Updated:
Jan 19, 2025The Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 Low ($160) is akin to an agile monster truck. Hikers who want to bulldoze through rocks and roots will appreciate the durable upper, cushioned yet stiff midsole, and very capable outsole. At the same time, the high drop and rockered construction offers a decently athletic and nimble feel. All told, the Free Hiker 2.0 Low is a compelling choice for serious hikers and backpackers who frequent above-treeline terrain.
Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction
Durability
Foot Protection
Sustainability
Weight
1 lb. 13 oz.
Waterproof
No (WP available)
Upper
Synthetic
Outsole
Continental rubber
Pros
Cons
Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 Low
For this season's top models, see our guide to the Best Hiking Shoes.
The Adidas Free Hiker 2.0 will appeal to a wide range of comfort seekers, striking a balance between the plushness and nimbleness of a trail running shoe and the foot-hugging isolation of a hiking shoe. The slight rocker has an athletic vibe and helps the shoe roll naturally through each step, while the medium-density expanded TPU midsole strikes a commendable balance between soft and supportive—not too squishy like dedicated trail running shoes (such as the Hoka Speedgoat) but not overly firm. The result is a shoe that supports high-mileage days and keeps your feet from working too hard while you tote a daypack through technical terrain or carry a multi-day pack on moderate trails.
For hikers accustomed to zero-drop shoes or lightweight trail running models (like myself), the Free Hiker 2.0 may take some getting used to. I initially wasn’t fond of the aggressive drop (14mm) and stiff underfoot feel, but my feet quickly adapted, and I came to appreciate the performance these features offered. The high amount of cushioning (the Free Hiker has a stack height of 37mm at the heel) does make the shoe somewhat clunky, but the drop encourages an aggressive and precise approach to rocky, rooty trails. Breathability-wise, I tested the Adidas Free Hiker 2.0 in warm temps ranging from 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and the mesh upper kept my feet from overheating.
Despite being heavily cushioned, the Free Hiker is surprisingly stiff—it’s even stiffer than my Black Diamond approach shoes. This underfoot stability boosts confidence while scrambling or navigating rocky, uneven trails, and allows the shoes to handle the load of an overnight pack.
For those who enjoy hiking and trail running in shoes that offer ample separation from the trail, the Free Hiker 2.0 will likely match your preferences. However, if you enjoy the feel of the ground beneath your feet, this hiking shoe may not be a good match; the heavy cushioning results in a lot of separation from the elements. I still felt very nimble and agile, but if you’re not used to the height, this disconnect could make it harder to quickly correct a misstep. In that case, an alternative like the Topo Athletic Traverse might be a better option. The Traverse offers similar stiffness and support but has a thinner midsole, making it more predictable and sensitive.
Like many Adidas trail models, the Free Hiker 2.0 has a Continental rubber outsole, which I found to be dependably sticky and comparable to Vibram Megagrip. The outsole features large lugs at the heel and smaller lugs at the forefoot. The shoe has provided me with reliable traction throughout multiple hikes on forested trails, and the grip on rock is impressive; in fact, some friends of mine even use the Free Hiker as an approach shoe for climbs in Patagonia. However, in muddy conditions the lugs can get gunked up, reducing their grip and weighing the shoe down. Added up, the Free Hiker is a mostly fair-weather hiking shoe, excelling in dry or lightly damp terrain and particularly on rock.
Despite looking like a lightweight trail running shoe, the Free Hiker 2.0’s durability is more on par with that of a leather hiker. The synthetic upper is tightly woven and is wrapped on all sides (especially at the heel) with beefy reinforcements that act similarly to the bumpers of a car. Even after wearing the shoe on a demanding, four-day backpacking trip (much of which was off-trail on boulder and scree fields), the shoe shows minimal signs of deep wear—no delamination or upper abrasions, and minimal outsole wear. All signs point to the Adidas Free Hiker 2.0 being an impressively durable hiking shoe, particularly among its synthetic competitors.
The Free Hiker 2.0 provides above-average foot protection, particularly when compared to other synthetic hiking shoes. In fact, the sensation is one of 360-degree isolation from the elements: The tightly woven upper fends off stick pokes and sharp rocks far better than an airy mesh upper, and the wrap-around rubber rand and a burly, rigid heel cup guard against toe stubs and painful heel strikes in biting, loose terrain. Adidas did not choose to add a rock plate, but the Free Hiker’s 37-millimeter stack height and burly outsole provide ample underfoot protection, making my foot feel like a tank as I traversed boulder and scree fields.
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Recycled Materials
This product is made partly or entirely from recycled materials, the most common being nylon, polyester, wool, and down. Some products include a single recycled component or partially recycled fabric, while others are 100% recycled (generally excluding accessories like zippers, Velcro, toggles, etc). Look for these details in our product sustainability report linked below.
PFAS-Free DWR
This product’s DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish is made without per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These synthetic compounds are known as "forever chemicals” because they take an extremely long time to degrade, if at all. PFAS can eventually end up in everything from soil to drinking water and have been linked to a range of health issues.
PFAS-Free Waterproof Membrane
This product's waterproof membrane is made without per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These synthetic compounds are known as "forever chemicals” because they take an extremely long time to degrade, if at all. PFAS can eventually end up in everything from soil to drinking water and have been linked to a range of health issues.
Bluesign Approved
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Recycled and/or Reduced Packaging
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Resale and/or Recycling Services
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Carbon Footprint Tracking
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Annual Impact Report
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At 1 pound 13 ounces for the men's size 9, the Free Hiker is heavier than the average low-top hiking shoe. Its extra-thick midsole and stiff build contribute to the heft. While the beefy design handles a heavy pack well, this weight may cause fatigue over a high-mileage day. By contrast, the less cushioned and more flexible Salomon X Ultra 5 checks in slightly less at 1 pound 10.8 ounces. If you’re looking for lightweight trail running shoes that still feature a lot of cushion, check out the Hoka Speedgoat (1 lb. 3.6 oz.) and the Altra Timp (1 lb. 5.8 oz.). These models may weigh less and have more flexible soles that allow for faster movement, but they’re also less sturdy and won’t hold up under as heavy a pack.
Lacing System
The laces on the Free Hiker hold well and are a nice length—I didn’t feel the need to readjust them throughout my hike, and they never came undone when double-knotted. However, the durability of the thin fabric eyelets on the top of the foot does cause me some concern. The top eyelets, which receive the most tension and wear, do have metal reinforcements.
I usually wear men’s size 9 or 9.5, and I most often choose size 9.5. However, I opted for size 9 in the Adidas Free Hiker 2.0, and the fit turned out great. If you’re between sizes, I’d recommend sizing down, as this shoe runs a tad large. The toe box was accommodating for my wide foot, providing ample room without feeling loose. The midsole and arch provided ample support with a snug fit on the sides, while the heels felt secure. Overall, I’m happy with the Free Hiker’s fit, as it strikes a well-balanced combination of space and support.
Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX ($180): Still Capable, More Plush
As expected from Hoka, the Anacapa 2 Low GTX is thickly cushioned, providing a nice mix of springiness and squish that contrasts with the Free Hiker’s stiff design. It’s significantly lighter (1 lb. 8.8 oz.) and offers a bouncier experience on smooth trails, while the Free Hiker’s sturdier build provides greater stability and is more reliable for rock hopping and backpacking. Both shoes are a significant step up from a trail runner, and your decision may come down to personal preference regarding shoe feel (stiff or cushioned) and the type of terrain you prefer to frequent. For more, read our review of the Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX.
Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX ($170): A Lighter and More Flexible All-Rounder
The Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX is a classic hiking shoe that’s lighter, more flexible, and more agile than the Free Hiker, which is good news for those who stick to established trails. But while it can get the job done in mountainous terrain (think boulder hopping and crossing scree fields), it’s not as stable or tank-like as the Free Hiker and will make your feet work harder. We love Salmon’s QuickLace system, which eliminates the hassle of tying your shoes. The X Ultra 5 is a great all-around choice for most hikers, but the Free Hiker has impressed us more with its traction and stability on challenging terrain. For more, read our review of the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX.
Don’t be fooled by the modern aesthetic: The Free Hiker 2.0 is a highly supportive, grippy hiking shoe that can deftly tackle technical, off-camber terrain. But you don’t get extra padding or cushion, and the heavy, stiff build won’t appeal to everyone.
Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction
Durability
Foot Protection
Sustainability
The Anacapa offers the plush cushion of a running shoe, alongside the stability, protection, and durability of a hiking shoe. It's a great option for hikers who regularly experience foot fatigue or log high-mileage days. However, the wide platform lacks precision on technical terrain and the large sections of exposed foam can break down over time.
Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction
Durability
Foot Protection
Sustainability
Salomon’s popular lightweight hiker offers a nice balance of agility, protection, and durability for everything from easy trails to cross-country travel. It’s not as soft and cushioned as a trail runner, and the fit runs narrow, but it’s otherwise a top all-around performer.
Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction
Durability
Foot Protection
Sustainability
Despite its trail-runner-like appearance, the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 Low is a tank of a hiking shoe. Its cushioned yet stiff midsole, durable construction, and sticky rubber outsole are more fine-tuned for rock-strewn trails and backcountry backpacking outings than for casual hikes on smooth singletrack. If your hikes often take you above treeline and you’re looking for a capable, synthetic hiking shoe, put it at the top of your list. On the other hand, it’s decently heavy and clunky and won’t appeal to those logging quick miles on easy trails.
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