A Crossfitter's Tested Review of the adidas Dropset 2 Trainer (2024)
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Key Features:
- Price: $130
- Heel-to-toe drop: 6 millimeters
- Weight: 12.6 ounces (mens 8.5/womens 9.5)
- Fit: Wide fit
- Best for: Cross-training, weightlifting, plyometrics, HIIT (high-intensity interval training), light runs or running intervals
On any given day you can find me in my happy place—my home gym—doing weight training, HIIT (high-intensity interval training) or even cardio-focused workouts on my Concept 2 Rower or Rogue Echo Bike. My training is largely based on what my fitness app tells me and how I'm feeling, so I need a versatile pair of gym shoes that can handle anything.
In the past, I’ve tried NoBull, Nike and Reebok—all well-known CrossFit shoe brands worn by professional athletes in the community. The Dropset 2 is adidas’ take on these popular training shoes with a soft and flexible forefoot, stable heel support and a comfortable, ventilated midfoot. So, how does it compare? In this adidas Dropset 2 Trainer review, I’ll break down the pros and cons, my experience working out in this shoe, factors to consider, customer reviews and more.
What is the adidas Dropset 2 Trainer?
Designed as an all-purpose training shoe, the adidas Dropset 2 Trainer combines a supportive, rigid outsole with a flexible upper, making it an ideal shoe for strength training, high-impact movements, plyometrics, cardio workouts, and agility training.
It has a six-millimeter drop so your foot maintains a stable and balanced position, and there is supportive TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) on the medial and lateral sides of the foot to support the heel and midfoot. The dual-density midsole helps absorb impact from dynamic movements, and the breathable textile upper has synthetic overlays to reinforce high-wear areas. These shoes also have adidas’ patented Traxion outsole that provides grip on multiple surfaces and while moving through lateral movements.
The adidas Dropset Trainer 2 has an airflow window built into the sole for maximum breathability. This unique feature enhances airflow and helps the insole stay dry to reduce sweat and odor.
What we love:
- Dual-density midsole provides cushion on the inner portion and support on the perimeter and lateral side
- Airflow window keeps your feet cool and comfortable
- Upper is made of 50 percent recycled materials
- Toe clip helps anchor the foot
- Traxion outsole is designed to grip multiple surfaces
- Wide toe box
What to consider:
- Not ideal for long runs
- Toe box may be too wide for some
- TPU medial sidewall may not be comfortable for all foot shapes
Our Experience Working Out With the adidas Dropset 2 Trainer
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Fit
The Dropset 2 Trainers felt secure without being too narrow or tight. Even though I don’t have wide feet, I prefer a wide toe box. That said, it's wider than other brands of cross-training shoes I've used, so it took some getting used to. The TPU side wall did a great job of preventing excessive movement, and the narrowing at the heel helped the shoes feel snug and comfortable. While the padded collar extends slightly around the ankle, I didn't feel any friction or discomfort as I moved through exercises including burpees, barbell movements and box jumps.
Stability
Overall, the rubber outsole and dual density midsole felt very stable during Olympic lifts, isometric exercises and dynamic exercises. The side wall on the lateral and medial sides kept my feet from slipping, and the outsole widened slightly at the heel—as opposed to beveled—for more foot-to-ground contact. Although the upper is a flexible textile material, the synthetic overlays provide targeted reinforcement and prevent unnecessary movement of the foot inside the shoe. I found the laces to be a bit long for a standard lace-up, so I ended up using the extra eyelets to shorten them. Even though it was unplanned, I really enjoyed the extra stability it provided during box jumps and other high-impact activities.
Lifting
I tested these shoes for dynamic movements such as Olympic lifts and static movements like shoulder presses. I also wore the Dropset Trainers for heavier lifts and for moderate and light lifts, which are often seen in conjunction with other movements in my training. I found that the outsole gripped my gym flooring and wooden platform well, and my feet had maximum ground contact. Throughout each movement, the outsole felt sturdy and the upper felt flexible and supportive. Personally, I prefer shoes with minimal cushioning for lifting, however, those who prefer specialized weightlifting shoes with an elevated heel may not benefit from these shoes.
Related Post: The Best Weightlifting Apps for Strength Training
Running
The Dropset Trainer 2 held up great during workouts that included running short distances and sprints. The outsole felt grippy as I pivoted on the pavement and gym floor, and I didn’t encounter any slippage on the loose rock on my route. For the amount of cushioning in the midsole, these shoes felt very light and surprisingly comfortable. That said, I would definitely opt for my running shoes for running more than one mile since these shoes have specialized cushioning and shock-absorbing features to better absorb the repetitive impact forces generated during running activities.
Factors to Consider Before Purchasing adidas Dropset 2 Trainer
Construction and design
When designing the Dropset Trainer 2, adidas opted for a unisex design and is currently offering three neutral color options that include black, gray and olive, and Solar Red—a popular bright red often seen in adidas’ running shoes. I chose the olive shoe because it's a subtle pop of color and I hope adidas offers more color choices in future versions for a more personalized look.
Looking for a running shoe? Check out our tested adidas Ultraboost Light Review.
The Dropset Trainer 2 truly has the look of an athletic shoe. It has a sleek, low-profile design with a low-cut collar, overlay upper, toe and heel panels, smooth forefoot and midfoot and the classic adidas three-stripe design.
Overall, I found the toe box to be very roomy and it has more width than the previous model. I also like the supportive feel of the medial sidewall and the heel is slightly flared for extra stability. The upper has six core eyelets so you can fine tune the fit, but the laces are much longer due to this option.
Midsole
The dual density foam midsole is constructed with a firmer foam on the outside and a softer foam on the inside. The firmer foam provides enhanced stability during lateral side jumps or while lifting weights while the softer foam provides shock absorption and feels comfortable. This combination provides versatility by allowing for a wide range of exercises while cushioning and providing stability.
These shoes have a 6 millimeter drop, so your foot always feels stable and connected to the ground. The removable insole has 40 perforated holes starting two inches from the heel and extending midfoot to promote airflow from the ventilated window.
Outsole
The non-marking rubber Traxion outsole has a modified herringbone pattern that’s sectioned into smaller segments to enhance stability and grip. I used these trainers for workouts on a variety of surfaces—gym flooring, pavement with some loose rock, a wooden platform and turf—and didn’t experience any grip issues. Each segment incorporates a micro-herringbone pattern to provide additional points of contact with the ground. The forefoot has flex grooves at the ball of the foot, so the shoe flexes as you move. There is a denser herringbone pattern at the midfoot to support it as it distributes the weight of the body, keeping you balanced and absorbing shock as you move. The midfoot section also has a window for ventilation with a protective mesh screen to prevent any debris from entering the shoe.
For extra durability and support, there is a lateral and medial sidewall, and a toe and heel bumper to add an extra layer of protection from the constantly varied movements.
Upper
The textile upper is breathable and lightweight, with strategically placed synthetic overlays to balance support and flexibility. These overlays are in high-wear areas along each side, around the heel and the lace eyelets. The textile on the tongue, sides and the top of the toe box promotes air circulation so you don’t get overheated.
A new addition to the Dropset 2 that we didn't see in the previous version is the heel tab, which provides a point of leverage when putting them on and taking them off. The heel tab was really helpful for me, as I found the full lacing with all six eyelets to be a bit challenging to get on and off. Once my foot was in the shoe, the padded tongue and collar were really comfortable and I didn’t experience any friction or blisters from training.
Technology/stand out features
Airflow window/ventilated midfoot
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One standout feature of the Dropset 2 Trainer is the airflow window built into the outsole. This window is at the midfoot and provides breathability, helps manage moisture and odor, wicks away sweat quickly and keeps the shoes lightweight. It has a mesh screen to keep rocks and debris from getting in, and it’s double-stitched for durability. The removable insert has perforations at the midfoot, so it doesn’t block the airflow.
For optimal support, adidas added the brand's Torsion System technology, which bridges the gap between the forefoot and rearfoot. The airflow window is a feature I did not have in my previous trainer shoes and it made for a very light and airy feel. I noticed that even though I was exercising in the heat of the summer, my feet felt cool.
TPU Sidewall
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Since training shoes are used for a variety of activities, such as dynamic movement and strength training, adidas added a TPU sidewall for stability and support. This sidewall is made with Adiwear6, a versatile synthetic thermoplastic polyurethane that helps uphold the structural integrity of the shoe as you move. It extends up the medial and lateral sides of the shoe and has a herringbone pattern for grip. While wearing the shoe, you can feel it slightly supporting the side of your foot, which may not be ideal for all foot anatomies. I like the extra support it provides, especially since the toe box feels so roomy.
Dual Density Midsole
The dual-density midsole is a lightweight foam that offers cushioning and energy return but has a firm compound that cradles the heel. That being said these don’t offer the cushioned support seen in other adidas’ shoes. The 6 millimeter drop is ideal for training shoes because it helps your feet feel connected with the ground and provides a stable base for strength training. I found the midsole to be comfortable and stable during short runs and other workouts. However, I would recommend wearing running shoes for distances over one mile.
Warranty and return policy
The brand states you can exchange or return an item within 30 days of receiving your order. While there is no warranty on the Dropset 2, adidas says you can submit a claim about a purchase up to six months after the purchase date if you believe your item is defective. While these claims are subject to approval, you’ll receive a gift card in the amount you paid for the defective item. If you need to make a return, adidas will cover the shipping if you return the item using the same carrier and standard shipping.
Who Should Buy the adidas Dropset 2 Trainer
The Dropset 2 Trainer is ideal for those who like to mix up their workout routine and take different types of classes and do a variety of workouts. The drop and durable outsole works for CrossFit or HIIT-style training, powerlifting or strength training and more.
The roomy toe box is an excellent choice for individuals with wide feet or those who prefer ample space for their toes to spread out, and the side walls are ideal for people who like extra support at the midfoot.
These adidas shoes will also work well for someone who trains in a warmer climate because it has a breathable upper with an airflow window at the midfoot to promote air circulation.
Who Shouldn’t Buy the adidas Dropset 2 Trainer
While the Dropset Trainer 2 is a versatile shoe that works for a variety of exercises, it may not work for everyone.
Because these shoes are unisex, those who prefer a gender-specific design and an anatomical sock liner may opt for a shoe with a more customized design. These may not be ideal if you’re looking for shoes you can quickly slip on and take off; the six additional eyelets provide a secure fit but take longer to tighten and loosen. Runners looking for a cushioned shoe for long-distance running will probably find the cushioning lacking, and people with narrow feet or those who prefer a tapered toe box should probably consider other options. These shoes may not be a good option for those who train in cold or wet environments, as the airflow window does not prevent water from entering the shoe.
Customer Reviews
Reviewers on the adidas website rate these shoes 4.5/5 and rate both the comfort and quality at 4.6/5. Many positive reviews mention that the shoes are sturdy, supportive and mention great ventilation. One review says, “Bought them for BodyPump classes and training days. Comfortable fit, very stable for squats and upper body training while standing. The vent in the bottom is great.”
Critical reviews mention the ankle height being too high. One states, “Good support. [The] only slight downside would be that the shoe comes up a little bit high around the ankle which can be slightly uncomfortable at times.” Others note that the vented window is not ideal for outdoor elements such as water and sand, and that they wish there were more color options.
How adidas Dropset 2 Trainer Stacks Up Against Other Products
adidas Dropset Trainer vs. adidas Dropset 2 Trainer
The adidas Dropset Trainer 2 has several new features not available in the previous version. This includes the airflow window, the modified herringbone pattern on the outsole and the TPU sidewall. The Dropset 2 Trainer also has a wide fit and the Dropset Trainer has a regular fit. Both shoes provide a durable and stable dual-density midsole with a supportive heel, and have a textile upper with synthetic overlays for durability. In addition, both versions have additional lace eyelets for a custom fit and a padded collar.
adidas Dropset 2 Trainer vs. Nike Metcon 9
The adidas Dropset 2 Trainer rivals the Nike Metcon 9 with its airflow window and durable grippy outsole. Unlike the Dropset 2 Trainer, the Metcon 9 has a gender-specific design and one more color option than the four adidas offers. Similar to the side wall of the Dropset 2, the Metcon 9 has an extended rubber wrap for support during multidirectional movements and a rubber rope wrap ideal for rope climbs.
The Metcon 9 has a Hyperlift Plate, a plate that helps push weight down and adds stiffness to the heel, which is ideal for weightlifting because it's firm so you feel grounded and supported. Both shoes have a padded tongue and collar, but the Dropset 2 has additional lace eyelets for a more secure fit. However, the Metcon 9 has a lace lock system attached to the tongue to keep the laces in place.
Adidas Dropset 2 Trainer FAQS
How tight should adidas Dropset 2 Trainers be?
This depends on your personal preference, but trainer shoes should be comfortably snug but not overly tight. You want a secure fit to keep your feet in place, but not too tight, which can cause discomfort.
Are the adidas Dropset 2 Trainers good for working out?
These shoes are ideal if you enjoy strength training, high-impact movements, plyometrics, cardio workouts and agility training. However, the Dropset 2 Trainer is not a good option for workouts that include running long distances or exposure to weather elements such as rain or snow.
Can you run in the adidas Dropset 2 Trainers?
Yes, you can run in the Dropset 2 Trainers if your feet feel comfortable and supported, however, these shoes do not provide the same level of impact absorption and cushioning as dedicated running shoes.
How long does it take to break in the adidas Dropset 2 Trainers?
Typically it takes two to four weeks to fully break in training shoes and achieve the maximum level of comfort and flexibility. This can vary depending on your foot shape and how often the shoes are worn, and some individuals might find that the shoes feel nice and comfortable right away.
Final Thoughts
The adidas Dropset 2 Trainers are a well-rounded training shoe with features to support cross-training workouts such as a durable overlay and outsole, airflow vent, cushioned midsole with a firm heel and a supportive TPU sidewall. It has a 6 millimeter drop that provides a stable base for heavy lifting, bodyweight exercises, lateral movements and running short distances. The upper is breathable and flexes with your foot as you move through your training session. These great shoes are ideal for the beginner, intermediate or advanced exerciser looking for a versatile training shoe with a wide toe box and a stable, grippy outsole.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
