Adidas Dropset Trainer 2 Versus UA TriBase Reign 6

The UA TriBase Reign 6 and Adidas Dropset Trainer 2 have been two of my favorite recent cross-training shoes. I find myself constantly rotating between both shoes depending on what I’m doing.

Since I genuinely enjoy both shoes, it got me thinking, “Why do I like the Reign 6 and Dropset Trainer 2 and how do they compare?” I’m not the only one wondering this, too, since many commenters on my YouTube channel have asked for this comparison.

In terms of fit and feel, the Dropset Trainer 2 and TriBase Reign 6 have a lot of differences, and in the gym, they each have their unique list of pros and cons.

After squatting over 400 lbs and deadlifting north of 500 lbs in both of these shoes and using them for countless cross-training and CrossFit WODs, I wanted to build out a comparison that truly nails down which shoe you should go with.

UA TriBase Reign 6 vs Adidas Dropset Trainer 2 | Summary and Winner

I’m not going to lie, I feel like 2024 is going to be a great year for both Under Armour and Adidas in the context of cross-training shoes. The Reign 6 and Dropset Trainer 2 both feel like shoes that have these companies finally hitting their strides.

And don’t get me wrong, the prior models were good but these shoes feel next level and like Adidas and Under Armour are truly starting to narrow down the direction of their cross-training shoe lines.

When I built out my performance summary below, I used my strength coaching brain to keep in mind the different contexts in which athletes and lifters will be using each shoe and how each model’s construction will influence lifting mechanics.

Construction Specs Summary

	Dropset 2	Reign 6
Drop	6mm	2mm
Weight	9.85 oz	14.25
Insole	Yes	Drop-In
Width	Medium/Wide	Medium/Wide

The big callouts here regarding the Dropset Trainer 2 and TriBase Reign 6’s construction specs include their weight and heel-to-toe drop. Both of these vary greatly and will influence how each shoe feels on your feet and in the gym.

Performance Summary

To be frank, if you suffer from paralysis by analysis and overthink life in general (like me) and you’re completely and absolutely torn on these shoes, I think you’ll be safe going with either one and I wouldn’t stress performance too much. Take a breath.

In both of these models, the midsole stability should be on point for most lifters and they each deliver a varied degree of versatility which should deliver for recreational lifters and athletes who like to blend lifting with athletic-focused and cross-training every week.

In the context of varied versatility, the TriBase Reign 6 will feel a little more plush with its drop-in midsole which is great for plyometrics and athletic workouts. The Dropset Trainer 2 has a denser feel and works for cross-training and athletic workouts, but at times can almost feel like a traditional weightlifting shoe which can be a good and bad thing depending on what you want.

• TriBase Reign 6 vs Dropset Trainer 2 for Lifting: Dropset Trainer 2, but both work well. That said, the Adidas Dropset Trainer 2 is pretty unmatched when it comes to lifting. This shoe has a dual-density midsole which is fantastic for heavy weight and its outsole has a ton of grip on different surfaces.
• TriBase Reign 6 vs Dropset Trainer 2 for CrossFit: TriBase Reign 6. The Reign 6 has been surprisingly well-rounded for CrossFit and it delivers a more grippy outsole for rope climbs and versatile WODs. The Dropset Trainer 2 also works well but it doesn’t have as much responsiveness for WODs with running and a lot of jumping.
• TriBase Reign 6 vs Dropset Trainer 2 for Cross-Training: Both work well. I’d go with the Reign 6 if you like a flatter and more “minimalist-feeling” shoe for athletic-focused workouts including plyometrics, HIIT, and circuit training. Opt for the Dropset Trainer 2 if you like a denser-feeling shoe that has more rigidity throughout the sole, especially the heel.
• TriBase Reign 6 vs Dropset Trainer 2 for Short Runs: TriBase Reign 6, for the most part. The Reign 6 feels better for running but keep in mind this shoe can feel a little heavy at times. If you’re just sprinting and doing short interval runs both models work and I’ve enjoyed using both shoes for these running demands.
• TriBase Reign 6 vs Dropset Trainer 2 for Walking/Comfort: Both can work. The Reign 6 feels more comfortable and has a softer ride for long walks while the Dropset Trainer 2 has a wider toe box and more breathability but with a denser feel. Keep this in mind if you plan to daily drive one of these shoes on top of training in them.

The Overall Winner: This is a tough one, y’all! If you want a shoe primarily for lifting and your main concern is stability and toe box width, opt for the Adidas Dropset Trainer 2. For those wanting a well-rounded shoe that has a flatter and minimalist feel for lifting, cross-training, and CrossFit, opt for the TriBase Reign 6.

Adidas Dropset Trainer 2

$130

4.7

Stability

4.6

Versatility

4.8

Durability

4.7

Quality

4.6

Pros

• Fantastic training shoe for lifting due to its stability and it's well-rounded.
• Good breathability for hotter gym climates.
• Ample room in the toe box for toe splay for most foot anatomies.

Cons

• Not the best shoe on the market for running and hybrid workouts.
• Arch can feel a little uncomfortable for flat feet.
• Ventilation in midsole isn't the best for walking in wet climates.

Best For

• Cross-Training
• CrossFit Workouts
• Heavier Strength Training
• Athletic Focused Sessions
• Wider Feet

Falls Short

• For Running

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TriBase Reign 6 vs Dropset Trainer 2 Sizing Differences

• UA TriBase Reign 6 Sizing: True to size for most.
• Adidas Dropset Trainer 2 Sizing: True to size for most.

For most lifters and athletes, you should be safe going true to size in the TriBase Reign 6 and Dropset Trainer 2. On my YouTube videos, most lifters have also reported these shoes running true to size.

To expand on this, I have an E-width foot and traditionally wear size 10 shoes in nearly every training shoe. For example, In the Nano X4, Metcon 9, and both of these shoes they all fit well in a size 10.

If you have narrow to slightly wider feet (E to EE-widths) then I wouldn’t stress these shoes feeling too snug or too loose on your feet. There are a few occasions, though, where you’ll want to size these shoes a little differently or pass on them.

If your feet are wider than an EE-width, then I’d suggest buying from retailers that have a seamless return process so you can try each shoe out to see if they fit. I’ve had some lifters with wide feet say both models have felt fine while there have been a small handful who have said to pass.

In addition, if you have thick feet or an exceptionally high in-step, then you may find that the UA TriBase Reign 6 feels too low-profile for your feet.

For this instance, you may want to take out the drop-in midsole and use a thinner insole to give yourself more space. Note, that this will change the feel of the shoes and they’ll then feel more minimalist depending on the new insole used.

On top of this, if you have exceptionally flat feet and can’t stand any arch in your shoes then you may want to pass on the Dropset Trainer 2. This model has a bit more arch whereas the TriBase Reign 6 feels a little flatter throughout with a less aggressive medial midfoot.

UA TriBase Reign 6

$130

4.7

Stability

4.6

Versatility

4.7

Durability

4.7

Quality

4.7

Pros

• Flexible sole construction
• Good option for athletes
• Grippy outsole

Cons

• Drop-in midsole is an aquired taste
• Not great for thick feet
• Can feel heavy for running

Best For

• Lifting
• Athletes
• HIIT
• CrossFit

Specs

Heel-to-Toe Drop	2mm
Weight	14.15 oz
Width	Medium/Wide(r)
Lifting Threshold	515 lbs
Run Distance Threshold	<2 miles

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Individual Reviews, How I’ve Tested These Shoes

Consistency and repetition produce the best reviews. In all of my cross-training shoe reviews, I perform a similar battery of tests to improve my ability to compare models and recognize nuance between shoes.

In the gym, I’ve pushed the Dropset Trainer 2 and Tribase Reign 6 exceptionally hard. I train in an athletic-style fashion where I’m routinely blending strength, power, and conditioning-focused exercises together.

For example, most of my sessions start with a heavy strength movement; then they progress to power, hypertrophy, and CrossFit-style circuits.

• Strength Tests: 505 lb deadlifts, 415 lb squats, 3-rep max walking lunges
• Strength & Power Tests: Power cleans, dumbbell and kettlebell snatches
• CrossFit Tests: Fran, Cindy, and self-programmed WODs (I use them for conditioning)
• Cross-Training: Broad jumps, skater strides, and plyometric/agility sessions
• Running: Sprints, 800-meter intervals, 1.5 mile runs
• Walking: 2-3 mile dog walks, all-day wear tests

Keep in mind, that these aren’t the only tests I perform and these are my “staples” for assessing stability, durability, and versatility. I ebb and flow my additional tests based on the shoe is intended to be used and I use my 8 years of experience to dictate this.

TriBase Reign 6 vs Dropset Trainer 2 Construction

Midsole

In the UA TriBase Reign 6, the insole is built with a dual-density foam drop-in midsole. This means that the shoe’s thicker insole serves as the midsole in this shoe, and this is a new feature on this model compared to the prior 5 Reign shoes that featured a Micro G Foam midsole.

This drop-in midsole is plusher in the forefoot and a little denser in the midfoot and heel. I don’t mind the drop-in midsole but it is a feature that can be a miss for some athletes. For example, if you don’t love shoes like the PUMA Fuse and Nike Zoom Metrcon Turbo 2 because of their drop-in midsoles then you likely won’t enjoy the Reign 6.

The Dropset Trainer 2 features a dual-density midsole which is plusher and more flexible in the forefoot and denser in the midfoot and heel. This is a nice feature for giving the forefoot a more “athletic” feel while the midfoot and heel remain dense and stable for heavy training. This is also what gives this shoe its “weightlifting shoe-esque” feeling.

Outsole

The outsole change in the Reign 6 has been great from a grip perspective. This shoe’s outsole tread is a lot more aggressive than the prior Reign models and the grooves are deeper which gives this shoe more bite on surfaces like turf.

This model still has the TriBase tech in the midfoot and that is represented by the TPU in the middle of this shoe. I’m glad they left the TriBase in as it gives the midfoot a little more structure when doing single-leg exercises like split squats and lunges.

The Dropset Trainer 2 features Adidas’ signature Traxion rubber material. The tread is lower profile on the Dropset Trainer 2 but that doesn’t compromise its grip by any means, at least in my experience. This outsole does start to fade with a lot of outdoor use, however, even though mine is fading a bit I haven’t had issues with grip whatsoever.

Upper

The TriBase Reign 6’s upper has been improved from a comfort and durability standpoint. This shoe features Under Armour WARP upper material on the medial side of the shoe and a chainlink mesh upper on the lateral side. In general, these materials tend to do a good job with abrasion resistance and my pair has held up well thus far.

The midfoot and heel are built with a padded mesh and there’s a separate heel collar that provides additional security in the Reign 6. This was a nice feature to help provide security since the profile is lower in this model. It’s worth noting these materials are heavier than the upper materials used in the Dropset.

In the Dropset Trainer 2, you have a lighter-weight mesh with more ventilation. This is also why this model’s weight is significantly less than the Reign 6’s. In hotter climates, the Dropset Trainer 2 will give you more breathability and if you’re big on lightweight and breathable shoes then you’ll enjoy this shoe’s upper.

Laces and Tongue

The Tribase Reign 6 lacing system has 5 core eyelets and it’s now more traditional with its placement versus the asymmetrical lacing system used in the Reign 5. There are two loops on the tongue for security purposes and the tongue itself is mesh and it’s wide similar to prior Reign shoes.

I haven’t had issues with the tongue security in this shoe and I much prefer this model’s lacing system as it feels more natural on the foot. There’s also a tongue gusset in this model which helps promote this shoe’s overall security.

The Dropset Trainer 2 also has five core eyelets, however, this shoe features Adidas’ Adjustable Lacing system which gives you an additional two eyelets at the top for lace-locking purposes. The tongue is gusseted and built with a padded mesh material.

Is the TriBase Reign 6 Or Dropset Trainer 2 Better for Lifting?

The Answer: The Adidas Dropset Trainer 2 is a little more “optimized” for lifting and strength training compared to the TriBase Reign 6. More specifically, this shoe’s midsole is denser throughout compared to the Reign 6.

For my friends who purely want a shoe for strength training, it’s tough to be the Dropset Trainer 2’s performance. I also like that the stack height in the forefoot is a little lower so you get a fair amount of ground feel with this model. Additionally, the wider anatomical toe box gives you a nice width for toe splay in the Dropset Trainer 2. The Reign 6 works well, too, but the Dropset Trainer 2 takes the W here.

Is the TriBase Reign 6 Or Dropset Trainer 2 Better for CrossFit?

The Answer: The TriBase Reign 6 gives you a little more range in CrossFit WODs due to its softer and more responsive midsole compared to the Dropset Trainer 2. It feels better for WODs where you’re doing a lot of box jumps, short runs, and double-unders.

Both shoes can work exceptionally well, and I wouldn’t overthink this performance vertical too much with these models, but I’d be remiss not to point out that the Dropset Trainer 2’s denser heel isn’t the most running-friendly. That’s the one area where this shoe’s performance takes a knock in the context of CrossFit.

Is the TriBase Reign 6 Or Dropset Trainer 2 Better for Versatility?

The Answer: The TriBase Reign 6 is taking the edge for versatility if you need a shoe for HIIT, classes, and full-body training. This shoe has a little more of a flexible feeling on the foot and it has a more responsive midsole as pointed out above which gives it a more dynamic feeling when jumping and doing multi-directional exercises.

I will say, that I like the Dropset Trainer 2 for versatility, however, I also like denser shoes here and there for this type of training — if you’re similar you’ll want to consider that. On top of this, if you’re doing versatile workouts where you’re primarily on the forefoot then the Dropset Trainer 2 should perform just fine for you and I wouldn’t overthink it if you’re leaning towards this model.

Is the TriBase Reign 6 Or Dropset Trainer 2 for Running, Walking, and Comfort?

The Answer: Both shoes are okay and they each have their pros and cons for the verticals. The Reign 6 is objectively more comfortable for walking, running, and general comfort, however, it is a heavier shoe and I can see this deterring lifters who prefer or are used to lighter shoes for running workouts.

On the other hand, the Dropset Trainer 2 is lighter, but it falls short with its dense heel. I think if you’re sprinting and doing intervals that are 800 meters and down then you’ll be fine in either model as you’ll be primarily striking with the forefoot. Neither of these shoes will work for longer runs, so keep that in mind if you want a hybrid-focused training shoe.

Final Verdict

At the end of the day, the TriBase Reign 6 and Dropset Trainer 2 are both sick shoes in the gym. They both work exceptionally well for lifting, cross-training, and CrossFit. For athletic workouts and HIIT, they can also both hold their own especially if you like denser shoes for training.

If you want a flatter shoe with a more flexible sole, go TriBase Reign 6. If you want traditional feeling training shoes and want a bit more heel for things like squats, go with the Dropset Trainer 2. Either way, I think you’ll be happy.

For additional questions about this breakdown, drop a comment below or reach out to me via Instagram and I can help you choose the best shoe accordingly.