Wearing taekwondo sneakers without ever having set foot on a tatami mat? That’s the trend of the moment! Martial arts sneakers are no longer just for the dojo, they’re stepping out everywhere, from city streets to fashion runways, day to night, showing off their sleek silhouettes. While Adidas Taekwondo sneakers remain among the most iconic, brands like Onitsuka Tiger are also embracing the same sporty vibe. A deep dive into a trend that’s making serious waves without knocking you out!
Sneakers and martial arts: A trend in tune with the times
Martial arts sneakers are having a moment and it’s no surprise. Their minimalist design perfectly fits today’s trending standards. For some time now, celebrities, fashionistas, and influencers have been all about retro sneakers with slim soles and a clean, understated look. The era of chunky, oversized, and slightly extravagant sneakers is over. Now it’s all about discreet, sporty styles just like martial arts-inspired sneakers. And there’s no need to practice a martial art to wear them: sleek, lightweight, and easy to style, they’re truly the perfect everyday ally.
Adidas taekwondo sneakers: From the mat to the street
Adidas Taekwondo sneakers are among the most coveted pieces of the martial arts-inspired trend. A quick history lesson: this iconic pair was born in the early 2000s under the name “SMII” (a label still visible on the side of the shoe) and was originally designed solely for Taekwondo practice. In 2010, the silhouette was reimagined with a streetwear twist, thanks to a collaboration between Adidas and Japanese designer Yohji Yamamoto. Then, in 2019, they were renamed Adidas Taekwondo: a name that says it all. Fast forward to 2024, and the pair is making a strong comeback sparked in part by a headline-making appearance from Jennie of Blackpink, who was spotted rocking the sneakers. Since then, the Adidas Taekwondo has been on a steady rise, becoming a street style staple.
A unique and practical shape
The Adidas Taekwondo sneakers stand out with their slip-on design: easy to slide on, with no laces or tongue. This minimalist, lightweight, and practical style is reminiscent of classic ballet flats.
In 2024, the updated version features a reinforced sole with added foam for cushioning. The distinctive front-foot stitching remains, giving the model its unique charm.
Colourways, collabs & ultra-limited editions
Whether you love them a little, a lot, or not at all, one thing’s for sure: Adidas Taekwondo sneakers don’t go unnoticed. Case in point? The 2024 collaboration between Adidas and Miaou, which gave rise to an ultra-sleek, all-gold version of the shoe. Fun fact: this rare, limited-edition release was inspired by the model worn by Zinedine Zidane during his farewell FIFA Cup match in 2006. The Adidas Taekwondo is nothing if not inspiring. It even sparked the design of the Adidas “Ballerina,” a collaboration with Bad Bunny released in April 2025. As for colourways, there’s something for every style. The sneakers come in sleek black, white, or silver leather, as well as suede versions in trendy shades like mocha and beige—and even glossy patent leather for those who like a bolder look.
Martial arts make their mark on other sneaker brands
Adidas may be leading the pack, but it’s far from alone—other brands are riding the martial arts wave too. Take Onitsuka Tiger, for example, and its iconic “Tai Chi” model. Originally created in Japan in 1949 for martial arts training, the sneaker rose to cult status after hitting the big screen. The yellow pair with black stripes was famously worn by Bruce Lee in Game of Death, then by Uma Thurman in Kill Bill. Today, both the Tai Chi and its close cousin, the Mexico 66, rank among the trendiest sneakers around—perfectly wearable on and off the mat. Other models, like the Puma Speedcat, also channel a martial arts-inspired aesthetic with their sleek, minimal design. While these kicks are actually rooted in motorsport culture rather than combat sports, their dynamic silhouette fits right in with the look. Bottom line? Whether you’re a white belt or a black belt, martial arts sneakers are made to be worn beyond the dojo—for an effortlessly stylish, urban vibe.
