Ordering a pair of adidas shoes or an item of clothing online seems simple. However, small differences in fit, material and intended use can determine whether you’re happy with your purchase. The same issues often crop up when choosing adidas shoes and clothing: running shoes are chosen for their looks rather than their purpose, the size is ordered without measuring your feet, or clothing turns out to be warmer, tighter or more demanding to care for than expected.
This guide will help you compare your options. You’ll find things to look out for when choosing adidas running shoes, men’s adidas trainers and adidas sportswear, along with a few product suggestions for different uses.
A casual style may feel comfortable on a walk, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s suitable for the repeated impact of running. When choosing running shoes, look at the midsole, upper and outsole. According to its product description, the adidas Runfalcon 5 is designed for road training and short distances of 0 to 10 km. A style such as the adidas Samba OG, on the other hand, has a leather upper and gum rubber cupsole for a casual look.
Adidas uses EU, UK and US sizes, and sometimes foot-length measurements too. These aren’t always directly comparable with the sizes of your old shoes. If possible, measure your feet at the end of the day, wearing the socks you’d normally use. Then check the size guide for the specific style. The Samba OG, for example, is listed as a standard fit; going half a size up or down can make a noticeable difference.
Words such as “comfortable”, “light” or “durable” only tell you so much. Check the specifications for details about the material, sole, fastening, fit and care. The fibre content matters for clothing, too. A sweatshirt made from 70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester feels different and needs different care from a 100% cotton T-shirt.
The midsole and outsole are important points to compare if you run regularly. According to the product specifications, the Runfalcon 5 has a Cloudfoam midsole, an OrthoLite sockliner and an Adiwear outsole. The adidas Supernova running shoes use a full-length Dreamstrike midsole and a breathable mesh upper in the Supernova Ease. The Supernova Rise M ATR has a padded sockliner and a synthetic rubber outsole.
These are product features, not a guarantee of a particular running performance. Choose according to your distance, the surface you run on and whether you prefer a softer or more responsive feel.
A lace-up fastening lets you adjust the pressure across the instep. Also check whether the style has a regular, narrow or wide fit. According to the product information, the running styles mentioned here have a regular fit. The Samba OG is listed as a standard fit.
Measure both feet and use the longer measurement. Leave some room around your toes when running, but make sure your heel doesn’t slip. Shoes that are too large can rub, while shoes that are too small may feel tight on longer walks or runs.
Mesh can feel lightweight and breathable, while leather and suede have a different look and need different care. According to the product information, the adidas Samba OG is made from full-grain leather with suede overlays. The Runfalcon 5 has a textile mesh upper. For both types, check the washing and cleaning advice. The shoes mentioned here shouldn’t be machine-washed; the care guidance recommends cleaning them with a damp cloth and leaving them to air-dry.
When choosing men’s adidas clothing, consider the fit and fabric weight. A fleece adidas sweatshirt makes a warm layer for everyday wear. A 100% cotton adidas T-shirt is easy to style, but should be washed at a low temperature, with direct heat kept away from any prints.
Why it suits this profile: This version is designed for everyday wear and short road runs. Its mesh construction and lace-up fastening make it a practical choice if you’re looking for your first pair of adidas running shoes.
Its intended use, size 42 2/3 and foot length of 26.7 cm are listed. That means you don’t have to rely on general comfort claims alone.
Cloudfoam midsole, OrthoLite sockliner, mesh upper and Adiwear outsole.
Why it suits this profile: For runners looking to build a routine or train over short to medium distances. The combination of mesh, Dreamstrike foam and a regular fit suits everyday training.
It’s clearly described as a running shoe, so you’re less likely to choose a lifestyle style for training.
Full-length Dreamstrike midsole, breathable mesh and rubber lugs on the outsole.
Why it suits this profile: The ATR version is worth considering if you’re looking for a sporty shoe with a sturdy construction and a distinctive look for varied everyday use.
The product information lists the materials, padded sockliner, adjustable laces and care instructions. This lets you assess it for everyday use, rather than choosing based on colour alone.
Synthetic and textile upper, padded sockliner and synthetic rubber outsole.
If you’re mainly after a streetwear look, compare the adidas Samba OG with the Run 70s 2.0. The Samba OG has full-grain leather, suede overlays and a gum rubber cupsole. The Run 70s 2.0 combines synthetic leather and textile with a rubber outsole.
For a complete outfit, you could pair adidas track pants such as the Trefoil Essentials Pants with a Trefoil Essentials Crew Sweatshirt. According to the product information, both items are made from 70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester. The trousers have an elasticated waistband with a drawcord, pockets and ribbed cuffs. A black adidas T-shirt from the Adicolor Classics range is made from 100% cotton and has a slim fit.
Turn dark clothes inside out before washing and always follow the care label. This helps preserve the colour, print and fit for longer.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
It varies by style. Check the stated fit and measure your foot in centimetres. The Samba OG has a standard fit and a comprehensive EU size chart. If you’re between sizes, going half a size up may give you more room, while going half a size down may give you a closer fit.
Their lifespan depends on running distance, surface, body weight, care and how often you wear them. Look for visible wear on the outsole, a heel that’s worn down unevenly, or a midsole that feels less springy. There’s no set lifespan that applies to every runner.
Buying separate items gives you more freedom to choose the size, colour and material of each one. A sweatshirt, track pants and T-shirt can also be worn on different occasions. Compare the price of each item and check the size guide before ordering several pieces.