Adidas Terrex Free Hiker GTX Shoe Review

Since the launch of adidas TERREX footwear, many of our staff have been keen to get their hands on a pair. Two of our store managers, Pedro (Stratford) and Theo (Bristol), took the plunge and put the Free Hiker GORE-TEX Shoes to the test on the hill and have shared their experience below. One of our ambassadors, Laura Jones, tested the women's Free Hiker, check out her review here.

Initial thoughts:

Pedro : I tested these on a couple of day hikes in the Bernese Alps, in Switzerland. They seemed comfortable and lightweight as soon as I put them on. They were very flexible compared to most other hiking shoes I’ve tried, I was conscious that they might be a bit too flexible on uneven terrain, not providing the best support or stability.

Theo : I tested these on the Norfolk coastal path and thought they were a comfortable mid-shoe straight out the box. They seem ideal for exploring and light trekking.

•••

Fit

Pedro : Snug on the instep and roomy at the forefoot. The extra space at the front felt nice and comfortable but the instep, even with the flexible Primeknit, might be a bit too snug if you have a high arch or high volume foot, potentially becoming uncomfortable after a few hours. 

Theo : The sock-fit style wrapped around the foot and ankle comfortably. The soft stretchy fabric offered a snug feel.

•••

Foot Protection

Pedro : With the thick Boost midsole it felt protective underfoot on the hard ground and rocky/gravel terrain.

Theo : The waterproof upper kept my feet dry and they felt good underfoot. The ankle support seemed quite soft but was great for keeping water out.

Pedro's feet remained dry despite the odd stream.

Traction

Pedro : The Continental rubber outsole provided excellent grip on both hard and soft ground avoiding any slippage even in steep muddy conditions.

Theo : No issues walking across a range of terrains from the road to soft ground, mud, sand and pebbles.

•••

Stability

Pedro : The Boost midsole kept my feet protected and provided a good bounce-back and the wide sole was great on even paths but it was a little too bouncy and soft on more prominent uneven terrain. There wasn’t much stability and the sock-like mid-ankle construction does not properly support the ankle, especially if carrying a heavier backpack.

Theo : Despite a lack of ankle protection, there was good stability underfoot and good torsional resistance keeping the foot stable on uneven ground.

The wet and windy Norfolk Coastal path was agreat way for Theo

to test out the Gore-Tex Free Hikers.

Comfort

Pedro : They have a comfortable trainer-like fit. Very light and flexible with fantastic cushioning and a roomy forefoot. The instep was nice and snug but I did get some discomfort and rubbing from the elasticated cuff on my right ankle.

Theo : The Adidas Boost sole unit and sock-like fit in the upper really come together for great comfort all around.

•••

Weight

Pedro : Not at all, super lightweight and easy to wear.

Theo : Very light and minimalist in a lot of ways thanks to sock-fit design, clever use of fabrics in the upper.

The lightweight design of the Free Hiker didn't slow Pedro down on the uphills.

Sensitivity

Pedro : The thick Boost midsole offers protection and excellent energy return, can just feel the comfort of the shoe rather than any uncomfortable stones on the trail.

Theo : No issues walking over varied terrains, reasonably tactile on uneven ground.

•••

Materials

Pedro : It was excellent for weight and comfort, but it might compromise durability.

Theo : The soft, comfortable and stretchy upper materials were nice and Adidas Boost was extremely comfy underfoot.

The sock-fit design kept the sand & stones out of Theo's shoes.

Aesthetics 

Pedro :  A trendy and versatile design that works well on the hills but can also blend in on the high street if required.

Theo : The colours and styling will look great on the hill and won't stand out too much in the pub afterwards for that well-earned pint.

•••

Durability

Pedro : The uppers are already showing some wear marks on the forefoot where the toes bend. The outsole is also very soft and thin to make it lightweight but this might wear off quite quickly if worn constantly on hard, abrasive terrain. They strike a compromise between comfort and durability.

Theo : I think they have created something that strikes the right balance between comfort and durability for their purpose. They won’t last forever but they’ll be comfortable as soon as you put them on rather than having to ‘break’ them in. 

---

Overall verdict:

Pedro : Great mid-boots for the fast and light hiker walking long-distance trails and paths. Perfect for something like the Camino de Santiago with a really lightweight pack. Don’t expect a mountain orientated piece of footwear but more a versatile, soft feeling mid-boot to wear on everyday adventures. 

Pros - Very lightweight, soft and comfortable. Really easy to wear whether heading for a day on the trails and hill paths or heading for a Sunday afternoon walk to get a roast dinner in the pub.

Cons - Perhaps a little unstable on uneven ground and not supportive enough at the ankle if worn with a heavy pack for long distances.

Theo : This shoe is ideal for anyone looking to get outdoors in comfort. For all those people that want to get out and have a nice leisurely stroll, go exploring a bit but nothing too adventurous these are perfect. Super comfy, great fit and overall a great experience.

Pros - Super comfortable, I really like the sock-fit style. Ideal for easy trails.

Cons - Not for particularly technical terrain and might lack durability for the more arduous explorers.