Adidas, a 20-year veteran in CrossFit footwear, stands out as a market leader. Their shoe lineup tackles training needs of all types. CrossFit shoes cost $124 on average, about $20 more than regular trainers – and with good reason too. These specialized shoes pack midsoles that feel 10% firmer than regular trainers and 20% firmer than running shoes. Athletes rely on this extra stability during their intense workouts. This detailed review dives into the best Adidas shoes for CrossFit, looking at what makes them tick, how long they last, and how well they perform. Our insights will guide you to pick the right training shoe that matches your workout style.
Adidas Dropset 3 Trainer: The Ultimate CrossFit All-Rounder
The Adidas Dropset 3 Trainer leads Adidas’s strength training lineup. This shoe has become the ultimate CrossFit all-rounder thanks to its stellar performance and smart design. Athletes love it for functional fitness even though Adidas doesn’t market it as a CrossFit shoe.
Key Features and Design
The Dropset 3’s game-changing dual-density midsole gives you the best of both worlds. The heel stays stiff for stable heavy lifts while the forefoot flexes for quick moves. A 6mm heel drop hits the sweet spot between lifting stability and athletic versatility. The Dropset 3 stands out from other adidas CrossFit shoes with its smart cooling system. HEAT.RDY tech keeps your feet cool with a built-in ventilation window in the sole. This works with the breathable mesh upper to fight sweat during tough workouts.
The shoe’s build is designed for both stability and versatility. TPU sidewalls provide support during side-to-side movements, helping you stay grounded during dynamic workouts. The GeoFIT heel features strategic ankle cushioning for added comfort and a locked-in feel. Its Traxion rubber outsole ensures solid grip on any surface, while the chainlink mesh upper—reinforced with synthetic layers—offers durability and breathability throughout tough training sessions.
The Dropset 3‘s build uses 20% recycled materials. This lines up with Adidas’s green goals without cutting corners on what CrossFit athletes need.
Durability & Performance
Tests show these shoes can handle serious weight. Athletes have deadlifted over 500 lbs with rock-solid stability. The shoes shine in strength WODs and grip well even on slick surfaces. The midfoot wrap protects your shoes during rope climbs. This wasn’t planned but works great for CrossFit athletes. A synthetic cover on the toe box helps the shoes last longer through burpees and similar moves.
Lab tests back up the shoe’s toughness. The Adiwear outsole scores 84.0 HC on the Shore C scale. Abrasion tests left only 0.5mm of wear, so these shoes should last through many CrossFit workouts. These shoes hold up well during mixed movements even though they’re not CrossFit-specific. The dense midsole might not be your best pick for running or jump-heavy workouts.
Comfort and Fit Considerations
Your toes get plenty of room to spread out during lifts. The shoe runs a bit narrower than the last version, so wide-footed athletes might want to size up. GeoFIT padding around the ankle keeps you supported during explosive moves.
At 12.1 oz (343g), these shoes hit the middle ground. They weigh an ounce more than typical trainers but less than the Nike Metcon 9 (13.4 oz). This weight lets you tackle all kinds of CrossFit moves. You can dial in the fit with the lacing system. The mesh upper breathes well and doesn’t feel cramped like some stable shoes do. You might need to break in the synthetic overlay before it feels just right.
Price Point and Value Analysis
At $130, the Dropset 3 matches other top CrossFit shoes in price. You get great value since these shoes handle strength work, cardio, and technical moves better than one-trick ponies. Think of it as two shoes in one. You get a lifting shoe’s stability plus enough flex for quick moves. The tough build means you won’t need new shoes as often as you would with flimsier options.
Reddit Opinions On Adidas Dropset 3 Trainer
CrossFit fans love these shoes despite minimal CrossFit marketing. One Reddit user looked for reviews and found “great things” but not much chatter in CrossFit forums. These shoes might be the community’s best-kept secret. Veteran users rave about how stable these feel during heavy lifts. Many call them “a brilliant workout shoe for strength training”. People love the grip between exercises and the flat sole that stays put during lifts.
The sizing trips some people up. Many users say to size up, especially if you have wide feet. Some CrossFitters mention the shoes feel a bit heavy during running WODs. The Adidas Dropset 3 Trainer makes sense for CrossFit athletes who want solid lifting performance plus versatility for all-around functional fitness.
Adidas Powerlift 5: Best Budget-Friendly CrossFit Shoe
The Adidas Powerlift 5 stands out from versatile CrossFit trainers as a specialized lifting shoe built for budget-minded CrossFit athletes. This shoe has been around for over a decade in Adidas’s lineup, and the fifth version delivers solid performance without the hefty price tag you’d find on Olympic lifting shoes.
Key Features and Design
The Powerlift 5 comes with a purpose-built weightlifting design and a 16mm effective heel height. This creates a sweet spot between stability and versatility. The heel drop ranks among the lowest you’ll find in weightlifting shoes, making these perfect for CrossFit newcomers who need to adapt to elevated heels.
This model stands out in the best adidas shoes for CrossFit lineup thanks to its durable canvas upper and well-placed mesh ventilation that keeps your feet cool during workouts. It features a high-density EVA foam platform that provides firm, stable support for heavy lifts, along with a hook-and-loop instep strap combined with traditional laces to ensure a secure, locked-in fit. A midfoot stability wedge enhances lateral support, while the low-profile rubber outsole delivers excellent grip across various surfaces. Weighing in at just 436g (15 oz), it’s noticeably lighter than most traditional lifting shoes, making it a versatile choice for functional training.
Durability & Performance
Our performance tests show these shoes shine in moderate lifting. The EVA platform feels solid underfoot but doesn’t match the incompressible TPU found in pricier lifting shoes. The tests point to these shoes working best for lifts under 350 pounds. The outsole scores 84.5 HC on the durometer scale, giving you reliable grip on training surfaces of all types. Abrasion tests show normal wear resistance that matches other lifting shoes at this price point.
Torsion tests give the Powerlift 5 a perfect 5/5 score. The shoe doesn’t twist at all – crucial for staying stable during heavy lifts. The heel counter also scored top marks (5/5) for stiffness, which stops your ankle from rolling during CrossFit’s side-to-side movements. CrossFit athletes will love the 5mm outsole thickness. This is much thicker than your average weightlifting shoe and helps these shoes last through countless WODs.
Comfort and Fit Considerations
These adidas shoes for CrossFit might feel tight for some people. The toebox measures just 89.2mm at its widest, and narrows to 66.8mm at the big toe. This creates a snug fit even if you have average-width feet. The shoes give you decent vertical space with a 27.1mm toebox height, so your toes won’t feel squeezed from the top. The 4.7mm thick tongue cushions well, but since it’s not gusseted, it tends to move during dynamic exercises.
New buyers should go up at least half a size since measurements show these run short. Athletes with wider feet might want to look at other brands that offer more room. The biggest drawback? These shoes don’t breathe well. Lab tests with a smoke machine showed minimal airflow, so they’re not ideal for long CrossFit sessions in hot weather.
Price Point and Value Analysis
At $130, the Adidas Powerlift 5 costs less than premium Olympic lifting shoes. This price makes sense for CrossFit athletes who focus on strength work, given the stability and performance you get.
These shoes are best suited for newcomers, casual lifters who hit the weights once a week, and CrossFit enthusiasts looking for a reliable pair of lifting shoes that won’t break the bank. They offer solid performance without the premium price tag, making them a smart entry-level option. The lower heel height makes these more versatile than competitors for general CrossFit training beyond Olympic lifts. This adds value for athletes who mix up their routines.
Reddit Opinions On Adidas Powerlift 5
The CrossFit crowd likes the Powerlift 5 for specific uses. A Reddit user mentioned that “Powerlifts have the lowest heel so they’re easier to wear for exercises outside of the classic lifts and squats”. This shows how well they work for different CrossFit movements. Another user praised their flexibility: “good for this exact reason… I needed an all-around shoe, and my old higher-heeled shoes weren’t cutting it”. This backs up their value for athletes who switch between CrossFit exercises.
Some users had early issues with weight distribution. One said: “I may just need to figure out how to distribute my weight in the shoe… in the hole I feel most of my weight in the toes”. Experienced lifters say this passes quickly and suggest doing tempo squats during warmups to get used to them. The crossfit shoes adidas community sees the Powerlift 5 as a great way to start with lifting shoes without committing to specialized Olympic weightlifting footwear.
Adidas Rapidmove Trainer: Ideal for Cardio and Agility
The Adidas Rapidmove Trainer fills a gap in CrossFit footwear. These shoes excel at cardio and agility training with their light and responsive design. Athletes who do lots of cardio in their CrossFit workouts will find specialized features that boost their performance during dynamic sessions.
Key Features and Design
The Rapidmove Trainer uses Adidas’s Lightstrike Pro cushioning that gives you a light and responsive feel under your feet. This new midsole tech works with the Torsion System to help you stay stable when switching between movements quickly. These shoes are built for performance and sustainability. The breathable mesh upper helps keep your feet cool during intense workouts, while the Continental™ Rubber outsole provides excellent grip on a variety of surfaces.
An asymmetrical Torsion System supports your foot’s natural movement, enhancing stability during dynamic exercises. The EVA midsole delivers a solid base ideal for HIIT and agility training. Plus, the design is eco-conscious, using at least 20% recycled materials to reduce environmental impact. The shoe’s design puts versatility first. It works best in group training where you need quick response more than maximum stability. The synthetic overlay helps keep your feet secure during side-to-side movements. This makes them perfect for CrossFit sessions with box jumps and shuttle runs.
Durability & Performance
Testing shows these shoes can handle just about anything. Athletes have used them for deadlifts up to 275 lbs. They really shine during high-intensity interval training. The Lightstrike Pro midsole gives you nice bounce and response during HIIT workouts. You won’t feel that “flat” sensation while training. This extra spring makes them great for jumping rope and single-leg exercises.
These shoes run better than you’d expect from CrossFit footwear. The midsole works well whether you land on your toes, midfoot, or heel. You can comfortably run 400-1,200 meters in them. This makes the Rapidmove perfect for WODs that mix in running intervals. The Continental rubber outsole grips well on different surfaces – machines, wooden platforms, turf, and rubber gym floors. This reliable traction matches the shoe’s strength as a cardio-focused CrossFit option.
Comfort and Fit Considerations
The Rapidmove Trainer gives you medium to slightly wider width with decent arch support. This design keeps your feet secure during side movements while staying comfortable through long training sessions. Here’s what to know about the fit: these shoes generally run true-to-size for most people, and the lacing system allows you to adjust the midfoot tightness to your preference.
They offer strong arch support, which can feel a bit snug if you’re planning to wear them all day. However, the toe box tends to run narrow, so those with wider feet might find it a bit tight. The mesh upper lets your feet breathe really well. This ventilation keeps your feet from overheating during intense CrossFit workouts. Good airflow matters a lot during long WODs.
Price Point and Value Analysis
At around $100, these shoes give you great value in the CrossFit category. Many people find them on sale for about $80, making them even more appealing if you’re watching your budget.
The shoes handle HIIT, short runs, and moderate lifting well for the price. Athletes looking for CrossFit shoes mainly for cardio-heavy workouts will find the Rapidmove among the best budget options out there. Looking at similar-priced competitors, the Rapidmove packs in better tech like the Torsion System and Continental rubber outsole – features usually found in pricier shoes.
Reddit Opinions On Adidas Rapidmove Trainer
The CrossFit community likes what they see in the Rapidmove Trainer. A Reddit user said they’re “not too shabby for $100” and compared them to Nike Free Metcon 5 but with “plusher” cushioning and better running ability. Many users praise their gym stability. One person wrote they are “stable, much cheaper than running shoes, will last long, and I can run short distances in them if I have to”.
People love how versatile these shoes are, especially in HIIT classes. One user mentioned they’re great for “bodycombat” and help athletes “nail those moves”. Others highlight the value, calling them “fantastic” for “all forms of training”.
Some users weren’t fans of the width though. One person found them “so wide and clunky” making their “feet look HUGE” and wondered if they worked well for classes needing “nimble feet”. The Rapidmove Trainer works best for CrossFit athletes who want strong cardio performance but still need support for moderate lifting and dynamic movements.
Choosing the Right Adidas CrossFit Shoe
Choosing the right pair from the best Adidas shoes for CrossFit depends on your training style and physical traits. CrossFit includes a variety of movements from heavy lifting to high-intensity cardio. Your choice of shoes can affect your performance by a lot.
Assessing Your CrossFit Priorities and Weaknesses
The perfect Adidas CrossFit shoes match your workout style. Athletes who focus on heavy lifting need shoes with firmer midsoles. Lab tests show these are 10% firmer than regular trainers and 20% firmer than running shoes. You might want more responsive options if you’re great at strength work but struggle with cardio-intensive WODs.
If you’re lifting over 350 pounds regularly, the Powerlift 5 is a solid pick—it offers the essential support and structure needed for heavy lifting sessions. On the other hand, if your training includes frequent runs, agility drills, or fast-paced WODs, the Rapidmove is the better fit thanks to its more responsive design and greater flexibility. Your body’s limitations matter too. Moderate heel elevation helps people with ankle mobility issues. Athletes with wider feet should look for shoes with roomier toe boxes.
Sizing and Fit Guide for Adidas CrossFit Shoes
Research shows 72% of people wear the wrong shoe size, which leads to calluses, bunions, and chafing. The right size in Adidas shoes for CrossFit starts with measuring your feet at the end of the day when they’re naturally swollen.
For lifting-focused workouts, aim for about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. This extra room allows for proper toe splay and a more stable base during heavy lifts. If your routine includes more running or agility work, go for a snugger fit—about half a thumb’s width—to keep your heel locked in and minimize foot movement during high-impact activities. Adidas keeps width guidance simple: “Go one size down for a tight fit. Go one size up for a loose fit”. This advice helps especially with wider feet since models like the Powerlift 5 have narrower profiles.
Breaking-in Period and Expectations
Modern training shoes need minimal breaking-in compared to older leather versions. Well-fitted Adidas CrossFit shoes should feel great right away. Any immediate discomfort usually means the shoes don’t fit right rather than needing a break-in period. The best way to adapt to new shoes is to ease into them gradually: Start with short, easy workouts in your new shoes to allow your feet to adjust. Over the next 1-2 weeks, gradually increase the length and intensity of your workouts.
Full adaptation typically occurs after about 10-15 miles of total wear, so give your feet time to get comfortable and accustomed to the new fit and feel. Biomechanist Dr. Martyn Shorten suggests switching between old and new pairs of best Adidas for CrossFit over several weeks. This helps your body adjust to different support patterns and prevents injuries.
When to Replace Your Adidas CrossFit Shoes
The National Strength and Conditioning Association says athletic shoes lose 50% of their compression capability after 300-500 miles or six months. CrossFit’s mixed movements can wear shoes differently than running alone.
Your Adidas CrossFit shoes need replacement when you notice:
- Too much flex in midfoot and heel areas that should stay firm
- The midsole looks compressed or “shrunk,” causing uneven support
- The outsole shows heavy wear, peeling, or less grip
- The upper part breaks down and affects protection and stability
CrossFit athletes who train 4-5 times weekly usually need new shoes every 4-8 months, depending on workout intensity. Using multiple pairs helps them last longer.
Best Adidas Women-Specific Shoes for CrossFit
Female athletes just need specialized footwear that works with their unique biomechanics. That’s why Adidas has created women-specific versions of their popular CrossFit-compatible shoes. These designs work with natural anatomical differences while maintaining peak performance.
Anatomical Design Differences
Women’s feet have different structural characteristics than men’s, which directly impacts shoe design requirements. Adidas women’s training shoes come with supportive uppers that give stability without restricting movement. This balance becomes vital for female CrossFit athletes who switch between lifting and high-intensity movements.
The women’s Dropset 3 has stability features that lab testing shows boost support during lifts. Female athletes love the subtle heel support that stops rubbing—something unisex designs don’t deal very well with. These details help women keep proper form throughout their CrossFit routines.
Performance Features in Women’s Models
Adidas makes several women-specific models that work great for CrossFit. The lineup includes the Dropset 3 ($130), Everyset ($90), and Rapidmove ADV 2 ($120). Each shoe serves different training needs:
- Dropset 3 – Comes with a firm heel (41.0 HA) that’s stable under heavy loads and a cushier forefoot (21.5 HA) for rope jumps and dynamic moves
- Everyset – Works well for mixed training styles
- Rapidmove ADV 2 – Excels at high-intensity interval training
The Dropset 3’s wide base makes it perfect for women who do lots of lifting in their CrossFit workouts. Lab measurements show contact points at 116.9/95.0 mm—substantially wider than the 110.6/87.3 mm average. This extra surface area gives female athletes better stability while lifting heavier weights.
Comfort and Fit Considerations
Breathable materials are key for women looking at Adidas CrossFit shoes. The lightweight, airy construction keeps feet cool during tough workouts. This feature becomes significant during longer training sessions where sweat affects performance. Adidas builds their women’s workout shoes with supportive cushioning that holds up through repeated training. Their women’s athletic shoes use technologies like Lightstrike midsoles that feel comfortable yet lightweight. This combo works great especially when you have to move between different CrossFit exercises.
CrossFit enthusiasts train often, so Adidas uses Adiwear outsoles in their women’s models. Tests show these outsoles give solid grip that keeps you in control during workouts. The traction works well whatever surface you’re on—a vital feature for CrossFit’s diverse training environments. To summarize, female athletes should think over their specific training needs along with these women-oriented design features when picking best adidas shoes for crossfit. The right adidas crossfit shoes for women balance support, breathability, and durability while working with the anatomical differences that impact performance.
[Related: Best Reebok Shoes for CrossFit]
Comparison of Best Adidas Shoes
| Model | Dropset 3 Trainer | Powerlift 5 | Rapidmove Trainer |
| Price | $130 | $130 | $100 |
| Primary Use | CrossFit workouts | Heavy lifting and strength | Cardio and agility training |
| Weight | 12.1 oz (343g) | 15 oz (436g) | Not mentioned |
| Heel Drop | 6mm | 16mm | Not mentioned |
| Key Technology | Dual-density midsole, HEAT.RDY ventilation | High-density EVA foam platform | Lightstrike Pro cushioning, Torsion System |
| Max Tested Weight | 500+ lbs | 350 lbs | 275 lbs |
| Sustainability | 20% recycled materials | 50% recycled materials in upper | 20% recycled materials |
| Best For | Dynamic CrossFit sessions and heavyweight training | Entry-level lifting and CrossFit basics | High-intensity intervals and short runs (400-1200m) |
| Notable Features | TPU sidewall support with Traxion rubber base | Secure hook-and-loop strap with slim design | Continental™ Rubber base with breathable mesh top |
| Durability Rating | 84.0 HC outsole hardness | 84.5 HC outsole hardness | Not mentioned |
Final Verdict – Which One to Choose?
Performance metrics show that choosing the right Adidas CrossFit shoe depends on your training focus and personal requirements. The Dropset 3 Trainer stands out as the best all-around choice for most CrossFit enthusiasts. Lab tests gave it a perfect 5/5 for breathability, which makes it great for long WODs in hot conditions. The shoe’s dual-density midsole has a firm heel (41.0 HA) and softer forefoot (21.5 HA). This creates a balanced foundation for heavy lifts and dynamic movements. Athletes who do varied CrossFit workouts will find the $130 price tag worth it.
The Powerlift 5 serves a different purpose. Its impressive 5/5 torsional rigidity score provides rock-solid stability for strength workouts. The shoe costs less than high-end Olympic lifting shoes, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious lifters. The Rapidmove Trainer excels at cardio-heavy CrossFit workouts. This $100 shoe responds exceptionally well during intense intervals and agility work.
Here’s a simple guide to help you decide:
- Get the Dropset 3 if you want balanced performance in all CrossFit movements. It offers great stability for lifting and enough flexibility for metcons.
- Pick the Powerlift 5 if your CrossFit routine focuses on strength work. It works well for moderate weights (under 350 pounds) and won’t break the bank.
- Go for the Rapidmove if you do lots of running (400-1,200 meters) and HIIT workouts.
These three models from Adidas’s training lineup each tackle CrossFit’s diverse challenges differently. You’ll end up with the best shoe by matching it to your training style, body mechanics, and performance goals.