Kit & Gear

REVIEW: adidas TERREX Free Hiker GTX

Move and explore. Designed for long distances, adidas TERREX Free Hiker shoes are soft, comfortable, durable and reliable. Featuring an adidas Primeknit upper that fits like a sock and adapts to the shape of your foot as you move, combined with a boost midsole that delivers endless energy over rugged, rocky terrain.

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Our SportsShoes Trail and Hike ambassador, Ben Mounsey, has been busy putting the adidas TERREX Free Hiker GTX to the test;

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The Free Hiker is a unique hiking shoe because of its highly cushioned foam-based midsole. Featuring Boost technology, it provides unlimited energy for the trail with unrivalled levels of cushioning. 

Is there a more comfortable hiking shoe than the adidas TERREX Free Hiker? 

If there is, then I certainly haven’t found it yet. In short, this shoe is a dream to wear and it’s easy to see how this revolutionary TERREX style has quickly become so popular with both walkers and hikers alike.

The Free Hiker strikes the perfect balance between style and performance – not only does this shoe look good, it also feels amazing to wear. Available in a range of colourways, this TERREX hiking range offers something to suit everyone with a vast array of colours and styles to choose from. Personally, I love the all-black design because I think it looks fantastic and can be worn with any trail outfit and colour combination.

Versatility really is key to the Free Hiker’s success. Capable of handling long-distances on challenging terrain, yet equally suitable for much shorter and easier walks and unlike most traditional hiking boots, Free Hiker is a style that can be worn for everyday activities - they even look good with a pair of jeans! For me, the Free Hiker represents and appeals to the new generation of the hiking community – specifically those who are looking for a shoe which combines both fashion and performance.

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I love the fit and feel of the Free Hiker, particularly how the sock-like fit of the upper wraps neatly around the ankle to hold feet in place. This clever design not only increases comfort but also provides more support around the top of the foot, reducing lateral movement when walking over challenging and unpredictable terrain. In addition, the sock serves as a gaitor, preventing any stones and debris from entering the shoe. There is also a piece of looped material at the back of the design which allows you to put the shoe on and take it off more easily. Without this, it would prove a very difficult task because the tight-fitting sock has to be stretched and pulled apart in order to slide your feet neatly inside. Although the sock provides much comfort and flexibility, the only drawback is that the Free Hiker does lack some protection at the very top of the shoe, particularly on the tongue and above the elasticated TERREX band that wraps around the ankles for support.

Made from sustainable Primeknit material, the upper construction of the Free Hiker is breathable and offers ample protection around the foot without being constrictive. As a keen hiker for many years, I’ve previously found traditional leather hiking boots to be a little unforgiving at times, especially during long and challenging adventures and particularly throughout the first few weeks of wear. In comparison, this shoe allows feet to breathe more easily and stops them becoming really hot and sweaty during exercise. The increased ventilation and pliable upper also reduces the risk of painful chafing and blistering. This particular model also features GORE-TEX material which makes them waterproof, perfect if you live in the UK! Although, for anyone looking to primarily use the Free Hiker as a summer hiking shoe then I would opt for the non GORE-TEX version as the upper material is more breathable.

The Free Hiker combines the very best features of both a trail shoe and a hiking boot – comfortable, cushioned and lightweight in design, whilst providing protection, support and stability. The outsole also features Continental rubber with 4mm lugs that provide enough grip for almost every type of off-road terrain. So, if you’re looking for an all-round hiking shoe to suit your everyday to epic adventures, then look no further than the adidas TERREX Free Hiker GTX. Where performance meets style, this is one shoe to rule the trail.

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SHOP ADIDAS TERREX FREE HIKER GTX HERE

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