Nike Retaliation TR 2 review

Who should buy the Nike Retaliation TR 2

The Retaliation TR 2 continues the budget-friendly line of men’s training shoes from the Swoosh brand. The trainer builds upon the successful features of the original model by inheriting its dual-density sole design for balanced support. It is a solid option if:

• You want the convenience of having a versatile shoe suitable as a workout and everyday wear companion.
• Your day-to-day activities involve a lot of sudden turns and quick maneuvers, so you prefer a shoe with sufficient toe protection against accidental bumps.  

Updates to the Nike Retaliation TR 2

• This iteration exposes a part of the Flywire strings typically hidden underneath the material to give the Nike wearers a sneak peek into how this technology works. 
• This version also uses a more open mesh on the vamp to offer better ventilation of the foot chamber.

Durable outsole guard

The heel portion and the sides of the forefoot are lined with rubber. This material is meant to serve as a durable guard to prevent early deterioration of these high-wear areas.

The rubber also extends upwards at the front, creating a protective bumper. Given how many times an average person accidentally or intentionally bumps into equipment at the gym, this add-on will be a welcomed feature.

The Nike Retaliation TR 2's multisurface treads

The use of this shoe is not strictly limited to the indoor environment. The aggressive rubber treads on its outsole make the trainer efficient on outdoor surfaces as well. It can also withstand regular wear on concrete pavements.

Outrigger for stability

The rubber piece on the lateral side of the sole visibly protrudes sideways and upwards, forming an outrigger. This feature comes especially helpful during forceful lateral movements like side jumps. The outrigger makes sure that the foot doesn’t roll over the sides during multi-directional movements.

Closing the gap

Examining the platform of Nike Retaliation TR 2, one may notice that it is made of two foam compounds of contrasting colors. The darker one has a firmer nature, while the lighter one is softer. This dual-density fusion helps to bridge the gap between cushioning and support – two essential qualities of an efficient training shoe. 

The more plush portion of the sole helps to bounce the foot during jumps and runs. Its responsiveness protects the foot and leg against the negative effect of the impact. This foam is also made more pliable, allowing the foot to bend freely when it comes to agile movements.

Enhanced underfoot comfort

The underfoot padding and comfort are enhanced by a cushioned footbed. It is meant to cradle the foot softly, providing a buffer between the wearer and the foam.

Anti-wobble heel section

As much as it is important to keep the foot protected against impact throughout the training session, it is equally critical to keep it steady. This is where the denser foam component comes in handy. Placed at the heel, this element is less prone to compression, preventing the foot from wobbling when it comes to lifting weights.

The Nike Retaliation TR 2's upper

The Retaliation TR 2 makes use of multiple materials to create efficient coverage for the foot. That includes a more tightly-woven fabric at the rearfoot, a flexible mesh at the front, and synthetic overlays in the strategic areas.

In addition, the heel is wrapped by a thicker synthetic cup, which contributes to the stability.

The plush tongue and collar also provide extra ankle support.

Enhanced lateral support

The most notable technology on the upper is the acclaimed Flywire system. It is comprised of eight highly robust strings that stretch from the midsole to the eyelets on both sides of the footwear. Connected with the lace-up closure, the Flywires help to enhance lateral support in the midfoot. 

Breathable mesh

Nike employs an open mesh material on the largest portion of the shoe, including the tongue. The mesh has large ventilation pores which allow air to circulate inside the trainer. The fabric is coupled with a breathable textile lining on the inner side. Together they help in keeping the foot nice and refreshed.