Adidas AE2 Budget Version: Edwards' Signature Gets Accessible

Adidas is preparing a more accessible iteration of Anthony Edwards' AE2 signature model, capitalizing on momentum from the guard's standout All-Star Weekend. The budget-friendly option expands the reach of Edwards' flagship Three Stripes silhouette beyond premium pricing tiers.

Edwards has become a key player in Adidas's basketball roster, and the AE2—particularly the celebrated Hellstar collaboration that gained traction during the All-Star circuit—demonstrated the model's potential as a cultural tentpole. Rather than relegating the signature to premium-only release strategy, the Three Stripes is taking a calculated approach: introduce a lower-cost variant that captures the essential design language while opening the shoe to a broader consumer base.

This move reflects a broader industry trend toward democratizing signature footwear. Athletes' shoes no longer exist in a singular price bracket; instead, brands tier their offerings to serve different economic segments without diluting brand prestige. The budget AE2 will retain core design elements that define Edwards' silhouette while likely adjusting material composition and construction methods to hit a more accessible price point.

Release Details

Full specifications regarding materials, colorway options, and exact retail pricing remain unconfirmed, though the budget variant is expected to retail significantly below the premium AE2 line. The release timeline aligns with Adidas's broader basketball calendar and Edwards' continued visibility within the league.

Release Info

Status: Confirmed forthcoming
Brand: Adidas
Model: AE2 (Budget Version)
Retail Price: TBD
Expected Retailers: Adidas.com, select Adidas retailers, basketball specialty accounts