Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 GTX review

Along with more responsible materials the adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 GTX receives an upgraded midsole, utilizing EVA foam with Boost technology for a supportive and dynamic feel underfoot. We gave our social media executive, Andy a pair to test out.

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Initial Thoughts:

When you first look at these boots, you could be forgiven for thinking these are a pair of trainers. But make no mistake, these are well up there to compete with the big players in the boot world. A lightweight construction with a striking outer design is perfect for anyone looking for something different from the heavier traditional boots we’re used to.

Fit: 8/10

No brand would say that their boots can be worn straight out of the box but these boots are probably as close as you can get to that theory. So that’s exactly what I tried. Straight out of the box, on my feet and up for a hike from Glenridding to Helvellyn. As soon as I put them on they felt incredibly comfy and it hugs your foot in all the right areas. I can also confirm that after their first outing, I suffered zero blisters or even hot spots and didn’t even feel that ‘need to take my boots off’ feeling when I returned to the car.

I will say that most of the people I’ve spoken to who have tried them on, including myself, have gone up half a size so it’s worth trying a couple of different sizes before deciding.

Foot Protection: 8/10

You can get these shoes without the GORE-TEX membrane but if you’re planning on doing any walking in the UK, eventually you’ll come across rain, a puddle or just damp grass so it’s well worth investing a little more to get the waterproof protection. GORE-TEX has been fitted to boots for years and so long as it’s looked after, should last a long time.

The ‘Boost Cushioning’ is also a big surprise as not only does it provide a spring to each step but it also feels like a pillow as your heel strikes the ground. Perfect for when you’re travelling on rocky terrain as you get just the right amount of feedback without the rocks digging in.

Traction: 8/10

Over the last few months, I have had no issues with the traction of these shoes. Whether it’s thick wet mud, damp rocks or even the early morning frosty conditions, you can hike with a reliable level of traction thanks to the Continental rubber soles.

Stability: 7/10

Overall, these hiking boots offer a solid amount of stability on the trails. They have a sturdy and supportive sole that helps feel secure on uneven ground. The simple but effective lacing system is also excellent at keeping my foot in place and preventing unwanted movement. You get a good amount of padding around the ankle, but I think I’d prefer higher and stronger ankle support for anything more technical.  

Comfort: 10/10

With the ‘sock-like’ feel that keeps your foot locked in, combined with the lightness of the shoe and the super springy cushioning, comfort is probably the best-selling point. You can even get the boots in half sizes so you can get a really specific fit for your feet. If you’re new to the outdoors and heard horror stories from others about uncomfortable boots, I’d recommend giving these a try.

Weight: 9/10

It’s not just the physical weight that’s impressive (445g for a single men’s boot size 8) but more that it just feels light on your feet. They don’t have a clunky cumbersome heavy feel and I forget they’re on my feet a lot of the time!

Trail Feel: 8/10

I was pleasantly surprised by the trail feel of these hiking boots. The lightweight and flexible construction allowed me to move freely and naturally on various routes, without feeling weighed down or restricted. The soles provided a good amount of cushioning to absorb shock and protect my feet from rocks and other debris, but they were still thin enough to allow me to feel the terrain beneath me.

Materials: 8/10

The first thing to note is of course the GORE-TEX Performance Comfort waterproof membrane. As a staple for hiking footwear across the spectrum, you know you’re going to get solid waterproofing, breathability and durability. The second thing to mention is that they’re made in part with recycled materials - Upper contains a minimum of 50% recycled content which is a great feature for those who are environmentally conscious.

I am fairly sure the original Free Hikers used to be vegan friendly though, which might be a bit of an issue for anyone looking to upgrade their old pair.

Aesthetics: 7/10

The overall aesthetic of the boots is versatile and appealing, making them perfect for both outdoor and urban settings. The colour combination of black and white is easy to match with a variety of different hiking and outdoor outfits but equally means that they remain understated and not too ‘flashy’. An area which might be ideal for anyone new to the outdoors.

My only concern is that the white midsole may not stay white for long after prolonged use, especially in dirty or muddy conditions, which may affect the overall appearance of the boots. These boots are sure to turn heads as long as you are willing to keep them clean.

Durability: 7/10

From the sturdy soles to the well-constructed upper, it’s clear that these boots were built to last. The materials used felt durable and high-quality. The stitching and overall construction combined with the ‘abrasion-resistant reinforcements’ mean they should last a long time.  

I have worn these boots on several different hikes, and they have held up extremely well. The soles show minimal wear and tear, and the upper has held its shape despite being exposed to a variety of weather conditions. My only concern is the longevity of the foam cushioning as I feel they could deteriorate more rapidly than the rest of the shoe. As of yet, however, I haven’t noticed any examples of this beginning to occur.

Pros:

The design is perfect for those who want to make a statement on the trail or in the city whilst also providing the comfort and protection that you would get from other more traditional boots.  

The "sock-like" feel of the boots keeps the foot locked in place and coupled with the lightness of the shoe and the super springy cushioning, comfort is a standout feature of these boots.

Cons:

While the boots provide a decent level of stability, they could benefit from additional ankle support. This could be achieved through the inclusion of additional padding or a higher ankle collar. It’s for this reason that I would limit their use to 3 seasons, and less technical trails.

Secondly, while the boots are constructed using high-quality materials, the incorporation of more recycled materials throughout the boot, including the sole, would align with the trend towards sustainable products and enhance the environmental friendliness of the boots.

Overall Verdict:

The boot overall is perfect for Adidas's well-known customers and new customers alike, who are looking for a hiking boot that is not only functional but also has a modern and stylish look. If you’re after a lightweight, summer hiking boot which has ‘out of the box’ comfort that will last, these are the ones for you.