Anthony Edwards has been making waves in the NBA, and Adidas decided to capture his explosiveness in a shoe built for power, control, and flair. The Adidas Anthony Edwards 1 Low is a basketball sneaker that sits low to the court, offers serious durability, and is packed with features that make it ideal for players who rely on stability and traction. But like any performance shoe, it isn’t perfect. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what makes it stand out and where it may fall short.

First Impressions and Design

The moment you slip into the Anthony Edwards 1 Low, the first thing you notice is its sturdy build. The upper feels firm and structured, which gives confidence in support and containment. The style itself is sharp and modern, combining functionality with a design that looks just as good casually as it does on the court. Its low profile gives players a sense of direct contact with the floor, making it an attractive choice for guards who thrive on quick movements.

The downside? That stiffness comes at a price. This isn’t a shoe that molds to your foot instantly; it demands a proper break-in period. Still, once that’s behind you, it rewards you with lockdown stability and a shoe that doesn’t easily give way under pressure.

Cushioning and Impact Protection

One of the shoe’s most talked-about features is its cushioning system. Adidas combined Lightstrike foam with Boost, positioning most of the softer material in the heel. This design choice results in excellent shock absorption for players who land hard after rebounds or dunks. The heel takes care of impact, while the forefoot remains grounded, ensuring better responsiveness and balance.

That said, the cushioning leans more toward firmness than plushness. If you’re expecting something bouncy or cloud-like, you might be disappointed. The forefoot especially feels grounded, prioritizing control over comfort. This makes it perfect for players who want to stay locked in on every move, but less ideal for those who prefer a softer, more forgiving underfoot experience.

Responsiveness and Energy Return

The combination of Boost and Lightstrike also delivers a moderate level of energy return. During fast breaks and explosive first steps, the shoe provides a good push but not an overwhelming spring. This makes it a shoe that walks the line between balance and propulsion. It’s stable enough to feel safe during aggressive cuts, while still giving enough energy to keep up with high-intensity plays.

For guards or wings who value stability over bounce, this is a solid compromise. Bigger players, however, might feel the setup doesn’t offer as much cushioning under the forefoot as they’d like.

Court Feel and Stack Heights

At the heel, the stack height measures just about average for basketball shoes, which keeps the wearer close to the floor without feeling too elevated. The forefoot is slightly lower than average, and this is where the shoe really shines for ball handlers. That lower-to-the-ground setup provides enhanced court feel, helping with control on drives and precise footwork.

The drop between heel and forefoot is not dramatic, which contributes to an even, balanced stance on the court. Players who prefer to “feel” the hardwood during their movements will find this setup ideal.

Fit and Sizing

Adidas stuck to a true-to-size fit for the Anthony Edwards 1 Low. Most players will find their regular size works fine, but the toebox might feel snug, particularly near the big toe. The shoe measures wider at its base than many competitors, making it a strong option for hoopers with broader feet. However, the rubberized overlays in the front can create some initial discomfort until the shoe softens up.

The height of the toebox is also on the lower side, which limits wiggle room for the toes. Players who like a roomier front might need to keep this in mind. Overall, once the break-in period is done, the shoe’s fit stabilizes into something supportive and secure.

Traction and Grip

Traction is where this shoe truly excels. The outsole is covered in a herringbone-inspired pattern, enhanced with flex grooves and a rigid X-shaped plate. On the court, it translates into phenomenal grip, allowing players to stop sharply, change directions instantly, and maintain control on dusty surfaces with minimal wiping.

In lab tests, the friction rating was comparable to far more expensive shoes, which is impressive given its reasonable price point. The only drawback is that the outsole’s thin tread makes it less suitable for outdoor play. On indoor hardwood, however, it’s a beast.

Stability and Support

One of the Anthony Edwards 1 Low’s greatest strengths is its stability. The upper materials are firm and rigid, preventing unnecessary foot movement inside the shoe. The torsional rigidity—how much the shoe resists twisting—is among the best, keeping your foot secure during sharp cuts or when landing awkwardly.

The heel counter is equally stiff, locking the rearfoot in place. This gives confidence when sprinting, pivoting, or jumping. The wide midsole base further enhances stability, spreading the foot’s landing surface and minimizing the risk of rolling an ankle.

Flexibility and Break-In

Despite all its rigid components, the shoe isn’t overly stiff in the forefoot. Once broken in, it bends enough to provide some natural movement without losing structure. This makes it versatile for different play styles—rigid enough for support but flexible enough to keep transitions smooth.

However, patience is required. The first few sessions may feel restrictive, especially around the toes. After that, the shoe begins to loosen slightly, though it never becomes soft or overly flexible.

Weight and Breathability

Here’s where some players might hesitate. At nearly 16 ounces, the Anthony Edwards 1 Low is heavier than many competing guard shoes. For bigger players, the extra weight won’t be much of a concern. But for guards who rely on speed and quick acceleration, the weight could feel clunky after extended play.

Breathability is another area where the shoe lands in the middle. The upper features a mesh base with ventilation holes, but during wear tests it didn’t perform as well as expected. Heat builds up inside the shoe, though not to an unbearable degree. It’s fine for short games but may feel warm during long, high-intensity sessions.

Durability

Durability is one of the strongest points of this Adidas pair. The toebox has protective overlays that hold up well against abrasion, while the heel padding withstands repeated stress without wearing down quickly. The outsole also proved tough in tests, showing minimal wear after heavy use. However, since the tread lines are thin, outdoor players may see the grip fade faster.

For indoor courts, durability is outstanding for the price, making this shoe a long-term investment for regular hoopers.

Other Details

The shoe comes with a removable insole, which is a plus for those who like to swap in custom orthotics. The tongue is thinner than average, but surprisingly comfortable—it manages to reduce lace pressure without adding bulk. Reflective elements add a stylish touch, and the heel tab makes it easier to put on and take off a shoe that otherwise feels stiff.

Price and Value

Retailing at around $110, the Anthony Edwards 1 Low is priced competitively. Considering the durability, traction, and stability it provides, it feels like a bargain compared to other signature basketball shoes. It doesn’t try to be overly flashy with cushioning tech or premium materials, but instead delivers a reliable performance package that holds up over time.

Who Should Consider It

This shoe is an excellent option if you prioritize traction, stability, and durability. Players who enjoy being low to the ground and prefer firmness over plush comfort will find it highly rewarding. It’s also a strong choice for wide-footed hoopers who need more space underfoot.

Who Might Skip It

If you want lightweight, bouncy cushioning that feels soft underfoot, this shoe isn’t the best fit. The weight can feel burdensome, and the break-in period requires patience. Quick, shifty guards who value speed above all else may want to look at alternatives like the Nike G.T. Cut Academy.

Final Verdict

The Adidas Anthony Edwards 1 Low is a tough, supportive, and performance-driven basketball shoe. It thrives on traction and stability, making it a dependable companion for competitive games. While it may not suit every style—particularly speed-focused guards—it stands out as a durable, affordable, and well-balanced option in today’s basketball shoe market.