7.5
/10
BEST FOR BUDGET-CONSCIOUS LIGHT TRAIL USE
7.5
/10
BEST FOR BUDGET-CONSCIOUS LIGHT TRAIL USE
Last Updated:
Jun 30, 2025
Adidas Terrex AX3 Review: Best Budget Trail Grip
Great Grip for Trails, But Your Feet Might Complain in the City.
The Adidas Terrex AX3 is a popular entry-level hiking shoe, often drawing attention due to its affordable price tag and the inclusion of a Continental™ rubber outsole, which promises reliable trail grip. But can it genuinely serve as a versatile travel shoe for mixed terrains? My review, combining user feedback with specific trail and pavement testing, reveals it's a capable budget performer on soft ground but presents significant comfort challenges for many on hard urban surfaces.
🐾
Trail Traction
8.5
The Continental™ rubber outsole provides excellent and reliable grip on dirt, mud, and loose forest paths, especially for this price.
🪶
Lightweight Design
8
Feels agile and light for a hiking shoe, which helps reduce fatigue on uphill sections of day hikes and trail runs.
💰
Value (Trail-Specific)
8
Offers good trail-specific features, like a protective toe cap and decent lacing system, for its relatively low price point.
🌬️
Breathability (Non-GTX)
7
The mesh upper on the non-GTX versions I tested offered reasonable airflow for temperate trail conditions, keeping feet from overheating.
Perfect For
🏞️
Forest Paths
💰
Budget Hikes
🪶
Day Trails
🛡️
Outdoor Casual
🚶
Value Trail Shoe
Quality & Comfort
On the forest trail, the AX3 performed surprisingly well for its price category. The Continental™ outsole, as often praised by users like u/SeattleHikeBike on r/onebag who finds them "very suitable for walking on any surface" (though this seems to be an outlier for pavement), provided confident grip on slick mud, wet leaves, and uneven roots. They felt lightweight and didn't hinder my agility on the trail. However, the city pavement test revealed a very different side to the AX3. After about an hour of walking on concrete, the firmness of the EVA midsole and the minimal cushioning became uncomfortably apparent. By the end of the two hours, my feet were definitely sore and fatigued. This directly aligns with the experience of Reddit user u/unterzee, who starkly warned, "I do not recommend the Terrex. I used them to city walk last fall and they were extremely uncomfortable after an hour on pavement." They simply lack the necessary cushioning and support for extended hard-surface walking for many individuals. The fit is true to size for length, but the overall last feels more geared towards trail stability than plush urban comfort.
Durability
For its intended purpose – light to moderate trail hiking – the durability of the AX3 is adequate considering its budget price. The Continental™ rubber outsole is generally robust when used on softer ground. However, a frequently reported issue, which I can foresee based on my pavement test, is that the aggressive outsole lugs wear down quite rapidly with extensive use on concrete or asphalt. This premature wear on hard surfaces not only shortens their lifespan but also compromises their future trail grip. The mesh and synthetic upper should hold up to occasional scuffs from trail debris but isn't as heavy-duty as the materials found on more premium (and expensive) hiking shoes. Some users have also reported disappointing experiences with the Gore-Tex versions, like the r/adidas member who found they leaked around the ankles and were slippery in the wet, raising concerns about the all-weather durability and reliability of those specific models.
Packability
The low-cut design and relatively lightweight construction of the AX3 make it more packable than traditional, bulky hiking boots. It’s not going to compress down like a minimalist travel shoe, but it won't be a major space offender in your luggage either. If your travel itinerary is heavily skewed towards outdoor activities and light trail exploration, and you need an affordable, dedicated trail shoe, then its packability is reasonable. However, if you're hoping it will serve as a comfortable all-around shoe to save packing space by covering both city and trail needs, its poor pavement performance for many users negates this potential advantage. You might end up needing to pack a separate, more comfortable pair for urban days anyway.
Functionality
Functionally, the AX3 performs capably as a light trail hiker. Its Continental™ outsole is its best functional asset, providing reliable grip on varied trail surfaces. Its lightweight build contributes to agility on uneven paths. However, its overall utility as a versatile travel shoe is significantly hampered by the inconsistent and often poor comfort on hard urban surfaces. As some users, including the r/adidas commenter, have noted, even the Gore-Tex versions can have functional flaws in wet conditions, which further limits their all-weather travel appeal for some. It functions optimally when kept within its intended environment: the trail. For multi-day city exploration in places like Paris or London, it's simply not a functionally comfortable choice for the majority of users.
Value
Typically priced between $80 and $100 (which is less than a decent daypack or a couple of guided city tours), the Adidas Terrex AX3 offers good value if you are purchasing it primarily as a budget-friendly trail shoe for softer surfaces and occasional outdoor wear. The Continental™ grip at this price point is a strong selling feature for that specific use case. However, if you require a shoe that can comfortably handle many miles of city walking in addition to some trail use, its value diminishes significantly due to the widespread reports of pavement discomfort. You might save money on the initial purchase, but the potential for sore feet could detract from your travel experience or necessitate buying another, more comfortable pair of shoes for urban days. Standard Adidas warranty applies, usually 30-day returns for unworn items.
They are slippery on wet, rain and snow regularly get into the shoe around the ankles and my toes are wet after walking in rain for an hour
Reddit User r/adidas (referring to GTX version)
Did You Know?
The "AX" series within Adidas's Terrex outdoor line generally signifies their more accessible, multi-sport, or light hiking footwear, often designed to offer core Terrex technologies like Continental grip at a more budget-friendly price point compared to their higher-end Free Hiker or Swift R series. Rotate these with a more cushioned shoe if your trip involves mixed city/trail days.
Quick Verdict
✕
Performance Scores
Durability (Trail)
7.5
Lightweight
8
Value
8
Traction
8.5
Traction (Trail)
8.5
Lightweight (for hiker)
8
Value (Trail-Specific)
8
Agility (Trail)
7
The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal
The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal
Performance Analysis
Pros and Cons
Pros
✓
Continental™ outsole provides good grip on soft trails and mud for its price point.
✓
Lightweight design feels agile and responsive on day hikes and forest walks.
✓
The low-top cut offers a less restrictive, more sneaker-like freedom of movement.
✓
100% waterproof knit (no coating)
Cons
x
Can be very uncomfortable for many users on hard pavement after just 1-2 hours of walking.
x
The aggressive outsole lugs, great for trails, tend to wear down quickly with frequent use on concrete.
x
Some user reports indicate Gore-Tex versions may leak around the ankles or feel slippery in wet conditions.
x
Cushioning is firm and not well-suited for long-distance urban walking or extensive sightseeing on hard surfaces.
Final Verdict
7.5
Fair
A Budget Hiker with Excellent Trail Grip, But Pavement Comfort is a Risky Gamble.
The Adidas Terrex AX3 is a lightweight, low-cut hiking shoe that offers commendable trail traction for its affordable price, primarily thanks to its reliable Continental™ rubber outsole. It's a solid choice for budget-conscious day hikers and individuals needing dependable grip on softer, uneven surfaces like forest paths or light mountain trails.
However, its suitability as a versatile all-around travel shoe is highly questionable for many. Numerous users, and our own city walking test, found it to be very uncomfortable for extended periods on hard pavement due to its firm sole and minimal cushioning. The aggressive outsole lugs, while excellent for trails, also tend to wear down quickly with frequent concrete use. While it represents good value for purely trail-focused adventures, its inconsistent urban comfort makes it a less reliable option for travelers needing footwear that performs well across mixed environments.
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Compare Alternatives
Adidas Terrex AX3
$35
Adidas Standard Warranty; often includes 30-day free returns from Adidas direct.
Continental™ Rubber Outsole offers excellent trail grip for the price.
Lightweight design aids agility on trails and reduces fatigue.
SHOP NOW
We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.
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Budget Trail Grip
Adidas Terrex AX3
Great Grip for Trails, But Your Feet Might Complain in the City.
7.5
SCORE
A Budget Hiker with Excellent Trail Grip, But Pavement Comfort is a Risky Gamble.
Last Updated:
Jun 30, 2025
The Adidas Terrex AX3 is a popular entry-level hiking shoe, often drawing attention due to its affordable price tag and the inclusion of a Continental™ rubber outsole, which promises reliable trail grip. But can it genuinely serve as a versatile travel shoe for mixed terrains? My review, combining user feedback with specific trail and pavement testing, reveals it's a capable budget performer on soft ground but presents significant comfort challenges for many on hard urban surfaces.
✓
Strengths
Continental™ outsole provides good grip on soft trails and mud for its price point.
Lightweight design feels agile and responsive on day hikes and forest walks.
The low-top cut offers a less restrictive, more sneaker-like freedom of movement.
Very affordable if purchased specifically for light trail use and casual outdoor wear.
X
Consider
Can be very uncomfortable for many users on hard pavement after just 1-2 hours of walking.
The aggressive outsole lugs, great for trails, tend to wear down quickly with frequent use on concrete.
Some user reports indicate Gore-Tex versions may leak around the ankles or feel slippery in wet conditions.
Cushioning is firm and not well-suited for long-distance urban walking or extensive sightseeing on hard surfaces.
View Current Price
Compare
🐾
Traction (Trail)
8.5
🪶
Lightweight (for hiker)
8
💰
Value (Trail-Specific)
8
🏞️
Agility (Trail)
7
🌧️
Weather
9.2
Performance
🏞️
Forest Paths
💰
Budget Hikes
🪶
Day Trails
🛡️
Outdoor Casual
🚶
Value Trail Shoe
Perfect For
Quality & Comfort
On the forest trail, the AX3 performed surprisingly well for its price category. The Continental™ outsole, as often praised by users like u/SeattleHikeBike on r/onebag who finds them "very suitable for walking on any surface" (though this seems to be an outlier for pavement), provided confident grip on slick mud, wet leaves, and uneven roots. They felt lightweight and didn't hinder my agility on the trail. However, the city pavement test revealed a very different side to the AX3. After about an hour of walking on concrete, the firmness of the EVA midsole and the minimal cushioning became uncomfortably apparent. By the end of the two hours, my feet were definitely sore and fatigued. This directly aligns with the experience of Reddit user u/unterzee, who starkly warned, "I do not recommend the Terrex. I used them to city walk last fall and they were extremely uncomfortable after an hour on pavement." They simply lack the necessary cushioning and support for extended hard-surface walking for many individuals. The fit is true to size for length, but the overall last feels more geared towards trail stability than plush urban comfort.
Durability
For its intended purpose – light to moderate trail hiking – the durability of the AX3 is adequate considering its budget price. The Continental™ rubber outsole is generally robust when used on softer ground. However, a frequently reported issue, which I can foresee based on my pavement test, is that the aggressive outsole lugs wear down quite rapidly with extensive use on concrete or asphalt. This premature wear on hard surfaces not only shortens their lifespan but also compromises their future trail grip. The mesh and synthetic upper should hold up to occasional scuffs from trail debris but isn't as heavy-duty as the materials found on more premium (and expensive) hiking shoes. Some users have also reported disappointing experiences with the Gore-Tex versions, like the r/adidas member who found they leaked around the ankles and were slippery in the wet, raising concerns about the all-weather durability and reliability of those specific models.
Packability
The low-cut design and relatively lightweight construction of the AX3 make it more packable than traditional, bulky hiking boots. It’s not going to compress down like a minimalist travel shoe, but it won't be a major space offender in your luggage either. If your travel itinerary is heavily skewed towards outdoor activities and light trail exploration, and you need an affordable, dedicated trail shoe, then its packability is reasonable. However, if you're hoping it will serve as a comfortable all-around shoe to save packing space by covering both city and trail needs, its poor pavement performance for many users negates this potential advantage. You might end up needing to pack a separate, more comfortable pair for urban days anyway.
Functionality
Functionally, the AX3 performs capably as a light trail hiker. Its Continental™ outsole is its best functional asset, providing reliable grip on varied trail surfaces. Its lightweight build contributes to agility on uneven paths. However, its overall utility as a versatile travel shoe is significantly hampered by the inconsistent and often poor comfort on hard urban surfaces. As some users, including the r/adidas commenter, have noted, even the Gore-Tex versions can have functional flaws in wet conditions, which further limits their all-weather travel appeal for some. It functions optimally when kept within its intended environment: the trail. For multi-day city exploration in places like Paris or London, it's simply not a functionally comfortable choice for the majority of users.
Value
Typically priced between $80 and $100 (which is less than a decent daypack or a couple of guided city tours), the Adidas Terrex AX3 offers good value if you are purchasing it primarily as a budget-friendly trail shoe for softer surfaces and occasional outdoor wear. The Continental™ grip at this price point is a strong selling feature for that specific use case. However, if you require a shoe that can comfortably handle many miles of city walking in addition to some trail use, its value diminishes significantly due to the widespread reports of pavement discomfort. You might save money on the initial purchase, but the potential for sore feet could detract from your travel experience or necessitate buying another, more comfortable pair of shoes for urban days. Standard Adidas warranty applies, usually 30-day returns for unworn items.
They are slippery on wet, rain and snow regularly get into the shoe around the ankles and my toes are wet after walking in rain for an hour
Reddit User r/adidas (referring to GTX version)
Fair
A Budget Hiker with Excellent Trail Grip, But Pavement Comfort is a Risky Gamble.
8.8
The Adidas Terrex AX3 is a lightweight, low-cut hiking shoe that offers commendable trail traction for its affordable price, primarily thanks to its reliable Continental™ rubber outsole. It's a solid choice for budget-conscious day hikers and individuals needing dependable grip on softer, uneven surfaces like forest paths or light mountain trails.
However, its suitability as a versatile all-around travel shoe is highly questionable for many. Numerous users, and our own city walking test, found it to be very uncomfortable for extended periods on hard pavement due to its firm sole and minimal cushioning. The aggressive outsole lugs, while excellent for trails, also tend to wear down quickly with frequent concrete use. While it represents good value for purely trail-focused adventures, its inconsistent urban comfort makes it a less reliable option for travelers needing footwear that performs well across mixed environments.
SHOP NOW
Adidas Terrex AX3
$149
✓
Adidas Standard Warranty; often includes 30-day free returns from Adidas direct.
✓
Continental™ Rubber Outsole offers excellent trail grip for the price.
✓
Lightweight design aids agility on trails and reduces fatigue.
SHOP NOW
We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited