Adidas is revamping the Freerider range for 2027. As the name suggests, the shoes are aimed at riders who focus on downhill riding – whether it’s trail, enduro, downhill or freeride. To this end, the revamped range is available in versions for either flat pedals or clipless pedals. At the top of the range, which comprises four models, are the Freerider Pro BOA and the Freerider Pro BOA Clipless. According to Adidas, the shoes are due to go on sale in March 2027.
With this new generation, Adidas is bringing two previously separate ranges closer together: the Freerider range for platform pedals, established in 2009, and the former Five Ten Hellcat range for clipless pedals. Both new Pro models will in future feature both the three Adidas stripes and the Five Ten logo.
Freerider Pro BOA for flat pedals
The Freerider Pro BOA is designed for use with flat pedals. Its entire sole is made from the tried-and-tested Stealth rubber, which is designed to provide maximum grip on pins – a feature for which these shoes are so popular. According to Adidas, the model was developed in collaboration with freeride athletes such as Brendan Fairclough, Vero Sandler and Danny MacAskill.
Adidas uses a single Li2 BOA dial to ensure a secure fit in the shoe. This allows the fit to be fine-tuned whilst riding. An asymmetrical Performfit wrap is designed to hug the foot more precisely, whilst an integrated cover is intended to protect the BOA system from dirt.
The first freeride bike with a click system
New to the range is the Freerider Pro BOA Clipless. It incorporates the design language and high standards of the Freerider range, but is designed for use with clipless pedals. For the sole, Adidas uses the firmer Stealth Marathon rubber compound, which is designed to withstand the stresses involved in clicking in.
One important detail concerns the cleat mount: the adjustment range has been extended by five millimetres. This allows the cleats to be positioned further back. A more rearward cleat position is particularly sought after by enduro and downhill riders, as it can provide greater stability on long descents.
The Clipless features two Li2-BOA dials for fastening. This is designed to allow for even more personalised adjustment in the forefoot and instep areas. According to Adidas, those involved in the development of the clip-in model included Greg Minnaar, Vali Höll, Dakotah Norton and the team from the Norco Adidas Race Division. The shoe was already seen on the feet of Adidas athletes at the World Cup in Whistler.
Greater protection in the toe area
Both Pro models feature a newly designed toe area with robust impact protection. The asymmetrical design is also intended to better absorb side impacts. Adidas is thus clearly targeting use on rough terrain, where stones, roots and contact with the frame are part of everyday life.
The new Freerider range is designed to work just as well for racing as it does for a post-work ride. The focus remains on grip, a secure fit and a shoe design that doesn’t look out of place even when you’re off the bike.
Prices and availability
The Freerider range starts at 120 euros. The Freerider Pro BOA is set to cost 180 euros, whilst Adidas has set the price of the Freerider Pro BOA Clipless at 250 euros. The models are set to be available from March 2027 in women’s sizes UK 3 to 9 and men’s sizes UK 5 to 14.
Only a practical test will reveal whether the new generation combines the familiar grip of the Freerider shoes with an equally impressive fit and high durability. However, the technical changes – particularly the new clipless version and the wider adjustment range for the cleats – make the range significantly more versatile than before.
Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD