The adhesive behavior of one-dimensional (1D) materials, such as nanotubes and nanowires, plays a decisive role in the effective fabrication, functionality, and reliability of novel devices that integrate 1D components, as well as in biomimetic adhesives based on 1D arrays. This review compiles and critically evaluates recent experimental techniques that aim to characterize the adhesion behavior of interfaces formed by 1D materials, including when such materials are brought into contact with a substrate or adjacent 1D materials. The conformation of 1D material to surfaces and the associated occurrence of multi-asperity contact are discussed, and the coupling of adhesion and friction during interfacial attachment and detachment is explored. The use of 1D materials as reinforcement agents in nanocomposites and the associated interfacial characterization techniques are considered. The potential for the environmental conditions that exist during sample preparation and adhesion testing to influence 1D interfacial interactions and, ultimately, to alter the adhesion behavior of a 1D material is scrutinized. Finally, a brief perspective is provided on ongoing challenges and future directions, which include the methodical investigation of the testing environment and the alteration of adhesion through surface modification.