First impressions

The Skychaser AX5 hiking shoes are the latest release from Adidas Terrex, designed to compete with established names in the hiking world like Merrell, Keen, and Salomon.

Unlike other Skychaser models, the AX5 hiking shoes aren't built for extreme conditions. Instead, their ripstop uppers prioritize comfort and breathability, so you can take on hot summer treks without overheating.

Inside, your feet are greeted by soft and supportive OrthoLite foam sockliners and bouncy EVA foam midsoles. This extra cushioning felt great right out of the box, and really came into its own on long, sweaty hikes, when my feet may have otherwise been aching.

Like most Adidas Terrex models, the AX5s feature Continental rubber outsoles. Although they don't have the same pedigree as Vibram, I've been consistently impressed by Continental rubber. These outsoles prove just as effective as their big-name competitors, digging into uneven ground to provide ample support on the trails.

Adidas Terrex Skychaser: on the trails

I got a hold of the latest Adidas Terrex hiking shoes a couple of months ago, and have been putting them to the test ever since.

I've worn the AX5s over plenty of short- and long-distance treks through the English countryside, in all manner of weather conditions.

Here's how they got on:

Fit and comfort

The Skychaser AX5 hiking shoes are superbly comfortable, on par with some of the best hiking shoes I've ever tested and noticeably cosier than similar Terrex models like the Gore-Tex Skychasers.

The OrthoLite sockliners wrap your feet in a chunky layer of cushioning, which felt great on the trails, and provided some much-appreciated support around my heels. The EVA foam midsoles are also excellent and felt bouncy as I navigated hikes of all distances.

The unrestrictive ripstop mesh uppers were noticeably breathable on hot days, when I would usually be troubled by overheating feet.

One of my few gripes with previous Terrex shoes is their slightly narrow toe boxes, which got a little restrictive as I racked up the miles. I'm pleased to report that this isn't an issue with the Skychaser AX5s, which feature a wide and accommodating toe-box that allows for plenty of movement.

They also fit true to size, cushioning my feet without ever feeling too tight as I trudged through the countryside.

Weight

At 4.5oz (411g) per shoe (Men's US size 9.5 / UK size 8.5), the Skychaser AX5 hiking shoes are a fairly lightweight option for summer hiking.

They're lighter than most models with more protection and heavier waterproof uppers, but not breezy enough to be considered superlight weight.

The Skychaser AX5s didn't weigh me down at all on the trails, and did a great job of minimizing bulk without sacrificing comfort.

Grip

The aggressive Continental Rubber outsoles are a great for dusty trails and uneven surfaces, and served me very well on the steep hills and rocky pathways of the English countryside. Their aggressive lug formations dug into all manner of trails and successfully kept me from falling over many miles of long-distance hiking.

I was also surprised by their excellent performance in wet weather. Due to the lack of waterproofing, I had expected the outsoles to perform worse when the heavens opened, but this wasn't the case. Instead, they seemed at home over muddy, waterlogged trails and maintained excellent grip throughout.

This pair's flexibility also stood out. While they're not the bendiest hiking shoes I've ever worn, the Skychaser AX5s offer a good deal of flex and proved their mettle on steep sections.

Protection from the elements

These hiking shoes are designed for heavy use in dry climates and lack the protection of other models, with different uppers.

They're not waterproof, and when the heavens open, the chassis gets very wet, very quickly. The ripstop uppers offer little resistance against rainfall, and the OrthoLite sockliners, which provide excellent support in the sun, soak up moisture when it's raining.

Put simply, you don't want to get caught in the rain wearing the Skychaser AX5s. If it's light, they'll dry off in a few minutes, but heavy rainfall can stick in the sockliners, weighing you down and making for a damp, unpleasant trekking experience.

If you're after a waterproof pair, it's worth checking out the Gore-Tex Skychaser hiking shoes. They're not as comfy, but provide great protection from the elements and scored highly in my review for Advnture.

This shoe doesn't offer much to protect your feet from trail debris. The ripstop mesh uppers are pretty thin, and the heels were designed with comfort, rather than protection, in mind.

That said, the firm rubber toe caps are a nice touch, and could come in handy if you're traversing unpredictable terrain.

Price

At $100 (£85), the Skychaser AX5 hiking shoes provide great value for your money and are far cheaper than similar models on the market. If you're hiking in a dry climate or after some shoes for the summer, the AX5s are an absolute bargain.

For comparison, the Danner N45 hiking shoes, which are a tough and similarly non-waterproof pair built for dry trails and summer hiking, will set you back $200 (£158.83). They also received a far worse review when I put them to the test for Advnture.

• The best lightweight hiking boots and shoes: pick up speed on the trails and stay agile on your scrambles
• The best hiking boots and shoes for wide feet: stride out with confidence in well-fitting footwear
• How Advnture tests products

After a Prime Day bargain but don't want to shop at Amazon? Don't worry, you don't have to!

We're mid-way through the huge Prime Day sales event, but some of the best bargains are actually elsewhere, so there's no need to shop at the US retailer if you don't fancy it. In fact, one of the best deals we've seen in the past week is on Backcountry, which is also holding a huge sale to keep up with Amazon.

Along with plenty of big bargains, you can save 40% off one of my favorite pairs of hiking shoes, the Adidas Terrex GTX Skychasers, which are now available for just $95.97 in women's sizes at Backcountry.

These sturdy trekking shoes are a solid option for year-round hiking, combining a tough, dependable exterior with plenty of inner comfort. Their weatherproof textile and synthetic uppers use Gore-Tex membranes to keep your feet dry in heavy rain and over boggy trails. I tested the Skychasers in all sorts of unforgiving weather for my review for Advnture, and can happily report that my feet stayed bone-dry throughout.

Comfort is another stand-out feature. The Lightstrike lightweight cushioning and snug Ortholight sockliner absorbed plenty of blows in testing and kept my feet feeling fresh over many miles of trekking.

Along with the Gore-Tex version, you can also save 40% off the standard Terrex Skychasers, which are now available for $83.97, in women's sizes at Backcountry.

Adidas have recently brought out a waterproof version of this shoe - the Terrex Skychaser AX5 GTX, which is currently full price, but at $120, is still a great buy. It's available in men's and women's sizes, direct from Adidas, and you can read more about it here.

Don't worry if you're not in the US, you can look below for today's best Adidas Terrex Skychaser hiking shoes where you are.

• The best hiking shoes: capable summit-baggers and fast-paced walkers
• The best lightweight hiking boots and shoes: pick up speed on the trails and stay agile on your scrambles

Are you on the hunt for a dependable pair of trail running shoes this Amazon Prime Day? Then we've got the deal for you, as this comfortable Adidas Terrex pair is up to 69% off in the huge Amazon Prime Day sale.

The Women's Terrex Agravic Flow 2 trail running shoes were designed with harsh mountain trails in mind, and are now available for as little as $39.95 at Amazon, although prices vary per size.

Their abrasion-resistant mesh upper compliments limited but effective padding to shield your feet from damage as you run. Like most Adidas Terrex pairs, the Flow 2 shoes make use of a sturdy Continental rubber outsole which digs into wet and rocky terrain to keep you for falling.

Expert reviewer and former Advnture Editor Cat Ellis put her pair to the test over multiple tough lengthy runs in the wilderness, and was especially complimentary of their snug and cozy fit.

"I found the overall fit of the Adidas Terrex Agravic Flow 2 very comfortable; neither wide nor narrow, but with ample wiggle room in the toebox," reads Cat's review for Advnture.

"I prefer trail shoes with a relatively close fit, and the Agravic Flow 2's thin but strong upper felt reassuringly snug."

Cat was also fond of the pair's bouncy promoderator inserts, which lent "a good feeling of forward propulsion," and provided plenty of arch support.

If you're not in the US, you can look below for the best Adidas terrex Agravic Flow 2 deals where you are:

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain
• The best trail running socks: comfort and support on uneven ground

Seeking a new pair of nimble-but-waterproof hikers for the summer, but on a budget? The new Skychaser from Adidas Terrex might be just what you're looking for.

The Adidas Terrex Skychaser AX5 GTX hiking shoe is out now, sporting a few notable differences from its predecessor, including a significantly lower price.

We loved the original Adidas Terrex Skychaser Gore-Tex in our field tests, with Advnture writer Will Symon noting they offer lots of cushioning for all-day comfort, speed lacing that makes things simple and lots of protection. So, how does the AX5 hold up?

Adidas Terrex Skychaser AX5 GTX hiking shoe

Terrex, the outdoor arm of Adidas, says the new model is designed for moving quickly in technical terrain. Though it describes the shoe as lightweight, we'd place it more in the medium weight category, and with an average weight of 15.2oz, it's virtually the same weight as the previous model. There are differences, though.

Instead of the textile and synthetic upper, the AX5 sports a ripstop upper, which may be tougher for rough hikes and long use, and it's still endowed with a rubber outsole with chevron lugs that hopefully offer the same good grip as before. In place of the Lightmotion foam midsole, this model is built with a Lightmotion EVA midsole, and there's more of it too – 32mm under heel compared to 26mm.

The drop is higher too, up to 12mm, which may not be good news for everyone's toes on a downhill, and the speed lacing system has been replaced with traditional laces, which do take a bit longer but can also be more durable and easier to replace.

The real drop we noticed, however, is in price. Compared to the original Skychaser, which retailed for $160, the AX5 has hit the market at just $120 / £85, which is a significant discount and places it well within the same price range as the shoes in our list of the best cheap hiking boots and shoes.

The Adidas Terrex Skychaser AX5 GTX is available now in both men's and women's sizing in multiple colorways from Adidas.

• The best hiking shoes: capable summit-baggers and fast-paced walkers
• The best hiking boots: protect your feet on any trail with our top choices

First impressions

The Adidas Terrex Skychaser hiking shoes are built for comfortable, stable hiking excursions over varied terrain, in all weather conditions.

Their sturdy textile and synthetic uppers feature waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex membranes to prevent your feet from getting wet in the winter or overheating when the sun comes out.

Inside the shoes, your feet are greeted by bouncy and responsive OrthoLite foam sockliners and Lightstrike midsoles. These cushioning features support all parts of your feet and protect against any trail debris you might encounter in the wilderness.

Underneath the supportive inners, the Skychasers feature tough Continental rubber outsoles, designed to keep you upright as you trek through the wilderness. These dependable outsoles feature large, aggressive lugs, which dig into potentially hazardous terrain to maximize grip and minimize slips in the wilderness.

Adidas Terrex Skychaser: on the trails

For the past couple of months, I've been putting these new Adidas hiking shoes to the test in the varied underfoot conditions and unpredictable weather of the English spring.

I've worn the Skychasers over multiple long-distance treks through the valleys and hills of southern England and even taken them up the odd mountain in Cumbria's Lake District National Park.

Here's how they got on in the wilderness:

Fit and comfort

The Adidas Terrex Skychasers are an exceptionally comfortable pair of hiking shoes.

After a couple of hikes wearing them in, the Lightstrike lightweight cushioning felt snug and responsive, supporting my feet over miles of rugged country trails and wild sections.

The OrthoLite sockliner was another nice touch and successfully prevented any friction against the soles of my feet. Without friction, I didn't need to worry about any pesky blisters and enjoyed pain-free hiking throughout my time in the Skychasers.

They also fit true to size, wrapping my feet without ever feeling too tight. The comfortable fit was complemented by this pair's 'speed laces', which use a plastic mechanism to tighten and do away with the need to tie your laces in the traditional manner.

My first impression of these laces was skepticism, but after a couple of treks, I came to appreciate their speedy tying and the effective way they locked my feet in place. They're certainly not ground-breaking, but a handy additional to shave a few sections from tying your laces.

My sole gripe with these hiking shoes is their slightly narrow toe-box, which felt a little tight after many miles of trekking.

This wasn't noticeable at first, but became apparent on a couple of hikes at around the 15-mile mark, when my toes began to get a little claustrophobic, a feeling that increased the longer I hiked.

My toes were never in pain, but rather slightly uncomfortable for a few miles.

It's worth noting that I have especially wide feet, and this problem only became apparent after a few hours on the trails. However, it's worth considering if you've got wide feet and are planning a long-distance trek.

Weight

At 15.3oz (434g) per shoe in the smallest men's size these are very much in the middle of the weight range for a hiking shoe, but do boast a decent amount of protection for their heft.

Heavy hiking shoes can be a real chore, especially when the sun comes out, and the Skychasers definitely didn't weigh me down at all. They do an excellent job of minimizing bulk while still having enough features to help you enjoy the trails.

Grip

The aggressive Continental outsoles are perfect for varied weather conditions and underfoot surfaces. Each outsole has multiple large multidirectional lugs, well suited to uneven trails in dry and wet weather.

Over many miles of hiking, I found my pair to be equally grippy on slippery, muddy trails and dusty, dry hikes, keeping me upright wherever I walked.

They were also reliable over rocky pathways and steep mountain scrambles. On one occasion, I took the Skychasers up Hellvelyn, a 3,117ft (950m) mountain in the Lake District, well-known for its steep, rocky sections and scrambles.

The outsole performed excellently, providing plenty of grip as I climbed up and down the mountain without incident.

The Skychasers' flexibility was also noticeable here. While they're not especially bendy, they allowed for enough movement to help me up steep sections without ever feeling too rigid.

Protection from the elements

I put these sturdy Adidas hiking shoes to the test over multiple rainy days on the trails, and it's safe to say they passed with flying colors.

The waterproof Gore-Tex membranes do a terrific job of warding off the elements without sacrificing breathability. Despite several downpours and plenty of boggy sections on the trails, I never once felt water seep through the uppers, nor did I overheat when the sun came out.

On long, hot treks, the handy Gore-Tex membranes maximized airflow and breathability. This, combined with the pair's minimal bulk, helped my feet stay cool and prevented overheating.

As these are low-cut shoes, water occasionally snuck in near my ankles, but didn't travel far, thanks to their snug fit.

Price

At $160 (£140) a pair, these dependable Adidas hiking shoes are reasonably proced. There are certainly cheaper models available, but none that I've tested with the same level of comfort, waterproofing, and traction.

They certainly outperform similarly priced models like the Danner N45s, and are right up there with some of our favorite pairs, like the Merrell Moab 3s and Columbia Peakfreak 2s.

Also consider

Comparison table

• The best lightweight hiking boots and shoes: pick up speed on the trails and stay agile on your scrambles
• The best hiking boots and shoes for wide feet: stride out with confidence in well-fitting footwear
• How Advnture tests products

If someone sends me a pair of waterproof hiking boots to test, you can bet I'm going to wade through a river or lake in them to find out if they work, and that's exactly what I did with the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 boots a couple of years ago.

The verdict? Not a drop got through.

Right now, you can pick up the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 boots for just $100 at Adidas. That's a massive savings of 50% off the original list price for these stylish hikers, which look just at home in the city as they do on the trail.

These sturdy-but-light hiking boots were designed for reliable performance in all seasons. Lightweight mesh uppers feature waterproof Gore-Tex membranes that block moisture without limiting airflow, so you keep your feet dry without overheating.

Wet weather usually brings slick trails, and I've been impressed by the traction of these boots, which boast rubber outsoles and 2 - 3mm lugs. Inside the boots, your feet are supported by bouncy Boost midsoles and EVA foam stabilization frames, which allow for long days on the trail in comfort.

This deal applies to women's sizing in the Wunder Beige and Preloved Fig colorways.

Not in the US? Head to the bottom of this article to find the best deals on the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 boots where you are.

I don't love everything about these boots. The toe box is on the narrow side and they have quite a high drop, which won't make them to everyone's taste, but I definitely think they're worth checking out if you're looking for something comfortable, lightweight and waterproof for straightforward trails.

If you're not in the States, here are the best Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 deals near you:

• The best hiking boots: protect your feet on any trail with our top choices
• The best lightweight hiking boots and shoes: pick up speed on the trails and stay agile on your scrambles

Adidas SP0095 sunglasses: first impressions 

The Adidas Sport SP0095 sunglasses won't turn any heads if you're a cyclist, because everyone will be too busy looking at your bib shorts to notice, but if you're a trail runner, you're probably going to feel a little out of place wearing these. That said, we've found some things to like about these sunglasses for trail running.

The wraparound design that's loved by cyclists and apres ski bros does provide your face and eyes with more protection than other designs, even if it looks like a pair of safety glasses from the lab. However, this particular design seems to sit really high up, covering more of your forehead than is typical, and meaning your downward view is totally clear. That would actually be cool if they were polarized glasses, because it would mean you would be able to see your phone or GPS watch without removing your glasses, but they're not, so we're not sure it's intentional.

We got them out on the trail for some fast-paced adventures this spring and we have to admit that they are really comfortable and light, and most importantly they don't slip or bounce no matter how much you do. Despite that non-slip design, they didn't give us a headache or pinch anywhere.

They have ventilation slots at the temples to reduce fogging, and the arms are made with flexible materials that should be more durable. They also come with a hefty protective case which should prolong their lifespan.

Inside the case is a cloth for cleaning them, which works a charm, and an extra pair of clear frames, so in theory, you should be able to swap out the lenses for overcast days where you just want eye protection (and for cycling). Sadly, we couldn't figure out how to remove the lenses, and there are no instructions for doing so.

These are among the pricier sunglasses we've tested, but if you're dead set on a pair of wraparounds, we think you can probably find a pair that looks better, if you care about such things.

Adidas Sport SP0095 sunglasses: in the field 

It's taken me quite a few months to get round to testing these sunglasses, mostly because the UK experienced a winter of so-called "atomic gloom" and I just didn't need sunglasses, and partly because they're not really my style. Finally, however, spring arrived and I could put it off no longer, so I've worn these out on a couple of trail runs to see how they hold up.

Here’s how they performed:

Comfort and staying power

These shades are really comfortable on, and in the past I've found that comfort in sunglasses can mean you sacrifice staying power, but here that is not the case. They are extremely light and I can wear them for several hours without noticing them, and I don't experience any pinching on my nose, headaches or pain around my ears.

That said, they only come in one size and according to various retailers, that size is extra large so it seems to me that they won't work for everyone's face. They might always be comfortable but I can see them slipping down on smaller faces.

On my head and face, which as far as I know isn't unusually big or small, they just don't move, no matter how fast I'm running, if I break a sweat or when I'm wearing sunscreen.

Performance and durability

When it comes to sunglasses for running, I really just want a pair that protects my eyes and doesn't budge. This pair seems to fulfill both of those requirements, and I like the smoke tinted lenses which aren't too light or dark for Scottish conditions. They're not polarized, and that's fine for me since I wear goggles for skiing and I'm not going out on the water in them, and it means I can check my phone and my Coros Pace 3 watch without shoving them up on my head, which is great.

The wraparound design provides good coverage, but because there's only a frame across the top, my peripheral vision isn't obstructed, which is good. Strangely, they sit really high up on my face and quite far away from my face at the bottom. This means that they sit about half an inch above the top of my eyebrows but don't cover my cheeks at all. The result is that when I look down, my eyes aren't protected at all. This hasn't mattered on my adventures, but if I were out in a high glare situation like snow, I think quite a lot of UV rays would be seeping in under these glasses. It also means that you can't pull a running cap down low, but maybe Adidas is banking on you being a bro who wears your cap backwards?

They come with an extra pair of clear lenses, which would be great if you wanted to wear these for cycling, but for the life of me, I can't figure out how to swap the lenses out, and there are no instructions anywhere online. I did eventually just pull the lenses down and they unclipped from the frame, but I couldn't figure out how to extract them from the nose pads so I gave up. This feature does mean that if you require prescription lenses, you could use them with these glasses, but you might have to ask your optician to swap them for you.

The frames and arms are flexible, not brittle, which in my experience can mean they're most durable, but they feel like a fragile pair of glasses and not a pair I'd shove in my pocket. Fortunately, they come with a hard case which is really protective, but also really bulky so I wouldn't bring these on a longer trail run as they'd take up too much room in my vest.

Style and value

I don't like sporty, mirrored wraparound shades on my face or anyone else's (unless you're riding in the Tour de France) so I'm already predisposed to not love how these look, but in my opinion, the odd fit of these looks especially weird.

On the surface of things, you get a fair bit for your money when you factor in the case and extra lenses, but they are expensive, and the design is unusual enough that unless it really happens to work for your face, I think your money would be better off spent elsewhere.

Also consider

Comparison table

• How Advnture tests products

With spring finally here, there's no better time to invest in new gear and head onto the trails for a long-distance run. If you're in the market for a trusty pair of trail running shoes to help you bound around the backcountry, check out this sleek pair from Adidas.

The Adidas Terrex Agravic GTX trail running shoes are available for just $119.95 in men's and women's sizes at Backcountry - slashed to 25% off their list price in the spring sales.

These waterproof trail running shoes are designed to ward off rough terrain and keep you upright at all times. They're made from a synthetic Gore-Tex mesh and feature 4mm Continental rubber lugs, which dig into the trails to ensure stability.

The impact-absorbing midsoles and abrasion-resistant upper overlays seek to support your feet so you can enjoy comfortable, pain-free runs. You'll also be protected from the rain, thanks to an Invisible Fit Gore-Tex membrane, which blocks moisture and maintains airflow while you run.

If you like the look of these Adidas trail running shoes but aren't in the US, you can scroll to the bottom of this article for today's best deals where you are.

If you're not in the US, here are today's best Adidas Terrex Agravic deals where you are:

• The most comfortable trail running shoes: put your feet first with these lightweight, cushioned buys
• The best trail shoes for ultra runners: these robust and comfy rides are built for serious outdoor adventures

Adidas says it has launched a new chapter in its hiking footwear range with the drop of a redesigned shoe that combines a classic look with trail-tested technologies.

Released under the brand's hiking and trail running label, the Adidas Terrex Skychaser Gore-Tex hiking shoe joins the increasingly large lineup of hiking footwear that also includes models like the Free Hiker 2s. The shoe has been reimagined with a fresh silhouette that looks like it would be as at home on the high street as it is on a summit, and packed in plenty of modern technology for high performance on the trails.

The brand says the shoe is built for any hiker who wants to move fast and still enjoy protection, control and comfort, so let's take a look at the goods.

For protection, a ripstop Gore-Tex upper is designed to keep your feet dry on damp days on the trail, while a molded toe cap and abrasion-resistant overlays are there to protect your feet – and shoes – from damage by trail hazards.

Stability is key when you're moving fast over technical terrain, so a stiff plate sits between the upper and midsole which is said to act as a stabilizer in technical terrain. A reformulated Continental outsole is furnished with aggressive 5 mm lugs to chomp into muddy terrain. For those of you who just like to get moving, the new Skychaser is equipped with speed laces, which can be quickly adjusted and ensure a lockdown fit.

Comfort isn't something you want to sacrifice over long days, and with a decent stack of 26 mm of Lightstrike foam under the heel, you should be able to walk for hours before foot fatigue sets in. The brand says the midsole delivers the responsiveness of a running shoe, though we can't help but wonder how the towering 10 mm drop will feel on the downhills.

At just 13.7 oz for a size 7, these are up there with some of the lighter trainer-style hiking shoes we've tested, similar to the AKU Rocket DFS GTX, and the brand has tried to leave a lighter footprint on the planet too, saying it uses at least 20% recycled content in construction.

The recoded Adidas Terrex Skychaser Gore-Tex is available now in men's and women's sizing in multiple colorways for $160 / £140.

• The best hiking shoes: trail-friendly shoes for all seasons

Want to run faster on the trails? Right now, you can snag the highly-rated Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed trail running shoes for just $104 at Adidas. That's a hefty 35% off the regular list price for these shoes, which one runner says are "like running on clouds."

The Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed is described as race-ready by the brand, sporting 33 mm of Lightstrike Pro cushioning under the heel and a rocker build for a responsive ride. The breathable upper hugs your foot for stability and support while a gusseted tongue helps seal out debris.

This deal applies to men's and women's sizing in the Core Black colorway, but sizes are selling out fast so we suggest you hurry.

Not in the US? Scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on Agravis Speed trail running shoes where you are.

Trails can give your best shoes a real beating, so these shoes have been equipped with abrasion-resistant overlays for durability and are built with recycled and renewable content to lighten your impact on the planet.

If you're not in the US, here are today's best deals on Agravic Speed trail running shoes where you are:

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain

The Agravic line from Adidas has earned its rightful place on the trail running podiums in recent years – perhaps most notably on the feet of David Roche as he demolished the longstanding Leadville 100 record in 2024 – and now the brand is making sure the shoe is ready for all conditions.

Yesterday the brand unveiled the latest addition to its speed-focused trail running range: the Agravic Gore-Tex. Like the Agravic Speed and Agravic 3, these shoes feature the all-day comfort of a Lightstrike foam midsole, but the addition of a Gore-Tex advanced Invisible Fit technology means more ambitious runners can keep moving through rain, snow and river crossings with a responsive ride.

“With the winterized edition of the Agravic, we wanted to create a shoe that enables trail runners to enjoy the feeling of running fast on trails, no matter the weather” said Carla Murphy, SVP/Global General Manager, of Adidas Terrex.

“Every detail is crafted to let runners focus on the thrill of speed and exploration, no matter the conditions.”

The key to Invisible Fit technology is the waterproof membrane is laminated to the upper material, which the brand says creates a natural fit and feel, clearly very important for long days on the trail. If you encounter wet weather or flooded trails, the membrane keeps water out and also blocks wind for cold runs. There’s also a sock-like collar as seen on technical shoes like the Hoka Tecton X 3 that helps keep your feet dry prevents debris from finding its way in and hampering your run.

Of course, wet weather usually means slick conditions under foot and these shoes are all about reliable grip, sporting a full coverage Continental rubber outsole – the very same ones as the awesome Agravic Speed Ultra – reinforced with both 4 mm and 5 mm lugs to bite into muddy and even snowy trails.

Ultra runner Petter Engdahl says the Agravic Gore-Tex is his “go-to shoe” for training in the mountains of Norway: “It provides the grip and protection I need to keep pushing, regardless of the terrain."

The Adidas Agravic Gore-Tex is available now in men’s sizing in Black and Olive and women’s sizing in Black and Silver Green for $160 at Adidas.

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain

Adidas Terrex Multi Trail Running Shorts: first impressions

I’ve been testing the short (5-inch leg) version of these trail-running shorts from Terrex (the outdoor-orientated wing of German sporting behemoth brand Adidas), and I did find them almost alarmingly minimalist at first glance.

They’re ultra-light to hold, not least because there’s no inner. This does give you options: it means you can wear them over the top of running leggings, outdoor-active tights and base-layer bottoms. And some runners do definitely prefer to choose their own running underwear – while others opt to go commando and not wear anything under running shorts and leggings.

It’s quite rare, though, to come across trail-running shorts with no inner layer these days. There’s an argument for this, and I would prefer to have no undershort than an uncomfortable mesh inner. But – certainly for the 5-inch versions of these shorts – it does mean you need to combine them with something (sport underwear or leggings) or risk a very unkind form of frostbite/potential arrest for indecency, and these additional layers inevitably affect the performance of the shorts, in terms of weight, breathability and comfort. It’s also something else to launder.

Adidas Terrex Multi Trail Running Shorts: design and materials

I was, however, impressed and pleased to see that these shorts are made almost entirely (at least 70%) from recycled material. The polyester used is tough and durable, and the panelled design gives the garment a good shape. There’s a split on the legs to facilitate maximum freedom of movement and the waist is elasticated, with a tie-cord for backup. There are two pockets on these shorts: one on the right side and one on the rear, both with zips.

There’s a bright white Terrex logo on the front of the left leg, but no reflective elements on the rear, which would have been a good addition for safety when running on roads and lanes at night. As mentioned, there is no inner in these shorts, and the panelled design does mean there are lots of seams on the inside, which might irritate some people (though they haven’t caused me any problems).

Meet the reviewer

Adidas Terrex Multi Trail Running Shorts: on the trails

I have been using these shorts while running on local trails and lanes, as well as through woodlands, along the coast and on some craggy hilltops. They’re a perfectly practical all-terrain option. The split leg and lightweight construction of the shorts means you enjoy full range of movement, which makes jumping over logs, rocks and other obstacles much easier.

I have appreciated having two zipped pockets for keeping things (keys, credit card, cash) safe and secure. Initially I thought it a bit odd that there isn’t a third pocket on the left side, but actually, there’s no real need for one – it’s not like you run around with your hands in your pockets.

That said, the rear pocket could be a bit bigger – you can’t fit a phone in it for example, and running with a phone in a side pocket is very irritating (I’m usually very happy to leave my phone at home while running, but not everyone is). There are no mesh pouches for energy gels either. All up, I think these shorts are better for quicker, shorter runs, rather than anything over 10 miles (to go much further you’d need to be wearing a running vest to take advantage of the extra storage space).

These shorts are very lightweight, and they remain so even if you get caught out in the rain and get a drenching – the polyester material is hydrophobic and doesn’t take on much water, and it dries out super quick. However, you won’t reap the benefits of this if your underwear doesn’t have the same properties, which is one of the downsides of not having a light inner.

• How Advnture tests products

Great holiday savings are trickling through to the new year, and it's good news for hikers. Right now, you can pick up the comfortable and practical Adidas Terrex AX4 Gore-Tex hiking shoes for just $70 on Amazon. That's a giant savings of 53% off the regular list price for these hiking shoes, which we gave four stars in our field tests.

If you’re looking for a year-round hiking shoe that can handle most challenges and still look inconspicuous in a pub or on the street, these shoes are a good option.

This is a shoe that’s equipped for exploring all kinds of terrain. The synthetic mesh upper is backed up with a breathable and waterproof Gore-Tex lining, and reinforced with a comprehensive protective rand that goes right around the foot, rising in areas most at risk.

For sloppy trails, the Continental outsole has 4mm lugs with directional chevrons that supply good grip and are nicely spaced out to avoid picking up too much mud.

This deal applies to men's sizing in the Grey Solar Red and Focus Olive/Core Black colorways and there are lots of sizes remaining, but we recommend you pounce to get that perfect fit.

Not in the US? Scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on the Adidas Terrex AX4 Gore-Tex hiking shoes where you are.

The lacing system is quite basic, and perhaps a tad short for tackling really muddy conditions, but the tongue is well integrated, so grit, water and stones are kept out pretty effectively.

If you're not in the US, here are today's best offers on the Adidas Terrex AX4 Gore-Tex hiking shoes near you:

• The best hiking shoes: trail-friendly shoes for all seasons

Adidas Terrex Heat.Rdy Trail Running Speed Ankle Socks: first impressions

Part of the Terrex trail-running range (the outdoor-oriented wing of Adidas sport and leisurewear), Adidas Terrex Heat.Rdy Trail Running Speed Ankle Socks are quarter-length socks, extending to just over your ankle, which are designed specifically for trail running.

Happily, they are made with a minimum of 70% recycled synthetic material – and it’s certainly implied that this percentage is much higher across the two main ingredients (polyester and nylon).

They only come in two colorways, though, and bizarrely one of these is white – why anyone would think this is a good choice for a sock intended to be used on mucky, muddy trails is beyond me, but some people might like it. Putting this quibble to one side, I have been testing these clunkily named (fancy leaving out vowels…) but decent-looking socks to see how they compare to the best trail-running socks on the market.

Adidas Terrex Heat.Rdy Trail Running Speed Ankle Socks: design and materials

The socks are left/right foot specific, with an L and an R clearly marked on the big toe area. It’s tempting to dismiss this as a bit gimmicky, but actually, when socks feature positioned panels with different yarns designed to do something specific – like the looser-knit, highly ventilated sections that feature on the Heat.Rdy Speeds – then it does make more sense (they won’t work unless they’re on the correct part of your foot).

These socks are made with strong synthetics materials, woven into what Terrex call an ‘anti-blister’ yarn. The ventilated sections run across the top of the foot and beneath the arch. The elastane content – which includes a supportive band that extends right around the foot, running between the wearer’s ankle and toes – ensures the socks keep their shape and stay in place inside your trail running shoes. While there’s no cushioning under the heel, there is some extra padding around the ankles, which is intended to provide some protection when running on rocky, technical trails.

Meet the reviewer

Adidas Terrex Heat.Rdy Trail Running Speed Ankle Socks: on the trails

The Heat.Rdy Speeds are wearable year-round, but the heightened levels of ventilation do make them particularly good in warm, sweaty weather. That said, I’ve been testing these socks in the shivery conditions of early December, and aside from the fact that they obviously quickly lost their bright white look as a trotted through trail gloop, they have been performing well. I can break out in a sweat simply looking at a steep climb, and I’m surrounded by hills, so I’ve been appreciating the advanced ventilation built into the design of these socks.

A looser knit can impact on the durability of garments – especially those subjected to a lot of heavy abuse, like socks – but the synthetic materials used here are very tough and I haven’t noted any deterioration in the socks so far (I’ll update if this starts to happen). While they’re stronger and more hardwearing than natural materials like merino wool or bamboo, however, synthetics are far more prone to holding on to nasty smells, and as far as I can make out, the Heat.Rdy Speeds have not been treated with Polygiene or any other antimicrobial treatment to combat stink, so this could be an issue over time (even if you do sweat less in a well ventilated socks, and wash them after every use, eventually they will start to pong).

As mentioned, Adidas Terrex call the material used in these socks anti-blister yarn; I’m fortunate in that I rarely suffer from blisters, but I can report that these socks are very comfortable and stay firmly in place with zero in-shoe movement, and that, combined with less salty sweat being present (thanks to the increased levels of ventilation) definitely decreases the chances of blisters developing.

The additional padding around the ankles, although pretty minimalist, is a welcome innovation and helps protect the top of your foot from sticks and stones that often kick up from trails. Personally, I like a little cushioning around the heel, which is missing here, and the material feels quite thin in this area.

• How Advnture tests products

Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra running shoes: first impressions

A sub-brand of German sporting-gear giant Adidas, Terrex specializes in producing apparel for the outdoors. These sleek shoes are aimed at trail runners doing any sort of distance, up to and including ultra marathons. The marketing push around the Agravic Speed Ultras (and the very name of the shoe) indicates that the intended use is on longer distances, but the design is firmly oriented towards those at the pointier end of the field, rather than the majority of participants in such events (the mid-pack and slower runners).

Everything from the low weight and minimalist materials used in these shoes, through to the Lightstrike Pro cushioning in the midsole and the aggressive rocker, screams ‘go faster’ – which is fine for elite runners, but in all honesty is terrible advice for most people attempting to get through a 50km-plus event, for whom simply finishing is a monumental achievement, and a podium place lies well north of impossible. (And, for the record, I very much count myself in this latter group.) For us, pacing oneself – and actually walking for large sections, when necessary – is key to not DNFing when taking on an ultra.

Of course there are people out there who can run really quite fast for epic distances, and more power to them – the Agravic Speed Ultras (one of a generation of supershoes that some elite runners are embracing warmly) are possibly perfect for such athletes. Case in point: David Roche recently smashed the Leadville 100 course record wearing these exact shoes, and credited his footwear as playing a big part in his victory. However, we’re not all David Roches, and I think most people would be better off wearing something that’s more supportive and substantial when running very long races, instead of a shoe that urges you to hurry up all the time.

But I’m not saying you should disregard these shoes altogether if you’re not a top-end runner; I just think you should ignore the name and consider them for much shorter-distance trail runs and events, where they will suit far more people. With this in mind, I’ve been trail testing the Terrex Agravic Speed Ultras to see how they compare with the best trail running shoes on the market.

Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra running shoes: design and materials

Agravic means to be devoid of gravity, which is a lofty claim, but these shoes – while not weightless – are extremely light. The upper is made with thin synthetic fabrics, where a breathable and quick-draining mesh main material is combined with a more robust TPU layer around the lace eyelets, toecap and heel. The laces themselves are textured, to stop them coming undone mid run, while the tongue takes the form of an integrated semi-sock, which only extends about a third of the way along the foot.

The Agravic Speed Ultras have a surprisingly generous toebox (many performance-oriented running shoes are tight in this area) and quite a wide forefoot landing area. The Lightstrike Pro cushioned midsole provides plenty of bounce, especially above the ball of the foot as the rocker shape of the shoe propels you forward along the trails.

There’s an 8mm difference in the height of the heel and the height of the toe-end on these shoes, but of far more significance is the very pronounced rocker shape of the sole as it travels between these points. It’s a design intended to promote an efficient cadence where you push very positively off the front of the foot, whether you’re a natural forefoot runner or not. And beneath this boat-shaped shoe is a Continental rubber outsole with a range of 2.5mm and 3mm lugs.

Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra running shoes: on the trails

As noted, the Agravic Speed Ultra Lights are squarely aimed at top-end runners, looking to be competitive in races up to ultra marathon length. This is quite a small target audience, and a group I cannot claim to be part of, but I can see some benefits for those who do move much quicker than me over long off-road routes. These shoes are intelligently designed, with a very pronounced rocker that definitely promotes a very positive, fast-paced cadence. They’re extremely light, the material doesn’t take on any water during stream crossings and the shoes drain very quickly. The laces stay done up, and the dynamic midsole puts plenty of bounce into your bound.

But, while I do take part in the occasional ultra marathon distance race, these are not a shoe I would choose to wear for such distances. They don’t offer the amount of protection I’m looking for during events that might see me out in the wilds for hours on end, and they’re designed to encourage me to go faster than I reckon I should in order to get to the end.

Instead, I’ve been trail-testing these shoes on much shorter distances, where I can happily cut loose and go a good bit quicker. The positives mentioned above all come in to play here too, and I’ve enjoyed some elements of this shoe. The rocker takes a bit of getting used to, and it actually caused me some discomfort at first, but the more runs I do in them, the more I appreciate the shape of this shoe and the cadence it encourages (which I can happily maintain over more modest distances).

However, I’ve been disappointed with several other aspects of the Agravic Speed Ultras. The lugs are small and while the grip is passable on rocks, it’s woeful on any kind of mud – I’ve been slipping all over the place on my local trails. And then, on drier terrain, I found grit, sand and small pebbles could enter the shoe because the inner sock doesn’t extend far enough. The textured laces, while good for staying tied once done up, make it hard to get a good tight fit around the foot.

Overall, while I like some elements of this shoe, the negatives are outweighing the positives, but then – as a plodder not a podium climber – I guess I’m not really the target market.

• How Advnture tests products

Adidas Terrex Agravic Trail Running t-shirt: first impressions

This decent-looking t-shirt is part of the new Agravic trail-running range from Terrex, the off-road-oriented wing of titanic Teutonic sports brand, adidas (the motherbrand is only mentioned very subtly in the inside rear of the shirt, but the signature three-stripe logo on the front gives away the open secret that it’s an Adidas top).

Agravic means to have no gravity, and while it can’t claim to float in the air, this entire range has been designed to weigh very little. The Adidas Terrex Agravic Trail Running t-shirt is especially light, not least because the entire back panel is made from a mesh material, intended to both provide ventilation and reduce heft.

I’ve been trail testing the the Agravic Trail Running t-shirt over the last couple of months to see how it compares to the best trail-running tops on the market.

Adidas Terrex Agravic Trail Running t-shirt: design and materials

With a crew neck and slits in the hemline to help with unimpeded movement, this running t-shirt is made entirely from polyester, a minimum of 70% of which is recycled (we give adidas reasonably high marks for this, but I can’t really see why it’s not made from closer to 100% recycled yarn). Being synthetic, this material is hardwearing and long lasting, as well as being light. It’s also hydrophobic, so it won’t take on water and grow heavy if you get caught out in the rain, and if it does get wet, it won’t immediately lose its thermal properties, and will dry out very quickly.

That said, the aforementioned thermal properties are clearly a secondary concern for the designers of this top, which features a mesh back panel intended to help the wearer stay cool when they’re tackling tough terrain or running in hot conditions.

As far as I can tell, the material hasn’t been treated with Polygiene or a similar antibacterial product to combat the accumulation of odors, and this is a concern, particularly with synthetic garments – unlike Merino tops, which naturally deal with bacteria and bad pongs, polyester Ts tend to get seriously smelly after a while, even if you wash them regularly.

Meet the reviewer

Adidas Terrex Agravic Trail Running t-shirt: on the trails

I’ve been testing the Agravic Trail-Running t-shirt during the worst of the winter months, which is definitely not the kind of conditions the designers had in mind when they brainstormed this garment. The mesh back is an excellent feature when you’re running in the heat – and I still manage to sweat when I run up hills, even on sub-zero December mornings, so I have felt the benefit of it first hand – but it does allow chilly breezes in as well. That’s obvious, though, and not a criticism – just something to be aware of.

A bigger concern for me with the mesh back is how durable it will prove to be over time, especially if the t-shirt is being worn with a hydration vest or running pack. I haven’t noted any deterioration in the material so far, but the mesh extends right to the shoulder, where a harness strap will definitely rub it, and I think, as with the MT shorts in this range, this T is intended more for shorter, faster runs, rather than longer endurance events where packs need to be worn.

Overall, though, the top performs well when worn in the conditions it’s been designed to be worn in.

• How Advnture tests products

The 1990s were undeniably a time for experimentation in design, and while we're happy to house some of the styles from back then firmly in the archives, others might just be worth a second look. That's clearly what Adidas is thinking with the Badlander, a series of hiking shoes designed decades ago by the German footwear company that's been newly revived for frosty trails just in time for winter.

The new Radlander Moc looks as unusual now as its earliest ancestor did, reimagined for the trails as a technical camp shoe that basically operates like a tiny puffer jacket for your foot.

For the coldest of days, the puffy ripstop upper is packed with the same PrimaLoft insulation you'll find in jackets like the Adidas Terrex Xperior. PrimaLoft is well known for being warm, durable and water-resistant, keeping your toes toasty and dry when it gets sloppy out. If you're planning on super soggy adventures, the shoe company is taking no chances and is fortifying your foot with a Gore-Tex version to stave off intruding deluges.

Underfoot, the rubber outsole doesn't have that yellow Vibram octagon of approval, but the wavy lugs hint at more grip than your Adidas Campus OOs will give you. The sole is built with the brand's Torsion System which was developed for running shoes and is said to give more flexibility in your gait.

The result is that while this looks very much like a cozy slipper for winter hut trips, it might not be the worst choice for a snowy stroll to gather more firewood.

Similarly to the reinvented Vans OTW Old Skool 36 Trail Vibram, this shoe eschews a traditional lacing system, which can be tricky to manage with frozen fingers and can also cut off circulation if you don't lace up properly. Instead, the Radlander Moc features a bungee cord lacing system that you can easily operate even while wearing bulky hiking gloves.

So what is it exactly? Probably the most technical camp shoe you can think of for winter adventures, possibly the coziest fashion shoe for navigating slushy urban streets if you want to send a message that you prioritize comfort above all else.

The Adidas Radlander Moc shoes are available now at Adidas in Wonderland Beige for $120 / £90 and the Gore-Tex edition lands on November 1 in Black for $140 / £110.

• The best winter hiking boots: for unbeatable performance in the cold

Winter waits for no one, not even Black Friday, but luckily there are some great deals already live for winter hiking gear. Right now, you can pick up the top-rated Adidas Terrex Xperior Men's Light Fleece Hooded Jacket for just $49.83 at REI. That's a hefty savings of 50% off the regular list price for this fleece, which has an impressive rating of 4.7 stars among customers.

"Nice lightweight fleece, good for layering when temperatures drop and easy to stash in your rucksack when not required," writes one happy customer in their review of this fleece, which boasts an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio at just 12.7 oz.

The nonbrushed fleece fabric has a waffle-grid looped backside structure that keeps you cozy and helps wick sweat away from your skin if you're heading up a steep slope.

This deal applies to the men's sizing in all colorways, but the style has been discontinued and we noticed some size/color combinations are beginning to sell out, so we recommend you act fast to grab this great deal.

Not in the US? Scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on the Adidas Terrex Xperior line where you are.

It's slim enough to layer over a base layer and under a shell jacket during the worst of the weather and has two deep pockets to stash your gear, plus it's made using over 90% recycled polyester.

If you're not in the US, here are today's best offers on the Adidas Terrex Xperior line near you:

• The best fleece jackets 2024: mid layers to keep you cozy in the backcountry

Meet the reviewer

Adidas Terrex Xperior PrimaLoft Loose Fill Insulated Hooded Jacket: first impressions 

Made by the hiking and trail running arm of Adidas, this synthetic puffer jacket straddles the line between style and function, with a performance-ready layer that will keep you warm on the mountain as well as in the city.

This quilted jacket, which won an ISPO award in 2023, uses recycled Primaloft insulation that is known for being warm, tough and water-repellent, making an excellent source of heat for rugged adventures. It's packed within a 100 percent recycled nylon ripstop shell that's built to last.

Though natural down ceases to insulate when wet, this jacket is treated with a PFC-free DWR to repel a light rain, and if you forget your waterproof jacket it will still keep you warm when it gets soggy. It's not ultralight by today's standards, but it's thin and light enough that it can be worn as a mid layer on wet, cold hikes but also makes a great outer layer when it's dry or you're on an urban adventure.

The snug hood stays put in the wind while elasticated cuffs and adjustable hem make it easy to stay warm. Two huge hand-warming pockets can store plenty of gear  and an inner mesh pocket is easily big enough for a map, but we'd love a chest pocket since it's harder to reach the existing pockets with a backpack on. In all honesty though, that's a mild quibble and we really can't find much not to like about this versatile jacket.

Adidas Terrex Xperior PrimaLoft Loose Fill Insulated Hooded Jacket: in the field

It's cooling off here in Scotland (actually, it never really warmed up) and I'm starting to wear insulated jackets on my hikes again. Recently, I've been testing out this quilted jacket from Adidas on some cool forest walks and hilly scrambles.

Here’s how it performed:

Sizing, fit and comfort

I always wear a small but was sent a medium to test which is too big for me. That means I can't say with certainty whether this fits true to size, but it definitely doesn't run small.

It's a little difficult for me to comment on the fit, but the slightly-too-big version comes down to just below my bum and I will note that the sleeves feel the right length. The hood doesn't adjust, but it seems to be snug enough to stay put in the wind and I imagine this would be even better in the right size.

Overall, I have no complaints whatsoever when it comes to comfort with this jacket and recently wore it happily for a six-hour adventure.

Warmth, breathability and protection

The Primaloft insulation was great for keeping me toasty when I was sitting on a log eating cookies by a Scottish loch, but surprisingly I've been able to hike on colder days without having to unzip, so I'm impressed with the breathability. 

I haven't tested it in a downpour because that's what my waterproofs are for, but I did wear it on a damp and misty day and it kept insulating, while the DWR holds up against my unofficial lab tests, which involve spraying water on it and watching it bead.

Weight, storage and other details

Synthetic insulation just isn't as light as down, so this isn't the lightest jacket I've ever tested, but I'd definitely classify it as on the mediium-light end of puffers and it's relatively thin which makes it good for layering. Similarly, it's not as packable as my down jackets, so if I were looking for something I could carry in a daypack as a backup, this wouldn't be my first choice but it's really not a bulky jacket. A stuff sack would be ideal for jackets like these.

For storage, the hand-warming pockets are fantastically deep which is great now I'm actually thinking about bringing gloves on hikes again, and there's an inner pocket where I can pop my map. Because the hip belt of my backpack makes it difficult to use the hand pockets, I'd love a chest pocket for my phone but it's not a dealbreaker.

Adidas Terrex Xperior PrimaLoft Loose Fill Insulated Hooded Jacket: the bottom line

This is a fantastic jacket for hikers, featuring relatively lightweight warmth, wet weather protection, good storage and a solid sustainability swing. Even with such a performance-oriented design, it's stylish and one that you'd want to wear as your everyday jacket in the winter. If you're shopping around for a puffer with eco creds, compare it to the Jack Wolfskin Routeburn Jacket.

• How Advnture tests products

Last month, ultra runner David Roche made headlines when he shattered the longstanding Leadville 100 course record by 16 minutes. Yesterday, he revealed which pair of trail running shoes he wore for the win on the high-altitude course, and why he thinks super shoes are changing the landscape of ultra running.

"Trail shoes are in the midst of a seismic shift that is going to reset the sport. And I think that if you look at all of the records being broken, that fundamental change has already begun," writes Roche on Instagram.

The Boulder runner and coach clarifies that he doesn't have a shoe sponsor and that he's "polyamorous" when it comes to shoes, but for his August victory – which saw him break a record that had been in place since 2005 – he reveals he wore the Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra.

"I think we will look back on the Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra as a breakthrough shoe," writes Roche, who says he just relinquished the pair he wore in Leadville to Adidas in Boulder for display.

"I was sad to let them go – I wanted to run in them for some more miles."

As we reported back in April, the model – which is designed to run fast on ultra trail distances – was initially released as a limited edition prototype. Tom Evans won the Western States in them last summer, and the shoes are now available to the public. 

Though Roche says the shoe has some issues, including sizing, stability and midfoot-strike preference, he gets 500 miles out of each pair and finds them to be the fastest in all of his off-road tests.

Roche says he thinks that the design, which features a rocker sole and chunky stack of 42 mm in the heel, is a sign of things to come in the world of trail running shoes.

"In road and track running, super shoes have fundamentally altered the sport. Not only do the shoes cause big performance boosts (with variation in response rates based on the individual and shoe), they seem to expedite recovery." 

Though Roche himself admits that research into trail running lags behind other styles of running, there is some early evidence published in Scientific Reports that suggests super shoes might reduce stress on the runner, which could in turn improve recovery times.

Roche says super shoes seem to be the footwear of choice among the many elite runners and Olympians in his hometown these days.

"That’s a change from a few years ago, when there was debate about their efficacy as a training tool." 

He's far from the only ultra runner to notice and enjoy the benefits of super-stacked shoes for long distances. Many of the winners at this year's biggest ultra marathons crossed the finish line wearing super shoes, from the Hoka Tecton 3s on the feet of Vincent Bouillard at the UTMB and Ludo Pemmeret in the Hardrock 100 to the North Face Summit Vectiv Pros that Katie Schide wore to win both the Western States and UTMB.

A couple of years ago, maximalist shoes were still a divisive topic among trail runners, and there are still those who adhere to a more barefoot approach, but it's hard to deny that for many long-distance trail runners, all that foam has a measurable advantage.

"I think this moment is like 2016 on roads, when some athletes had prototypes of the OG Vaporfly and others were running in shoes that might as well have made of cardboard."

• It's official – this Hoka trail running shoe was the winner of the 2024 UTMB (oh, and Western States and Hardrock 100)

Right now, you can pick up the stylish Adidas Terrex Free Hiker GORE-TEX 2.0 Hiking Shoes for just $109.83 at REI. That's a whopping 50% off these waterproof hiking boots that have an average star rating of 4.7 with 900 reviews.

This deal applies to the men's model in the Wonder Steel/Grey Three/Orange colorway, while the women's sizing is on sale at 25% off in the Wonder Beige/Putty Mauve/Amber colorway.

In our review of the Terrex Free Hiker GORE-TEX 2.0 Hiking Shoes, we rated the model as comfortable out-of-the-box, lightweight and well-cushioned, with decent protection and a stylish vibe that will have you wearing them around town as well as on the trail. We also love that the shoe uses recycled materials in construction.

However, we also noted the narrow toe box, which might have you sizing up a little more than normal, and acknowledge that the high drop design may not be for every hiker. 

If you're not in the US, scroll down for the best deals on the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker GORE-TEX 2.0 Hiking Shoes where you are.

Not in the US? Here are the best deals on the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker GORE-TEX 2.0 Hiking Shoes near you:

• Best hiking boots: hit the trail

Meet the reviewer

Adidas Dunamis: first impressions

These super-sized Adidas Dunamis sport sunglasses are out to make a statement, and some down-to-Earth trail-running types might feel somewhat self-conscious wearing them on casual runs and races. I definitely did.

But once you realize how ridiculously lightweight these Dunamis are, and get a taste of the level of functionality they offer, it’s easier to put such reservations to one side.

Designed for use by all kinds of runners (on road, trail and track), as well as cyclists (again, across all forms of riding, from mountain biking to gravel and road riding) and other sporty types (golfers, tennis players) these brand new sunnies have been released in time to coincide with the start of the Summer Olympic Games in Paris.

Tying in with that things-that-originated-in-Greece theme, the name Dunamis comes from an Ancient Greek philosophical concept about releasing inner power, potential and ability (Adidas certainly aren’t shy when it comes to making grandiose statements with their products).

Adidas Dunamis: design and materials

With a range of lens and arm color options available, the Dunamis have been made in collaboration with Italian eyewear maestros Marcolin. The frameless design features a single-piece, wide, wraparound, visor-style lens that offers superb surround vision, completely unimpeded by obstructions. 

These category 3 sunnies have a Visible Light Transvmission (VLT) rating of 14% to 15% (it varies very slightly according to the lens color you opt for). Although it’s not polarized, the thermoformed lens is engineered to enhance color perception and reduce glare. The lens has also been treated with a hydrophobic and oleophobic coating, which means water droplets run straight off and it is more resistant to scratch damage and accumulation of dust. The bottom of the lens features a unique spoiler, which flares out slightly to sit more securely on your face and (maybe…) to make you a touch more streamlined. 

The arms have a large vent window by each temple, to help prevent the lens from steaming up when you’re puffing hard, and also feature a contoured, rubbery grip pattern, which runs from the vent to your ear. The bridge sits right on the wearer’s nose, but adjustable rubber buffers keep the glasses both secure and comfortable.

Adidas Dunamis: in the field

Adidas Dunamis are intended not just for running, but also bike riding and other sports such as golf. The latter pursuit is not for me, but I have been wearing these impressive (albeit eyebrow-raisingly expensive) shades while trail running, mountain biking and road cycling this summer, in the light and bright conditions of the solar-powered Southwest. 

The first thing to note is that the Dunamis are incredibly lightweight – barely bothering the needle on the scales, just gently pushing it to a smidgen under 1oz (28g). Combined with this, the lens shading is subtle (but effective) and the absence of a frame means you do actually half-forget you’re wearing these sunnies, until you realize you’re not squinting and the flies are bouncing off a near-invisible forcefield in front of your eyes (especially whilst riding).

The arms feature a textured temple-gripping pattern that keeps the glasses very securely in place, even when you’re running (or riding) on rough terrain, and negotiating constant obstacles. On test, I don’t recall the Dunamis moving as much as a millimeter, despite me jumping and leaping around across rocks on my morning beach run (where the tide often forces me off the shingle and on to the boulders).

Further enhancing this secure hold, the bridge grip is snug without feeling pinchy or uncomfortable, even when worn for an extended periods of time. There are ventilation slots in the arms too, which I found pretty effective at preventing the lens from steaming up.

The inclusion of a flared spoiler at the bottom of the lens is a really interesting feature.

It seems a bit (OK, a lot) of a stretch to claim that this improves performance through enhanced aerodynamics (unless you’re eyeing a sub-10-second 100m sprint, or donning a teardrop helmet to do time-trial style cycling), but it does mean the glasses sit comfortably on your cheeks. However, I did notice a very small amount of distortion at the extreme lower edge of the lens when I was running, which I think is caused by this design (it wasn’t enough to cause a problem).

Overall, these are excellent all-sport sunglasses, and they come with a very good semi-rigid storage case and cleaning cloth… and also an eye-watering price tag.

• How Advnture tests products

Ever since Tom Evans won the 100.2-mile Western States Endurance Run in a prototype pair of new Adidas Terrex Agravic shoes last summer, trail runners have been eagerly awaiting the commercial release of the high-tech hoof.

Now, the Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra is finally available for everyone to buy, and to celebrate the release, Adidas Terrex has set up a mentorship program, giving ambitious trail runners the opportunity to master the trails like a pro.

Adidas says the new shoe is packed with race-winning technology – as seen in its record- breaking Adizero Adios franchise – and every element has been optimized to help trail runners experience speed like never before.

Special attention has been paid to the way the Agravic Speed Ultra performs when you’re running downhill. Adidas has worked alongside students at the University of Salzburg to identify the specific challenges of downhill sections during ultramarathons.

Their findings were instrumental in the development of the shoe, which combines three elements: the Lightstrike Pro foam, which absorbs energy; Energy Rods, which push the runner with every step; and the newly introduced dynamic rocker geometry which enables smooth and efficient forefoot running on the trails.

Also joining the Agravic family is the Agravic Speed – featuring a light construction, this shoe is built for speed like never before on medium trail races up to 50KM.

To mark the launch of the Agravic family, adidas Terrex has set up an exclusive mentoring program – open to only six ambitiious trail runners – with Team Terrex. This will see them given unparalleled access to personalized coaching sessions, led by world class trail runners and coaches Corrine Malcom and Eric LiPuma alongside one-on-one tailored support and access to Team Terrex sports psychologists.

They’ll also receive a complete running outfit, including, of course, a pair of Agravic Speed Ultra shoes.

How do put yourself forward? The six lucky runners who’ll be enrolled in the scheme will be chosen via an adidas Terrex Strava challenge which launches on April 8th. If you crack the 500m mark you’ll be entered into a raffle to chose the six candidates with the mentoring program starting in June.

It will culminate with a race at adidas Terrex Infinite Trails in Bad Hofgastein, Austria in September 2024.

According to the adidas press release, the Agravic Speed Ultra ($220) and Agravic Speed ($160) should be available now on the US adidas website but while the women’s versions are available, the men’s versions are still 'coming soon' (currently listed as arriving on April 29 and April 3 respectively). 

• The best trail running socks 2024: comfort and support on uneven ground

Meet the tester

Adidas Terrex Xperior Windweave: first impressions

The body-mapped fabrics that boost either warmth or breathability in the areas that runners need it most is the key feature of the Adidas Terrex Xperior Windweave windproof jacket.

Those areas include: the upper chest and back, making it great for wearing with a running pack; underarms, an obvious source of heat; and (unexpectedly) the top of the lower arm. Perhaps this last area is because often when you start to get hot on the run, you feel like rolling your sleeves up. So this particular area of more breathable fabric means you don’t have to.

The fit of the jacket around the hips is good for a woman with pear-shaped or hour-glass figure, thanks to the stretchy elastic sides. The full zip means the jacket is easy to get on and off and the two zipped side pockets with nice, long zip-pulls are handy for running gloves. 

The hood is a basic, elasticated covering large enough to accommodate a ponytail or beanie and the elasticated cuffs have thumb loops, with a slightly longer arm length to make them usable in comfort. 

As windproof jackets go it could lose a few features (pockets, hood) and be lighter, but it’s a pretty reasonable weight for everything it has going on.

Adidas Terrex Xperior Windweave: on the trails

When looking for a windproof jacket I’m mainly focussed on weight over other features (this jacket is around 60g / 2.1oz in a women’s size 12) because I’m mainly trail / ultra running with a pack on so I don’t need pockets, and I’m carrying a waterproof jacket with a hood for when the weather really doubles down. 

That said, the more breathable body-mapped fabric on the Adidas Terrex Xperior Windweave windproof jacket is in all the key areas that you would be covering with a running pack, so it’s definitely compatible with trail and ultra running if you don’t mind a bit of extra weight.

If you’re doing plenty of running without a pack or an additional jacket, for example short runs and supported races in windy, drizzly weather, this is where this jacket excels. The two long-zippered, running glove-friendly pockets come in super-handy for snacks, and the hood is a bonus addition when the wind picks up – plus it’s big enough to cover a ponytail or running hat and the soft elastic fabric sits snugly around your face. 

The elasticated cuffs with thumb loops work well, and it’s good to see a slightly longer length in the arm to ensure you can use these comfortably. It’s also a versatile fit for different body shapes with the wide, comfy, elastic band at each side.

• How Advnture tests products

Adidas has launched the first of three new Supernova road running shoes that borrow design features from the company's Adizero 'super shoes' and bring them to ordinary runners.

The Supernova Rise is available to buy from today (December 1), while the Supernova Solution and Supernova Stride will go on sale on February 22.

All three use a new type of midsole foam called Dreamstrike+, which takes inspiration from the Lightstrike Pro foam used in the Adizero series. This new foam makes up the entire midsole of the Supernova Rise and Solution, and is used on the forefoot area of the Supernova Stride, paired with a more conventional EVA compound elsewhere.

Support rod stability

The Supernova Rise and Solution also feature a 'support rod system' embedded in the outsole, which Adidas says is inspired by the physiology of your foot in motion, and provides support and stability where needed. In the Supernova Solution, the two muddle rods are splinted together for even more support.

Made on men's and women's specific lasts, the Supernova Rise is on sale for £129.90 / $140 direct from Adidas and from third-party retailers.

• Best trail running shoes: comfort, protection and comfort for off-road adventures

Adidas Terrex Agravic Ultra: first impressions

Although the Adidas Terrex Agravic Ultras are definitely on the heavy side when it comes to the best trail running shoes (at 595g / 21oz per pair in size UK 6.5), the use of heavier materials also often equates to durability. So when it comes to ultra running, chunkiness isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

The feel from the Lightstrike cushioning, Boost midsole and Pebax midsole protection plate is stiff and firm with a good rebound for miles of pounding, and it’s nice to see that the upper contains 50%+ recycled content. 

The seven-point lacing system is traditional, with flat, grippy laces, giving a secure, snug fit. 

The Continental Rubber outsole with the popular, 4mm chevron grip combination is designed for traction in all but the boggiest of conditions, while the 8mm drop should suit most runners. 

The toe box is regular but feels roomy, and although the shoe is cushioned you can still feel enough of the terrain beneath your feet to respond quickly to uneven ground as you run, hike or stagger to the end of that ultra. 

There’s nothing specifically unique about these shoes; they’re above average in price but they’re good all-round ultra running shoes that will eat up any terrain you throw at them, both in training and racing, and they’ll hopefully last you a long time.

Adidas Terrex Agravic Ultra: on the trails

The Adidas Terrex Agravic Ultras don’t feel heavy when on, and running in them across any surface for any distance feels light and easy. From the roads and pavements of my local town to rocky paths in the Peak District in England, these shoes performed with aplomb. It felt like they were propelling me forwards rather than holding me back with their weightier build; they eat up muddy trails.

The only thing I did need to do was swap the insoles as the ones provided rose up at the front of my arch uncomfortably – it’s possible that I need to go down half a size as these shoes are nice and roomy. 

Once the insole was swapped in (I used Sidas insoles) the arch rub disappeared. You don’t need to use a dedicated running insole either, just nick the one from another pair of running shoes and see if that helps. Changing to thicker or thinner trail running socks might help too.

Once I had the fit dialled in, I felt I could run for miles and miles in these grippy and robust ultra running shoes, which provided plenty of bounce and support. They may not be the lightest running shoes around, but they sure can take a pounding.

• How Advnture tests products

Adidas Terrex Soulstride Flow: first impressions

The Adidas Terrex Soulstride Flow is below average in only one meaningful way – and it’s a way you won’t mind. These days, I find that the average price of the best trail running shoes tends to be around $150 / £145, with some nudging the $180-190 / £160-£170 mark. That makes the Adidas Terrex Soulstride Flow a very pleasing all-rounder trail and ultra running shoe at a significantly lower price.

It’s great to have a slightly lower-cost option with all the right features at £120/$120. They’re a little on the heavy side at 20oz / 566g (the average is 18.5oz / 525g) but you don’t notice this when wearing them and hopefully this leads to a more durable shoe that lasts many miles.

The fit is wide around the midfoot and toe box, and the traditional lacing and padded tongue make for a snug fit and good heel lock, so this (along with the 8mm drop) should make the Adidas Terrex Soulstride Flow a shoe that suits a lot of runners.

It’s nice to see the upper being made from 50% recycled materials and the shoe feels robust enough to last plenty of miles. The 3mm lugs on the Continental Rubber outsole are nice and grippy for moderately muddy conditions, while the cushioning from the EVA midsole provides enough padding and protection for harder surfaces like roads and rocks.

Adidas Terrex Soulstride Flow: in the mountains

It’s refreshing to find all the features you need in a trail and ultra running shoe without the astronomical price tag. The Adidas Terrex Soulstride Flows would be great for a beginner trail or ultra runner who wants a good-quality shoe that will last a long time and cope with pretty much everything training and racing can throw at it. 

I certainly enjoyed using the Soulstride Flows on the hills, trails and rocks of Bradgate Park in Leicestershire. If you’re heading into pathless, remote mountains you’ll want a grippier shoe than this, but the 3mm deep lugs and Continental Rubber grips will be more than adequate for most tracks and trails in moderately muddy conditions.

I particularly liked the wide-feeling to the fit around the midfoot and toe box area, as I like to practice splaying my toes for a natural running style; I felt that I could easily do so in this shoe, while still getting a secure fit around the arch, ankle and heel using the traditional laces.

The cushioning felt firm rather than super bouncy and springy like some of the higher-priced trail running shoes. I actually like this for ultra running – I'm just plodding along there anyway and don’t want to feel prodded into running faster!

• How Advnture tests products

Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 GTX boots: first impressions 

With the Terrex Free Hiker 2, Adidas is aiming for the folks who want a decent, waterproof hiking boot with a bit of grip for gentle-to-moderate trails that they can wear about town without looking like a hiker. With an urban, stylish look, these boots incorporate a lot of features you associate with running shoes – a rocker foam midsole and lightweight mesh uppers – with an ankle cuff to add a little more support and protection. 

Testing these in the hills, we found that the upper offered perfect waterproofing and we didn’t get sweaty feet, though it wasn’t very hot. The grip was decent, but we wouldn’t use these on technical terrain or very steep trails as the lugs aren’t deep enough. Our main gripe was the toe box, which is a little narrow and probably requires going up a full size to avoid your toes bashing into the ends on the downhills, and the ankle cuff started to hurt a little after a long day. They appear to have a fairly high drop, which can add to the toe bashing unfortunately, but that is offset a little by the rocker sole, which does support a smooth stride.

Overall, the cushioned soles make for a fairly comfortable wear on a long day and they look great, but you’ll probably want to size up if you actually want to wear these in the mountains.

Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 GTX boots: in the field

I recently went to Cairngorms National Park in Scotland to test the new GORE-TEX fabric, where I spent two days mountain biking and hiking in these hiking boots. Over the course of two days, I managed to get about 10 miles in on foot while wearing them.

Here’s how they performed:  

Sizing and fit 

I always go up a half size in hiking boots so I tested a UK4 (US 6) and though they felt good when I first put them on, once I got moving in them I noticed I needed a little more room, so I’d go up a full size next time. The fit around the heel and forefoot isn’t too snug and though I can wiggle my toes, I think the slightly tapered toe box means I need a bigger size to give my toes enough room.

Comfort and breathability

When I first put these on, they felt really light and comfortable – more akin to a trainer than a boot with lots of cushioning and no rubbing. The ankle cuff was a little stiff, but not so much that I was worried about heading out in them without breaking them in first. As the first day wore on, however, I did notice that they got a little uncomfortable. 

For me, the main two problem areas were that the ankle cuff caused a bit of bruising around my calves, and I think because my toes were bashing into the end of the boot, my fourth toe got quite painful on the downhill. By the end of the second day, I was pretty glad to get out of them. I think easing in with them and going up another half size would help, and like I said if you get the right fit, these are more like a trainer.

I didn’t have any issues with hot, sweaty feet, though they are waterproof so on a hot day you might want thin socks.

Grip and performance

Rubber outsoles and 2 - 3 mm lugs make these decent for walkable terrain. We were actually hiking off trail for quite a while and coming downhill on a reasonably steep section, I didn’t have any problems with slipping.

The rocker sole does lend a smooth stride, but one thing I found interesting is that these boots appear to have a decent drop from heel to toe, something I’m more used to seeing in running shoes than hiking boots. I’m not sure how much the rocker sole counters that, but I couldn’t help feeling it was playing into my toe pain on the downhills.

Protection and stability

The protection of these boots is good, so don’t let my “trainer-like” description mislead you. The heels and toes are reinforced with plastic, which might not withstand a sushi knife but will protect you on the type of trails you’re likely to attempt in these. The waterproofing works perfectly, which I know because I stood in a loch wearing them and not a drop got through.

I sometimes feel that rocker soles reduce stability but these aren’t too chunky and they were quite stable, even when we were off trail and walking on really unstable terrain.

Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 GTX boots: bottom line 

These boots look more at home in the city than on a hike, but if you’re a trend-setter seeking something reliable for moderate trails, you can definitely take these out of an urban environment and onto the hills. Just make sure you size up.

• How Advnture tests products

Adidas has launched a new shoe in its Adizero line with two carbon plates and a super high 40mm stack height for maximum leverage, energy return, and speed. The Adizero Prime X 2 Strung doesn't comply with race regulations, which specify that a shoe can't have more than one rigid element running the full length of the sole or a stack height greater than 40mm, but it should be a lot of fun for runners who want to enjoy speed outside of competitive events.

Freed from the confines of race rules, Adidas's designers have really gone to town, packing as many speed-enhancing features into the shoe's midsole as possible. That includes three layers of Lightstrike Pro foam (more than any other Adidas shoe to date) to help reduce weight and provide extra springiness. It's all finished off with a Continental rubber outsole for grip.

The upper is reinforced in the midfoot and heel where durability is most important, with a little stretch in the forefoot for support and comfort. There's also a gusseted tongue to make your foot feel nicely locked in.

The Adizero Prime X 2 Strung will be available to buy from September 15 for $300 (about £240) via the Adidas app, direct from the company's website, from physical stores, and selected online retailers.

Why are dual plates illegal in races?

Whether they're made from nylon, carbon, or some other stiff material, rigid plates in running shoes act like a lever, meaning the ankle does less work, as BBC Science Focus explains.

The Nike Vaporfly shoes worn by Eliud Kipchoge during his 2019 sub two-hour marathon attempt contained three plates, plus Pebax foam, which is much lighter than conventional EVA and can compress and expand more quickly.

According to a peer-reviewed study (funded by Nike), the resulting footwear delivers a 4% increase in running efficiency, and an estimated 3.4% increase in speed. The impact is so great that similar shoes have been classed as a form of doping and banned from elite competitions in the interests of fairness.

• The best road running shoes: today's best shoes for going long or fast

Adidas SP0057 Sport Sunglasses: first impressions

It’s difficult to find one pair of sport sunglasses that do it all, but Adidas SP0057 Sport Sunglasses prove it’s not impossible. Whether you want to run, bike, ski tour or simply bust some style, the Adidas SP0057s check all the boxes — especially the style known as 02L, which is photochromatic with lenses that adjust to variations in light conditions. They’ll definitely be vying for a place in the next update of our best trail running sunglasses buying guide.

Marcolin, an international eyewear company founded in Italy, was specifically chosen by Adidas to design and be the official licensee of Adidas eyewear, because of their ability to access premium materials. And that quality is very apparent with all the Adidas eyewear I’ve tested.

The frame material provided by Marcolin is called TR90, a nylon and carbon fiber composite, which is ultra-lightweight, flexible and resistant to accidental impacts. The aeration system of the Adidas SP0057s sits right above the nose near the center of the brow line with nine holes to prevent fogging, and the adjustable nose pads and flexible temples with rubber on the interior make for personalized comfort and a grip that doesn’t give way.

Adidas SP0057 Sport Sunglasses: on the trails

I first tested a pair of Adidas SP0057s on a fall morning trail run in Sedona, Arizona, and the lightweight frame stayed put with no bounce. We started on a chilly morning, so I was wearing a headband and neck warmer, a combination that will often fog-up certain sunglasses. However, the aeration system of the SP0057s worked wonders, and I had no issue with fogging at all during my testing period.

The Adidas SP0057 02L is photochromatic, with lenses that adjust to variations in light conditions but for this test we used the SP0057 92Zs. We had some visibility issues with their violet, mirrored lenses in low-light canyons, but as soon as we popped back up into the sun they were ideal (see also: Polarized vs non-polarized sunglasses: which do you need?).

Once we headed out to mountain bike in the afternoon, the Adidas SP0057 92Zs were perfect for shielding the bright sun, and they stayed put as I bounced and rolled over red rocks. The lightweight and flexible frames sat on my face effortlessly so I was able to focus on the trail rather than adjusting the shades.

• How Advnture tests products

Adidas has launched a new version of its Adizero road running shoe with a more affordable price tag for runners who want to smash their personal bests without breaking their budget.

The Adidas Adizero SL uses the same materials at the rest of the Adizero range, such as the premium Adizero Prime X and Adizero Adios Pro 3. This includes an area of strategically positioned Lightstrike Pro foam in the forefoot for a more responsive ride. The shoe also features a Lightstrike EVA midsole, which provides strength and protection.

The upper is made from an engineered mesh material for breathability, and the tongue is well padded so you can lace the shoe tightly without discomfort on your metatarsals. 

The shoe is available to buy in brick-and-mortar Adidas stores, online, and in the Adidas app today for $120/£110. It comes in two colorways: pulse mint for women, and lucid blue / lucid fuchsia for men.

Alongside the Adizero SL, Adidas has also launched a new program to help runners beat their best 10k times. 

You can join Project PB by downloading the Adidas Running app, joining your local Adidas Runners community , and following @adidasrunning and @adidasrunners on Instagram.

Once you've signed up, you'll get resources to help you improve your times, including training plans developed by Chris Hinshaw, endurance coach and founder of Aerobic Capacity.

• Best trail running shoes: tested and rated for grip, protect and performance

Adidas Solarglide 5: first impressions

The Adidas Solarglide 5 (review sample provided by SportsShoes.com) is an everyday road running shoe that makes your regular training runs just a little bit more fun. That's largely down to the rigid plastic plate that runs from the midfoot to the heel, which Adidas claims provides extra stability and improved energy return. It's certainly noticeable on the road, putting an extra spring in your step that's particularly noticeable on hills as you rise up onto your forefoot.

It's certainly not the most padded shoe we've tested in recent months (that would be the marshmallowy Hoka Bondi 8), but there's still ample Boost cushioning surrounding the stiff piece of plastic. The midsole has an outsized profile, which helps provide stability.

The outsole is furnished with Continental rubber for traction. There's quite a lot of foam visible, and this does stain, but that's not a major concern.

The upper (made from 50% Parley Ocean Plastic 50% recycled polyester) feels reassuringly robust, and has a little extra reinforcement on the toe to protect the fabric from scuffs.

The laces are flat, with minimal stretch, which allows you to get a good, tight fit if that's your preference. However, I found they weren't long enough to create a heel lock, which is unusual for modern road shoes.

The tongue isn't gusseted, but is wide enough to prevent ingress of grit and dirt on grimy roads and (during my tests) wet canal paths. It's quite thickly padded at the top to protect your metatarsals, but the lower section has no padding at all to cut down on weight. There's plenty of padding in the collar, which sits nice and high at the back to prevent rubbing

At the time of writing the shoe is discounted to £82 in the UK, making it much more affordable than most carbon or nylon plate running shoes. It certainly doesn't feel like a budget option either thanks to its well thought out design.

Adidas Solarglide 5: on the road

The Solarglide 5 gives your everyday training runs just a little bit of extra pep. It's not light enough to be considered a race shoe, and the relatively thin rubber outsole means I wouldn't recommend it for your longest sessions (more on that shortly) but for midweek jaunts it's excellent.

I found it one of the most comfortable road shoes I've tested this year, which was partly due to its width. Although the Solarglide 5 is described as a standard fit, the toe box is definitely a little wider than average, giving your feet plenty of room to spread, even in warm weather. 

The effect of the LEP 2.0 sole insert is also noticeable. Although it doesn't feel as springy and fun as a full nylon plate, it make the ride a little livelier. There's plenty of flex in the shoe's toe, so if you don't live the rigidity of a full-length plate, this could be a good halfway house. The shoe feels reassuringly stable throughout,

After lots of long miles, there's no visible wear to the upper, which is reassuring. Durability is always a concern when it comes to materials made using recycled plastics, which typically have a shorter lifespan than virgin nylon.

However, some of the tread pattern has already worn away on the rubber outsole, which leads me to believe this might not be the best shoe for heavy heel-strikers (of which I am one), particularly considering the amount of exposed foam.

• How Advnture tests products

Adidas Terrex Soulstride running shoe: first impressions 

Super comfortable straight from the box, Adidas Terrex Soulstrides have a padded tongue and traditional laces that keep the foot snug. The toe box is fairly wide but this is quite a big-feeling shoe so you might want to try a half size smaller as well as your regular trainer size. This large sizing might go some way to explaining the weight – this shoe is 100g/3.5oz heavier than average. Despite that, it’s still a strong contender for the best cheap running shoes.

There’s a comfy, very bouncy ride from the EVA midsole and the sides of the outsole come up high around the upper for added stability if you wish to take this shoe off-road. The Adidas Traxion grip is designed for great traction on both roads and easy trails, with its 3mm lugs widely spaced to allow mud to drop out.

The drop from heel to toe is 10mm so this is perfect for those used to traditional road running shoes which usually have 10-12mm drops (for more on that subject, see what is drop in running shoes). One feature we're really pleased to see is that the upper contains a minimum of 50% recycled material.

Adidas Terrex Soulstride running shoe: on the road

This is one of the bounciest budget running shoes we have tried, and although at the pricier and heavier end of the budget runners scale they really were a joy to wear on the wet or dry Lincolnshire pavements and also some easy on gritty paths. 

The 3mm lugs aren’t up to a mega mud fest, but this shoe is a neat all rounder for those whose runs contain a bit of everything. Even wearing thick trail running socks we couldn’t decide if we’d be better off in a half size smaller, but we definitely would recommend at least trying both before you take these outside and get them dirty as they do come up on the large side. 

We always maintain that if the trainer fits your foot perfectly then it doesn’t matter if they’re a little on the heavy side – comfort comes first, and we think a lot of people will find the Adidas Terrex Soulstride a very comfortable shoe. Not least because of the 10mm drop, which is very similar to traditional trainer, and thick EVA cushioning. 

The padded tongue also ensures you can draw the laces in well to get a very snug fit. And it’s good that Adidas are starting to include more recycled materials too. 

• How Advnture tests products

Adidas Terrex Multi RAIN.RDY: first impressions

The affordable Adidas Terrex Multi RAIN.RDY two-layer rain jacket is designed as an entry-level waterproof jacket for general use, though it is also suitable for day hikes and weekend walks. That makes it a fairly versatile jacket, with contemporary but understated looks that means you won’t seem out of place whether you’re in town or on the trail. The regular cut leaves some room for layering but makes for a relatively trim and functional silhouette.

In terms of construction, it’s a two-layer jacket with a polyester plain weave face fabric bonded to Adidas’s own PU-based waterproof-breathable membrane, with a taffeta and mesh inner drop liner. This isn’t the most technically advanced construction around, but it does make for high levels of comfort. The outer fabric is soft, supple and quiet, with none of the rustle and swish you get from stiffer waterproof shells. Similarly, the drop liner prevents the jacket from feeling slick or clammy, even if you’re only wearing a short-sleeved tee underneath.

The fabrics are also very sustainable – the face fabric and drop liner are both made from 100% recycled materials. That’s a firm tick in the eco-friendly box, and will appease consumers looking to shop greener when it comes to their outdoor wardrobe.

The jacket has a straightforward feature set. You get a one-way, reverse coil main zip backed with an internal storm flap and finished with a soft microfiber chin guard. There are dual one-handed hem drawcords, Velcro cuff tabs, twin zipped hand pockets and a rollaway hood. The zippers all have chunky pull-tabs. That’s about it, but still, that covers all the essentials nicely.

Adidas Terrex Multi RAIN.RDY: in the field

As already noted, the soft polyester fabric has a pleasant hand feel that ensures this is a very comfortable jacket to wear. Though there’s no stretch, the cut provides reasonable freedom of movement and allows room to layer underneath without adding too much bulk. It’s also quieter than most conventional hardshells, without that annoying “crisp packet” rustle you tend to get from Gore-Tex and similar membranes. Polyester is also fast-wicking, and its use in both the drop liner and outer fabric means this jacket moves moisture surprisingly well – it’s actually quite breathable for all but the most strenuous walks. It’s also very windproof. 

Of course, polyester is a weaker fiber for its weight than nylon, which is why the latter tends to be the fabric of choice for technical waterproof jackets. So, this jacket may not stand up to long-term abrasion as well as some more expensive rivals. But for everyday wear, it should still be reasonably robust. It did seem to snag and mark fairly easily on test, though.

The other drawback of this jacket compared to more technical waterproofs is that inevitably the two-layer construction adds weight and bulk compared to a 2.5-layer or 3-layer shell. That’s because it has a separate drop liner to protect the inner membrane from dirt and damage. It’s not unreasonably heavy or bulky, but there are certainly more packable jackets around if you intend to stuff it into a backpack. Similarly, if you’re looking to go fast and light on trail runs, this probably isn’t the right choice.

Waterproof performance was reasonable for an entry-level jacket. It’ll keep you dry in drizzle, showers and the odd downpour, though for storm-level protection you might want to look towards a more technical shell. On the other hand, the hem adjusters and cuff tabs provide an effective weatherproof seal, and the main zip didn’t leak on test.

The hood is a bit of a weak point though. It’s an interesting design that rolls away into the stand-up collar, securing with two poppers. This adds versatility for daily wear.

Unfortunately, the rollaway functionality necessarily means it has to be fairly simplistic in design, so it doesn’t provide great face coverage nor move with the head very well when in use. There’s no volume or face adjustment either. It does have an integrated elastic ‘halo’ shock-cord to help it stay put, and a slightly stiffened brim to deflect some rain away from the face, but, to be honest, it struggles in windy weather.

The two zipped side pockets are well placed to put hands or snacks in, but bear in mind they are placed fairly low down, so are obstructed if you’re wearing the jacket with a hiking backpack that has a hip belt. We did like the chunky pull-tabs, though, which are easy to grab even if you’re wearing gloves.

All in all, this is a straightforward jacket that does the basics well. It’s built with versatility in mind, so although it lacks some hiker-friendly features, it’s important to consider that many users will be using it to keep them dry and comfortable on their way to and from work rather than for anything too adventurous. As such, it would be redundant (and unfair) to compare it to more technical shells – and if that’s what you’re looking for, you need to be prepared to spend a bit more and look at other offerings from the Adidas Terrex range, like the MyShelter jacket or Techrock Light and Pro shells.

The Multi RAIN.RDY Jacket, on the other hand, is an affordable general-use jacket that offers a good balance of comfort, versatility and style – with just enough technical performance to front up to the occasional foray in the great outdoors.

• How Advnture tests products

Adidas has launched a new road running shoe designed to deliver improved forward motion thanks to an unusual bowtie-shaped lattice structure in the midsole, which turns vertical pressure into horizontal force.

The company claims that the Adidas 4DFWD 2 is its "most advanced running shoe" to date, and says it evaluated over 5,000 versions of the lattice before settling on its final design. It says that the structure gives a smoother transition by transferring force in a way that prevents the stop-start motion of running, where forward momentum pauses briefly with each foot strike.

The shoe also features an outsole is made using Continental rubber for additional grip in wet conditions, a snug engineered mesh upper, and an integrated heel counter for improved fit.

It will be on general sale from September 1 for $200 / £170, and is available now to members of the Adidas Creators Club loyalty program. It will be available in both men's and women's sizes, in colorways including orange, gray, and white.

• Best trail running shoes: for speed and stability on technical terrain

Adidas Terrex Agravic Flow 2 first impressions

The Adidas Terrex Agravic Flow 2 is advertised as a lightweight trail running shoe, but our scales told a different story. Our UK size 9 sample (provided by SportShoes.com) tipped the scale at 332g, making it one of the heavier trail running shoes we've tested in recent months.

This might be partly down to the 'promoderator' – a firm insert embedded in the foam midsole designed to provide motion control and protection as you run – as the shoe's build is otherwise light and minimal.

The upper is made from an engineered mesh with strategically placed perforations and patches of tougher reinforced material exactly where you need them (more on that later). The collar is only lightly padded, but molded to cup your heel securely, and sits quite high at the back, which is worth bearing in mind if you struggle with trail shoes rubbing your Achilles.

Padding in the tongue is also scant, with only a light strip of foam inside the center, but it's enough to prevent the laces placing undue pressure on the top of your foot, even when the shoe is laced tight.

As part of Adidas' long-running collaboration with environmental organization Parley for the Oceans; the yarn used in the upper is made using a combination of recovered ocean plastic and recycled polyester. 

The shoe is finished with a Continental rubber outsole with good-sized lugs affording plenty of grip in wet and slippery conditions.

Adidas Terrex Agravic Flow 2 on the trail

I found the overall fit of the Adidas Terrex Agravic Flow 2 very comfortable; neither wide nor narrow, but with ample wiggle room in the toebox. I prefer trail shoes with a relatively close fit, and the Agravic Flow 2's thin but strong upper felt reassuringly snug. The flat laces have plenty of grip and very little stretch, allowing you to achieve a fit that's as close as you like, and there's ample length for creating a heel lock. There's no risk of your shoe getting sucked off your foot in a bog here. 

The high collar didn't rub, even on long runs, which came as a pleasant surprise, and the fit didn't suffer for the paucity of padding. What little foam there is has been artfully placed. However, I did experience some rubbing on my instep. Looking inside, the insole doesn't quite meet the upper, leaving a small gap along the inner edge. You might be able to mitigate this with a pair of the best trail running socks, but mine weren't up to the task.

I did, however, appreciate the sensation of the promoderator insert, which lends a good feeling of forward propulsion to this stiff shoe. You'll notice that your arch feels particularly well supported.

Unlike many of the best trail shoes, the tongue of the Adidas Terrex Agravic Flow 2 is not gusseted (ie attached to the upper along the sides). I was concerned that this might lead to ingress of grit and dirt on loose surfaces, but in practice the tongue was wide enough to keep out irritants.

The upper isn't just reinforced at the heel and toe; in addition to the usual bumpers, there's also extra protection at the arch and the outer ball, which I appreciated on technical terrain. You're more likely to stub your toe on a root than snag your instep, but it can still happen if you're unlucky so the layer of extra material is welcome.

The angle of the lugs on the Continental rubber outsole means that, while you get good purchase underfoot, wet mud tends to slide off the shoe after you lift your foot rather than clogging it up.

Overall, the weight and stiffness of this shoe make it feel like a solid choice for long runs on flatter routes rather than tricky technical courses where dexterity and maneuvrability are key. If not for the rubbing on the instep, it would be easy to recommend for putting in the miles on muddy trails.

Where we tested the Adidas Terrex Agravic Flow 2

The Bath Skyline is a popular route with hikers and runners alike, with spectacular views across the city. Keep an eye out for Sham Castle, a folly designed to look like a medieval castle, but actually built much later to give local entrepreneur Ralph Allen a more interesting view from his house.

• How Advnture tests products

Adidas Terrex Agravic Pro trail running shoes: first impressions

Adidas Terrex Agravic Pro trail running shoes are vying for the "longest name” prize. They also score highly for their courage to innovate, thanks to the unique BOA L6 lace system down each side. This dial makes the shoe incredibly easy and quick to lace up and unlace, plus there are no laces over the midfoot area to catch on brambles. Which all means these shoes feel very comfortable across this area. 

The fit is on the large size, so you may want to go down a half size to see if they fit better, but it’s actually the volume of the shoe that’s big rather than the length. The ankle part also comes up higher than most other trail running shoes so they suit a higher volume foot.

Both of these features mean the weight is on the heavier side – about 100g more than most other trail shoes – but if they fit your feet well this isn’t a deal breaker, and hopefully this means they will be very durable too; for this price you’d hope so!

The 4mm drop will need gradual easing into if you’re used to a shoe with a higher heel stack (see The anatomy of a trail running shoe for more on how drop can affect your running), while the Lightstrike cushioning protects the foot from trail buzz. The ride feels bouncy and propulsive so if these fit your feet, you’re in for a treat.

Adidas Terrex Agravic Pro trail running shoes: on the trails

We really enjoyed wearing the Adidas Terrex Agravic Pros for fast sessions on gritty trail paths. The speed and ease of lacing and unlacing them is brilliant – we loved turning the dial and hearing the shoe click into place with so little effort. And with no exposed laces on top, there were no tangled, dangling ends to catch on the summer brambles that sprang up so quickly around our local quarry and footpaths. 

Although the ride is a little stiff if you’re a runner who likes the feel of barefoot running shoes, the cushioning does provide a real propulsive bounce and the grip is good on all sorts of terrain including gloopy mud (so they’ll be great for mud season). 

However, when we ran for longer periods in the Agravic Pros we found that the high ankles weren’t quite compatible on one side: the plastic edging just above the BOA dial rubbed our right foot, though the left was fine. If you have high-volume feet this would probably not be a problem.

They are also quite hot-feeling in summer; we recommend the lime rather than the black colorway if you live in a hot place.

Overall these look really cool and we wished they fitted our feet better as we’d wear them a great deal more.

• How Advnture tests products

adidas Terrex AX4 Gore-Tex: first impressions

It’s all too easy, when you first glance at shoes like adidas Terrex AX4 Gore-Tex with their distinctive three-stripe logo, to dismiss them as merely jazzed-up sports shoes. However, as we’ve experienced in the past, with the adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX, this would be a mistake; there’s a lot going on behind those stripes that make these shoes capable doing far more than strutting around a football pitch or basketball court.

This is a shoe that’s equipped for exploring all kinds of terrain up there with the best hiking shoes. The synthetic mesh upper is backed up with a breathable and waterproof Gore-Tex lining, and reinforced with a comprehensive protective rand that goes right around the foot, rising in areas most at risk. 

The lacing system is quite basic, and perhaps a tad short for tackling really boggy conditions, but the tongue is well integrated, so grit, water and stones are kept out pretty effectively. 

The Continental outsole has 4mm lugs with directional chevrons that supply good grip and are nicely spaced out to avoid picking up too much mud.

adidas Terrex AX4 Gore-Tex: on the trails

I wore these shoes on a range of walks, taking on various terrain from sodden hill footpaths to stony trails and clifftop tracks. They performed well on all the surface levels I tested them on, with the unfussy Continental outsole supplying tire-like grip and traction, without picking up loads of mud along the way.

The AX4s offer a lot more flex across the length of the shoe than the adidas Terrex Swift R3s did, with the latter having almost approach shoe–level rigidity. As a result, they are a whole lot more comfortable on the kind of trails most of us spend the vast majority of our walking time on.

There are two points of flex on the sole, one just behind the forefoot and another in front of the heel, which means the shoe bends with the foot during a normal walking movement – this is good for hiking on lower-level trails, but won’t suit more technical rocky routes where edging is required (see also: Types of hiking trails).

The main chassis of the shoe is well padded and comfortable, with a synthetic outer backed up by a Gore-Tex membrane to keep the worst of the weather out.

They run quite hot in warm mid-summer conditions and there is very little in the way of trail feel, but the cushioning in the dual-density EVA midsole is comprehensive.

Adidas Terrex Techrock Gore-Tex Pro: first impressions

You don’t need us to tell you about the brand behind the Adidas Terrex Techrock Gore-Tex Pro – it’s one of the world’s biggest and most recognized sportswear producers, with an illustrious history that dates back to the mid-1920s. Today, its product range straddles everything from elite sport to high-street fashion, including some cult collaborations with high-profile ambassadors like Leo Messi and Kanye West.

However, Adidas only truly entered the outdoor scene in 2008, when it launched its hiking and climbing-orientated Terrex brand. Since then, the range has expanded hugely, and now covers a full gamut of clothing and equipment as well as footwear.

The Terrex Techrock GTX Pro jacket is arguably the flagship product from the current season’s roster, and up there with the best waterproof jackets for more challenging hiking and trekking. It’s a technically advanced mountaineering shell, developed in conjunction with Adidas’s team of mountain athletes – including German Alpinist and boulderer Fabian Buhl. It’s a striking-looking jacket, which comes in an array of mostly yellow- and gold-hued colors that are certainly different from most rivals’ more sombre palettes. We approve, our take being that it’s always better to stand out in the mountains, just in case of emergency. Having said all that, it comes in black as well, if bright and flashy isn’t really your thing. In all cases, you get the brand’s trademark three stripes emblazoned on the hood.

There’s substance as well as style here though. The jacket is constructed from a three-layer Gore-Tex Pro fabric, sandwiching the membrane between a nylon face and a dry-touch tricot backer. That ought to ensure top-quality waterproof-breathable performance. 

The construction of the jacket incorporates a high, protective collar, combined with a fully adjustable, helmet-compatible hood, two large external chest pockets complete with water-resistant Vislon zippers, fully adjustable cuffs and hem, and a highly water-resistant two-way main zipper. It’s pretty much the standard feature set for a mountaineering shell, but it’s free from extraneous details, which represents a truly Alpine-style design ethos: all you need and nothing you don’t, providing maximum functionality and minimum weight.

Adidas Terrex Techrock Gore-Tex Pro: on the trails

The first thing to note, as many other buyers have, is that the cut of this jacket is generous, which leaves plenty of room for layering. Even so, you may want to size down, as it seems to run fairly big – for example, our tester found the medium size a better fit than the large for his 6ft, 42-inch chest frame.

Once you’ve done that, however, it instantly goes from a sack-like shell to a well-cut waterproof, though the length in the arms and torso are perhaps an inch shorter than most brands. This won’t be a problem unless you’re unusually tall or rangy. You might also appreciate the slightly trimmer and more sculpted fit, which is ideal for technical mountain pursuits. It also has a generous scooped tail to ensure good coverage even when bending over or sitting down. Dual hem drawcords and fully adjustable Velcro cuff tabs are also welcome details that minimize the chances of water ingress. 

We certainly stayed dry on test, aided by the Terrex Techrock’s best-in-class Gore-Tex Pro fabric, which performs superbly. It’s fully windproof and impressively waterproof, whilst being breathable enough to move moisture vapor through the fabric and prevent too much build-up inside the jacket. (And here are a few more tips on how to stay dry while hiking?) 

It feels slightly thinner than some other winter-grade jackets – Adidas don’t provide the specs, but we’d guess it’s a 40-denier nylon rather than the 80-denier nylon used in some heavyweight shells. That’s the key consideration, since the Terrex Techrock balances all-out rugged durability with low overall weight. So, although it might be marginally less tough than some (not that we managed to do much damage to it on test), it is impressively light for a mountaineering jacket, rivalling top-end competitors from brands like Arc’teryx, who are one of the few manufacturers making Gore-Tex Pro shells that tip the scales at the 400g mark or less.

In terms of features, we got on well with this jacket. It’s got a cracking helmet-compatible hood, with three-way adjustment for a precision fit with or without a climbing lid. The twin face drawcords are also designed to sit inside the jacket, leaving nothing to dangle around, get snagged in pockets and pack straps, or whip you in the face unexpectedly. There’s also a two-way main zip (always a plus if you need to get to other layers fast) and useful pit zips (though these only have one-way zippers). There’s a small external chest pocket and two roomy hand pockets, which have an internal gusset. This means they can expand, accommodating far more than you might initially think, making them well-suited to stashing your best hiking gloves. We did slightly miss the lack of any inside pockets, though. All the zips have practical tabs, though the zip pullers aren’t quite as easy to grab as some, especially when wearing gloves.

Bottom line: we were impressed, and this is a shell that isn’t likely to disappoint. Real-world performance is excellent, all the essential features work well and it’s one of the lightest winter-grade Gore-Tex Pro jackets around too. 

Adidas Outdoor has started 2021 with a commitment to creating more eco-friendly, sustainable sportswear, entering into a partnership with fellow German sports apparel brand Megmeister. 

Clothing brands have often been associated with wasteful practices, but in recent years that trend has slowly started to shift, as environmental concerns come to the fore. A supposed 88 per cent of consumers are asking for brands to become more environmentally friendly.

Adidas's goal is to use only 100 per cent recycled polyester in all products by 2024, reduce the brand's carbon footprint by 30 per cent by 2030, and to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. In order to achieve this, Adidas  signalled their commitments to eco-friendly clothing by unveiling a sustainable base layer at ISPO Munich in collaboration with Megmeister. 

What makes this base layer eco-friendly is Megmeister's "Drynamo" technology, comprised of a fabric using merino wool combined with reduced synthetic yarns. The knitting process produces less waste, while the base layer is also 96 per cent biodegradable. 

Designed specifically for high-performance athletes, the base layer's "Drynamo" technology has hypoallergenic qualities and superior breathability featured in the yarn. The brands claim that the focus on sustainability doesn’t compromise the performance of the base layer, with the comfortable fit coming from body-mapped targeted ventilation zones that provide climate regulation and breathability in a lightweight seamless knit.

Picking up ISPO's gold award in the outdoor apparel segment in the base layer category, the quality of the product is clearly maintained despite its emphasis on being eco-friendly. 

• Check out the best base layers you can buy
• The best eco-friendly outdoor brands: everything you need to know
• Why is layering important? We explain in this handy guide

“At Adidas Outdoor, we’re focused on pushing product sustainability forward and in partnering with industry-leading brands like Megmeister we hope to create a catalyst for change in the industry. By offering a high-performance product with sustainable production at the core, we can serve the next generation of consumers with what they want and need, ” said adidas' Global Vice President of Product, Markus Kleber. 

Megmeister's founders, Jos and Vanessa Ruiterman, have also been full of praise for the partnership, which should flourish as both brands share their expertise. 

“Adidas is an innovative, global brand and we are excited to establish a partnership,” add Megmeister’s founders, Jos and Vanessa Ruiterman. “Both of our brands are pioneers in their fields and important drivers of innovation in the textile industry, especially when it comes to sustainability. We strongly believe that together we can push the boundaries of innovative, functional and sustainable garments to a new ‘ubergreen’ level, while continuing to further our mission to be the benchmark for generations to come.”

“A collective collaboration between Megmeister and Adidas is a win for each brand, as well as the environment,” said Vanessa Ruiterman. “We all share the common goal of reducing the impact of apparel on our planet.”

The Adidas TERREX x Megmeister Drynamo Merino ECO LS Crew Base layer is due to be released in Autumn 2021.