An adhesive composition comprising a polymeric matrix and absorbent particles wherein at least a part of the absorbent particles are microcolloid particles. The microcolloid particles are water absorbent particles preferably having a rounded or spherical shape. The addition of microcolloids to an adhesive provides an improved moisture handling properties compared to state of the art technology as well as the rheological properties of the adhesive matrix may be less affected than by addition of traditional hydrocolloids.