Adidas Has Unveiled Updated Mountain Biking Shoes
The company expanded its Freerider line to include four new models with improved traction and impact resistance.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Hiking
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Adidas has introduced an updated line of mountain biking shoes, consolidating its offerings under the Freerider brand. The new collection includes four distinct models featuring enhanced tread and protective technology.
Why it matters
The company redesigned these models to improve step-in comfort while increasing lateral foot protection for riders. These updates also specifically address hike-a-biking performance through deeper tread patterns in the toe and heel areas.
The line includes the Freerider at $120, Freerider Pro at $160, Freerider Pro Boa Clipless at $180, and the Freerider Pro Boa at $250. Models feature a five-layer toe box with Poron impact resistance and updated cleat positions shifted 5mm.
The players
Adidas
This global corporation is a multinational manufacturer of athletic footwear, apparel, and accessories.
The details
Adidas replaced the traditional cupsole on the entry-level model with an EVA midsole to reduce weight and improve comfort. The brand also discontinued the Hellcat model name, integrating clipless options directly into the Freerider family.
Timeline
The Freerider model first debuted in the Five Ten lineup in 2009.
Adidas purchased the Five Ten brand in 2011.
The company unveiled the new Freerider line at Whistler in September 2026.
The new shoe line will be available for purchase starting in March 2027.
Roadmap
This move signals a broader transition by Adidas to consolidate its cycling footprint under the well-established Freerider brand family. By retiring the Hellcat name, the company aims to simplify its product architecture to compete more effectively against specialized cycling rivals.
Cyclists can anticipate price points starting at $120 for the base model, with premium versions reaching $250. Riders looking for specific fit options will find a wide size range, with men's sizes available up to 14.5 and women's sizes up to 10.5.
The takeaway
Riders should evaluate the new 5mm cleat position adjustment if they are transitioning from the discontinued Hellcat models. The shift toward EVA midsoles suggests a move toward lighter, more hike-friendly performance for off-bike sections of trails.
What happens next
The new shoe line will be available for purchase globally starting in March 2027.
Further reading
For more information on gear trends, visit our Hiking section.
More information
View the full range of upcoming gear on the Adidas cycling shoe product page.
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