The Adidas Terrex Trailcross Protect MTB shoes promise a versatile blend of durability, style, and performance for the demanding mountain biker. This in-depth review covers nearly two years of rigorous testing on diverse terrains, from Colorado's challenging mountain trails to grueling enduro races. We explore the shoe's key features, including its superior grip, protective padding, and comfortable fit, examining how well they withstand the wear and tear of intense riding and hiking. The review delves into both the strengths and weaknesses, providing a balanced perspective for potential buyers.This comprehensive assessment honestly evaluates the shoe's performance, highlighting its impressive durability in the face of extreme conditions. However, a critical flaw concerning the premature separation of the toe area is addressed, offering crucial insight into the long-term reliability of the Adidas Terrex Trailcross Protect. Ultimately, this review aims to help readers determine if these stylish and functional shoes are the right investment for their mountain biking and hiking adventures.
Pros And Cons
- Mid-top design for ankle support
- Good grip for both pedaling and hiking
- Stylish design
- Adidas Stealth rubber
- Power strap to hold laces
- Gusseted tongue to keep out dirt
- Grips for hiking
- Comfortable for long use, including enduro races
- Durable enough for extensive use (almost two years)
- Toe of the shoe separated early in use (a month or two)
- Separated toe affected appearance
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Long-Term Durability and Use Cases
I've been using the Adidas Terrex Trailcross Protect shoes for almost two years, putting them through rigorous testing. This includes mountain trails in Colorado, enduro races, and countless miles of regular trail riding. The shoes have proven remarkably durable, handling the demands of varied terrain and activities exceptionally well.
These mid-top shoes provide excellent ankle support, a key feature I sought. They're not just for cycling; their grip and protective features make them ideal for hiking sections on mountain biking trails or even short hikes independently.
Beyond performance, aesthetics played a role in my purchase. The shoe's design caught my eye, appealing to my sense of style, a significant consideration for many.
The shoe’s features for hiking and cycling have proven to be quite functional. They have held up to the demands of my usage, showing considerable durability
Key Features and Design Elements
The Adidas Terrex Trailcross Protect boasts several notable features. Adidas Stealth rubber provides superior grip, vital for both cycling and hiking. The power strap securely holds the laces, enhancing fit and stability.
A gusseted tongue keeps debris out, maintaining comfort and dryness. Additional grips on the upper and lower sections provide extra traction during hikes. The design incorporates protective padding around the ankles for added comfort and support during strenuous activities.
While less common in the US, the shoe appears more popular in Europe. Its popularity suggests that its features resonate with a global audience of mountain bike enthusiasts.
The design is a good blend of comfort and functionality, something you might not see in many other similarly priced products
Performance and Issues Encountered
Despite their impressive durability, I did encounter one significant issue: the toe of the shoe began to separate from the upper material after only a month or two of use. While this didn't affect the shoe's functionality, it was aesthetically disappointing, especially considering their new condition. I attempted a repair using shoe glue, which didn’t prove to be a lasting solution.
I completed an entire enduro race with a broken chain, requiring substantial running and walking. Even under this extreme stress, the shoes held up admirably. This highlights their overall resilience and quality.
The minor issue with the toe separation was my only real complaint. The overall quality is very solid, but a failure in such a visible location is not acceptable.
Conclusion and Overall Rating
The Adidas Terrex Trailcross Protect shoes offer a compelling blend of durability, style, and functionality. The combination of features and support make them ideal for various mountain biking and hiking activities. However, the premature separation of the toe area is a significant drawback, impacting the overall rating.
At a price point of around $150, they represent a worthwhile investment, especially when on sale. While I would consider purchasing them again, I'm also interested in exploring other options.
Despite the minor flaw, the overall build quality, the style, and the comfort make the Adidas Terrex Trailcross Protect a strong contender for those seeking versatile and durable mountain bike shoes. But the premature separation of the toe area is a serious consideration and a potential deal breaker for some.