The Next Great Sneaker Rivalry: Adidas AE2 vs. Converse SHAI 001

As the NBA season heats up, two of the game’s brightest young stars engage in a spirited back and forth over their latest releases. But which shoe is best for you?

Behind the Beef

You may have seen the recent “beef” between Anthony Edwards and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander after Edwards’ newest commercial took a shot at SGS’s latest shoe release. The Adidas Anthony Edwards 2’s (AE2) dropped just a few weeks after Gilgeous-Alexander’s SHAI 001 with Converse.

Both players are incredibly popular NBA stars, each with a case to become the next generation’s face of the league.

They both have unique and exciting signature sneakers with major brands. But which shoe is best for you? Let’s find out.

Adidas AE2s

The namesake AE2 is Anthony Edwards’ second signature basketball shoe, following the AE1 released in 2023. Adidas has made several design updates aimed at improving fit and performance, including a propulsion plate that runs through the midsole to improve energy transfer when jumping or sprinting.

The upper includes small structural elements, referred to as “articulated fangs,” that help keep the foot secure during quick directional changes. Cushioning comes from a mix of foams, combining an outer layer with a different core to balance impact absorption and stability.

Compared to the AE1, the AE2 sits lower on the ankle, shifting from a high-top to a mid-top design. It’s also noticeably lighter, though still heavier than some other models on the market. According to early reviews, the propulsion plate feels similar to the carbon-fiber inserts often sold separately from performance shoes, offering slightly more flexibility and a quicker rebound than the original.

Converse SHAI 001s

The SHAI 001 is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s first signature shoe with Converse. Though produced under the Converse label, it uses Nike technology in the forefoot, giving the shoe a springy response during takeoff and landing.

It’s a clean shoe design-wise, with a swooshing upper and monotone color options. A distinctive element is the zipper enclosure, which allows for easy access and a flexible fit.

The foam midsole provides cushioning that balances impact protection with a low, stable feel, according to Weartesters. Underneath, the SHAI 001 uses a radial traction pattern designed to improve grip during sharp cuts and direction changes.

The combination of a firm base, secure upper, and responsive cushioning makes for a shoe built for players who rely on quickness and precise footwork rather than vertical power.

Which One Should You Pick?

Here are some recommendations based on your play-style, preferences, and priorities:

• Choose AE2 if you:
  • Are looking for a shoe made to support your explosiveness: frequent jumps, bursts to the rim, etc.
  • Prefer more “traditional” hoop-shoe fit and performance (cushion, stability).
  • Play mostly on clean indoor hardwood.
    
• Choose SHAI 001 if you:
  • Prioritize agility, change of direction, and a quick first step.
  • Favor a unique-looking shoe to stand out on the court.
  • Want a shoe that allows for different fit customization styles.
    

In the end, both sneakers reflect their creators, with Edwards’ AE2 channeling power and explosiveness and Gilgeous-Alexander’s SHAI 001 focusing on control and precision. Together they represent two evolving philosophies in modern basketball design: one built for vertical force, the other for fluid movement. As their rivalry grows, so does the innovation driving the next generation of performance shoes.