Best Primeknit shoes Reviewed and Rated

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Copa 70 Year
Test Winner: Copa 70 Year
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Developed by Adidas, Primeknit is a material and technique used for the construction of footwear that knits the entire upper of the footwear from one piece, using forged yarns to make a boot. A lightweight and breathable material, it has quickly become a fan favorite thanks to the excellent fit it allows, as well as the fact that it can be worn with or without socks without causing skin irritation, rubbing, swelling or even blistering.

Although most often used for running models, there is a huge variety of Adidas shoes that use Primeknit in the upper. From sneakers made for basketball, soccer, and even golf and lifestyle shoes, you can find a huge number of footwear that employs this type of technology. It’s versatile and comfortable, not to mention cost-efficient, making it one of the best choices currently available. Below are the highest-rated Primeknit shoes by the brand.

Standout Picks

Ultraboost 19
The latest release in adidas’ Ultraboost line, the 2019 version brings great improvements to an already amazing pair of running sneakers. The bootie style knit upper is one of the main reasons this is such a popular model, not only for athletic use, but for casual everyday wear as well. Coupled with the fact that the Ultraboost 19 comes in a variety of color options, you will definitely want to check this model out.
Amazon Link
Alphaedge 4D
From time to time, a product so innovative comes along that it completely changes direction in which footwear design is headed. One such model is the Alphaedge 4D, a neutral shoe made for running and crosstraining that uses something completely different than you can get from any other brand. A futuristic knit sneaker, this item is the perfect choice for those who want to stand out, but still care about athletic performance, comfort, and environmentally friendly construction methods.
Amazon Link
Ultraboost All Terrain
A neutral road running sneaker made for less than ideal weather conditions, the All Terrain version of Ultraboost is a good choice for those who want to keep on running even when it’s raining or cold. This model features a higher collar than the regular version, and employs a different lacing system that uses strong TPU reinforcements and a tougher lace. It can be purchased in several color options, and is an overall great investment for most people.
Amazon Link
NMD R1 STLT
This running sneaker is one of the most stylish items out of the bunch. The NMD_R1 knit features a basically overlay-less upper as well as a relatively slim design. The NMD line is overall one that provides its patrons with a slim-lined look that blends with various different outfit types; in addition to this, the R1's are about as comfortable as can be. The reason why the R1's made the cut is that they have a Boost midsole and a sock-like upper; they’re completely amazing.
Amazon Link
Crossknit 2.0
A spikeless golf shoe, the Crossknit 2.0 is ideal for those who want high performance on the green, but with a sneaker that won’t feel uncomfortable on harder surfaces. It’s a casual looking model with great comfort features, including the brand’s highly rated Boost midsole, available in three classic color options based on greys and blacks.
Amazon Link
Copa 70 Year
In order to mark the 70th anniversary of the adidas name, the brand released a Primeknit version of one of their most successful pairs of sneakers ever. This indoor shoe is perfect for soccer fans and casual users alike, and makes for a pair of footwear that is just as suitable for athletic as it is for everyday wear. It is available in a single color option: classic white with black stripes and heel tab.
Amazon Link
Tubular Doom
The Tubular Doom is not for the faint of heart. The mixture of both a knit upper and a lightweight cushioning system makes sure that wearers receive the highest levels of functionality from the Doom’s design. Not to mention that the upper makes use of a Primeknit material which enables it to provide an amazing range of motion as well as the level of breathability while the Doom is worn. The reason why this footwear made the cut, is because it makes use of both a stylish design as well as the stability providing features that it has.
Amazon Link
Originals ZX Flux
If you enjoyed the initial ZX Flux, then we're sure you’ll enjoy this new version as well. The Flux is a popular design thanks to the numerous features used. Now, this favorite pair of sneakers comes in a knit version which helps add a whole slew of features which allow the Flux to provide added value to the foot. Of these features, the most important is the Torsion system, and the Antimicrobial sock-liner incorporated in the upper.
Amazon Link
EQT Support Adv
Looking for a cool-looking basketball kicks that supply all of the functionality that you’d need in a game? If so, then the EQT support adv is probably the shoe you need to be looking at. For those who are into basketball, it’s probably best if you look at the actual name of the shoe, you will see that it mentions the support they give. The EQT is on this list because of the incredible supportive features it has as well as the EVA midsole.
Amazon Link
Swift
The Swift is a favorite pair of adidas footwear that received a Primeknit version, allowing users to combine its comfort with the updated upper material. Considering the seamless design, this is one of the best barefoot shoes you can purchase, and it is just a suitable for athletic wear, as it is for casual occasions.
Amazon Link

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Materials

Primeknit is an overall great material to have in your footwear, for many reasons. For one thing, it is more flexible and lightweight than leather and synthetics, while still offering a higher level of support and durability than mesh. However, there are a few things that influence the way in which your Primeknit shoes are going to perform - not just when it comes to athletic use, but also in terms of style.

  • Cut: You may not realize this but, the cut is one of its most important aspects of your footwear. It basically tells you whether or not it can be worn for business activities or is made solely for casual/athletic events. Furthermore, it will determine the comfort provided by the sneaker, as certain types of cuts tend to have portions that rub or irritate the foot. The best type of shoe to look for is one without any internal seams.
  • Color-coordination: While the use of various different coloring schemes in the design of a sneaker has become somewhat of a trend in today’s age; it doesn’t really work for everything. Adidas is a brand that creates footwear both in neutral, classic tones such as white and black, but it also provides users with more colorful options, especially for lifestyle sneakers.
  • Stability

    Another feature that was important in the decision process for the sneakers on this list was their ability to provide stability to the foot while in use. Due to the fact that these shoes have a rather “thin” material, it alone can’t always provide support and security; for this reason, we decided to pay attention to a few other factors when putting all of the different pieces of this list together; the main reasons are listed below.

  • Overlays: An item with overlays is something that will be just that much more secure than others. With that being said, it was also incredibly important to pay attention to the number of overlays each of these pieces of footwear had incorporated into their design. The number and type of overlays played a large part in providing wearers with what they needed in terms of security and stability.
  • Heel Guards: This is such a small part of the design that we typically overlook it- but it is one of the most important. The heel guard/cover is one of the main things that allows kicks with knit uppers to provide their wearers with a bit of security in both the heel and sides of the foot (these parts tend to extend all of the way to the sides of the foot).
  • Comfort

    When shopping for any type of footwear, be it a beach sandal or a composite-toe work boot, you will want to purchase a pair that is comfortable, even for long hours of wear. On the whole, Primeknit shoes do this particularly well, thanks to the material that allows for flexibility and breathability. Here are the main features you should look for when choosing your next pair:

  • Toe-box width: For a shoe to be as comfortable as possible, it should have adequate room for swelling and splaying in the toe area. If it doesn’t have this room, wearers won’t be able to fully enjoy their sneakers. This is particularly important for runners and athletes who use this type of footwear to work out in.
  • Breathability: This type of material is made with open-knit fibres which allow plenty of air to enter the foot chamber, increasing breathability, as well as moisture management. If you tend to sweat a lot, or are just looking for a more durable alternative to mesh sneakers, you've come to the right place.
  • Flexibility: When it comes to comfort nothing beats the good old range of motion that’s achieved by a good pair of sneakers. A knit upper easily provides this, and some models even have stretch fibres included in the material to enhance the shoe's adaptability.
  • Midsole

    One of the main components of any pair of footwear is the midsole which is used. This is the portion of the shoe that connects the outsole, that touches the ground, with the insole, that's in contact with your foot. Generally, it will also be the part of the footwear that houses the shock absorbing and stability features that are crucial for providing your foot with the protection and support it requires.

    Adidas is a company that is dedicated to innovation, and it comes as no surprise that one of their midsole technologies is actually the most effective in providing support. The Boost soles you'll find on a number of models listed above use thousands of TPU pellets that contract and expand with every step, absorbing force that is generated and preventing it from traveling up the leg and causing muscle or joint pain.

    Other models will include various versions of EVA foam, including the Bounce sole often found on basketball sneakers, as well as rubber outsoles that greatly contribute to cushioning and energy return.

    Another thing to keep in mind with footwear by this brand is the fact that it most often comes with removable insoles that can be replaced with custom orthotics, allowing users to get the perfect fit, with plenty of arch support and a customized feel underfoot.

    Flexibility

    Before making a purchase, it is crucial that you decide on the way in which you will use your footwear. Casual and athletic uses require different features, and the differences are even more pronounced in different sports that include different types of movement.

    There is a number of different shoes listed above:

  • Running shoes: Designed to be used for running that includes a forward motion, and that puts a great amount of stress on the foot, especially the heel area. Running sneakers are great for everyday use, but you should never wear lifestyle sneakers for running, simply because they won't provide the protection required.
  • Basketball shoes: Made for quick changes of direction, basketball shoes have outsoles (usually) made for indoor courts that often need a higher level of grip. They're big on support and lateral stability, and feature a lower heel to toe drop in order to allow the player to feel the floor.
  • Golf shoes: Developed for outdoor use on grassy surfaces, golf shoes can be purchased with or without spikes, depending on personal preferences. They're usually made with shock-absorbing midsoles to allow for a lot of walking, and need to provide lateral stability that helps achieve a more powerful swing.
  • Soccer boots: Made in both indoor and outdoor versions, these use special materials in the upper to help better grip and control the ball, while providing a sleek, snug fit that maximizes performance. Indoor models will usually feature non-marking soles in order to prevent gym floor damage.
  • Lifestyle sneakers: Made for everyday wear, these are usually oriented towards appearance, and don't often include the latest performance tech. Lifestyle shoes are also often cheaper than their sports-oriented alternatives, and can be purchased in a greater variety of color options.
  • 10 Best Primeknit Shoes

    1. Ultraboost 19

    Where to buy
    Amazon Link
    Ultraboost 19
    Amazon Link

    The latest release in adidas’ Ultraboost line, the 2019 version brings great improvements to an already amazing pair of running sneakers. The bootie style knit upper is one of the main reasons this is such a popular model, not only for athletic use, but for casual everyday wear as well. Coupled with the fact that the Ultraboost 19 comes in a variety of color options, you will definitely want to check this model out.

    One of the biggest changes in the 2019 version is the collar of the sneaker, which now features a lower profile, preventing it from cutting into the sensitive ankle area, but also increasing breathability and flexibility. The inner portion is completely seamless, ensuring a great fit, and the midfoot cage is now softer, allowing users to get a more personalized fit.

    As for the outsole, it uses the brand’s game-changing Boost sole which uses thousands of TPU pellets to absorb shock and provide a high level of energy return that doesn’t flatten or wear out with long-term use. The outsole is made with Continental rubber for a great grip on all types of surfaces, and it even does well in wet conditions. As for price point, this is one of the more expensive models you can purchase, but it’s an all-round great investment for athletically inclined people, as well as frequent runners.

    Amazon Link

    2. Alphaedge 4D

    Where to buy
    Amazon Link
    Alphaedge 4D
    Amazon Link

    From time to time, a product so innovative comes along that it completely changes direction in which footwear design is headed. One such model is the Alphaedge 4D, a neutral shoe made for running and crosstraining that uses something completely different than you can get from any other brand. A futuristic knit sneaker, this item is the perfect choice for those who want to stand out, but still care about athletic performance, comfort, and environmentally friendly construction methods.

    The Primeknit upper in the Alphaedge 4D is reinforced with adidas’ Forgefibre technology that coats each fibre with TPU, then uses a heat induced process to make the material stronger and more durable, without losing its flexibility, breathability and overall comfort. What this results in is a pair of sneakers that is lightweight yet resilient to everyday wear, with comfortable tongue, collar and heel sections that prevent rubbing without using bulky materials.

    The sole portion of this shoe is 3D printed, using data collected from professional runners over the years in order to provide users with a midsole that’s shock absorbing, supportive, and that promotes the natural gait. The Aramis 3D motion capture system adapts to the runner’s foot and way of movement, providing a personalized feel with every pair of Alphaedge 4D sneakers. The price of this type of technology, however, is quite high, and makes for the most expensive pair of footwear featured on this list.

    Amazon Link

    3. Ultraboost All Terrain

    Where to buy
    Amazon Link
    Ultraboost All Terrain
    Amazon Link

    A neutral road running sneaker made for less than ideal weather conditions, the All Terrain version of Ultraboost is a good choice for those who want to keep on running even when it’s raining or cold. This model features a higher collar than the regular version, and employs a different lacing system that uses strong TPU reinforcements and a tougher lace. It can be purchased in several color options, and is an overall great investment for most people.

    What differentiates the Primeknit used for the All Terrain from that found on regular Ultraboost sneakers is the weather repellant treatment that causes water and moisture to bead when in touch with the sneaker’s surface, preventing it from seeping into the shoe. The external midfoot cage is replaced by an internal skeleton that provides excellent lateral support, without creating surfaces on the upper that may collect or retain moisture.

    As for other specification, they’re fairly similar to those of the regular version. The sneaker features a Boost midsole, along with a Torsion system that increases stability and encourages a natural gait cycle. The sockliner is removable, and can be replaced with custom orthotics or insoles, while the outsole uses Continental rubber with more pronounced lugs for greater grip on roads and trails. In terms of cost association, this is an average pair of sneakers, a great choice for a number of users.

    Amazon Link

    4. NMD_R1 STLT

    Where to buy
    Amazon Link
    NMD R1 STLT
    Amazon Link

    This running sneaker is one of the most stylish items out of the bunch. The NMD_R1 knit features a basically overlay-less upper as well as a relatively slim design. The NMD line is overall one that provides its patrons with a slim-lined look that blends with various different outfit types; in addition to this, the R1's are about as comfortable as can be. The reason why the R1's made the cut is that they have a Boost midsole and a sock-like upper; they’re completely amazing.

    When considering the Boost material that makes up the midsole, it’s best to compare it to the standard EVA foam that many midsoles are designed from. The Boost is a bit more responsive and, unlike EVA, doesn’t compress easily at all; this is what contributes to the level of longevity.

    To have footwear that fits like a sock does is to have a pair that fits incredibly well. The design of the NMD is supposed to model the feeling a pair of socks give when they are first slid onto the foot. The level of comfort that the design provides enables wearers to be able to wear the R1 for a relatively long period. The fact that the upper is designed from a knit material only makes this better; the knit allows these R1 to be worn without socks; how great is that? Although slightly expensive, the price of the R1 is definitely outweighed by the comfort these shoes provide.

    Amazon Link

    5. Crossknit 2.0

    Where to buy
    Amazon Link
    Crossknit 2.0
    Amazon Link

    A spikeless golf shoe, the Crossknit 2.0 is ideal for those who want high performance on the green, but with a sneaker that won’t feel uncomfortable on harder surfaces. It’s a casual looking model with great comfort features, including the brand’s highly rated Boost midsole, available in three classic color options based on greys and blacks.

    In the upper portion of the Crossknit 2.0 you get a version of Primeknit called CircleKnit. It’s a stretchy material that conforms to the foot and allows for a good mixture between flexibility and stability, with the addition of a stretchy midfoot band that ensures a secure fit and lateral support. The bootie construction and textile lining feel comfortable with or without socks, allowing for excellent air flow in hot conditions.

    The midsole uses the already mentioned Boost pellets for a cushioned feel, while the Cloudfoam sockliner increases in-shoe feel. The outsole utilizes Adiwear rubber with strategically placed pods for excellent grip, and it is overall flexible, allowing for natural movement throughout the day. Although the price of the Crossknit 2.0 is higher than average, it can easily be found on sale, making for a good investment for a number of users.

    Amazon Link

    6. Copa 70 Year

    Where to buy
    Amazon Link
    Copa 70 Year
    Amazon Link

    In order to mark the 70th anniversary of the adidas name, the brand released a Primeknit version of one of their most successful pairs of sneakers ever. This indoor shoe is perfect for soccer fans and casual users alike, and makes for a pair of footwear that is just as suitable for athletic as it is for everyday wear. It is available in a single color option: classic white with black stripes and heel tab.

    In terms of performance features, you receive the same great quality from the 70 Year edition as you do from the regular Copa Mundial indoor shoe. It has a non-marking rubber outsole with a combination of herringbone and circular traction patterns. It’s slip and abrasion resistant, and utilizes an EVA insole in order to absorb shock and allow for a better wearing experience.

    As for the upper, it’s considerably more breathable than the synthetic and leather versions, and it wraps around the foot, providing a personalized fit for every user. Additionally, the 70 Year is more lightweight than traditional versions, and more breathable, thanks to the open-weave construction that promotes airflow and moisture management. In terms of price, this model ranks above average, making it a good choice for soccer fans and sneakerheads.

    Amazon Link

    7. Tubular Doom

    Where to buy
    Amazon Link
    Tubular Doom
    Amazon Link

    The Tubular Doom is not for the faint of heart. The mixture of both a knit upper and a lightweight cushioning system makes sure that wearers receive the highest levels of functionality from the Doom’s design. Not to mention that the upper makes use of a Primeknit material which enables it to provide an amazing range of motion as well as the level of breathability while the Doom is worn. The reason why this footwear made the cut, is because it makes use of both a stylish design as well as the stability providing features that it has.

    The Tubular Doom has very obtuse features yet still manages to be relatively sleek and stylish on one’s foot. Additionally, it provides a customized fit in the upper, as well as plenty of support thanks to the external midfoot cage, which makes this a great choice for those who are athletically inclined.

    The upper of the Doom literally mimics a sock. Features such as the elastic strap that wraps tightly over the forefoot of the wearer and the fabric construction in the heel allow the Tubular Doom to be an immensely comfortable, yet secure shoe. The Tubular line is one that can be considered nothing short of, cheap. The prices of the Doom models fall in a range that is nothing like that of various other sneaker types on the market. The great thing about the low price of the Doom is they aren’t cheaply made. While the price is low, one still receives an immense level of value due to both the quality make and the comforting features.

    Amazon Link

    8. Originals ZX Flux

    Where to buy
    Amazon Link
    Originals ZX Flux
    Amazon Link

    If you enjoyed the initial ZX Flux, then we're sure you’ll enjoy this new version as well. The Flux is a popular design thanks to the numerous features used. Now, this favorite pair of sneakers comes in a knit version which helps add a whole slew of features which allow the Flux to provide added value to the foot. Of these features, the most important is the Torsion system, and the Antimicrobial sock-liner incorporated in the upper.

    Have you ever worn your sneakers for any length of time and found that it began to smell bad? If so, that pair didn’t have an antimicrobial sock-liner in the upper. For the remake of the ZX Flux, the company made sure to include an antimicrobial sock-liner which allowed the Flux to provide wearers a clean smelling item for a longer than average length of time.

    The Torsion system was probably one of the best pieces of adidas technology. This piece of tech enables both the forefoot and the heel to move as independent parts; allowing more flexibility and increasing overall comfort. Much like the original ZX Flux, the design of the knit version is actually relatively inexpensive, giving it excellent value for most users.

    Amazon Link

    9. EQT Support Adv

    Where to buy
    Amazon Link
    EQT Support Adv
    Amazon Link

    Looking for a cool-looking basketball kicks that supply all of the functionality that you’d need in a game? If so, then the EQT support adv is probably the shoe you need to be looking at. For those who are into basketball, it’s probably best if you look at the actual name of the shoe, you will see that it mentions the support they give. The EQT is on this list because of the incredible supportive features it has as well as the EVA midsole.

    The midsole on the EQT is designed from a single layer of EVA. This material allows the shoe to provide wearers with what they need in terms of comfort and is actually pretty good at cushioning one’s underfoot. In addition to this, the drop that one experiences in the EQT and the extra cushioning that allows it, allows one to have an incredible level of cushioning in the heel of the foot.

    This is a basketball sneaker; it only makes sense that it provides a level of support that is nothing else but out of this world. This shoe makes use of various materials which enables it to provide the foot (and the wearer) with the support they’d need in order to fully function in the EQT's design. Of these features are the elastic materials along the side of the EQT and materials which ensures that one has what they’d need in terms of functionality while in use. Surprisingly, the EQT isn't expensive at all. It makes use of various materials which allows it to provide wearers with what they need in terms of functionality and for the price, is something that can’t be beaten.

    Amazon Link

    10. Swift

    Where to buy
    Amazon Link
    Swift
    Amazon Link

    The Swift is a favorite pair of adidas footwear that received a Primeknit version, allowing users to combine its comfort with the updated upper material. Considering the seamless design, this is one of the best barefoot shoes you can purchase, and it is just a suitable for athletic wear, as it is for casual occasions.

    Something that really stands out about the Swift is that it features a sort of criss-cross style of lacing. This style allows these shoes to provide wearers with an incredibly snug fit especially when considered in line with the upper. Another thing that stands out about the lacing in this sneaker is that it doesn’t cover the wearer’s forefoot allowing for greater flexibility in this part.

    The Swift Primeknit features zero overlays in its design which enables it to move in the exact way that the wearer’s foot moves. In addition to this, due to it being made of this fabric it is increasingly comfortable when on foot. The Swift can be considered somewhat expensive. That isn’t to say that they don’t provide the wearer with any level of value.

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