Reebok vs. Adidas: Which brand should you buy?

Reebok is known for its fitness-focused gear and accessible price points, offering classic, retro-inspired styles ideal for the gym and everyday wear. Adidas, on the other hand, positions itself as an innovator in performance and fashion, with cutting-edge technologies like Boost cushioning and higher price points for its trend-driven designs.

Let's break down everything you need to know to choose the right athletic brand for your wallet and workout.

Reebok: The Fitness & Lifestyle Classic

Reebok is an athletic brand focused on versatility, catering to fitness enthusiasts who need reliable gear for CrossFit, training, and running without a premium price tag. Its target customer values functional, comfortable apparel and footwear that transitions well from the gym to the street, often with a nod to classic, retro designs from the 80s and 90s.

• Product mix: Primary categories include training and CrossFit shoes (like the Nano series), running shoes, classic lifestyle sneakers (Club C, Classic Leather), workout apparel, and accessories.
• Price point: Generally more affordable. Most sneakers range from $60 to $120, and performance apparel like leggings or tops is typically priced between $30 and $80.
• Quality: Offers durable, well-made products designed to withstand intense workouts. Features sturdy construction, reliable EVA midsoles for cushioning, and supportive uppers.
• Style & Aesthetic: Emphasizes retro-inspired looks and classic silhouettes that blend sport with streetwear. Styles are functional and modern with a nostalgic feel.
• Sizing/Fit: Tends to run true to size, but some users report that certain training models can have a slightly narrower fit.
• Sustainability: The brand is implementing eco-friendly initiatives, such as using recycled materials in some of its product lines to reduce its environmental footprint.

Reebok offers great value with comfortable, stylish, and functional gear, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious shoppers and fitness fans who love a classic athletic look.

Shop Reebok: reebok.com

Adidas: The Leader in Performance & Innovation

Adidas is one of the world's most dominant sportswear brands, appealing to serious athletes and fashion-forward consumers alike. Known for its iconic three-stripe branding, Adidas pushes the envelope with material science and design, integrating advanced technologies into high-performance footwear and apparel that seamlessly align with current streetwear trends.

• Product mix: Extensive range includes high-performance running shoes, soccer cleats, basketball sneakers, lifestyle footwear (Stan Smith, Gazelle, Samba), collaborations with designers, and a wide array of athletic apparel.
• Price point: Positioned as a mid-range to premium brand. Sneakers commonly range from $80 to over $200, particularly for models featuring technologies like Boost or Primeknit.
• Quality: Leads with advanced materials and innovative tech like Boost midsoles for responsive cushioning and Primeknit uppers for a lightweight, sock-like fit. This results in highly durable and comfortable products.
• Style & Aesthetic: Sleek, modern, and trend-conscious. The brand frequently collaborates with artists, athletes, and designers to create fashion-forward pieces that blur the line between sport and high fashion.
• Sizing/Fit: Known for having consistent sizing that is generally true to size. Some models with Primeknit uppers can offer a slightly wider, more accommodating fit.
• Sustainability: Heavily focuses on sustainability, with major initiatives like using recycled ocean plastic in collaboration with Parley and a commitment to using only recycled polyester by 2024.

Adidas is the brand for those who are willing to invest in cutting-edge performance technology, a modern aesthetic, and a strong commitment to sustainability.

Shop Adidas: adidas.com

Reebok vs. Adidas Comparison

Price Comparison

Reebok is the more budget-friendly option a majority of the time. Its core sneaker models, like the Club C or Nano, are typically found in the $60 to $120 range. This makes it a great choice for shoppers looking for quality gear without a high price tag. The brand also runs frequent sales, increasing its accessibility.

Adidas products generally come with a higher price, often ranging from $80 to well over $200 for popular models like the Ultraboost or NMD series. This premium reflects the brand's investment in proprietary technologies and high-profile marketing collaborations. While Adidas also has sales, its baseline prices are consistently higher than Reebok's.

Quality & Materials

Both brands produce high-quality athletic gear, but their focus differs. Reebok's products are known for their durability and straightforward, sturdy construction. They use reliable materials like EVA foam and leather or synthetic uppers that hold up well during gym sessions and daily activities. The emphasis is on dependable performance.

Adidas often takes the lead with material innovation. Its Boost technology provides exceptional energy return and cushioning for runners, while Primeknit uppers deliver a flexible and comfortable fit. These advanced materials often give Adidas an edge in comfort and lightweight performance, especially in its premium running and lifestyle lines.

Style & Aesthetic

Reebok's aesthetic is heavily influenced by its heritage, leaning into retro-inspired, classic designs. Think of the timeless look of the Classic Leather or the chunky "dad shoe" appeal of some of its 90s models. Its style is sporty, approachable, and taps into a strong sense of nostalgia.

Adidas maintains a more modern and sleek aesthetic. Its designs are often minimalist, sharp, and trend-driven, making its products a popular choice for athleisure and streetwear. From the clean lines of the Stan Smith to the futuristic silhouette of the Ultraboost, Adidas focuses on a contemporary, fashion-forward look.

Fit & Sizing

Both brands generally run true to size, but there are some slight differences to be aware of. Many wearers find certain Reebok models, especially those designed for training and CrossFit, to have a more snug or slightly narrow fit to ensure stability.

Adidas is known for consistent sizing across most of its footwear. Some models, especially those with soft Primeknit uppers, might feel a bit wider and more accommodating. As with any athletic shoe, it's always best to check specific model reviews or try them on if possible.

Sustainability & Ethics

Both companies are working toward greater sustainability, but Adidas has made it a more central and visible part of its brand identity. Its longstanding partnership with Parley for the Oceans to create footwear from recycled ocean plastic is a well-known example. Adidas has also set aggressive public goals for using recycled materials and reducing its carbon emissions.

Reebok is also taking steps with its [Ree]cycled and [Ree]grow collections, which feature products made from recycled and natural materials, respectively. While these are positive steps, Adidas's sustainability initiatives are currently more extensive and integrated across a larger portion of its product line.

Which One Should You Choose?

The right choice comes down to your personal priorities for style, budget, and performance needs. Both brands make excellent products, but they cater to slightly different shoppers.

Choose Reebok if:

• You're shopping on a budget and want the best value for your money.
• You love a retro, classic aesthetic with a timeless feel.
• You need durable, functional gear specifically for CrossFit or intense gym training.
• You want comfortable, stylish sneakers for everyday wear without a premium price.

Choose Adidas if:

• You want the latest in footwear technology like Boost cushioning for superior comfort.
• You prefer sleek, modern, and fashion-forward designs that align with current trends.
• A brand's commitment to sustainability is a major factor in your purchasing decisions.
• You need high-performance gear for sports like running, soccer, or basketball.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Reebok or Adidas cheaper?

Reebok is generally the cheaper of the two brands. Its footwear and apparel are positioned at a more accessible, mid-range price point, while Adidas tends to have a more premium pricing structure for its most popular and technologically advanced products.

Which brand has better quality?

Both brands offer excellent quality, but it's tailored for different purposes. Adidas has a slight edge in terms of innovative materials like Boost foam and Primeknit, which enhance comfort and performance. Reebok's quality is centered on durability and sturdy construction, which is ideal for high-intensity training environments.

Do Reebok and Adidas fit the same?

For the most part, both brands run true to size. However, Reebok's training shoes can sometimes fit a bit narrower to provide foot stability, whereas some Adidas models with flexible uppers may feel a bit wider.

Does Adidas own Reebok?

Adidas owned Reebok from 2005 until 2021. However, Adidas sold Reebok to Authentic Brands Group (ABG), and the two are now completely separate and competing companies.

Which brand is better for CrossFit?

Reebok is widely considered the dominant brand in the CrossFit space. Its Nano line of shoes was developed specifically for the demands of CrossFit and is a favorite among athletes for its stability, durability, and support during heavy lifts and varied movements.

Which brand is more sustainable?

Adidas has a more comprehensive and widely promoted sustainability program, with major initiatives like using recovered ocean plastic and setting ambitious goals for recycled material usage. While Reebok is making progress, Adidas's efforts are more extensive and central to its branding.

Which brand is more stylish?

This is entirely subjective. If your style leans toward nostalgic, classic, and retro looks, Reebok will likely appeal to you more. If you prefer modern, sleek, and trend-focused designs, you'll probably favor Adidas.

What is the return policy for Reebok and Adidas?

Both brands typically offer a 30-day return policy for items that are unworn and in their original condition. Always check their official websites for the most current policy details before making a purchase.