adidas introduces the next generation of FREERIDER mountain bike shoes, led by the FREERIDER PRO BOA and FREERIDER PRO BOA Clipless. The new range expands the platform across flat and clipless pedal options while retaining the grip and stability associated with the model.
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adidas developed the footwear with feedback from elite Freeride and World Cup racing athletes, including Vali Höll, Danny MacAskill, Greg Minnaar, Brendan Fairclough, Vero Sandler and Dakotah Norton. Four models make up the full line, with designs aimed at different riding styles and ability levels.
FREERIDER first arrived in 2009 and built its reputation around the grip provided by STEALTH rubber. The Five Ten HELLCAT clipless model followed, with World Cup wins arriving by 2010. Five Ten and adidas joined forces in 2011, continuing to develop mountain bike footwear around the FREERIDER and HELLCAT platforms.
The new range brings those two franchises closer together. FREERIDER contributes its grip, fit and off-bike styling, while HELLCAT informs the clip-in performance of the new clipless model. The shoes continue to use established STEALTH rubber compounds. The latest models also introduce both the adidas 3-Stripes logo and the Five Ten logo on the same product for the first time.
The FREERIDER PRO BOA targets flat pedal riders and was developed with Fairclough, Sandler and MacAskill. It uses STEALTH rubber throughout to provide grip on flat pedals and adds a single Li2 BOA system for micro-adjustable fit.
The FREERIDER PRO BOA Clipless was developed with the Norco adidas Race Division alongside Minnaar, Höll and Norton. It uses STEALTH Marathon, a harder-wearing rubber compound designed for clip-in riding. adidas also redesigned the cleat slot and added 5mm of adjustment, allowing riders to position their cleats farther back.
Both Pro models include a five-layer toe box with PORON impact resistance for added protection. Asymmetric construction provides additional defense against side impacts, while an integrated debris shield protects the upper area. An asymmetric PERFORMFIT WRAP supports a more precise fit. The clipless model uses a double Li2 BOA system, while the flat version uses a single dial.
Luke Hontz, Senior Product Manager for Bike at adidas, said the development process began by reassessing the FREERIDER platform rather than making small updates. Athlete feedback and adidas performance footwear expertise informed the new range, including the first clipless FREERIDER.
The FREERIDER PRO BOA Clipless made its competition debut at the Whistler World Cup, where adidas athletes including riders from the Norco adidas Race Division wore the model. The collection will be available through adidas website and the adidas app from March 2027.
