I have been sent pair of adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 Low Gore-Tex hiking shoes to test and review. Here are my thoughts.
Features include:
- Abrasion-resistant mesh upper with seamless overlays
- GORE-TEX membrane
- “BOOST” midsole
- External heel clip and EVA stabilisation frame
- Regular fit (see my review)
- Lace closure
- Midsole drop: 10mm (heel: 30mm / forefoot: 20mm)
- Continental™ Rubber outsole
- Colourway: Wonder Beige / Core Black / Semi Impact Orange
- Weight: 365g (size UK 5.5)
- Women’s sizes UK3.5 to 9.5
- Men’s equivalent
- £165
- Buy from adidas.
What adidas says: “Whether you’re out for a quick hike or off on a multi-day trek, the adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 Low GORE-TEX Hiking Shoes help you enjoy every moment of the adventure.
“Pairing the lightweight feel of a trail runner with the stability of a hiking boot, they’re your ideal partner on hikes both near and far.
” A waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX membrane keeps your feet dry on waterlogged trails and an EVA frame helps stabilise your stride when the trails get rocky and rugged.
“No matter how far you walk when exploring the great outdoors, a BOOST midsole serves up endless energy.”
My thoughts: adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 Low Gore-Tex hiking shoes
Let’s start with the fit. The brand says this is a regular fit but I’d say they are rather large. I do have a narrow foot but the volume feels big, especially at the forefoot. I’d say this is a large-fit shoe and would suit women with wider and chunkier feet.
I tested the shoes while wearing thick hiking socks.
The weight of a UK8.5 shoe is 456g. This is quite hefty, although not unusual for a trail walking shoe. Apparently, the UK5.5 weighs almost 100g less.
The shoe does feel robust and durable. However, keep in mind that the light coloured outer will end up very mucky looking if you choose to hike trails unless on the driest and sunniest of days.
Apart from the volume, the shoes does feel comfortable. The insole is nicely cushioned and the sole is also adequately cushioned. It’s not too stiff, nor to spongey, which is good if you plan to walk on a mix of trails and tarmac.
The upper is solid and durable and does keep out the wet and mud. Note that if it’s raining heavily, or you walk through deep puddles, the wet will go over the ankle cuff of the shoe. You could choose to wearing gaiters to prevent some of this water ingress.
I used the shoes on milder days when it wasn’t too wet.
The brand states that these shoes will suit rugged terrain but I think that given the tread they are better suit to tracks and well-trodden trails, rather than rocky mountians and pathless environments.
The grip os good on tracks and paths and even when it’s wet. It’s not a sole for steeps, lots of mud or scree.
It is a shoe that looks like it will serve you well for general countryside walking as long as you don’t go anywhere too muddy or rocky.
Once laced up, the shoes stay tied and walking in them feels comfy enough.
I am not sure if the “BOOST” midsole does actually “serve up endless energy” because that depends on the walker’s fitness and where you are hiking. However, there is nothing to complain about when strolling about trails.
The shoe feels sturdy and rather like a heavier and most robust version of a running shoe.
It’s not a cheap hiking shoe but it does look to be well-made and should last many miles of hiking, although you may need to give these new adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 Low Gore-Tex hiking shoes a good clean after some of your hikes.