From a basketball footwear perspective, 2025 is already off to an exciting start, and I’ve had the chance to get my hands on one of the most anticipated releases: the Adidas Anthony Edwards 2. This is Anthony Edwards’ second signature sneaker, and I have to say, much like the Ja 3s and the Angel Reese 1s, these shoes stand out.
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They don’t just perform; they truly feel like signature shoes, offering a refreshing departure from many other options on the market. In this Adidas Anthony Edwards 2 review, I’ll share my initial thoughts and break down what makes this shoe an interesting evolution.
When I compare the AE2 to its predecessor, it feels less like a complete overhaul and more like a true evolution. I appreciate footwear that evolves from one model to the next, retaining the good elements while tweaking areas that could be improved. That’s exactly how the AE2 feels, and I’m genuinely stoked about it.
However, I do question the collar height; it’s lower than the original AE1 but higher than typical lows. It leaves me wondering if this is the standard model, or if an Anthony Edwards 2 Low is still in the pipeline.
Unboxing Experience: Setting the Tone
Before diving into the shoe itself, I have to mention the box. It’s pretty dope! It’s not the typical pull-out drawer style; instead, you open it to find the words “Believe That” inside, which is a nice touch. It hints at the thought put into the product even before you get to the sneakers.
Design & Aesthetics: A Consistent Vision
One aspect I’ve always admired in signature footwear, and often feel is missing, is consistent colorways. The Adidas Anthony Edwards 2 uses a similar color scheme to the original launch colorway, which I think is a great move. While it doesn’t directly represent the Timberwolves, I expect future colorways to do so.
I love how brands like:
- Jordan and LeBron’s early lines kept consistent schemes (black and red, white and red).
- Kobe’s inline colors carried an identity.
- The Brenda colorway built a legacy for D Rose.
The AE1 had a ton of colorways, so I anticipate the AE2 will follow suit, offering a variety of options for fans.
“Read Also: adidas Anthony Edwards 2 Performance“
Initial Feel: Lighter But Still Substantial
Now, for the shoe itself. My initial impression is that the AE2 feels like an improvement over the first one in several key areas. The most immediate difference I noticed was the weight.
- AE1 feels pretty heavy in hand.
- AE2 is noticeably lighter, though still substantial.
- On foot, they don’t feel quite as heavy as the scale would suggest.
That said, in the grand scheme of basketball shoes, they still lean towards the heavier side.
Traction: Blade-Like Grip for Indoor Courts
The traction on the AE2 is similar yet distinct from the AE1. It still features a herringbone pattern on the bottom, but it’s executed in a more “blade-like” fashion. The pattern is broken up, which should allow for much greater flexibility.
- Great for indoor courts: excellent grip and quick cuts.
- Outdoor durability is weak: traction feels soft, thin, and shallow.
While it’s ultimately your decision if outdoor courts are your only option, I wouldn’t expect these to last long in that environment. This is a crucial point for any comprehensive Adidas Anthony Edwards 2 review.
Enhanced Flexibility: Addressing a Previous Concern
One of my main dislikes on the original AE1, particularly the lows, was the X-plate or spring plate. In the AE1, it felt very rigid from the ball of the foot backward, restricting flexibility.
The AE2 still incorporates an X-plate, but it has been significantly modified:
- It’s hollowed out for added flexibility.
- Reminds me of carbon fiber plates in running shoes, used only where needed.
This modification dramatically increases the shoe’s flexibility compared to the first model. That rigid restriction in the AE1 made it less enjoyable to play in. The AE2 feels much less restrictive, which is a welcome evolution.
“Read Also: Jordan Trunner O/S Review“
Cushioning: Full-Length Boost, Lower Profile
The cushioning in the Adidas Anthony Edwards 2 still features full-length Boost, just like the original. However, these feel a little bit lower to the ground and somewhat thinner underfoot.
Key notes:
- Original AE1 used a double-lasted midsole (upper integrated into outsole).
- AE2 separates components more distinctly, improving flexibility.
- Full-length Boost is still present for familiar comfort.
My initial try-on suggests the cushioning feels “okay.” I need more time to test them properly on court before making a final judgment.
The Upper: True Evolution in Materials and Fit
The upper is where the true evolution of the AE2 shines. While visually similar to the AE1, especially from a top-down view, the changes are significant.
- Forefoot cover removed: allows full lace adjustment.
- Rubberized TPU shell gone: replaced with exposed textile and breathable mesh.
- Streamlined rubber overlays: now in two striped zones with visible mesh beneath.
At first, I worried they’d feel bulky, but on foot, they move and flex better than expected—perhaps even better than the AE1.
The lacing system has also evolved:
- Uses nylon strands instead of simple eyelets.
- Strands extend down to the footbed.
- Leaves an extra top eyelet for tighter lockdown if needed.
Looking inside, you can see the full-length Boost clearly, plus sculpting and padding. The toe even features a reflective element, just like the original.
“Read Also: Puma Hali 1 Review“
Heel Stability: Sturdy and Secure
At the rear, the faux carbon fiber element returns, a feature seen on multiple Adidas models.
- Functions as heel stabilizer instead of a traditional cup.
- AE2 uses two heel panels (one on each side) to keep stability strong.
- Heel feels sturdy with almost no flexibility or slip.
This translates to a very secure lockdown in the heel area, which I appreciate.
Fit & Sizing: Consistency is Key
In terms of sizing, the Adidas Anthony Edwards 2 fits just like the originals. I found them to be very true to size.
- If you had toe piece pressure in AE1, it’s still present in AE2.
- Best advice: order the same size you wore in AE1.
- For me, true-to-size fit was perfect.
If a low-cut version releases later, it will be interesting to see if sizing changes. But for now, true-to-size is the safe recommendation.
Final Thoughts: Adidas Anthony Edwards 2 Review
Overall, I’m very impressed with the Adidas Anthony Edwards 2. It’s a shoe that builds intelligently upon its predecessor, refining key areas like flexibility and the upper without losing the core identity.
Highlights:
- Lighter weight.
- Improved lacing system.
- Enhanced heel stability.
- More breathable and flexible upper.
Even though I still have reservations about outdoor durability, I believe this shoe is a strong contender for anyone looking for a unique and high-performing basketball sneaker.
I don’t review shoes to convince you to buy them, but rather to give you enough information to make an informed decision. If you’re interested in buying them, that’s great! If you prefer something different, that’s perfectly fine too—the most important thing is finding what works for you.
I’m eagerly anticipating the full performance review in the coming weeks, where I can put these through their paces on the court. But for now, the AE2 has my seal of approval. It’s rare for a shoe to look good on the shelf and then transform when a player like Anthony Edwards puts them on, making them even cooler. These achieve that effect, and I’m ready to see what they can truly do.
As a dedicated footwear reviewer, I have spent years analyzing and testing athletic shoes across every category, from high-performance running sneakers to lifestyle-inspired basketball silhouettes. My work goes beyond simple first impressions; each review is built on a foundation of hands-on experience, thorough research, and attention to the details that matter most to athletes and casual wearers alike. I aim to bridge the gap between brands’ marketing claims and real-world performance, giving readers an honest, balanced perspective.
My writing style combines technical evaluation with an accessible tone, so both professionals and everyday enthusiasts can understand the strengths and weaknesses of each shoe. Whether discussing midsole cushioning technology, outsole traction, or upper material breathability, I break down complex features into practical insights. Readers trust my reviews because they know I highlight both the benefits and potential drawbacks, helping them make more confident purchasing decisions.
Over time, my work has evolved into a comprehensive resource for anyone seeking guidance on athletic footwear. I regularly compare new releases with previous models to highlight improvements or missed opportunities, while also exploring how different shoes fit specific activities—such as marathon training, weightlifting, or casual streetwear. By staying updated with industry trends and listening to community feedback, I ensure that my reviews remain relevant, informative, and genuinely useful.
Ultimately, my mission is to provide clarity in a crowded market. With countless options available, choosing the right pair of shoes can feel overwhelming. Through in-depth, unbiased, and engaging reviews, I strive to make that decision easier, equipping readers with the knowledge they need to find footwear that truly matches their performance goals and personal style.
