adidas Taekwondo Mei “Ballet”: white, black and a gum sole

The adidas Taekwondo Mei “Ballet” (stylecode JR7030) is the most timeless version of this low-profile women’s model: Cloud White with Core Black details and a gum sole. The name says it all — this is the sneaker that comes closest to a ballet shoe.

While many Taekwondo Mei colorways rely on bold color, this version keeps things classic with a white base and the black stripes adidas has been known for for decades. Combined with the warm gum sole, you get a shoe that feels retro while fitting perfectly into the current trend for sleek, refined flat silhouettes.

Minimalism that works

I find myself asking the same question with shoes like this: does the simplicity add something, or is it just boring? In my opinion, this one definitely falls into the first category. White, black and gum is a combination that never looks out of place, and that sense of calm really works on such a slim, low-profile silhouette. This is a shoe that completes an outfit without demanding attention — whether you pair it with jeans, a skirt or a summer dress.

The lowest price we’re currently seeing is [sz_price_from stylecode=”JR7030″]. For a model that’s so on-trend, that’s an accessible starting point.

Would I wear them myself?

Yes — and of all the Taekwondo Mei versions, this is probably the one I’d choose. The colorful versions are fun for a season; you can wear this white iteration for years without getting tired of it. That said, it’s worth knowing what you’re buying: the Taekwondo Mei is inspired by martial arts shoes, so it has a thin, flat sole with minimal cushioning. You can feel the ground beneath your feet. For short distances and days spent mostly sitting down, I find that pleasantly lightweight; for a full day of walking, I’d choose something else. The model has a slim fit, so keep that in mind when choosing your size.

As always with white shoes, maintenance is part of the deal: occasional cleaning is unavoidable. Fortunately, the black details and gum sole hide most visible signs of wear.

It pays to compare

Popular basics like this Ballet colorway sell out quickly in common women’s sizes, and prices can vary significantly between retailers. The selection currently starts at [sz_price_from stylecode=”JR7030″]. Through Solezilla, you can compare all prices, sizes and retailers for this Taekwondo Mei in one overview — helping you find your size at the best price.