Adidas has unveiled its latest iteration of high performance footwear, the Dropset 3 to help millions of gym goers strength train with the right footwear.
The adidas Dropset 3 is designed specifically for the demands of weight-based exercisesoffering improved stability, breathability, durability and grip to help athletes go from strength to strength with lifts, sets and reps.
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Blocking doesn’t help
Adidas partnered with expert sports physiotherapist, Dr Leada Malek, PT, DPT, to highlight the research-backed consequences of using suboptimal footwear during strength training.
“Unknown to many, Their current choice of footwear does not optimize their endurance performance and, in many cases, hinders it through increasing their energy effort, risk of injury and interfering with the normal function of the foot,” explains Dr. Leada.
“In fact, research shows that footwear, which is appropriate for the individual and the demands of strength-based exercise, can positively affect posture, reduce pain and risk of injury, and enhance activating the quad.
“This shows that proper footwear is a critical aspect of helping athletes stay consistent with their participation so they can achieve their training goals. When choosing the optimal resistance shoe, gym goers should always consider the support, stability, cushioning and grip it offers.“
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The wrong shoe choices
To better understand how common it is to use the wrong footwear during strength training, adidas commissioned global research and found that seven out of 10 people wear the wrong shoes during strength training, with almost a third wearing running trainers and three in 10 wearing everyday trainers.
The survey also explored gym-goers’ reasoning behind their current choice of footwear, revealing that One in four have never heard of strength-fit footwear, and about one in five gym-goers say “flat soles” are a factor when choosing strength shoes – suggesting more awareness of the benefits they can offer. Comfort was also a popular reason, followed by support and grip.
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Designed for explosive movements
The new offering marks the next step in adidas Training’s commitment to helping the next generation of athletes feel and realize their power so they can achieve their fitness goals with confidence, building on its recent mission to tackle bullying in gym – gym – and establishing long-term partnerships with sports powerhouses such as Les Mills and Tonehouse.
Designed for the explosive movements of strength training, built with athletes in mind The adidas Dropset 3 offers new, tailored improvements.
Providing every wearer with added stability, breathability, durability and grip, the new silhouette features adidas’ HEAT.RDY technology and an upgraded geofit construction to keep feet cool, comfortable and supportive.
Key features of the new adidas Dropset 3 include:
- Low midsole: With a 6mm drop height, it provides a flat-ground feel for controlled stability, evenly distributing weight while transferring power from the feet to the ground, for more accurate alignment during weight training.
- TRAXION® Rubber: The multi-directional outsole features TRAXION® rubber for added traction, helping the athlete feel locked into the ground and reducing slippage.
- Integrated Airflow Window: Strategically placed in the TORSION SYSTEM of the sole, the window works with the upper knitted mesh material to provide the athlete with additional ventilation and keep them cool.
Speaking about the custom footwear, Aimee Arana, adidas Global, General Manager, Sportswear & Training, said: “At adidas Training, we are committed to supporting our athletes on their respective training journeys and want to help optimize their performance every step of the way . Knowing how many people unknowingly wear the wrong footwear while performing strength-based exercises highlights the additional awareness needed. We know this type of training is a priority for the next generation of athletes, so we’re proud to be able to offer them a solution that can bring stability and strength to their routine.”
The new Dropset 3 is available through select retailers and online at adidas.co.za.
Author: Pedro van Gaalen
When he’s not writing about sports or health and fitness, Pedro is most likely out training for his next marathon or ultramarathon. Worked as a fitness professional and marketing and comms specialist. He now combines his passions in his role as managing editor at Fitness magazine.
