Adidas Dropset 3 review: so stable, you might need a crowbar to move your feet

Adidas has been steadily refining its strength training shoes, and the Dropset 3 is a testament to this evolution. After using these shoes for a variety of workouts over the past few weeks, I can confidently say that they stand out. Their unique features make them my go-to choice for deadlifts and squats.

I’ve long been looking for a pair of workout shoes that can finally push the Nike Metcon 9 off my feet. There is nothing wrong with the Nikes; I found them stable and comfortable. However, they are designed for ‘metabolic training’, and I don’t often climb ropes or go for a run in between sets when working out in my home gym.

No, I need stability, grip, and ventilation inside the shoes. I need footwear that keeps me locked in and feels comfortable after a long and sweaty session in my garage (where I work out). The Adidas Dropset 3 is exactly that kind of shoe. Want to know more about the best workout shoes for strength training I have tried recently? Read my full review below.

Adidas Dropset 3 review

Price and availability

The Adidas Dropset 3 was launched in June 2024 and is available to buy now directly from Adidas US, Adidas UK. and Adidas AU for a recommended price of $130/ £110/ AU$200. It comes in women’s and men’s versions in eight different colours (five for men and three for women). The Dropset 2 has the same RRP/ MSRP, so it’s worth getting the updated version instead. I tested the fab Lucid Pink / Semi Cobalt Blue / Shadow Fig colourway.

Specifications

• Best for: strength training
• Heel drop: 6 mm
• Weight: TBC
• Fit: wide fit

Design and materials

The Dropset 3 is fully and completely optimised for strength training. It has a flat outsole and a dual-density midsole with a moderate 6 mm drop. It features a softer foam at the front for cushioning and a firmer one at the rear for more stability.

The new geoFIT construction is introduced in the Dropset 3, providing heel support and locking in the ankles for better support. The upper is made with Adidas’ HEAT.RDY technology, which is said to offer optimal sweat distribution.

It also features a TPU sidewall and overlays to provide midfoot support and durability. For example, the nose of the shoe has a wider TPU rind in case you want to use the shoes for push-ups or even rope climbing.

Probably the most exciting area of the shoes is the multi-directional outsole. The ADIWEAR 6 rubber material features TRAXION rubber to give added grip and has an integrated airflow window to keep your feet cool as a cucumber during training.

Performance and comfort

I was blown away by the stability the Adidas Dropset 3 offers. My concrete garage floor can only be kept so clean, and there is often a thin layer of dust on it, which isn’t great for stability.

However, when I put the Dropset 3 on and tried sliding my feet, they wouldn’t budge. I’ve never experienced so much grip on such a notoriously slippery surface. Well, slippery isn’t the right word, but I’m used to being able to slide my feet, which I always consider when doing deadlifts or squats.

Not anymore! I love the flat sole, too, as it prevents me from rocking during lifts. Even my trusty Nike Metcon 9s rock slightly due to the fact they are designed with some running in mind; not the Dropset 3, though.

The HEAT:DRY upper does a great job of providing some ventilation in the shoes. I love the little peek-through window in the sole; not sure how useful it is, but it must provide an extra outlet for heat to escape.

My only grief with the shoes is the sizing. I went with my usual Adidas size, which is already half a size over my normal size, but the toe box still felt a bit snug. It’s not a huge issue; after all, you won’t run a marathon in the shoes, and there is also a wide reinforced area at the front to ensure the upper won’t rip due to internal pressure.

However, I’d recommend going up a size, especially if you have wide feet. To be honest, the Dropset 3 is pretty accommodating width-wise, but still. 

Verdict

The Adidas Dropset 3 is a brilliant workout shoe for strength training – one of the best I tried in years. If you mainly do resistance workouts with heavy weights and need footwear that provides added stability, the Dropset 3 is your best option.

If you can, try on the shoes before you buy to ensure the size is correct. Otherwise, there is nothing to criticise about them. Even if you’re not the biggest fan of the snazzy colourway pictured here, you can always opt for a black or grey colourway.