveness
The Adidas Anthony Edwards 2 uses full-length Boost cushioning, and while it feels slightly lower to the ground compared to the AE1, I found this to be an advantage. The thinner setup improves court feel without sacrificing comfort.
Bouncing around during my first few sessions, I felt enough impact protection for explosive play, yet I still had responsiveness when pushing off for quick drives. The shoe strikes a solid balance between cushioning and stability, something I value in a performance sneaker.
The insole, however, is one area where I think Adidas could do better. It feels basic compared to the rest of the tech, but it’s removable if you prefer swapping it out for a custom option.
Traction and Grip
Traction is always critical, and here’s where the AE2 stands out. Adidas kept the herringbone pattern but reimagined it into more of a blade-like design, giving the outsole added flexibility. On clean indoor courts, grip was excellent, allowing me to cut and stop with confidence.
That said, I wouldn’t recommend the AE2 for heavy outdoor use. The rubber feels soft and shallow, much like the AE1, and I doubt it would hold up long on rough outdoor courts. If you primarily play indoors, traction is a big plus. If you rely on outdoor courts, durability could be a drawback.
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Durability: Adidas Anthony Edwards 2
While the AE2 feels well-constructed, durability is mixed depending on how you play. Indoors, I expect these to last quite a while—the materials are strong, and the build quality is impressive. Outdoors, however, the outsole likely won’t handle long-term use. This isn’t unusual for performance basketball sneakers, but it’s worth noting if you mostly hoop outside.
Pros of Adidas Anthony Edwards 2 Review
- True evolution from AE1: fixes past issues while keeping core strengths.
- Full-length Boost cushioning with improved responsiveness.
- Better flexibility thanks to the modified X-plate.
- Excellent traction indoors with a reimagined herringbone pattern.
- Breathable upper with mesh for comfort and airflow.
- Great lockdown and fit with improved lacing system.
- Stable heel structure with dual panels to prevent slip.
Cons: Adidas Anthony Edwards 2 Review
- Still on the heavier side, though lighter than AE1.
- Outsole not durable for outdoors—best for indoor courts.
- Basic insole that doesn’t match the rest of the tech.
- Snug toe box that might feel restrictive for some players.
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Performance on Court
On the court, the Adidas Anthony Edwards 2 shines. I felt confident in my movements, from quick crossovers to explosive drives to the rim. The traction kept me steady, the cushioning absorbed impact, and the fit provided security without stiffness.
Compared to the AE1, this shoe feels smoother, more natural, and less restrictive. It’s not necessarily an upgrade in every single way, but it’s a smart evolution—exactly what a signature line should be.
Final Verdict: Adidas Anthony Edwards 2 Review
Overall, the Adidas Anthony Edwards 2 is a strong follow-up to the AE1 and a shoe that delivers in nearly every performance category. It’s not perfect—outdoor players may want to look elsewhere, and the weight might be noticeable compared to lighter competitors—but for indoor hoopers who want stability, cushioning, and consistency, it’s a solid choice.
In my personal experience, I appreciated how Adidas refined the areas that needed improvement while keeping the identity of the line intact. This shoe feels like it belongs in the conversation alongside other top performance models of 2025.
If you’re a guard or forward who values stability, cushioning, and dependable traction on clean courts, the Adidas Anthony Edwards 2 is worth considering. For me, it’s a shoe I’m happy to keep in rotation and one that feels like a true step forward for Anthony Edwards’ signature line.
Jason Cole is a passionate sneaker writer and basketball shoe reviewer with years of experience in the world of athletic footwear. Combining deep product knowledge with a genuine love for the game, Jason delivers in-depth reviews and insights that help players choose the right performance sneakers for their style and needs. His articles break down every detail — from traction and cushioning to support and fit — making them a trusted resource for both casual hoopers and serious athletes.
Over the years, Jason has tested and analyzed hundreds of basketball shoes from top brands like Nike, Adidas, Jordan, Puma, and Under Armour. His hands-on approach and honest feedback make his reviews stand out for their accuracy and authenticity. Whether it’s the latest signature model or a hidden gem on the court, Jason’s expertise helps readers find the perfect pair to elevate their performance.
When he’s not writing or testing sneakers, Jason follows the latest trends in basketball culture, exploring how innovation, style, and performance come together in modern sportswear. His goal is simple — to guide every reader toward the ideal basketball shoe that blends comfort, technology, and court-ready confidence.
