I wore them straight out of the box with no pinching or blisters
Celeb-Inspired Ballerina Sneakers
- Writer-Loved: Taekwondo Mei Shoes, $100
- No Break-in Period: Barreda Mary Jane Shoes, $70
- Easy to Style: Samba Jane Shoes, $100
Consider this a PSA: If you wear ballet flats, you can absolutely pull off 2026's hottest shoe trend — the ballerina sneaker. When I first spotted the trendy style on celebs earlier this year, I loved the sleek look. Still, I was worried I would look a little dorky trying them myself.
But after seeing Nicole Kidman wearing a pair with a relaxed airport outfit and Julia Roberts pairing hers with a maxi dress, I decided to take Adidas’s Taekwondo Mei Shoes for a spin in April. They’re shockingly comfortable and breathable, and they actually enhance every outfit. I’ve hardly taken them off since, and already want them in more colors.
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Taekwondo Mei Shoes
$100 at Adidas
I’m a lifelong ballet flats fan, so I was excited — albeit skeptical — to test this sneaker with a familiar silhouette. The cushioned insole and flexible exterior immediately impressed me, as the shoe molded to my foot and didn’t need to be broken in. I walked at least 10,000 steps in them straight out of the box with no pain, pinching, or blisters, which secured them a spot in my regular rotation.
The sneakers come with cotton and satin laces, and I’ve opted for the cotton so far, which adds a subtle yet stylish touch. Even on a 90-degree day, when my feet swelled after hours of walking, the laces felt comfy rather than restrictive. They’re easy to adjust, making the shoes feel more secure than a traditional pair of flats, which often rub against your heels or the sides of your feet.
Since I’m just 5-foot-3, I was concerned that the shoes would get lost under my wide-leg jeans or disappear under long skirts. Instead, I found that they make simple outfits, like cropped jeans and a sweater, feel more refined and pair seamlessly with my summer uniform of midi skirts and T-shirts. I opted for the all-black pair, which is simple to style with my spring and summer wardrobe, and I’m already eyeing more colors.
Shop More Colors and Patterns
Taekwondo Mei Shoes $100 at Adidas |
Taekwondo Mei Shoes $100 at Adidas |
Taekwondo Mei Shoes $100 at Adidas |
Taekwondo Mei Shoes $100 at Adidas |
I’m far from the only fan of the shoes. One five-star reviewer said they are “lightweight and flexible,” and “easy to wear all day.” That same person added that they’re “worth the hype” and that they want to buy them in every color. Another shopper with “wide feet and high arches” said they fit great, while others reported receiving many compliments while wearing the shoes, which mirrored my experience.
Ahead, shop the Taekwondo Mei Shoes and more celebrity-inspired ballerina sneakers from Adidas.
Tokyo MJ Shoes $90 at Adidas |
Barreda Mary Jane Shoes $70 at Adidas |
Samba Jane Shoes $100 at Adidas |
Stan Smith Lo Ballet Shoes $100 at Adidas |
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